What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a type of structured therapy aimed at giving people tools to identify and solve their problems and reduce anxiety. It is aimed at changing the negative thinking patterns that people adopt that make it difficult to change behaviour and diminish dysfunctional emotions. CBT is effective for the treatment of a variety of conditions, including mood, anxiety, personality, eating, substance abuse, and psychotic disorders. It is an evidence based, scientifically researched treatment that has proven to be successful. CBT has a focus on the here and now.

 

How does it work?

CBT is usually offered in a structured format with a different theme explored each session. The goal is to change behaviours by examining the interactions among thoughts, feelings and actions. For example if you are feeling low or depressed, you may think you can not face work today. As a result of these thoughts you call in sick. This behaviour will likely keep you feeling low, feeding negative thinking further. "I've let my co-workers down." "Why can I not function like everyone else." Consequently you judge yourself in a negative way. "I am a failure." "I can't do anything right." Thinking and feeling this way can start a negative spiral and further negative thinking which impacts our moods, our levels of anxiety and our functioning. In CBT clients work to identify problems in their behaviours, develop strategies and implement solutions to change and then reflect back on how well they are doing.

 

Is CBT Effective?

CBT has proven to be successful on its own or in combination with other treatments in helping individuals achieve and maintain success. CBT is most effective when you practice the new skills that you learn so homework is a key component.

 

Anne Smithson is available as a CBT Counsellor in Niagara Region (including Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Fort Erie, Welland, Port Colborne, Ridgeway and Crystal Beach)

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One on One Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Sessions are being offered on a regular basis

Please contact Anne if you are interested