CBT Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that aims to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected and can impact our mental health.

What is CBT Therapy?

CBT therapy sessions typically involve a structured, goal-oriented approach (and sometimes homework) that focuses on the present moment and practical strategies to manage current symptoms. CBT has been shown—in multiple studies—to be highly effective at treating a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) alongside addiction.

CBT Therapy Process

If you are considering CBT, initially, you will meet with a therapist to discuss your concerns and establish goals for therapy. During future therapy sessions, your therapist will work with you to identify negative thought patterns or behaviors that may be contributing to your difficulties.

Together, you and your therapist will develop strategies and techniques to challenge and modify those patterns and behaviors. As you practice these new skills, you can expect to see improvements in your mood and daily functioning, with the ultimate goal of achieving long-lasting positive change.

• Establishing goals and concerns for therapy
• Working to identify negative thoughts and behaviors
• Developing strategies to change those negative patterns
• Improving mood and daily functioning for lasting change

How Does CBT Work?

CBT therapy works by helping individuals change their negative beliefs and behaviors. During sessions, patients work with a trained therapist to identify and challenge their negative thinking, which can create negative emotions and behaviors. Through various techniques and strategies, patients learn to replace negative thinking with more positive, adaptive thoughts, leading to improved mood and behavior. CBT therapy is evidence-based, meaning that it has been shown to be effective for many mental health and behavioral issues.

Benefits of CBT Therapy

CBT is a structured and goal-oriented therapy that can lead to faster symptom relief compared to other types of therapy. By teaching patients practical skills to manage their symptoms, CBT can empower individuals to take an active role in their treatment. CBT has been proven effective in treating issues like depression and anxiety, while the skills learned in therapy continue to be useful long after sessions end.

• Structured therapy
• Goal-oriented approach
• Practical skill-building
• Symptom management
• Active, engaged treatment
• Proven effectiveness

CBT Therapy Experience

The CBT treatment experience can vary depending on the individual’s needs and goals. However, most people find it to be an interactive and collaborative process that focuses on practical solutions to their concerns, leading to improved mental health and well-being. It’s your decision how you approach therapy; but, trained help can be highly effective for most people looking for symptom relief.

What is CBT Therapy Like?

When starting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), therapists begin by discussing your concerns and what you hope to achieve through therapy. The therapist will work with you to see negative thought patterns or behaviors that may be adding to your difficulties. The therapist then develops techniques to challenge and modify those patterns and behaviors.

Throughout the therapy process, the therapist and you work together to practice and refine skills, often through assignments or exercises to practice outside of sessions. As you gain confidence and see progress, you’ll feel more in control of thoughts, leading to better moods and behaviors.