Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors. By becoming aware of inaccurate or unhelpful thinking, individuals can view challenging situations more clearly and respond to them in a more effective way. CBT has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness.
The therapy involves working collaboratively with a mental health counselor in a structured manner, typically over a limited number of sessions. Techniques employed in CBT may include learning to recognize one’s distortions in thinking that are creating problems, and then to reevaluate them in light of reality; gaining a better understanding of the behavior and motivation of others; using problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations; and learning to develop a greater sense of confidence in one’s own abilities.
