Mechenbaum proposed a form of cognitive therapy to deal with stress. Essence of cognitive therapy is that the problems are often beyone our control ie. stress in workplace of strains of urban life that can not be changed.
However what a person can change is the way she thinks about theses stressors. Positive thinking can lead to changed in attitudes and feelings, reducing the tress response and leads to being able to cope better.
Main phase, phase 1, conceptualisation. the therapist and the client establish a relationshoip and the client is educated about the nature of the stress. client is also taught how to think differently about problems.
Phase 2, skills and rehearsal. Coping skills are taught and practiced in the clinic and then gradually rehersed in real life. they are positive thinking, relaxation, social skills, methods of attention diversion and time management.
Last phase is application, the clients are given opportunities to apply the newly learned skills in different situations. various techniques may be used such as imagery, modelling and role playing.