What is CBT?
CBT emphasizes the connection between our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes and how they impact our emotions and behavior, while also teaching practical coping strategies. The core idea is that the way we interpret situations influences how we feel and act. By helping individuals identify and modify unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, CBT seeks to reduce psychological distress. Negative thinking often starts in childhood and becomes ingrained as we grow, eventually turning into automatic assumptions that shape how we experience life, including work and school. If left unchecked, these negative interpretations create a recurring cycle of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
How is CBT therapy conducted?
In CBT, you collaborate with a therapist to identify and challenge negative patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to your difficulties. By addressing these patterns, you can change how you feel about situations and develop more adaptive behaviors for the future. While the focus is primarily on the present, you and your therapist may also explore past experiences to understand how they influence your current perspectives and behaviors. This holistic approach helps you gain insight into yourself and develop effective strategies for managing challenges in your life.
In CBT therapy, the relationship between you and your therapist is equal and non-judgmental. You are an active participant in the therapy process, and your therapist values your input and reactions to shape the direction of therapy. This collaborative approach fosters an environment where you feel comfortable discussing personal or difficult topics. The therapeutic relationship is built on trust, respect, and open communication, allowing you to work together towards your goals in a supportive and empowering manner.
The typical structure of a CBT session may include:
Disorders that CBT treats
CBT is indeed a flexible therapy that can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Numerous studies have demonstrated that CBT is an effective treatment for a wide range of mental health problems, including:
- Anxiety Disorders and Panic Attack
- Depression
- Anger problems
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Eating problems
- Fobia
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Sleep problems
- Borderline personality disorder
- Substance abuse problems
- Psychosis
- Schizophrenia
- Sexual problems
- Problems in interpersonal relationships