Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured and goal-oriented therapy designed to help individuals work through and overcome a variety of psychological ailments. It recognizes that our thoughts and beliefs directly affect our emotions and reactions to experiences, and therefore our reality. According to the American Psychological Association, CBT is based on several core principles, including:
Psychological problems are based partly on inaccurate or unhelpful ways of thinking.
Psychological problems are based partly on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior.
People suffering from psychological problems can learn better ways to cope with them, thus relieving their symptoms and becoming more fulfilled and successful in their lives.
CBT therapists will focus on changing negative thinking and behavioral patterns to help their clients be more resilient to life’s challenges. This may look like teaching clients how to identify distorted beliefs that are causing problems and reevaluating them in a realistic way or encouraging clients to face their fears instead of avoiding them. In sessions, the therapist and client work together to develop an understanding of the problem and create a treatment strategy. CBT places emphasis on the active participation of the client, who are encouraged to apply techniques and skills they learn in sessions in the real world. This allows the client to make their thought and behavior patterns more positive, which develops practical coping skills. CBT therapists emphasize the present events the client is facing, rather than what has happened in the past. Some client history is needed, but the focus is primarily on creating healthy habits for moving forward in life.
Individuals who are facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, chronic stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), phobias, personality disorders, eating disorders, and addiction may benefit from CBT. It is also helpful for those who are simply seeking to improve their well-being and develop more effective coping strategies. For more information about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at Minnesota Renewal Center and if it is right for you, inquiries@minnesotarenewal.org.