What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (also called CBT) is a very popular and successful form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping you change the way you feel by choosing a new way of thinking. For instance, if you feel depressed, it is likely that you have a pattern of thinking that is negative and not based in reality. By addressing your negative pattern of thinking, I can help you find healthy alternative thoughts to replace them. CBT is a great tool that allows you to see life and reality more clearly, similar to taking off dark sunglasses and being able to see the true colors of our world. 

Here are some more qualities of CBT:

• Helps to get you to understand the connection between events, your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours
• Usually is short-term (6-15 sessions) in duration
• Focuses on helping you find solutions to create a better today and tomorrow
• It is a practical approach teaching you coping strategies and relaxation skills
• Approach is backed by scientific research
• Homework is assigned by the therapist to help you practice your skills and see results in a short period of time
• Your commitment and involvement are key to getting you to improve 

Here are some common techniques that are used in CBT:

• Applied relaxation training
• Cognitive restructuring
• Psycho-education of the physiology of the body
• Visualization and imagery
• Exposure to phobias and common fears.
• Assertiveness training
• Time management
• Social skills training
• Communication skills
• Anger management skills
• Coping strategies
• Activity structuring 

Here are some reasons why you might consult in CBT:

• Are you feeling depressed?
• Do you have a low self-esteem?
• Are you anxious all the time?
• Do you tend to see the glass as half empty most of the time?
• Do you have panic attacks?
• Are you burned out from work and life responsibilities?
• Do you have trouble asserting your needs?
• Do people take advantage over you?