Final answer:
The ultimate goal of using cognitive theories in counseling is to help students restructure their schemas to change thought patterns.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a counselor uses cognitive theories to work with students, the overall goal is for the students to change thought patterns through the restructuring of schemas. Cognitive theories within psychology are focused on understanding and altering the mental processes that underlie human behavior. This includes how we think, perceive, plan, analyze, remember, and categorize information. By employing techniques based on cognitive theories, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), counselors aim to help students identify and modify problematic thought patterns, beliefs, and cognitive distortions, which can help them lead more adaptive and fulfilling lives.