Final answer:
The best use of cognitive therapy among the options is for Sally, who aims to manage her depression by altering self-defeating thoughts. Research supports the effectiveness of cognitive therapy for depression, focusing on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The beneficial use of cognitive therapy among the given options would be for Sally, who wants to change self-defeating thoughts contributing to depression. Cognitive therapy is designed to address issues such as depression by modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and cognitions through a goal-oriented, systematic procedure. Research by DeRubeis et al. (2005) and Beck (1976, 2008) provides evidence that cognitive therapy can be effective in the treatment of moderate to severe depression.
By engaging in cognitive therapy, Sally could work with a therapist to identify and challenge the negative thought patterns that may be contributing to her depression, replacing them with more balanced and helpful thoughts. This process involves commitment on Sally's part to change her thinking and behavior, which aligns with her desire to modify the self-defeating thoughts.
Furthermore, cognitive therapy takes into account cognitive processes and behaviors when providing psychotherapy, making it a suitable approach for addressing cognitive biases that negatively impact an individual's mental health.