Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals manage their mental health by addressing negative patterns of thought and behaviour. 

CBT is widely used to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, stress, phobias, and more.

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How Will CBT Help You? 

CBT is an evidence-based approach to therapy. It involves helping individuals identify and challenge their negative thoughts and behaviour. Ultimately the goal is to modify these patterns and gain healthier coping methods to reduce emotional distress.

Here are the Core principles of CBT and how it can help you: 

1. Cognitive Distortions: It focuses on identifying and challenging distorted thought patterns, such as catastrophizing or black-and-white thinking. By learning to identify and change these patterns, individuals can develop a more balanced view of life.

2. Behavioural Change: This encourages individuals to engage in healthier behaviours to reinforce positive thought patterns. Doing so can help individuals shift from their negative habits and replace them with healthier coping strategies.

3. Goal-Oriented: Sessions often involve setting specific, achievable goals. This can help keep individuals motivated as they can see more tangible results and monitor their progress. 

4. Skill-Based: CBT teaches coping skills that individuals can use in daily life to handle stressors effectively.

5. Present-Focused: CBT emphasizes addressing current problems rather than dwelling on past experiences.

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How Does CBT Work?

1. Assessment and Goal Setting: The therapist and client identify problems and set therapeutic goals.

2. Thought Tracking: Clients learn to recognize and document automatic thoughts that arise in challenging situations.

3. Cognitive Restructuring: Clients challenge and replace negative or irrational thoughts with more balanced ones.

4. Behavioral Experiments: Clients engage in activities to test and change unhelpful behaviours.

5. Relapse Prevention: Clients develop strategies to maintain progress and handle future challenges.

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Common Techniques Used In CBT

• Journaling: Recording thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to identify patterns.

• Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to feared situations to reduce anxiety.

• Relaxation Techniques: Learning methods like deep breathing or mindfulness to reduce stress.

• Role-Playing: Practicing responses to challenging scenarios.

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What Does CBT Treat? 

As mentioned, CBT can be used to treat a number of mental health challenges, including but not limited to: 

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Stress

• Phobias

• PTSD

• Life transitions

• Complex Trauma

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How Long Does CBT Take On Average?

CBT is evidence-based, and its structured approach makes it one of the most effective therapies for many mental health issues. It is typically short-term, lasting between 6 and 20 sessions depending on individual needs.

Get Help Today

At Le Psych Loft we offer various evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, complex trauma or other emotional difficulties, our team of licensed mental health professionals are here to guide you every step of the way. 

Contact us today to book a free consultation.