Case Conceptualization Report on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression in a Preschool Education Major

Abstract

Objective: To explore the application of case conceptualization in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for university students with depressive symptoms and its crucial role in guiding intervention practices. Methods: A university student with depressive symptoms was selected as the case subject. Based on Beck's "Three Levels of Cognition" model, an analysis was conducted on the triggering factors of clinical symptoms, as well as the cross-sectional and longitudinal patterns of cognition and behavior. The relationships among automatic thoughts, intermediate beliefs, and core beliefs were identified, leading to the development of a 15-session intervention strategy framework. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were used to assess changes in emotional states before, during, and after counseling. Results: Following the intervention, the client’s depressive symptoms improved from “moderate depression” to “mild depression,” and anxiety levels decreased from “mild anxiety” to no significant anxiety. Subjective distress scores showed an overall declining trend. The client’s core beliefs became more flexible, and more adaptive intermediate beliefs were developed, accompanied by significant improvements in social functioning. Conclusion: Cognitive behavioral therapy demonstrates effective clinical intervention for depressive symptoms in university students. Case conceptualization plays a critical role in guiding intervention practices and enhancing treatment outcomes. These findings suggests that this gradually formed case conceptualization, based on theoretical working hypotheses and continuous validation, can effectively enhance the intervention outcomes of cognitive behavioral therapy. Researchers may consider applying it in other fields such as hospitals and schools.

Received: 15 December 2024 / Accepted: xx month 2025 / Published: 06 March 2025