Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a change-oriented psychotherapy that focuses on the interconnections amongst our thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and behaviours.  CBT works by examining and changing any unhelpful cognitions (i.e., thoughts, beliefs, or assumptions) a person has that may be connected to a presenting problem.  CBT also works to identify and change maladaptive behaviours that could be contributing to or maintaining a problem.  There is a large body of scientific research that demonstrates that CBT is an effective form of therapy for most mental health concerns.

The following information describes a number of important elements of CBT:

CBT is Educational

• CBT focuses on educating people about the components of the CBT model and how it specifically applies to their current difficulties.  This helps people to gain an awareness and understanding of the factors that contribute to their problems, which is an important first step in the process of change.

CBT is Skills Focused

• CBT focuses on learning the necessary skills to be able to identify, evaluate, and change unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaving.  Initially, the therapist guides and supports the client to address problematic cognitions and behaviours, however, over time the client takes a more active role as he or she learns the therapy skills.  This transfer of skills from therapist to client contributes to lasting change beyond the end of the therapy relationship.

CBT is Collaborative and Goal Directed

• In CBT the client and therapist work collaboratively to identify and achieve a number of important therapy goals related to symptom reduction and improved functioning.

CBT Focuses on the Present

• CBT focuses on applying important therapeutic interventions to current, problematic life situations to highlight the therapy model, learn the necessary skills to change unhelpful cognitions and behaviours, improve day-to-day functioning, as well as reach long term goals.

CBT Emphasizes the Importance of Homework

• Research demonstrates that completing written homework between therapy sessions can increase the effectiveness of CBT.  Therefore, at the end of every therapy session the therapist and client work together to set a practice assignment for the client to work on before the next therapy session.  Practice assignments are designed for specific purposes such as increasing a person’s knowledge and awareness, helping to develop therapy skills (i.e., challenging one’s thoughts, trying new behaviours), and achieving specific goals.

CBT Focuses on Relapse Prevention

• By the end of CBT, the goal is for a client to be his or her own “therapist”  and to feel confident in responding to life’s challenges in a more adaptive, helpful way.  Before therapy ends, the therapist and client create a relapse prevention plan that focuses on maintaining gains over the long term and preventing relapse in the future.