What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has become one of the most recognized types of therapy out there, and for good reason. CBT is effective and evidence- based. What this means is that it has been tested and has been consistently shown to be effective in alleviating the symptoms of many conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD and more. CBT is effective for many and can help you to get to where you want to be.

What is CBT Anyway?

CBT was developed back in the 1960’s by a well known psychologist, Aaron Beck. he believed that the way we think has an enormous impact on the way we feel and behave. The focus is on exploring how our feelings, thoughts and behaviors are related. If we can change the way we think we can change the way we feel and react.

CBT encourages us to challenge cognitive distortions, aka thoughts that don’t work for us and may not be based in facts. When we challenge and reframe this type of thinking we can develop healthier narratives that lead to us feeling better and making better choices. It is an effective approach to make dramatic improvements in your life.

What Skills Can You Learn with CBT?

CBT is often time limited and focused on developing skills to improve your functioning. It doesn’t always have to be time limited, though it is focused on making tangible improvements. The skills you will learn in CBT are focused on:

  1. Cognitive Challenging: this involves both cognitive restructuring and reframing. This must happen first because we must be willing to challenge the way we think. Essentially we are beginning to poke holes in the “logic” we have held onto that has gotten us to where we are currently. You have to be willing to challenge this and make changes to move forward, especially if you are feeling stuck.
  2. Cognitive Restructuring: these skills focus on identifying and replacing unhealthy patterns of belief with ones that are healthier and/or work better for you. This is an active process that can take time and you are challenging patterns of thought that may have been long standing.
  3. Cognitive Reframing: this requires you to begin to change how you view yourself, others and the world around you. You are changing your perspective which can make a world of difference and can take some time.
  4. Problem Solving Skills: CBT can help you to learn to effectively work through challenges, set attainable goals and even feel less overwhelmed. Life can feel far less daunting when you are solving problems and making healthier decisions.

Getting Started with CBT

It’s likely that all those skills sound pretty great and you’re wondering how you can get started. Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, Carolina Counseling Services – Cameron, NC makes this process easy.

CCS contracts with a number of licensed therapists and counselors who are skilled in CBT. Call today to find the mental health professional that is right for you! Online counseling and in person sessions are available!