Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches clients healthy ways to respond to specific events, situations, or objects that can cause stress. The experienced mental health providers at Thriving Center of Psychology in Midtown, New York, NY, SoHo, NY, Los Angeles, CA & Miami, FL, can help you learn more about using CBT to cope with mental illness, relational conflict, stress, and many other psychological issues. Call the clinics to talk to a team member, or visit the website today to schedule an assessment.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Q & A
Why do I need cognitive behavioral therapy?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common types of psychotherapy, and it tends to be more structured. You might benefit from CBT if you are dealing with or more of the following:
- Divorce or relationship break-up
- Work-related stress
- Panic disorder
- Drug or alcohol dependency
- Grief related to death
- Physical, emotional, financial, or sexual abuse
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Phobias
- Eating disorders
- Relationship stressors
- Depression and anxiety
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
During CBT, you and your therapist will talk through complex issues and pinpoint challenges that interfere with your daily living, which emerge at work, at home, or during everyday activities. Avoiding these issues can increasingly disrupt regular work and relationship functioning.
What happens during cognitive behavioral therapy?
Clients should experience CBT that’s tailored to their specific circumstances and needs. Your Thriving Center of Psychology therapist can guide you through a session that might include:
- Learning about your mental health diagnosis
- Using meditation and other relaxation techniques
- Working on your communication skills
- Planning “homework” that includes exercises or reading material
- Setting goals and creating schedules
- Identifying common triggers and constructive ways to respond to them
CBT can help you cope with temporary issues, like a divorce, or long-term chronic conditions, such as anxiety attacks. CBT empowers you with techniques to improve your communication with others, stabilize your emotions, and enhance your overall mental well-being.
How long do I need cognitive behavioral therapy?
CBT takes time to work, often several office or virtual visits. Your Thriving Center of Psychology therapist will likely need more than one session to learn your history and understand your most pressing issues. They will suggest five to 20 weekly sessions, which is typical of most CBT plans. However, the number of visits can vary.
Your therapist will devote the first one or two sessions to understanding your diagnosis. During subsequent visits, they will work with you to set some goals and develop a CBT plan to meet them.
After completing your CBT plan, your provider might suggest monthly or quarterly appointments to help you stay on track. Of course, you are welcome to schedule additional sessions to get any emotional support you need.
Call Thriving Center of Psychology today to learn how CBT can benefit you. To book an in-person or video TeleTherapy appointment, go online or call the offices directly.