Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder with Perfectionism: A Case Presentation
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder with Perfectionism: A Case Presentation

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this study is to reduce depressive symptoms caused by the client’s perfectionist thoughts and to improve her quality of life. The assessment was conducted according to DSM-5 criteria. An eight-session therapy process was conducted with a 25-year-old, single female client who works as a teacher at a private school. The sessions were based on the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. It was determined that the client had been experiencing feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and loss of motivation for the past six months; automatic thoughts such as “I am a failure” and “I must be perfect to be valuable” were identified. The ABC model, thought recording, relaxation, and role-playing techniques were employed. Perfectionist thoughts were challenged, and a reduction in depressive symptoms was observed. By the end of the process, the client had reduced her fear of failure, begun setting achievable goals, practicing self-compassion, and adopting a more accepting attitude. It is recommended that different therapeutic approaches be compared in similar cases.

• Details
• Contents