​Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a  form of psychotherapy that treats problems and boosts happiness by focusing on patterns of thinking that are negative and maladaptive. For example, a person who is depressed may have the belief "I'm worthless," and a person with a phobia may have the belief, "I am in danger."  The therapist will help to identify, confront and modify such negatif, irrational beliefs, in order to replace them by more rational ones. CBT emphasizes the need to  change how a situation is viewed.

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Additionally, this therapy involves clear identification of the problem, establishing attainable goals, empathic communication, frequent feedback, reality checks, homework assignments, and teaching individuals to use learned tools to promote positive behavioral change and growth.

 

CBT is  useful for a wide variety of problems, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and psychotic disorders. It is as useful as antidepressant medication for individuals with depression.  

 

Successful cognitive behavioral therapy sessions consist of a healthy collaboration between the counselor and the individual receiving therapy.