Cognitive-behavioural therapy, or CBT, is a form of psychotherapy based on rationale and cognition. It encourages people to think logically about situations and their reactions to them. It also follows a specific structure to treat various disorders. Therapists use certain techniques based on the client's needs and goals. Some therapists combine techniques to address different types of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues.
The therapist will help clients identify troubling situations and conditions. These can be medical problems, divorce, grief, or symptoms of a mental disorder. Once they know which problems are troubling, they will decide on goals to focus on. The therapist will also work on clients' self-talk, helping them make healthier choices based on their thoughts and feelings. Some therapists use a combination of methods.
The therapy is usually delivered on an outpatient basis. Sessions last 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the patient's condition and the therapist's availability. In some cases, CBT is delivered in an inpatient setting with other treatments. The goal of the therapy is to help patients develop the skills they need to change their thoughts and behavior patterns. Once they have learned how to make the changes, they will be able to apply these changes on their own.
In a cognitive-behavioral therapy session, patients are taught various strategies to help them overcome their phobias. These exercises involve targeting all three components of the problem at once. One of the most effective exercises in CBT is called graded exposure. The exercise systematically approaches the feared object. The repetition of the exposure thereby reduces the phobia. These strategies can also reduce the occurrence of flashbacks. However, patients must be able to overcome their phobias before they can begin the therapy.
In CBT, the therapist will ask a series of questions, including questions about the patient's feelings and experiences. The therapist may ask the patient to write down the negative aspects of their phobias. During these sessions, they may also ask the patient to take notes on his or her responses to difficult situations. The goal of the therapy is to teach the patient to redirect his or her attention to positive aspects of life. In such a way, he or she will be able to overcome their depression and start living a more happy life.
As a result of its effectiveness, CBT has been applied to a variety of disorders in children, including depression, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, and tic disorders. It has also been used to treat posttraumatic stress disorder and anxiety in young children. If it is deemed effective for a particular disorder, it is most likely to work well. In general, it's best to seek treatment from a therapist you trust.