Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective form of psychotherapy used to treat a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use disorders, marital problems, eating disorders and severe mental illness. During a CBT session, clients become aware of their negative thoughts and learn to respond to them in a more positive and effective way. Studies have shown that CBT can lead to an improved quality of life when paired with medication. CBT can also be used as a form of stress management.

CBT is based on 3 core principles which include:

1. Psychological problems are based, in part, on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking.
2. Psychological problems are based, in part, on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior.
3. People suffering from psychological problems can learn better ways of coping with them, thereby relieving their symptoms and becoming more effective in their lives

During a CBT session, clients and therapist will work together to develop problem solving strategies to target an individual’s negative thought patterns. Therapists may give their clients exercises to practice outside of therapy sessions to help them develop new coping skills and change their problematic emotions and behaviors.

Why is CBT Beneficial?

CBT is one of the most common and preferred types of psychotherapy because it can treat a wide range of conditions. CBT can help an individual:

• Manage symptoms of mental illness
• Prevent a relapse of mental illnesses
• Cope with grief or loss
• Overcome emotional trauma related to abuse or trauma
• Cope with medical illnesses
• Manage chronic or physical symptoms
• Learn techniques for coping with stressful life situations
• Treat a mental illness when medications are not a good option

What are the Risk Factors?

In general, there are little to no risk factors from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Some therapy sessions may require you to face uncomfortable situations and explore painful situations, which can lead to temporary anxiety and stress. Working with a licensed therapist who specializes in CBT can help you learn coping skills and manage your negative thoughts, fears, and anxiety.

CBT at Harmony Bay Wellness

At Harmony Bay Wellness in Clementon, New Jersey, our licensed therapists work closely with clients to come up with individualized treatment plans. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, our therapist can guide you on a path to live a healthier and fulfilling life. To learn more about CBT and other therapy services offered at Harmony Bay Wellness, contact us today at 855.765.6399.