What is CBT?

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely researched and highly effective form of psychotherapy. With support from thousands of studies, CBT has been shown to be an evidence-based approach for a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns, including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, trauma, and substance use.

At its core, CBT is a collaboration between a person and a trained provider, focused on building skills and solving problems to help people reach their own individualized goals. It is a strength- and wellness-based approach that centers on the whole person, not just their symptoms. Therapists help clients:

• Develop a personalized roadmap for treatment based on their unique life experiences.
• Learn skills to better understand their patterns of thinking, feeling, and acting.
• Shift responses that are no longer serving them, helping them to move toward the things that are most important in their lives.

Done well, CBT embraces a culturally responsive stance where the therapist actively recognizes and respects the cultural identities and experiences of each client. This understanding is used to tailor interactions and practices, promoting inclusivity and meaningful engagement.

CBT helps individuals build hope for the future, develop skills to strive for their goals, and live the lives they choose for themselves.