Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It is based on the premise that our thoughts and beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world influence our feelings and actions.

CBT aims to help individuals identify and change negative or unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to their emotional difficulties. It is a practical and goal-oriented therapy that emphasizes collaboration between the therapist and patient. The therapy typically involves structured sessions that are focused on specific problems or goals.

Key components and techniques of CBT include:

  1. Cognitive restructuring: This involves identifying and challenging negative or irrational thoughts and replacing them with more realistic and helpful ones. Patients learn to recognize cognitive distortions (such as all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, or catastrophizing) and develop alternative, balanced perspectives.
  2. Behavioral activation: This focuses on identifying and modifying behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. Patients learn to engage in activities that bring them a sense of pleasure, accomplishment, and mastery, even when they don’t feel like doing so.
  3. Exposure therapy: This technique is used to address anxiety disorders and phobias. It involves gradually exposing patients to feared situations or stimuli in a controlled and supportive manner, helping them to reduce their anxiety and learn that their feared outcomes are unlikely to occur.
  4. Skills training: Patients may learn specific coping skills and strategies to manage their emotions, improve problem-solving abilities, enhance communication and social skills, and increase assertiveness.
  5. Homework and self-monitoring: Patients are often assigned tasks and exercises to practice between therapy sessions. This may involve keeping thought records, tracking behaviors or emotions, or engaging in behavioral experiments to test out new ways of thinking and acting.

CBT is typically a short-term therapy, consisting of a specific number of sessions, although the exact duration can vary depending on the nature and severity of the individual’s difficulties.

Speak to a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Specialist at The Hummingbird Clinic.

Our highly-trained therapy professionals are ready and able to help you through the process at every turn. To start your journey, contact one of our therapists that specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. If you have any questions about therapy or are not sure about how to get started, contact us anytime!