What is CBT?

What is CBT, and how does it help?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (also known as CBT) is an evidence-based treatment that is structured and focused on goals. Evidence-based treatments are supported by scientific evidence. CBT is a present-focused, collaborative treatment designed to help you understand the link between your thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. Once you recognize what contributes to your feelings, you can learn to change your thoughts and behaviors, which will create changes in your mood. CBT teaches you that you have the capacity to change and can learn to tolerate difficult emotions. 

Does CBT work with children and teens?

Yes! CBT can be modified for work with children, teens, and other populations, and it is very effective. Differences include incorporation of work with parents and family, using more concrete examples, and a focus on behavior change.

What are the strategies used in CBT?

CBT uses many techniques, including belief/attitude change, recognizing thinking errors, coping skills, problem-solving, education, and exposure to feared situations.

How long will it take?

Length of treatment depends on many factors, including motivation, complexity of symptoms, and commitment to continuing treatment outside of sessions. A standard treatment plan tends to be between 12-20 sessions. In general, CBT is designed to be a short-term treatment with the goal of teaching you to manage symptoms on your own. We can also work with you if you have a specific timeframe in mind to get as much done as possible in a given period.