Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely regarded as the most effective and versatile therapy model in use today to treat psychological disorders. CBT is favored as an “evidence-based” treatment by the health care community as it has been repeatedly proven effective for reducing symptoms quickly as well as preventing relapse in clinical trials. CBT is used in the treatment of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, eating disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, substance abuse, body dysmorphic disorder, pain management, and insomnia; as well as many other issues.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy works by helping the client to examine and refine their thoughts, feelings and actions related to their presenting problem. It is a very directive form of therapy, where the counselor encourages the client to challenge negative thought patterns and irrational beliefs in order to eliminate self-destructive behaviors. CBT is said to be problem focused and action oriented. Goals for treatment are firmly established at the onset of therapy. These goals are monitored and met through the use of homework assignments that are to be completed between sessions.

Our highly trained and experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselors practice CBT, among other treatment modalities, and may provide a number of interventions aimed at increasing the client’s coping skills including relaxation training, distraction, imagery, journaling, motivational self-talk, and reality testing. These skills allow individuals to deal with challenging life circumstances in healthy ways. Clients may also be asked to identify positive people in their lives they can use as members of their support system-people they can count on when they are feeling overwhelmed. Coping skills can be thought of as a toolbox. Those who have toolboxes full of coping skills are able to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and foster peace and emotional stability during stressful life events.