Which type of therapy aims to change thought patterns and behaviors to improve mood?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is focused on the intricate relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This therapeutic approach operates under the premise that negative thought patterns can significantly influence a person's emotions and actions. By identifying and modifying these maladaptive thoughts, individuals can experience an improvement in their mood and overall mental well-being. CBT employs various techniques, such as cognitive restructuring, to challenge and change unhelpful beliefs, along with behavioral strategies to promote more positive actions and routines. This makes it particularly effective for individuals at risk of suicide, as it equips them with tools to handle distressing thoughts and feelings more constructively.

In contrast, other therapies like psychodynamic therapy focus more on exploring unconscious processes and past experiences, family therapy emphasizes improving dynamics within family systems, and art therapy utilizes creative expression as a means of exploration and healing, but may not specifically target cognitive restructuring. Hence, the targeted nature of CBT in addressing thought patterns and behaviors is what sets it apart in the context of improving mood.