Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
âž” What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
​​CBT is an evidence-based therapy that is designed to help you develop skills to manage and overcome emotional difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, and stress.​
Our beliefs, particularly those about ourselves and the world, often develop during childhood. These beliefs are shaped by our experiences and interactions with significant others, such as parents, teachers, and peers. For instance, if a child frequently receives criticism, they may develop a belief that they are inadequate or unworthy. These early-formed beliefs can become deeply ingrained and continue to influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors into adulthood in negative ways.​
One of the core principles of CBT is that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected. This means that the way we think about a situation can influence how we feel and behave in that situation. For example, if you have a negative thought about yourself, such as "I'm not good enough," this may lead to feelings of sadness or anxiety, and may cause you to avoid certain situations.
Through CBT, we work to identify and challenge these negative thoughts and beliefs, replacing them with more realistic and constructive ones. This process not only helps in reducing anxiety but also empowers you to develop healthier coping strategies and achieve your goals despite any negative self-perceptions.
âž” What to expect?
A crucial part of therapy is developing self-awareness. Self-awareness involves a deep and ongoing process of recognizing, understanding, and making sense of your own story. This process begins with acknowledging your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors as they arise. It then involves examining the development of your beliefs, patterns, and schemas, which are shaped by your past experiences, values, and interactions.
By making sense of these elements, you can form a coherent narrative about who you are and what has influenced your personal development.By engaging in structured exercises and guided introspection, you'll deepen your understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This heightened self-awareness empowers you to recognize harmful patterns and triggers, paving the way for transformative change. It is also essential for healing, as it empowers you to make conscious choices, break unproductive patterns, and enhance your ability to connect with other.
CBT offers a rich array of evidence-based tools and strategies designed to facilitate your personal growth and healing on multiple fronts. Through targeted interventions, CBT helps you develop self-awareness, gain mastery over anxiety, and progress towards your goals while dismantling the negative cycles that may be holding you back.
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CBT is a very effective approach in equiping you with practical techniques to manage anxiety effectively. Whether it's through cognitive restructuring to challenge irrational beliefs or exposure therapy to confront fears in a controlled manner, CBT provides tailored strategies to alleviate anxiety's grip on your life. By learning to navigate anxious thoughts and sensations, you'll regain a sense of control and resilience.
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By working together in therapy, we will develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. My role as a therapist is to provide you with guidance, support, and feedback as you work towards making positive changes in your life.