There are various types of therapy to help us with the mental health issues that affect our everyday lives. Each has its benefits, but not every method helps everyone. Each type of therapy is as unique as the people they strive to help. One type of therapy that has become more common for treating a wide range of issues is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT.
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Psychology Today describes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a “form of psychotherapy that treats problems and boosts happiness by modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts.” You may be asking yourself what makes CBT so different from other types of therapy?
More traditional methods of therapy seek to help treat mental illnesses by addressing the root cause of specific problems. Therapists inquire about family history, childhood traumas, and other past events to help the patient develop coping strategies for those problems.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, on the other hand, looks ahead, toward the future. Therapists will help patients determine how they can improve their outlook on situations now and in the future. The idea is that our perceptions of the world around us influence the way that we feel and behave.
While not intended to be a long term practice, CBT is used to help create long-term and goal-oriented solutions. CBT seeks to help patients come up with ways to actively change their outlook on everyday situations and quell their negative thoughts and feelings. It relies on goal setting to hopefully create more practical ways for people to view the world around them.
What Are the Benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can provide many benefits to those who opt for this type of therapy. Patients are more likely to recognize their negative thoughts by actively connecting their feelings and reactions to the way they perceive the world around them. In doing so they will be able to discern what is realistic and what is exaggerated in their head.
People who undergo this more active form of therapy are more likely to establish goals and become more cognizant of their thoughts and feelings. With the more active approach to therapy—as opposed to a more cerebral and passive approach—CBT has proven beneficial to many patients. In particular, those who have anxiety and depression, PTSD, phobias, OCD, eating disorders, and other mental health issues often experience positive results from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy sessions.
Is CBT a Good Fit for Me?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy does not have a guideline for age, race, gender, or other personal factors. CBT would be an excellent fit for those willing to share personal details and put in the necessary effort to develop goals. One must be determined to change their outlook about the world around them.
CBT has been proven beneficial for those suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, phobias, OCD, and other behavioral disorders. If you are suffering from any of those mental health issues, then CBT may be worth trying.
Where Can I Find Someone Who Specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Luckily, many therapists practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy because of its growing popularity. The best way to find someone is to do your research. Check therapists’ qualifications and education. Most will have either a Master’s or Doctorate degree in psychological counseling.
Also look to see which areas they specialize in. Those who specialize in behavioral disorders like anorexia, OCD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD often also have experience with cognitive behavioral therapy.
At Keri Powell Therapy, we have therapists who practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. If you feel that CBT is the best option for you, give us a call. We will help you find a therapist with CBT experience so you can find your way to a more positive outlook on life.