Cognitive Behavior Therapy in Argentina

Abstract

The history of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in Argentina is intimately related to the development of psychoanalysis, and the professionalization of psychology. The development of CBT in Argentina has also been marked by political factors, which influenced the development of psychotherapy in Argentina country during thetwentieth century. While CBT was rarely practiced in the early 1980s, almost four decades later its use has spread throughout the behavioral health field and into the everyday lives of Argentines. In this chapter, the authors present general information on the current characteristics of psychotherapy in Argentina. A brief history of CBT in Argentina is presented as well as recent clinical developments and the current state of research. First, the authors discuss the national healthcare system and access to psychotherapy services, helps to explain the widespread utilization and popularity of psychotherapy services in Argentina. Second, the authors will describe the Argentine institutions dedicated to the development and implementation of a wide-range of CBT interventions. In this aspect, the primacy of private practice over public practice is highlighted, reflected in its late inclusion in public universities and hospitals. This could be related to the hegemonic presence of lacanian psychoanalysis in this sector. Later, the authors describe the Argentinean psychotherapy research field, highlighting some of the current investigations. Finally, the authors will discuss the challenge of conducting research with the vulnerable Argentine populations, as well as the need for the development of a culturally-adapted model of CBT.