CBT Therapy
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a highly researched and effective form of psychotherapy used to treat a wide range of mental health challenges—including depression, anxiety, substance use issues, relationship difficulties, insomnia and even more severe mental health conditions. Numerous studies have shown that CBT can lead to significant improvements in daily functioning and overall quality of life. In fact, CBT has often been found to be just as effective—if not more so—than other therapy approaches or psychiatric medications.
What sets CBT apart is that it’s built on a strong foundation of both scientific research and real-world clinical success. The techniques used in CBT have been shown to create measurable, meaningful change.
CBT is grounded in several key principles:
1. Emotional difficulties often stem from distorted or unhelpful ways of thinking.
2. Problematic behaviors are frequently learned and reinforced over time.
3. People can learn new ways of thinking and behaving to reduce their symptoms and improve their lives.
How CBT Works
CBT involves practical, goal-oriented strategies to shift both thought patterns and behaviors. In therapy, you might work on:
- Identifying and challenging negative or distorted thinking
- Understanding the motivations and behaviors of others more accurately
- Building problem-solving skills for tough situations
- Developing greater confidence and emotional resilience
CBT also emphasizes behavior change. Some techniques may include:
- Gradually facing fears rather than avoiding them
- Role-playing to practice difficult conversations
- Learning relaxation and mindfulness techniques to reduce anxiety
Not every CBT session will include all of these strategies. Therapy is a collaborative process, meaning you and your therapist will work together to understand the problem and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
CBT also empowers you to become your own therapist. With tools, exercises, and “homework” between sessions, you’ll develop the skills to manage your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors more effectively over time.
While some background and life history may be explored, the focus of CBT is primarily on your present-day experiences—what’s happening now, and how to move forward with healthier patterns and coping strategies.
Getting Started
Once you have a good understanding of CBT, I find that can be helpful as a stand-alone therapy. Additionally, I often use it as a precursor to EMDR therapy, as they both compliment each other in helping you heal. Please contact me to set up your first appointment to get started on your healing journey.
Other Counseling Services Kathleen Provides
I am happy to offer in-person and online individual therapy services for adults. I have practiced in the mental health field for 25+ years and have developed an expertise and passion for working with clients. I specialize in providing counseling for anxiety, chronic illness, chronic pain, depression, stress management, trauma and PTSD and more. I also provide support for busy professionals. I use CBT therapy, DBT therapy and EMDR therapy with great success. If you don’t see the issue you are looking for listed, please contact me to ask if I can help you with your unique situation. I look forward to helping you live your best life possible!