Cognitive behavioral therapy, referred to as CBT, is a treatment that has strong research support in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and various other mental health conditions. CBT focuses on the internal narratives of the mind, showing that automatic, reoccurring thoughts can cause various mood states and influence how one responds to different situations and stressors. CBT aims to change unhelpful thinking styles and patterns of learned behavior and thus teaches better coping mechanisms.
How does CBT work?
CBT is a form of psychotherapy or talk- therapy. The therapist and their client work together and focus on the thoughts, behaviors and physiological responses associated with their emotional states. Many forms of psychotherapy focus on the past to help clients understand their current feelings. CBT tackles the person’s present thoughts and feelings rather than past events. CBT in practice is a broad concept, where it focuses on how one’s thoughts affect their present situation and challenges. CBT is about recognizing the current patterns of behavior and changing those behaviors for better outcomes.
CBT is based on facing psychological problems rooted in unhelpful ways of thinking, maladaptive behaviors, and ineffective coping mechanisms, CBT incorporates different learning tools to help clients learn unique ways of handling challenges. Some of the most common tools used include:
- Education about emotional experiences
- Learning about various thought patterns that may contribute to one’s current difficulties
- Identifying coping strategies
- Calming techniques, such as meditation and breathing exercises
- Homework assignments
- Journal entries
- Consistent feedback
- Gradual exposure to fears
- Role-play activities
Each client is different and treatment is always personalized to meet each individual’s needs, but the main goal of CBT is for the therapist and client to work together towards their goals, and develop treatment strategies that will produce more positive results.
Common Questions About CBT
What can’t CBT treat? – Cognitive-behavioral therapy can’t treat every challenge that someone may be facing. It requires a commitment to the coping mechanisms and recognition of thought patterns to provide longer-lasting results for the client. For patients seeking to understand the underlying causes of their stress, CBT does not treat those forms of distress, nor is it a substitute for pharmacotherapy.
Can CBT be combined with medication? – Yes, it can be combined with medication based on the person’s medical history and current recovery. The medication can be used to stabilize clients to help understand their current thoughts and behaviors in CBT.
Is CBT treatment good for children? – Yes, CBT has also been found to improve symptoms of depression and anxiety in youth and can also help children who have ADHD and autism. Parents can cooperate with the child’s therapist and form more interactive activities for them to help them learn about their thoughts and behavior.
How We Can Help with CBT
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help by teaching clients to be their own therapists. Midtown Psychology Services aims to give our clients the tools they need to develop healthy coping skills, change their thinking patterns, and recognize their emotions and behavior for a better outlook. With CBT, it’s about moving forward and helping our clients face their fears and find a greater sense of confidence.