Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on challenging and changing unhelpful “cognitive distortions” (e.g. thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes) and behaviors, improving emotional regulation (how one handles emotions), and the development of personal coping strategies that target current problems.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy’s core principles:
- Psychological problems are based, in part, on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking.
- Psychological problems are based, in part, on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior.
- People suffering from psychological problems can learn better ways of coping with them, thereby relieving their symptoms and becoming more effective in their lives.
(Source: APA Div. 12 Society of Clinical Psychology)
CBT is appropriate for people of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. CBT can address numerous conditions, such as:
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Anxiety Disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Eating Disorders
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Panic Disorder
- Phobias
- Anger Management Issues
. (Source Psychology Today)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is much more than sitting and talking about whatever comes to mind during a session. CBT sessions are structured to ensure that therapist and client are focused on the goals of each session, which in turn, ensures that each session is productive.
If you believe you would benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, please contact me today. I would be happy to speak with you about how I may be able to help.