How does Cognitive Behavioural Therapy work?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy focuses on addressing the issue of our thoughts and assumptions causing emotional distress. Often, it is not the event itself that upsets us, but rather our thoughts and feelings about the event that make us unhappy.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and actions are all interconnected in a cycle. For example, if we have a negative perception of a situation, it can lead to negative thoughts, which in turn may result in negative actions. This creates a loop where our negative actions reinforce negative feelings, and the cycle continues.

Thankfully, CBT offers practical techniques to break this destructive cycle by challenging our negative thinking and behaviors. By changing the way we perceive and respond to situations, we can create a positive cycle of thoughts, feelings, and actions that support our well-being.

Following are 5 key pillars CBT is funded on and which form the basis of the therapeutic work is done.

Goal-directed

A noteworthy aspect of CBT is that therapy session. It is directing to a particular problem that you may have. For example, you may have a difficult relationship with your parents. So, you may be suffering from performance anxiety. Once you overcome, better manage that problem, you and your psychologist can either assess if any other issues need to be addressed or end the treatment. Your psychologist may also suggest activities you can do to maintain these new skills.

Present-focused

Addressing the current situation is practical and beneficial. It makes Cognitive behavioural Therapy(CBT) more practical than traditional talk therapy. Present problems that you are experiencing are dealt with first, in a systematic approach. This manner will foster achieving more in a shorter time within each session.

Brief

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that typically has a shorter treatment time compared to traditional talk therapy. With CBT, once you have recovered or achieved symptom relief, you can end your treatment and be equipped with skills for future success. It's important to keep in mind that treatment plans can vary from patient to patient. Typically, CBT treatment lasts from a few months to a year, but those with chronic psychological issues may require a longer treatment plan.

Support

You and your psychologist are on this journey together. Therefore, It is important to know that they commit to being there with you and helping you through your process. You can rely on them to provide you with the warmth, support and care you will need as you step out of your comfort zone and embark on the road to recovery.

Active

To achieve successful treatment, it's essential for both you and your therapist to play an active role. Instead of just talking about the issue, each session will include practical tasks like self-help assignments, homework, and using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) tools. Your therapist will also gather feedback and make adjustments to the approach to ensure the best possible outcome.

Telehealth is a modern healthcare tool that allows healthcare providers, therapists, and psychologists to connect with patients using technology. It's particularly useful for patients in rural or remote locations who may not have access to a nearby therapist.

A recent research paper investigated the use of telehealth for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study found that telehealth CBT was just as effective in reducing symptoms as in-person therapy sessions. The authors concluded that telehealth therapy could be a viable alternative to traditional face-to-face therapy.

Cognitive-behavioural therapy is a simple yet effective form of talk therapy for dummies that helps to treat common mental health issues. Thus, there are many aspects of CBT and various tools that promote its efficacy. Epsychiatry psychologists provide medicare funded psychology services using telehealth. Our psychologists are experts in providing CBT and have many years of experience helping clients.