Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy used to treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, eating disorders, addiction, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. CBT is different from other types of therapy for several reasons. For instance, CBT combines two therapeutic approaches, including behavioral therapy and cognitive therapy. While cognitive therapy focuses on forming a clear idea of your own thoughts, behavioral therapy helps identify negative patterns of behavior associated with depression or other mental conditions.
CBT treatment focuses on working through current problems and finding solutions along the way. CBT helps individuals cope with their current lives instead of focusing on the past. CBT seeks to understand cognition and bring about positive changes.
How CBT Works
Therapists and patients will work together to identify current problems and develop solutions in the form of personal goals. CBT also uses relaxation techniques and exercise to reduce stress. Short-term or long-term treatment may be needed depending on the type of mental condition an individual suffers from. Receiving CBT will likely last an hour per session. During each session with a therapist, patients will recognize progress made, learn about specific triggers, and discover how to cope with anxious thoughts.
Simply taking part in CBT will not stop night terrors, suicidal ideation, tremors, or other anxiety-related symptoms associated with mental health disorders. However, your doctor may prescribe medication to alleviate the symptoms you experience. Taking part in CBT and choosing to implement strategies between sessions gives individuals a better chance to hold themselves accountable and focus on what therapies work.
What CBT Offers
According to the National Library of Medicine, therapy often involves writing down your thoughts, feelings, or specific situations in a journal over time. This allows individuals to look back at their journal to determine whether the anxiety is warranted, whether behavior has changed, and whether the therapy plan can be adjusted to an individual’s personal goals throughout the course of therapy.
In addition to this, those who take part in CBT will likely experience the following:
- Learning to express thoughts and feelings appropriately
- Discussing any difficulties or problems they face
- Recognizing triggers
- Implementing relaxation exercises
- Writing down any emotions experienced
CBT can involve any of the above and will likely be different for each person. In fact, some individuals may only require a few sessions of individual CBT, while others need to meet with a psychologist weekly for CBT.
CBT Side Effects
Any psychological treatment can have side effects. Patients who see a psychologist to receive CBT may experience extreme emotions and anxiety. This can feel distressing at first, but ultimately helpful. While discussing your current problems with your psychologist, note any side effects you experience, such as:
- Anxiousness
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Emotional discomfort
- Heightened distress
- Sadness
The above side effects are common for patients receiving CBT. Unwanted emotions may come up during a session when discussing a difficult topic or event. Your doctor will help monitor your emotions to support your emotional regulation. If any side effects are experienced, inform your doctor right away.
Find Treatment Today
If you suffer from anxiety or struggle with a mental health disorder, CBT may be the best treatment option for you. At Cognitive Behavior Associates, our professionals offer a wide array of treatment options, including CBT. Our CBT programs put patients first, helping them find the right type of treatment or the right combination of medication and therapy.
Find relief when you take part in cognitive behavioral therapy. Contact us today to speak with an expert. Learn more about the process by scheduling a consultation visit. We look forward to assisting you.