Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy—What Is It?

In today’s world, there is hardly ever a one size fits all approach that works for everyone.

There are different workout programs, diets, schools, programs, and more. That’s why what works for one person won’t be the best fit for another.

There isn’t just one type of treatment plan or therapy option that works for everyone. Each person has their own unique experiences. This means that treatment plans and therapy sessions have to be tailored to them and their individual and unique wants and needs.

There are many different types of therapy programs out there. Let’s dive into Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.

What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT, is one of the most common forms of psychotherapy or talk therapy. It’s a treatment option that combines psychotherapy and behavior therapy.

CBT has been used to help individuals learn to identify and change their negative thought patterns to better influence their behavior and emotions.It also looks at concrete behaviors patterns that are keeping you stuck.

What Conditions Does Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Treat?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been used to treat and manage the symptoms of a wide variety of mental health conditions, nonpsychological medical conditions, and life challenges.

CBT has been used to treat several mental health conditions:

• Anxiety
• ADHD
• Depression
• Eating Disorders
• OCD
• Personality Disorders
• Phobias
• PTSD
• Substance Abuse

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy has also been used to treat nonpsychological medical conditions such as:

• Chronic Pain
• Migraines
• Insomnia

This form of therapy option has also helped people navigate through life changes and challenges that occur in their day-to-day life, like the following issues:

• Divorce
• Grief
• Medical Conditions
• Relationship Issues
• Stress
• Work Problems

Benefits of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Working with a counselor with a CBT approach can help you get unstuck and make progress toward your goals.

CBT can teach people that they can’t and don’t have to control every single thing in their life. With proper treatment, individuals will become more aware of their negative and/or unrealistic thoughts and develop healthier thinking patterns. It also pulls in concrete behaviors to support you in making positive move forward. Healthy sleep, movement, and self care can be things we are aware of but struggle to find the motivation to incorporate in to our daily lives. A CBT counselor can offer new ideas and accountability for taking your next right steps.

CBT is an extremely affordable, short-term treatment option for a wide range of disorders. Visible improvements can be seen in as little as five to twenty sessions, whether the session takes place online or in person.

Things to Consider with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

At first, therapy may seem overwhelming and challenging. Here are a few things to consider before getting started with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy:

Implementing Change Can Be Hard

As with anything in life, change can be hard to navigate. You may be fully aware that the thought patterns you’re having aren’t ideal, but it may be difficult to switch your way of thinking. And as touched on above, you likely already have a good idea of what unhealthy behaviors you would like to change. But it can be hard to find the motivation to replace those with healthy behaviors.

In order for this treatment plan to work, you have to be willing to change. A CBT therapist can offer new strategies, explore motivation, and help you to identify what is keeping you stuck It just takes your willingness to go there. 

There Is a Structure with CBT

CBT involves following a structure. If you are the type of person who doesn’t do well with structure, CBT may not be the best approach for you since. A session typically involves identifying specific problems, becoming aware of your thoughts, emotions, and feelings surrounding the problems, and working towards identifying and reshaping your thinking.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

CBT is highly effective, but it can be a gradual process. You must take small steps to reach your overall goal. Keep in mind that small changes will still add up to big results. Change doesn’t happen overnight.

Next Steps - CBT in our Parker, CO office or via Online Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy can be a great treatment option for a wide variety of issues. Reach out to us today to set up a consultation with one of our counselors at RAFT Counseling. We’ll work with you to determine if CBT is a good fit for you or your loved one and would love to hear from you.