Conflict Mediation by Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: A New Psychotherapeutic Strategy

Objective: To test the effectiveness of a psychotherapeutic strategy-the want/ can/must (WCM) strategy-to mediate conflicts. This intervention aimed to (1) facilitate the collection and sharing of information among the individuals involved and with therapists; (2) comprehend what each person wants, can, and must do; (3) alleviate psychological distress associated with decision-making and action implementation; and (4) minimize harm to all parties involved in the conflict.

Methods: Thirty adult subjects experiencing a conflict situation participated in 8 cognitive-behavioral therapy sessions: 3 sessions for assessment and therapeutic bond building and 5 sessions to implement the WCM strategy. Depressive, anxious, and stress symptoms were assessed and compared before and after the intervention.

Results: Depending on client and contextual factors, employing the WCM strategy, it was possible to apply techniques that promote cognitive restructuring, psychological acceptance, defusion, and impulse control and that foster compassion and self-compassion, enhance empathetic connection, foster mindfulness in social interactions, and facilitate assertive communication. There was a statistically significant decrease in Perceived Stress Scale scores (P ≤ .05).

Conclusion: All participants reported that the WCM strategy aided in comprehending conflict variables, identifying how to collect information, sharing information about the conflict, accepting that there would be no "perfect solution," and making a decision with the intention of minimizing harm to those involved in the conflict.

Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2025;27(3):24m03895.

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