Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Silverlake Psychology has many therapists who specialize in Cognitive- Behavioral therapy.  This type of therapy is present-focused, results-oriented and is the best choice for symptom reduction of a psychological disorder such as anxiety, depression, PTSD or OCD. 
 
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders and social anxiety. Numerous research studies suggest that CBT leads to significant improvement in functioning and quality of life. In many studies, CBT has been demonstrated to be as effective as, or more effective than, other forms of psychological therapy or psychiatric medications.
 

CBT is based on several core principles, including:

  1. Psychological problems are based, in part, on habitual patterns of thought.
  2. Psychological problems are based, in part, on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior.
  3. CBT aims to raise your emotional intelligence by teaching skills of resilience and emotional mastery.

CBT aims to change how you think. Here's how:

  • Learning new ways of thinking and perceiving about oneself, others and the world around you 
  • Teaching research-based skills for improving self-esteem 
  • Teaching research-based skills for improved social interaction
  • Gaining a better understanding of the behavior and motivation of others.
  • Using problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations

CBT aims to change how you feel. Here's how:

  • Facing one's fears instead of avoiding them.
  • Using role playing to prepare for potentially problematic interactions with others.
  • Learning to calm one's mind and relax one's body.


What to expect in a CBT session:
Cognitive-Behavioral therapy may be combined with other forms of therapy.  Most therapists are trained in CBT and consider it an effective tool.  You can expect a more active and directive therapy process than traditional psychotherapy. CBT places an emphasis on exercises, role-plays, exposure therapy and other practices. Therapists may track your symptoms and  goals. She will likely assign “homework” exercises outside of sessions.

CBT therapists focus on present emotions and life circumstances, rather than an in-depth exploration of their family-of-origin challenges.  The goal is to forge a new path forward with greater emotional intelligence and self-confidence.