What is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is an evidence-based approach that has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

At its core, CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected, and that changing any one of these can have a ripple effect on the others. For example, someone with social anxiety might have the thought "Everyone is judging me" when in a social situation, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and the behavior of avoiding social situations altogether. CBT would work to challenge this thought and replace it with a more balanced one, such as "Some people might be judging me, but not everyone is," which can lead to decreased anxiety and a willingness to engage in social situations.

CBT is a relatively short-term therapy, typically lasting between 12 and 20 sessions. During these sessions, the therapist and client work together to identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to the client's mental health condition. The therapist then helps the client develop new, more positive thought patterns and behaviors, which can lead to improved mood and functioning.

One of the key benefits of CBT is that it is a practical, skills-based therapy. Clients learn specific strategies and techniques for managing their symptoms, such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and cognitive restructuring. These skills can be applied outside of therapy sessions and can help clients manage their symptoms in the long term.

Another benefit of CBT is that it is a collaborative therapy. The therapist and client work together as a team, with the therapist serving as a guide and coach. This collaborative approach can help clients feel more empowered and engaged in their treatment, which can lead to better outcomes.

Overall, CBT is a highly effective and evidence-based therapy that can help individuals manage a wide range of mental health conditions. At Embark, we use CBT regularly and have seen firsthand how it can benefit our clients. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health condition, CBT may be worth considering as a treatment option. Please reach out to us for an appointment, and we can discuss whether CBT may be right for you.