Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most common types of mental health therapies. It’s founded on the concept that our thoughts and behaviors are intertwined, developed by Aaron Beck in the 1960s and has been extensively researched since then. This talk therapy is helpful for many mental health disorders and is structured in nature, which is beneficial to the patients suffering from depression, PTSD, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, emotional issues such as loss and stress, and relationship problems. It also helps with issues such as insomnia and chronic pain.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is probably one of the most popular and also considered a more effective form of psychotherapy compared to other psychological treatments. Patients are helped to recognize and deal with unhelpful and distressing thoughts or behaviors.
CBT’s therapy approach is more concerned with what is happening at present rather than what has happened in the past. We have to remember that therapy isn’t the same for all the people out there, and treatment varies from person to person. CBT is versatile and can be adapted according to your needs, so it may or may not be the perfect kind of treatment for you.
There are many core principles on which CBT is based and these include:
- Psychological issues often stem from unhelpful or distorted thinking patterns.
- Psychological issues can arise from learned behaviors that are not beneficial.
- Psychological issues may be rooted in problematic core beliefs, including fundamental perceptions about oneself and the world.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatment typically focuses on changing thought patterns. This involves using problem-solving skills to manage difficult situations and build greater confidence in one’s abilities. Additionally, CBT aims to alter behavioral patterns, such as role-playing scenarios, to prepare for potentially traumatic interactions with others and facing fears instead of avoiding them.
However, not all CBT treatments use the above methods; rather, more effective strategies will be developed over time by both the mental health professional and the patient, as their collaboration will play a crucial role in the success of the treatment.
During treatment, the patient is asked to examine his or her thoughts and emotions in order to gain a better understanding of how their thoughts influence their actions, allowing them to unlearn negative thoughts and behaviors while instilling healthier thinking patterns and habits.
CBT sessions can last anywhere from 5 to 20 meetings over a period of weeks to several months. The duration depends on various factors including the severity of symptoms, the specific type of disorder or situation, the level of stress the patient is experiencing, and the rate at which the patient is improving, among others.
CBT usually targets specific issues and adopts a goal-oriented strategy. These goals are often Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-limited (SMART). Based on the situation and the patient’s SMART objectives, the therapist might suggest individual, group, or family therapy. It can be used on its own or in combination with other types of therapies and medications.
In the course of a session, the patient should be comfortable with their therapist allowing for honest and open communication. Arbor Wellness Nevada, located in Las Vegas, is staffed with mental health professionals who, apart from being master professionals in their field, practice empathy and have a willingness to assist individuals overcome their terrible circumstances.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, like any other therapy, presents some hurdles to the client receiving treatment. To begin, the individual’s principal emotions may cause uncertainty and worry about what to expect. Additionally, a patient may perceive change as difficult, and disappointment since improvement is typically gradual. All of these feelings are valid and normal. However, viewing CBT as a powerful instrument that allows a troubled person to understand his or her problem and eventually take constructive efforts to improve or fix it is well worth it.
To see whether or not cognitive behavioral therapy is appropriate for you, speak with one of the Arbor Wellness therapists and learn more about this form of mental health treatment.
Sources:
CBT Techniques: Tools for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavior Therapy – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
The 3 Basic Principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy | Psych Central
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Techniques, Types, and Uses
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): What It Is & Techniques
