USE OF COGNITIVE RESTRUCTURING TECHNIQUES TO SUPPORT CLIENTS IN CRISIS SITUATIONS: PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE OF SOCIAL WORKERS

Abstract

Introduction. The article examines the use of cognitive restructuring techniques as a tool to support clients in crisis situations. In today’s conditions of socio-economic and psychological challenges, social workers are faced with the need to apply effective methods to help clients overcome the negative consequences of crises. Cognitive restructuring, as part of cognitive behavioral therapy, allows you to reduce the emotional burden of clients, changing their negative beliefs and forming adaptive ways of thinking. This technique helps clients critically evaluate their irrational thoughts, which are often at the root of anxiety, fear, or depression, and replace them with constructive beliefs. Through systematic work on thinking, clients acquire new skills that help them adapt to difficult life circumstances and restore psychological balance. The purpose of the article is to analyze the practical experience of social workers in applying cognitive restructuring to support clients in difficult life circumstances. The scientific novelty of the article lies in the systematization of practical approaches to the use of cognitive restructuring in social work and the identification of key factors that influence the effectiveness of this method. The article presents an analysis of the basic principles of the technique, its psychological and social aspects, and also identifies challenges that hinder its successful implementation. Conclusions. Cognitive restructuring is a powerful tool for supporting clients in crisis situations. The use of this technique helps to reduce anxiety, overcome depressive states, improve clients’ self-esteem and restore their social ties. Prospects for further research lie in improving methodological approaches to the use of cognitive restructuring in social work, developing training programs for social workers, and studying the influence of cultural and social factors on the effectiveness of this technique. Developing integrated strategies to overcome barriers in working with clients will improve the quality of psychological support and promote the professional development of social workers.