Well-Being Therapy: State of the Art and Clinical Exemplifications

A specific psychotherapeutic strategy for increasing psychological well-being, well-being therapy (WBT), has been developed almost two decades ago, and tested in a number of randomized controlled trials over these years. WBT is described in its current clinical features, with two clinical case presentations (one involving a depressed woman and one involving a child with ADHD) that illustrate its additive value in combination with cognitive behavioral treatment or pharmacotherapy. Recent developments with children and adolescents, both in school and clinical settings, are also reported. These contributions underline the peculiarities of this approach: it is aimed at promoting well-being, but differentiates form other positive interventions since it adopts a wider eudaimonic perspective. Thus, WBT takes into consideration both psychological well-being and distress in determining patient’s clinical outcomes. Limitations of current research on WBT and future developments as a preventive strategy for vulnerable individuals are discussed.