Which of the following best describes the cognitive approach in counseling?

The cognitive approach in counseling primarily revolves around understanding and altering thought patterns that influence emotions and behaviors. One of its key elements is the identification and challenging of irrational beliefs. This process involves guiding clients to recognize negative or distorted thinking and helping them replace these thoughts with more rational and constructive ones. By addressing these thought patterns, clients can alter their emotional responses and behavioral outcomes, leading to improved mental well-being.

While other approaches such as behavioral therapy focus on reinforcement, social skills training emphasizes interpersonal skills, and emotional intelligence deals with recognizing and managing emotions, the cognitive approach specifically targets the role of cognition in emotional and behavioral issues. By emphasizing the challenge of irrational beliefs, this approach seeks to empower clients, fostering a greater understanding of how thoughts can impact feelings and behaviors directly.