Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Posted January 5, 2021

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may sound complicated and even intimidating, but when broken down to its core, it is simply the therapeutic method of identifying and changing harmful and destructive thought patterns that can lead to problematic behaviors like drug and alcohol abuse or disorders like insomnia or anxiety. Once these “triggering” thoughts are recognized, CBT helps create a plan for coping with negative feelings in a positive way through talk therapy. CBT may take some time, depending on the severity of the patient’s issues, so immediate results should not be expected. However, it is up to the patient to be open and honest with the therapist if it seems the therapy isn’t working.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is highly goal-oriented and focused, with the therapist taking a very active role. People work with their therapist toward mutually established goals. Plains Area Mental Health takes pride in treating the whole person by assessing both mental health conditions as well as substance use disorder conditions.   Please contact one of our offices for more information or take our free on-line assessment on this website.

P.S. Once completed, cognitive-behavioral therapy can be useful in dealing with future issues by providing patients with coping mechanisms that work in a variety of situations.