What is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?
At Thriveworks, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized and evidence-based form of psychotherapy or talk therapy. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors that can contribute to various mental health issues or challenges that people are struggling with.
What does a cognitive behavioral therapist do?
Cognitive behavioral therapists specialize in Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and can help you to identify and comprehend your thought patterns, which often encompass automatic negative thoughts, cognitive distortions, and self-defeating beliefs. Once these negative thought patterns are pinpointed, cognitive behavioral therapists aim to challenge and replace them with the objective of fostering more constructive and logical thinking. In addition, these therapists place significant emphasis on implementing positive behavioral changes based on the newly established, healthier thought patterns.
What is CBT best for?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for addressing conditions like anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. It focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors, making it well-suited for issues related to distorted thinking and emotional regulation.
How much does a CBT session cost?
At Thriveworks, we take most major forms of insurance, meaning many of our clients only pay a small $0-$50 co-pay. However, we have self-pay options, too. For those out-of-network, our therapy and psychiatry services are around $200, depending on the service and location.
What is the success rate of CBT?
The success rate of CBT varies depending on the intentions of the client and their condition(s).
What\'s better: CBT or DBT?
The selection between cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is based on an individual’s unique needs and challenges. CBT is commonly chosen for addressing conditions such as anxiety and depression, whereas DBT is especially beneficial for individuals dealing with borderline personality disorder, emotional regulation issues, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
Is CBT conducted in person or online?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with our Thriveworks therapists in Charlotte, NC is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
How many sessions is CBT?
Generally, CBT is considered a short-term therapy, typically lasting for about 12 to 20 weekly sessions. In some cases, it might extend to around 16 to 20 sessions for more complex issues.
Need more help deciding?
You have probably heard the phrase that begins, “When life gives you lemons…” but you also may have found that “making lemonade” is much easier said than done. So, if we aspire to make the most of our situations, what gets in the way of doing so? And most importantly, what can be done?
Conceptualizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
According to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), it is the way in which we process life events and our circumstances that determine our emotions and behaviors rather than the events or circumstances themselves. Therefore, negative and distorted thoughts are what ultimately lead to emotions and behaviors that have an adverse effect on our lives. To illustrate this concept, have you ever started an argument with a loved one to later find out the whole thing was a misunderstanding? Explained from a CBT perspective, by making assumptions (i.e. false cognitions), anger, frustration, and/or defensiveness (i.e. adverse emotions) resulted, prompting an argument (i.e. adverse behavior), leading to potentially destructive outcomes.
CBT in Practice
After taking time to understand the unique concerns, needs, strengths, and goals of each client, clients are taught how to use CBT. The counselor and the client then work together to identify flawed thinking, emotions, beliefs, and behaviors that may be self-defeating. With an increased self-awareness, clients learn how to reshape more accurate and constructive thoughts and beliefs, thereby allowing for emotions and behaviors conducive to well-being. Furthermore, CBT can be applied to help clients adapt and be prepared to cope with perceived challenges of the future.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Uses
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an empirically-based, solution-focused form of counseling. CBT techniques can be used to improve overall quality of life for individuals who simply need help overcoming everyday obstacles, as well as improve symptoms for a wide variety of mental health illnesses including:
- Depression
- Anxiety/Stress
- Sleep disorders
- Eating disorders (binge eating, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa)
- PTSD
- Addictions
- Phobias
- Obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Bipolar disorders
- Relationship problems
- Adjustment disorders
- Mood disorders
Don’t let distorted thoughts prevent you from living a happy, wholesome life. Book your appointment with a Thriveworks Charlotte counselor today.
Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, Women’s Issues, Anxiety, +1 more 
