why is the Cognitive theory the most popular among contemporary therapists.

I'm not sure what you mean by "popular." Very often therapists are relatively eclectic, using the best aspects of several theories rather than just one. It also depends on which cognitive theory you are discussing.

http://www.personalityresearch.org/cogsocial.html
http://allpsych.com/personalitysynopsis/cognitive.html
(Broken Link Removed)
http://www.personalityresearch.org/papers/allen.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cognitivism_(psychology)
http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_g2699/is_0004/ai_2699000416
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albert_Ellis

I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.

The cognitive theory is one of the most popular among contemporary therapists for a variety of reasons. One of the main reasons is its practicality and effectiveness in helping individuals address and change their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. Cognitive therapy focuses on identifying and challenging negative or distorted thought patterns and replacing them with more constructive and accurate ones. By changing one's thinking patterns, individuals can experience improvements in their emotional well-being and overall functioning.

Another reason for the popularity of cognitive theory is its evidence-based approach. Cognitive therapy has been extensively researched and has a robust body of evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse. This scientific validation has gained the trust and support of many therapists and clients alike.

Furthermore, cognitive therapy is often perceived as a collaborative and empowering approach. Therapists using cognitive techniques actively engage clients in the therapeutic process by encouraging them to examine their own thoughts and beliefs and develop new strategies for coping and problem-solving. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of self-efficacy and autonomy, which many clients find appealing and effective.

It is important to note that while cognitive theory is popular, therapists generally tend to be eclectic in their approaches and may incorporate techniques from various theoretical orientations based on their clients' unique needs and preferences. The popularity of cognitive theory does not necessarily mean it is the only or best method for every individual or situation. Ultimately, the therapist's expertise, client characteristics, and treatment goals play a significant role in determining the most suitable therapeutic approach.