Cognitive Behavioral Therapy combines cognitive and behavioral techniques, with the hopes of developing self-efficacy. Self-efficacy means reducing negative thoughts about oneself, as well as changing one’s actions. It also means believing that an individual can master a situation and produce positive outcomes. The process of CBT requires an individual to identify their thoughts and feelings produced, and work to change those thoughts, while simultaneously figuring out what they need to change in their behavior. The individual who seeks help takes the role of changing their negative thoughts into positive ones to cope with stress or meet personal goals. For instance, an individual will not give up, but rather imply positive reinforcements and a growth mindset. CBT is known to be the most effective therapy for treating disorders in adults, children and adolescents all over the world.
Therapists assist with helping individuals in equipping themselves with the skills to manage and change negative thoughts. Regulating emotions and improving thought patterns better benefits those who make healthier choices that support their wellbeing, and have saved countless lives. This therapy has also assisted many in a school setting, especially with students developing the right mindset.
“What’s really powerful about CBT is that it helps you understand that no matter what situation you’re facing, there is something you can do about it,” FHS school therapist Deirdre Louie said. “But with CBT, it takes a look at, well, here’s your situation, but there’s still something within it that you do, you can do, and that’s looking at your thought process, looking at your behavior, and seeing what little tweaks we can make to either of those that can help reverse the downward spiral entering.”
The benefit of CBT is that an individual can apply it to their own life without the help of a specialist. Those who have depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, eating disorders and other issues benefit from evaluating their own emotions and habits, and allowing themselves to change their behavior that comes with it.
“CBT focuses more on emotional aspects and that’s really important to understand what they’re going through, allowing us to be more empathetic and observe the process,” FHS junior Ian Berroya said.
CBT is getting more popular with each passing day, saving numerous lives, and decreasing the severity of depression and anxiety.
