The science and art of asking questions in cognitive therapy.
BACKGROUND
Questions underpin all aspects of therapeutic assessment and intervention and are a vital component of the clinical process. Over recent years frameworks have started to be applied to obtain a greater understanding of questioning formats and processes.


METHODS
This paper examines the use of questions in cognitive therapy (CT). An overview of the main types of questions identified in the literature is presented. In addition, we examine a range of client and therapist characteristics that may impact on the questioning process.


CONCLUSIONS
Asking questions in therapy is a complex, yet under-taught, skill. This paper provides a set of frameworks to assist in identifying helpful and unhelpful questioning skills. Thus the article has implications for further training and research.
James
Ian Andrew
IA
Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Trust, UK. ianjamesncht@yahoo.com
Morse
Rachel
R
Howarth
Alan
A
D001154:Art; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003142:Communication; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D012586:Science