What is CBT?

CBT is an abbreviation for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. “Cognition” is a synonym for “thinking,” whereas “Behavior” is defined as observable, measurable actions. CBT is the most well studied and empirically supported form of psychological treatment. NBI offers evidence-supported CBT for a variety of psychological conditions and problems.

The term CBT is used to classify a set of empirically based psychotherapies that focus on the present as opposed to developing “insights” about past experiences, and address problems in “thinking” and “behaving” directly.

Patients and families generally find CBT concepts readily understandable and can usefully employ its strategies after a relatively brief period of learning about them. They also like the fact that CBT provides specific target goals and that progress toward them can be quantified.

How does CBT work?

Cognitive portion of CBT is based upon the theory that extreme emotional reactions are the result of faulty beliefs and thoughts. The goal is to educate patients in the skills necessary to identify and change these mistaken beliefs in order to replace them with more logical ones. The result is a more balanced and moderate view of oneself, one’s life problems, and the world. Changing thoughts leads to more positive emotional responses and more effective behaviors. Readings and homework assignments are often employed in this re-education process. Problem-solving skills and assertiveness skills are also strengthened. In combination with behavior therapy, or alone, cognitive therapy can increase motivation for following treatment and improve family relations, self-image, self-control, and one’s ability to cope with adversity and life’s difficulties.

Behavioral focuses in CBT teaches patients how to reduce, control, or eliminate their maladaptive behaviors. Behavior therapy, similar to cognitive therapy, differs from other forms of psychotherapy because the methods have been experimentally tested and found to be effective. It teaches methods and techniques on how to change rather than relying on pure awareness of underlying problems. The treatment is essentially a learning process. Often, the individual sees results of this therapy early in treatment.  Most people think of behavior therapy in connection with treatment of extreme fears and phobias; however, behavior therapy has been demonstrated to be beneficial for other problems such as panic disorder, agoraphobia, depression, all the obsessive compulsive and related Disorders, anxiety disorders, and childhood and family problems. There is evidence that behavior therapy may alter brain chemistry functioning similar to medication.

Who Might Benefit from CBT?

CBT can be tailored according to needs, and level of functioning. There is no age barrier to using CBT—for example, CBT can be provided to parents and family members as well as in treating the very young and across the lifespan. Although it would not be accurate to say CBT is for everyone, it would be fair to say that for many it’s worth a try.

Although CBT is often short-term for treating specific psychological symptoms, it is also applicable to more severe, complex, or chronic disorders that necessitate intensive or longer-term treatment. In fact, CBT is utilized for some of the most severe and debilitating psychological conditions.

A few examples: CBT has shown to be effective in the treatment of OCD and Related Conditions, Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and even in coping with Thought Disorder symptoms.

CBT strategies are also used in managing general stress, as well as in school, workplace, and career challenges.

What is the evidence that CBT is effective?

CBT has a solid and increasing evidence base for its efficacy. In fact, it has been studied more than any other type of psychotherapy. Research has consistently found strong evidence for CBT in treating anxiety disorders, tics, and Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders—in both pediatric and adult patients. CBT has also been found to be effective in treating depression, personality disorders, anger management and/or impulse control problems, and many other conditions.

CBT research is ongoing, which forms a basis for improving treatment protocols, “personalizing” treatment, and identifying prognostic factors that can be used in determining when CBT is, and is not, indicated. CBT has been found to also have utility in supporting “readiness for change,” motivation, and relapse prevention in conditions such as Substance Use Disorders and other addictive behaviors, as well as in Eating Disorders.

 OTHER SCIENTIFICALLY SUPPORTED THERAPY

At times standard CBT alone is not sufficient to meet your needs. CBT and medication can work very well together. While in many instances CBT is effective as a “stand-alone” treatment, in certain conditions or situations, utilizing medication together with CBT is considered “best practice.” One compelling reason for combining CBT and medication is when symptoms are severe enough that without medication, there is insufficient, or no ability to participate in CBT.Other therapy techniques are incorporated to optimize your gains including social skills training, assertiveness skills, motivational interviewing, life skills training.