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Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), first developed
by Aaron Beck, Ph.D., is evidence based, protocol
driven psychotherapy. It is one of today's most
successful forms of psychotherapy. "Cognitive"
refers to thought processes, beliefs and perceptions.
The central theme of cognitive therapy is that the
perception of events or experiences powerfully affects
our emotions, behavior and physiological responses.
CBT teaches the skill of testing or evaluating
the meaning and usefulness of various perceptions
in small situations as well as during major life
events. Therapy focuses on changing the thinking
patterns that keep one locked in dysfunctional moods,
behaviors or relationship patterns. In addition,
one learns tools for coping and making changes in
behavior and relationships.
CBT is relatively short-term, focused psychotherapy.
The therapist and client begin by setting specific
goals that focus on areas the client is most concerned
about. Each session has an agenda specific to particular
needs. The client is routinely assigned "homework"
to practice new skills and beliefs, and often the
client works with a manual or worksheets so that
progress is made between and not just during sessions.
Research show that CBT is more effective then "talk
therapy" and other forms of psychotherapy in
the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders (including
panic, phobia, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive
disorder, social phobia and generalized anxiety
disorders), sleep disorders, chronic pain and various
personality disorders. CBT has also been shown to
be more effective than medication in preventing
relapse, particularly in depression and anxiety.
For further reading:
Beck, A.T. Cognitive Therapy and the Emotional
Disorders. International Universities Press,
1976.
Beck, A.T. Prisoners of Hate: The Cognitive
Basis of Anger, Hostility and Violence. HarperCollins,
1999.
Beck, A.T. Love is Never Enough: How Couples
Can Overcome Misunderstandings, Resolve Conflicts,
and Solve Relationship Problems through Cognitive
Therapy. Harper & Row, 1988.
Bourne, E. The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook.
New Harbinger Publications, Inc., 1990.
Burns, D. Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy.
Avon, 1999.
Greenberger, D & Padesky, C. Mind Over Mood:
A Cognitive Therapy Treatment Manual for Clients.
New York: Guilford Press, 1995.
Nolen-Helksema, S. Women Who Think Too Much:
How to Break Free of Overthinking and Reclaim Your
Life. Owl Books, 2003.
Seligman, M. Authentic Happiness. The Free
Press, 2002.
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