In metacognitive (MCT) therapy, the focus is on metacognitive processes, which may cause, increase or maintain psychological distress and mental problems. 

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What is the difference between Metacognitive Therapy (MCT) and traditional Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

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MCT and CBT are both cognitive forms of therapies which target our thinking. However there are significant difference between the two. 

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One of the main differences between Metacognitive and Cognitive Behavioural therapies is their main focus of therapy. In CBT one aims to identify and alter negative or automatic thoughts, which create a certain problem or diagnosis. In MCT one focuses on the thinking style and ones ability to view this style of thinking and the reactions to it. In other words CBT focuses on the content of our thoughts and MCT focuses on the way we react to our thoughts. 

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Another important difference is that CBT focuses on changing the content of the thoughts with more realistic, plausible or positive thoughts, whereas MCT tries to change the way you interact with your thoughts and tries to reduce the problematic aspect of this. 

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MCT is a much broader type of intervention which focues on the general thinking style of the person and how this affects ones mental health and thriving. CBT is much more specifically targeted at one particular problem and tries to alter the thoughts related to this problem. 

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The two therapies may sometimes supplement each other. 

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MCT can be used to treat general mental distress, depression, anxiety, OCD and PTSD. The evidence for treatment is really sound and treatment has proven not only to be efficient in relieving symptoms but also to maintain the effect over time.