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What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?

person learning what is cognitive behavioral therapy

Have you ever been faced with a serious challenge and could not find a solution on your own? If you have ever sought the help of a mental health therapist, who has helped you talk about your problem and find solutions, you may have participated in a cognitive-behavioral therapy program.

Vertava Health understands the significance of supporting people struggling with substance abuse. We realize that using the substance is not the only problem. Therefore, we help clients address the underlying causes that force someone to rely on drugs or alcohol to numb their pain. A cognitive-behavioral therapy program can guide your recovery if you are ready to heal your mind and body while also learning positive coping mechanisms. Contact 844.470.0410 for more information.

What Is CBT?

The most commonly asked question for many people seeking help is: What is cognitive-behavioral therapy?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy combines two specific types of mental health therapies: cognitive and behavioral. The purpose of cognitive-behavioral therapy is to help a person shift their mindset and behaviors from unhealthy emotional reactions to healthy, positive responses.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is essentially a form of talk therapy. In structured therapy sessions, the client and therapist will talk as a way of healing from past traumas. During these sessions, clients will learn positive, healthy behaviors that will assist them in navigating their triggers successfully.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps support people with not only addiction but the following mental health concerns:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia
  • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder

How Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Different From Psychoanalysis?

In a cognitive-behavioral therapy program, participants will focus on a problem and investigate patterns in their lives that are dysfunctional. They will work with a therapist to find solutions to their problems and then implement changes into their lives.

On the other hand, psychoanalysis focuses on understanding the past and how it has impacted your present behaviors. A mental health practitioner will analyze how your unconscious mind can influence your emotions and behaviors in psychoanalytic therapy.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy does not ignore the past, however. Instead, the focus is on helping a person acknowledge the past and then identify strategies that will allow them to make decisions that will heal their lives.

Who Can Lead a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Program?

When someone asks, “What is CBT?” they also want to understand the professional leading a CBT program. Psychotherapists who believe in the power of a cognitive-behavioral therapy program will guide clients through sessions. These professionals will include psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed counselors, and social workers.

Psychotherapists will lead clients through a variety of CBT techniques, including:

  • Build a reliable sober community that includes support groups, friends, and extracurricular activities
  • Utilize sober support groups identifying specific problem-solving methods when faced with challenges
  • Replace trigger-causing situations and cravings with specific hobbies and activities
  • Replacing dysfunctional thinking with affirmative thoughts
  • Learning how to be firm and assertive to avoid alcohol or drugs when offered

Learn More About the Treatment Options at Vertava Health Today

If you have ever wondered what CBT is, then you are in the right place. A cognitive-behavioral therapy program will allow you to not only understand your traumas and emotions but find positive solutions for meeting those challenges.

At Vertava Health, CBT plays an integral role in our addiction treatment program. Cognitive-behavioral therapy programs are available at our treatment centers as part of our intensive substance use treatment program. Our residents work with case managers to identify their personal needs. Then, we build a customized treatment plan which includes cognitive-behavioral therapy.

If you are ready to learn the skills necessary to manage your emotions and begin the healing process, contact us at 844.470.0410 today. Our professional team of treatment specialists will support your needs and help you reach recovery.