Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that can help to negate harmful behaviors and thought patterns. CBT uses a variety of strategies designed to help anyone improve their quality of life over time.
CBT is often used to mitigate depression and anxiety. Generally, people are assessed by their provider who then recommends a CBT therapist. If you’re interested in learning more about cognitive behavior therapy, read on.
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
As previously mentioned, CBT is an effective method that helps with a range of emotional and mental issues. Therapy endeavors to pinpoint the negative thoughts that may be causing feelings of anxiety or depression. Individuals who participate in cognitive behavioral therapy learn coping skills that they can use in everyday life.
As opposed to talk therapy, the tools learned in CBT improve the quality of life over time. That said, it is a great choice for anyone who needs help and support in changing their thoughts and reaching their goals.
When someone chooses CBT, they will have a deeper understanding of their thoughts. This can affect their overall mood and ambition. The therapy influences patients to attain a sense of interiority. Transforming reflection into a quality rather than an action is propitious for discovering why depression and anxiety may occur.
After the first session, a patient will be given a treatment plan to overcome these issues.Each treatment plan tailors to a unique patient. Rarely are there identical treatment plans. The success and origin of cognitive behavioral therapy is the personalized plan for treatment. Therapy sessions can work wonders when it comes to meeting the specific needs of individuals.
What Are Some of the Major Problems That CBT Can Solve?
Problems are major when they begin to interfere with daily life. Some major problems that CBT can mollify are:
- Low self-esteem
- Sleep disturbances
- Eating disorders
- Social anxiety
- Trauma
- Stress
While it is true that CBT is beneficial to people with crippling depression and anxiety, there are a wide range of other issues that it can alleviate. The main takeaway is this: CBT aims to assist anyone who has a genuine desire to overcome their negative thoughts and behaviors.
The Different Techniques Used in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
The good thing about CBT is that it combines behavioral therapy and cognitive therapy. Since the objective is to reduce any pessimistic thoughts and self-destructive behaviors, there has to be a split focus. Binary forms of therapy—such as CBT—can help achieve goals set in an individual’s treatment plan.
Cognitive therapy in CBT
When someone goes through cognitive behavioral therapy, the intention is always to change the way the thought patterns that lead to their behaviors. Negativism can lead to ill feelings and self-destructive behavior. For example, if someone feels unattractive or not worthy of love, they may remove themselves from social situations. Notwithstanding, it can also make them shy in settings such as work or school.
Once someone goes through CBT, they will work to challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs. They will establish healthy coping mechanisms and a positive outlook.
Many techniques are used by CBT practitioners. For example, a person who repeatedly engages in negative self-talk may be asked to recall supporting evidence for their claim.
Furthermore, perhaps there is someone who believes that they don’t deserve respect because of something they have done. Accordingly, this causes them to feel unlovable. A therapist will see the bigger picture and bring things into perspective.
Behavioral therapy in CBT
Behavioral therapy is the second form of therapy that a patient will experience when working with a CBT therapist. By way of behavioral therapy, a person will learn techniques and skills to help them refrain from impulse.
Depending on the treatment plan, a therapist will provide the patient with tools and practical activities. Behavioral therapy strives to teach behaviors that will replace older, more negative ones. Individuals will be asked to make conscious efforts towards positive behaviors and thought processes.
Exposure therapy
Exposure therapy is a technique commonly associated with treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). During an exposure therapy session, an individual will have to confront their fears in situations where the environment is safe. Ultimately, this method proves to the individual that they can overcome their fears.
Behavioral activation strategies
When someone becomes depressed, they often withdraw from activities they previously loved. In cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral activation strategies seek to push the individual to start participating in things that improve their mood. This reduces their isolation and can ease depression.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a technique that helps individuals stay focused on their thoughts, reactions, and emotions in the present. Mindfulness is often practiced with meditation.
Assertiveness Training
This type of behavioral therapy helps individuals be more confident in expressing their ideas and needs. They will learn to do this without being overly aggressive or rude.
Get the Help You Need
Numerous professionals specialize in CBT. Some people choose a psychologist or a social worker that is experienced in this specific form of therapy. Be that as it may, psychiatrists and nurse practitioners are well-versed in many therapeutic practices.
There are one-on-one in-person sessions available. Alternatively, you can choose to participate in group therapy. Thanks to telehealth, online therapy is available if you prefer to be in the convenience of your home while doing CBT.
For more information about CBT, or about how Alvarado Parkway Institute can help, contact us today to begin your process.
