Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a goal oriented, results focused, evidence based specialized form of talk therapy that centers on the idea that changing the way we think and behave impacts the way we feel.
There are multiple benefits seen with cognitive behavioral therapy and for a variety of conditions such as:
As a relatively flexible style of therapy, CBT is able to treat a variety of issues and can be worked into most people’s lives very well. CBT has been particularly potent for anxiety and depression.
Here follows a list of some of the benefits people report with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We think that CBT is a treatment that is right for many people, and the evidence suggests they think so too.
The studies show that CBT is effective quickly, and on average tends to prolong the beneficial effects of therapy over a longer period post-treatment. This is the case when paired with traditional medications, in the case of antidepressants for example, or for those who are using therapy alone to manage their condition.
Because CBT is focused on specific goals, there’s a structure to the sessions and less chance that they devolve into simple chatting; therefore increasing the effect the sessions have on an individual.
The evidence of CBT is easy to study, due to the goal-based nature of the treatment, and therefore can be improved over time. This practice should use the best examples from thousands of therapists across the country, or the world, and you know you’re getting the best treatment possible.
The hint is in the name, but CBT therapy cuts to the heart of the problem by focusing on treating the cause of the issue and not simply making you just feel better. Actually getting better with CBT is possible because its techniques are adaptive and can be molded to different people very easily.
The skills and techniques you learn through CBT therapy sessions stay with you once you stop receiving treatment. The reason that CBT is effective quickly but also lasts longer is you can keep practicing the skill over your entire life.
All of this being said, there are some caveats to CBT treatment. The key one being that it requires your full participation. If you are considering CBT at all, you need to be prepared to dive in head first and use the techniques and skills given to you to gain the benefits listed above.
CBT focuses on the individual, you, and the way that your behavior, thoughts, and emotions impact one another. This method is fantastic for dealing with problems in those areas, but leaves failures in systems or families, for example, that can provide their own problems.
Despite this, CBT gives people the tools to understand how they are feeling, how their behavior impacts their emotions, and then change the way they’re thinking to actively change their outlook and mental health.
If you have been considering CBT treatment, but want to talk to a professional about it first, set up a call with our therapists for a free 15 minute consultation. We have experience in providing therapy in our San Francisco based offices, or via video conferencing, and would love to talk to you about your needs.
Set up your appointment, today.
John R Montopoli is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has worked in the mental health field for more than 20 years helping college students and adults, of all ages. He uses a combination of empathy and evidence-based therapies to help his clients who live with anxiety disorders, depression, work stress, obsessive compulsive disorder, specific phobias, life transition issues, and sexual identity issues.
Compassionate help to achieve your goals.
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San Francisco, CA 94109
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