CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It is a form of talk therapy that is evidence-based and helps people understand the deeper connection between their behaviors, thoughts, and feelings with the intention of shifting the negative thought patterns (also known as cognitive distortions) that often lead to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. CBT supports new ways of thinking that make managing difficult emotions and creating positive change less challenging.

A CBT session typically starts with a check in about how you’ve been feeling. This allows for the therapist and client to explore the recent thought patterns and how they’ve influenced your emotions and behaviors. It’s also beneficial to track the negative thoughts, or cognitive distortions, and work through them together through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy coping skills like cognitive restructuring or thought records. The intention here is for you to learn how to manage symptoms with greater awareness that will support positive change between sessions.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is proven to be very helpful for people with anxiety disorders, depression, self-esteem issues such as self-doubt and low self-worth, relationship issues, and any stress-related challenges. If there is any presence of unhelpful thought patterns that are limiting your ability to heal and grow, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy could help you achieve your goals.

Since there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, there are instances where Cognitive Behavioral Therapy may not be the best fit. If you’re in crisis or find talk therapy to be difficult to engage in, then CBT may not be the best approach. If you’re struggling with any severe or untreated mental health disorders that require intensive or inpatient treatment, CBT will not be sufficient. If. You’re not sure about your situation and you need help in determining what kind of support is best for you, a quick consultation phone call with me can offer you some guidance and a better understanding.

The distinction here is only in the type of degree and license held by the therapist. A CBT therapist is a licensed therapist who has training in the use of cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. A CBT therapist may hold a master’s degree in counseling or a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD). Both types of licensed therapists have the capacity to treat mental health conditions. The most important part is that the therapist has an approach and the experience that you’re most comfortable with.

It’s important to look for a therapist that identifies having experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and treating issues like anxiety, self-esteem, and relationships. During a consultation phone call or your first session, consider whether or not you like their communication style, if their availability matches your scheduling needs, and if you feel at ease or willing to open up during your time with the therapist. Don’t stress about finding the perfect match. Start your journey by scheduling a consultation phone call to see if I’m the right fit for you!