Cognitive-behavioral therapy, commonly referred to as CBT, is one of the most widely used types of therapy. It is often recommended for people struggling with depression or anxiety, although it is also beneficial for people trying to overcome addiction. CBT helps people learn how their thoughts and feelings impact their behaviors, which changes how they feel about themselves on an emotional level. It works by altering negative thought patterns into positive ones through exercises like journaling, visualization, and cognitive restructuring. CBT may also help you identify external stressors or triggers contributing to mental health issues and addiction so you can manage them more effectively.
If you are interested in the benefits of cognitive-behavioral therapy in Tacoma, Washington, consider enrolling in treatment at Bayview Recovery. Our behavioral therapies for mental health and addiction include CBT as part of our evidence-based, comprehensive treatment programs. Contact us today at 855.478.3650 to get a proper diagnosis and start receiving the support you need to heal.
5 Benefits of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
The benefits of CBT stretch far and wide, making this therapy one of the top choices of many counselors. Here are five of the top cognitive-behavioral therapy benefits:
1. CBT Is Practical
CBT benefits all areas of your life, teaching you specific skills to help you deal with everyday problems. For example, if you struggle with anxiety or depression, CBT will show you how to recognize negative thoughts and replace them with healthier alternatives. This process helps reduce feelings of stress so that they do not interfere with your daily activities.
2. CBT Is Relatively Short-Term
Some people may worry that seeing results from therapy can take years, but CBT is relatively short-term, lasting approximately 12 to 20 sessions. Some people notice positive effects after just three or four sessions of CBT.
3. CBT Can Be Adapted For Many Different Conditions
Cognitive-behavioral therapy benefits many different conditions such as:
- Disordered eating
- Drug or alcohol addiction
Depression - Anxiety
- Chronic pain
And it can also be used with people of all ages, from children and teens struggling with school and their peers to adults dealing with work and relationship issues.
4. CBT Can Be Used In Individual, Group, Or Family Counseling
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can take place in multiple settings, making it one of the most flexible therapies. You can work with a therapist one-on-one to restructure your thoughts about a specific situation in your life. Then, you can complement that by attending group therapy sessions to learn more about your condition, how it affects your mind, and how to cope with your symptoms.
5. CBT Teaches Skills You Can Use For The Rest Of Your Life
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is meant to provide a permanent change. The benefits of CBT last long after the end of your sessions. Once you learn how to change your thoughts to impact your life, you will be able to use these skills for the long term. Over time, you will discover how versatile this therapy can be, helping you deal with just about any problem that comes your way.
Bayview Recovery: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Washington
Now that you see how CBT benefits your overall well-being, it is time to schedule your first session. Whether stress is wreaking havoc on your life or you are having relationship troubles, Bayview Recovery’s cognitive-behavioral therapy in Washington can help. We provide CBT for individuals, couples, and families, so you have the options you need to address your life challenges. If you also struggle with alcohol or drug addiction, we can incorporate CBT into your addiction treatment program to help you heal and move on to a happier, sober lifestyle. Contact us today at 855.478.3650 to learn more about the benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy. A healthier life is possible.