Cognitive
Behavioral
Therapy (CBT)
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, time-limited, and goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that focuses on the interaction between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Unlike some other forms of therapy, CBT is highly practical and problem-focused, aiming to address specific issues rather than exploring unconscious thoughts or past experiences extensively. It’s typically short-term, often lasting between 12 and 20 sessions, and is effective for both individual and group settings. CBT is backed by extensive research and is widely recognized for its effectiveness across various mental health conditions.
How Does CBT Work?
CBT works by helping individuals identify and challenge distorted or unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes. This process starts with recognizing “automatic thoughts,” the spontaneous, often negative thoughts that influence feelings and behavior. A therapist assists the client in examining these thoughts, understanding their impact, and learning to replace them with more balanced and constructive thinking patterns. CBT also involves behavioral techniques, such as exposure therapy, which gradually desensitizes people to fears, and behavioral activation, which encourages engagement in positive activities. Through homework assignments, clients practice these skills outside of therapy, applying what they learn to real-life situations and reinforcing new thought and behavior patterns.
Who is a Good Fit for CBT?
CBT is especially effective for treating symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is commonly used to manage stress, phobias, social anxiety, panic disorder, and even sleep disorders like insomnia. Since CBT focuses on recognizing and restructuring negative thought patterns, it can help individuals experiencing depression manage overwhelming thoughts and motivate behavior changes that alleviate depressive symptoms. For anxiety, CBT addresses catastrophic thinking and avoidance behaviors, empowering individuals to confront fears and reduce anxiety symptoms over time. Additionally, CBT’s adaptability makes it suitable for co-occurring conditions, such as when anxiety and depression are present together, which is common in many people seeking therapy.
