1. Introduction

• Briefly introduce Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

• Explain the importance of adapting CBT to different disorders.

• State which DSM-5 diagnosis/problem you’ve chosen (e.g., PTSD, OCD, Social Anxiety Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, Insomnia, etc.).

2. Overview of the Disorder

• Define and describe the chosen DSM-5 diagnosis.

• Highlight key symptoms, prevalence, and challenges in treatment.

3. Adapting CBT to the Disorder

• Explain how traditional CBT is modified for this disorder.

• Include specific techniques or protocols (e.g., exposure therapy for OCD, trauma-focused CBT for PTSD, cue-exposure for substance use, etc.).

• Discuss therapist–client considerations (e.g., cultural sensitivity, severity, comorbidities).

4. Evidence-Based Support

• Review at least 4 scholarly articles or guidelines that support CBT adaptations for this diagnosis.

• Summarize findings, treatment outcomes, and efficacy.

5. Clinical Implications & Conclusion

• Discuss how these adaptations improve outcomes.

• Wrap up with a clear conclusion on CBT’s effectiveness for the chosen disorder.

6. References

• APA formatted (at least 4 scholarly, peer-reviewed). APA

Draft Example (Choosing PTSD as the Diagnosis)

Title: Adapting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Introduction
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is among the most widely researched and applied psychotherapeutic approaches for various psychological disorders. Its structured, goal-oriented framework makes it highly effective in addressing maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to mental illness. However, CBT is not a one-size-fits-all treatment; it must be adapted to account for the unique features of specific DSM-5 diagnoses. This paper explores how CBT can be effectively adapted to treat Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a condition that poses significant challenges due to its complex symptomatology and frequent comorbidities.

Overview of PTSD
According to the DSM-5, PTSD develops after exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence, either through direct experience, witnessing, or learning about traumatic events. Symptoms are grouped into four clusters: intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and heightened arousal and reactivity (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). PTSD affects approximately 3.5% of the U.S. adult population annually, with higher prevalence among veterans, survivors of assault, and refugees (Kilpatrick et al., 2013). Traditional therapeutic approaches often fall short, making CBT adaptations critical for effective intervention.

Adapting CBT for PTSD
CBT for PTSD integrates standard cognitive restructuring with trauma-specific interventions. Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) emphasizes psychoeducation, relaxation training, affect regulation, and gradual exposure to trauma-related memories and cues (Watts et al., 2013). Exposure-based techniques help reduce avoidance behaviors by confronting trauma-related triggers in a safe environment. Cognitive restructuring is tailored to challenge maladaptive trauma-related beliefs, such as self-blame or perceptions of permanent damage (Resick et al., 2017). Additionally, narrative techniques encourage clients to process their trauma in a structured, supportive manner, reducing the emotional intensity associated with traumatic memories.