PSYCHOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS FOR GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER: CONTRIBUTIONS FROM COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY AND CONTEXTUAL THERAPIES

Abstract

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive and persistent worry, high intolerance of uncertainty, and impairment in the individual’s overall functioning. This study aimed to examine, based on the scientific literature, the contributions and evidence supporting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and contextual behavioral therapies in the management of GAD. This is an exploratory and descriptive literature review with a qualitative approach, conducted in the LILACS, SciELO, and PubMed/MEDLINE databases, using descriptors in Portuguese and English. The results indicate that CBT has established itself as the gold-standard intervention for restructuring dysfunctional beliefs and providing psychoeducation. Complementarily, third-wave therapies, especially Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness, broaden clinical management by promoting psychological flexibility, cognitive defusion, and acceptance of internal experiences. It is concluded that the two approaches can be promisingly integrated, reinforcing the importance of evidence-based practice anchored in the individualized case formulation, with the aim of developing functional and adaptive strategies.