What is cognitive behavioural therapy?
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Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps individuals examine the thoughts and behaviours that contribute to their emotional experiences. Generally speaking, our thoughts play a large role in how we feel from day to day. Research has shown that individuals who experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health difficulties have thoughts patterns that are generally biased towards the negative aspects of a situation. Research has also shown that if we change the way that we think about things then we can also change the way that we feel. CBT helps to examine the thoughts that may be contributing to emotions like sadness or anxiety and examine negative thoughts in a more balanced way.
CBT also recognizes that our behaviours contribute to our emotions too. Some of the key behavioural components of CBT could include tasks such as:
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Behavioral Activation: CBT encourages individuals to engage in activities that bring a sense of fulfillment and pleasure. By targeting specific behaviors and promoting positive activities, clients can overcome feelings of lethargy and improve their overall mood.
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Exposure Therapy: Particularly effective for anxiety disorders, exposure therapy involves gradually confronting and desensitizing individuals to feared situations or stimuli. This process helps reduce anxiety and build resilience.
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Who is CBT helpful for?
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CBT is helpful for a range of clinical issues including: mood, anxiety, eating disorders, and poor body image, to name just a few!