What is CBT?
Cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT, is a widely researched, evidence-based
psychotherapy approach. The effectiveness of CBT methods is established for most
mental health problems, and it is the most effective therapy form for
many disorders. Cognitive behavioural therapy includes traditional methods, such as
exposure and response prevention, perspective shifting, and thought restructuring,
as well as new third-wave therapy approaches. These new approaches include, for
example, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), acceptance and commitment
therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Since CBT is evidence based, its core principles include measurability.
In therapy, we define together the metrics by which therapy process can be
monitored. These metrics tell us whether the methods we are using are working or not.
Sometimes at the beginning of therapy, there can even be a drop in well-being as
difficult or painful issues are addressed. As therapy progresses, mental
well-being usually increases. If this does not happen, we find the reason why
change as not occurred and adjust the therapy according to your goals.
The main object of psychotherapy is to promote mental well-being, alleviate
symptoms, and help you live your best life.
Short therapy typically consist of 10-12 sessions depending on the issue and
your situation. Long therapies last from one year to several years. A few session
therapies may be considered if the issue is clearly defined and the resulting
suffering is mild.