Towards a definition of the conceptual and empirical boundaries of cognitive therapy

This article reviews some of the recent conceptual and empirical developments in cognitive therapy. It is argued that one of the strengths of the cognitive therapy tradition has been its focus on the quantification of treatment effects, but that in recent years the development of theory and practice has surpassed the data necessary to provide a foundation for these developments. Potential reasons for rapid growth are cited, and some boundaries to research and practice that may emerge are highlighted. The article concludes with a statement of risks associated with too-rapid expansion of theory and practice, and a call for controlled research to substantiate treatment effects.