Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is probably what most people think of when they think of therapy.
It’s a traditional method focused on the connection between the way we think, how we feel, and how we react. In a nutshell, it’s not the things that happen to us that are the problem, it’s the way we think about them that causes us to feel depressed and anxious, or struggle in our lives and relationships.
In CBT, clients focus on identifying the thought patterns that are causing distress, and identifying alternatives in order to feel better. CBT believes in structured homework to root out thoughts that interfere with living your best life. For example, let’s say someone’s car breaks down and their thought is “Bad things always happen to me!”. Then, the therapist and that client would focus on the thought, go through all the evidence supporting or opposing that thought, and the impact it all has on the client’s wellbeing. Does keeping the thought get the client closer to where they want to be? Probably not. So, together they work to identify a way to reframe the thought or replace it with an alternative thought that gets the client closer to living the life they want and deserve.
CBT is well-studied and can be very helpful, but may feel very familiar to those who have been to therapy in the past. That’s okay! Our therapists have varied toolkits; let them know if CBT isn’t a fit for you. Tip: They’ve heard it before and they get it.
Here at Bright Spot we will use every tool at our disposal to create an individual roadmap for you using therapy that works to meet your needs.
What is CBT Effective in Treating?
CBT is well documented in effectively treating:
- anxiety
- depression
- relationship issues
- bipolar disorder
- addiction issues
