What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (or CBT) is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors. External issues related to a person or a situation doesn’t cause the stress we feel, it is the way we think about and react to these issues. According to this thought, if we change the way we think or react to an issue or event, we can control how stressed we feel about it. Therapists trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy help their clients ‘unlearn’ the unwanted reactions and thoughts that are causing stress and teach them a new way of reacting. That way, even if a stressful situation occurs or doesn’t go away, the tools to think and react appropriately are there to utilize.

How Can Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Help?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an evidence-based, effective option for the treatment of many different mental health disorders:

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Bipolar Disorder (in combination with medication)

  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

  • Attention Deficit Disorder/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD)

  • Anger

  • Eating Disorders

  • Substance Abuse

How Long Will I Be in Therapy?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is not an open-ended, never-ending process. There are objectives and end goals that are set in therapy. Some other forms of therapy take years. Therapists who utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy assist clients in identifying what they are looking for in life and then help them achieve those goals by listening, and teaching them how to think differently and how to act on that learning.

 

Avenues of Counseling and Mediation, LLC has locations in Medina and Akron, Ohio.  Both of these offices have multiple Clinicians who are specially trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and can assist you with many different mental health concerns.

Nicki Masters