Therapists focused on psychodynamic therapies in the early days of psychotherapy to help clients achieve new insights. What happens, though, when a client has gained insight? Cognitive-behavioral therapy develops ideas by directly attacking problematic ideas, activities, and cycles. Despite CBT’s long history, it has experienced a significant increase in popularity during the last ten to twenty years. It is now highly probable that CBT is the most popular type of therapy. Today’s CBT often plays an important part in treating substance addictions.
What Are Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Services?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy focuses on your cognition – i.e., thoughts – and behavior. Therapists endeavor first to help their clients detect automatic, unhealthy thought patterns. By identifying such thoughts, therapy patients become better equipped to disrupt them and replace them with healthier alternatives.
CBT is quite practical. It isn’t concerned with the past. Rather, it aims to assist patients in coping with present-day issues. Because of its emphasis on real-world skills, most CBT experts give their clients a lot of homework. This assignment allows you to apply what you’ve learned outside of the therapy session setting.
Does Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Boise Work?
The patient’s participation plays an important role in the success of cognitive-behavioral therapy. Your desire to conduct research and understand your behaviors is a strong predictor of success.
CBT has been shown in several studies to be quite successful, often working far more swiftly than other treatments. However, it is unlikely to help those who are currently in crisis. For example, changing your thoughts and emotions regarding domestic violence won’t alleviate the suffering of being in an abusive relationship. CBT also might not work for sexual abuse survivors because they may feel that it pathologizes their feelings, delaying their recovery.
Is CBT for Recovery Right for Me?
CBT in recovery can be a fantastic choice for individuals who have difficulty living a happy life due to negative thinking patterns. It has shown to be particularly beneficial for people recovering from depression and anxiety. CBT can also help you cope with the near-constant yearnings, self-loathing, and doubt that go along with addiction. You may profit from CBT if you have trouble achieving your objectives, managing your time, or making nutritious decisions.
The list of groups for whom CBT won’t work is significantly shorter than the list of situations that can be effective. In general,CBT may be a bad idea if:
- You have PTSD and are actively trying to recover from trauma
- You are currently experiencing a traumatic or abusive situation
- You are unable to commit to regular therapy homework
- You struggle to be honest with your therapist
- You are struggling with family of origin issues or other challenges related to your past
- You are interested in understanding your past or delving into why you are the way you are
Choosing a Therapist for Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Services
A therapist will most likely be assigned to you if you go to rehabilitation. However, the strongest predictor of therapeutic success is a solid relationship between a clinician and her patient. If you believe the
psychologist you’ve been given isn’t suitable for you, don’t be hesitant to request someone different.
A good therapist won’t shy away from pointed questions, so consider asking some of the following:
- Are you licensed to practice, and have you ever been disciplined by a licensing board?
- How long have you been practicing CBT?
- Have you been trained in CBT techniques?
- Do you combine CBT with other techniques? Which techniques? How do you combine them?
- Am I a good candidate for CBT?
- How long will therapy take?
- How will I know I’m getting better?
- What if I don’t improve?
- Is there anything I can do to improve the effectiveness of therapy?