Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a common form of mental health therapy that helps patients overcome challenges in their life caused by negative and/or harmful thinking patterns.
The Purpose of CBT
A subset of psychotherapy, CBT typically multiple one-on-one sessions between the patient and his or her psychotherapist or trained social worker, the number of which are determined by how well the individual progresses in response to the treatment.
For some people, this may only mean attending a few sessions; for others, ongoing counseling might be necessary to overcome ways of thinking that the patient has held for many years.
Humans are complex beings; we are conditioned by a wide array of stimuli from birth, and affected on deep levels by how we are raised and what we experience as we grow. The purpose of CBT is thus to promote positive thinking and a mindset that can help patients get past real and perceived obstacles.
CBT has been very effective in assisting patients who suffer from chronic pain conditions such as Fibromyalgia as well as managing patients with anxiety. CBT provides individuals with tools they need to effectively manage their condition and their doctors with the information they need to try alternative treatment options, if necessary.
If you are dealing with chronic pain conditions affecting your daily life, CBT is an excellent way to learn how to handle life’s stressful events. Since there continues to remain a bit of confusion concerning CBT, here are some answers to a few common questions about what it is and who it can help:
Is CBT Right For You?