Cognitive Behavior Therapy Targeting Intolerance of Uncertainty: Application to a Clinical Case of Generalized Anxiety Disorder

The present paper deals with the application of a cognitive-behavioral protocol targeting intolerance of uncertainty (CBT-IU) to a hypothetical clinical case of GAD. The rationale for the CBT-IU protocol is presented, as well as a description of its divergence from standard cognitive-behavioral interventions. The treatment components of (1) worry awareness training, (2) uncertainty recognition and exposure, (3) reevaluation of positive beliefs about the function of worry, (4) problem reorientation and training, (5) cognitive exposure, and (6) relapse prevention are described, with an emphasis on their application to the case conceptualization of “William” (Robichaud, this issue). Issues pertaining to the assessment of GAD and future research directions are also discussed.

► A cognitive-behavioral protocol targeting intolerance of uncertainty (CBT-IU) to a clinical case of GAD
► CBT-IU rationale is presented, as well as a description of its divergence from cognitive-behavioral interventions
► The treatment components of CBT-IU are presented and applied to the case conceptualization of William
► Further issues pertaining to the assessment and future of research of GAD are discussed