Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

This form of therapy is based on the premise that thoughts create feelings and behaviors and is, therefore, very goal-oriented. The desired result from this therapy is for the client to become empowered by relearning how to think rather than repeating old patterns of reactions and subsequent behaviors.

Unlike traditional psychoanalysis, CBT is not an open-ended process but rather time-limited. It is based on very specific instructive sessions with follow-up homework. The aim is to assist the client to replace old ways of thinking.

During the series of sessions, there is much interaction as the client identifies and shares concerns, learns self-counseling techniques, and begins to apply these techniques in day-to-day life. The role of the therapist/counselor is to listen, teach self-counseling techniques, and encourage the client.

CBT is a highly-directive based therapy model and is considered to be one form of therapy that produces the most rapid results.