Approaches

Beth’s Approaches

How does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) help?

Cognitive therapy is one of the few forms of psychotherapy that has been scientifically tested and found to be effective in over three hundred clinical trials for many different disorders. Cognitive therapy is focused on the present, time-limited, and problem-solving oriented. Clients learn specific skills that they can use for the rest of their lives. These skills involve identifying distorted thinking, modifying beliefs, relating to others in different ways, and changing behaviors.

What is the theory behind Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive therapy is based on the cognitive model, meaning the way we perceive situations influences how we feel emotionally. So it is not a situation which directly affects how a person feels emotionally, but rather, his or her thoughts about that situation. When people are in distress, they often do not think clearly and their thoughts are distorted in some way. Cognitive therapy helps people to identify their distressing thoughts and to evaluate how realistic the thoughts are. Then they learn to change their distorted thinking. When they think more realistically, they feel better. The emphasis is also consistently on solving problems and initiating behavioral change. If you are still curious about how CBT works, here is one description that might help bring it to life.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is bringing your attention to experiences occurring in the present moment. It is becoming aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgement.

How does Mindfulness help?

Mindfulness can help cultivate self-compassion and provide a great sense of well-being. Mindfulness allows clients to strength their mind-body connection, while decreasing anxiety through the practice of relaxation, meditation and calming techniques.