Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is based on the idea that people’s lives are directly affected by their thought patterns, and in turn, their behavior.
Irrational fears can lead to anxiety. For example, believing something terrible is going to happen when the chances of something bad happening are actually very low if any at all.
Negativistic thoughts can lead to depression or substance abuse. For example, thinking “I can’t do this” or “It will always be this way” can prevent one from taking steps toward making changes.
Negative beliefs about oneself or the world following a traumatic event can lead to despair. For example, “I’m damaged” or “I should have done something” can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and worthlessness. Thoughts like, “No one can be trusted” and “the world is an unsafe place” can lead to feelings of distress and hopelessness.
The skills learned in CBT helps create new thought pathways in the brain, which allows for new ways of thinking, behaving, and being in the world. By reframing your thinking, or redirecting your thoughts, you can experience less suffering and in turn, change behavior, and enjoy life more. Changing negative thinking patterns and replacing them with healthier, more positive thoughts can lead to less stress, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
