Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive-behavioural therapy is an evidence-based treatment approach. It focuses on the relationship between thoughts, emotions and behaviours. Because the way we think, how we feel and what we do impact one another, we can feel better by changing unhelpful thought patterns and self-defeating behaviours.
CBT is a focused and structured therapy approach. It usually involves seeing a therapist for a set number of sessions. CBT focuses primarily on current problems opposed to past events. It should always begin with an intake and assessment of your current difficulties and strengths. Your therapist will then work with you to develop a collaborative treatment plan. Because CBT is structured, you will have an idea of the number of sessions and length of treatment required to meet a specific goal. Your treatment plan and length will vary depending on the type of problem and its severity.
It is also important to note that the point of CBT is to help you learn skills that you can use on your own over the long term. While ongoing maintenance sessions after completing treatment can be helpful, the goal is not to have you become "dependent" on therapy, but rather to become increasingly independent in addressing everyday problems.
Numerous studies and reviews have shown that CBT is an effective treatment for psychological problems in individuals of all age groups. Its usefulness has been demonstrated in treating anxiety disorders, mood disorders, phobias, and a range of other problems (e.g., addictions, eating disorders, personality disorders; click here to see a list of problems we treat).