Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy often used to treat certain psychological disorders. Psychotherapy refers to the process of interaction with individuals through verbal and psychological techniques. The cognitive-behavioural therapy method identifies patterns of behaviour and thinking that are harmful and destructive in an individual’s life. Cognitive-behavioural therapy aims to identify those behaviours and replace those thoughts with more positive and realistic ones.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy is used to treat certain psychological disorders, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Eating disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Phobias
- Sleeping disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Personality disorders
- Panic disorders
Cognitive-behavioural therapy is also helpful and effective in helping cope up with adverse incidents or traumas as well, including:
- Personal loss
- Divorce or Separation
- Poor self-esteem
- Chronic illnesses
- Managing stress
- Manage emotions
Cognitive-behavioural therapy is beyond just identifying patterns of behaviour and techniques. For example, therapists use different methods during cognitive behavioural therapy.
Following are some techniques of the cognitive-behavioural techniques used by therapists:
- Identifying the problems- The first and most crucial step is identifying negative thoughts, beliefs, or feelings that lead to mental distresses. Although it may be difficult, it is an essential part of the treatment.
- New skills practice- This technique refers to practising coping strategies to overcome negative thoughts or harmful habits such as substance abuse.
- Setting goals- This technique refers to setting up specific plans to establish a good habit for life. Therapists help you set goals, which can be long-term or short-term, to improve your health and quality of life.
- Problem-solving- The problem-solving technique is vital in cognitive-behavioural therapy, so the problems that cause mental distresses can be identified and solved accordingly.
- Self-monitoring- In this part of the treatment, individuals observe their behaviours, thoughts, or symptoms and note them. Later on, they share it with their therapist. This technique helps the individuals be aware of what they go through, and it helps the therapist gain a proper understanding of the individual to provide the best treatment.
How is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy beneficial?
- It encourages individuals to identify their negative thoughts or feelings and how it is causing destruction in their lives. It also enables them to shift those negative thoughts into more realistic and healthier thoughts.
- It is one of the most popular forms of psychological treatment as its results are visible quickly.
- CBT is much more affordable in comparison to other types of therapies.
- It does not require medications, so lesser chances of side effects caused by the medicines.
Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most successful and widely used forms of therapy in treating certain psychological disorders. The process focuses on identifying patterns of thinking and behaviour and strategizing ways to solve them, making it successful.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy effectively helps in managing:
- Eating disorders
- Insomnia
- Pain or any mood disorders
- Symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Substance abuse disorders
The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioural therapy can get determined by the efforts it requires.
