Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT is a short-term, problem-focused form of behavioral treatment that helps people see the difference between beliefs, thoughts, and feelings, and free them from unhelpful patterns of behavior. CBT is grounded in the belief that it is a person’s perception of events—rather than the events themselves—that determines how he or she will feel and act in response.
At Joyful Living Behavioral Therapy in Eugene, Oregon, we specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, helping individuals to recognize the connection between beliefs, thoughts, and feelings. This, in turn, empowers them to break free from unhelpful behavioral patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Ways Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Can Help
Most people with clearly defined behavioral and emotional concerns tend to benefit from CBT since it allows them to adjust the thoughts that directly influence emotions and behaviors. This adjustment process is referred to as “cognitive reconstructing,” which happens through different CBT techniques.
As a result, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help with:
- Depression: CBT helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns that contribute to depressive symptoms.
- Anxiety disorders: Techniques in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy teach individuals how to manage and reduce anxiety.
- Panic attacks: CBT provides tools to recognize and mitigate the triggers of panic attacks.
- Phobias: Through gradual exposure and cognitive restructuring, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps reduce irrational fears.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): CBT helps in understanding and altering the thoughts and behaviors associated with OCD.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): CBT aids in processing and coping with traumatic experiences.
- Chronic pain: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy offers strategies for managing persistent pain.
- Disordered eating: CBT helps change harmful eating behaviors and thoughts and empowers individuals to find healing and balance.
- Anger Management: CBT also provides techniques for navigating and managing anger and learning reduce it.
How CBT Works and What to Expect
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy sessions are highly structured and goal-focused, ensuring productive and effective use of your time. It begins with initial sessions to discuss the issues you’re facing, your history, and your goals for therapy. You will then learn various CBT techniques to manage negative thoughts and behaviors. Some common ones include:
- Journaling to help you identify negative patterns
- Questioning and challenge those negative beliefs
- Learning relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing
- Practicing meditation and mindfulness to increase awareness and gain control over your thoughts and emotions
- Engaging in various social and physical exercise
- Gaining problem solving skills to solve life’s challenges effectively
Why Choose CBT Over Other Forms of Therapy?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is not only effective, but practical too. It typically requires fewer sessions than other forms of therapy and addresses current problems and how to solve them. In other words, this approach focuses on the future and can help individuals to develop skills to manage issues, promoting long-term well-being and a better quality of life.
Learn More About Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Eugene, OR
If you or someone you know could benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, reach out to Joyful Living in Eugene, OR. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping our clients achieve mental wellness through evidence-based practices. Contact us today to learn more about how CBT can help you lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.