The beauty of counselling is that there are many different approaches counsellors can offer depending on their client’s unique needs — one of those approaches being Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). It’s one of the most well-researched and practiced forms of treatment that’s shown to be effective for a wide range of mood and mental health disorders. Though the name may sound complicated, it’s actually a technique that simplifies thought patterns for a more easeful approach to life.
Defining Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
CBT helps clients identify and change the underlying destructive thought patterns that have a negative influence on behaviour and emotions.
Researchers have discovered that the average person has about 6,200 thoughts per day — many of which are automatic and are accompanied by negative feelings we’ve solidified throughout our lives. CBT empowers clients to understand that, though they can’t control every thought that pops up or every event that occurs in their lives, they can control how they interpret and deal with them. Ultimately, the goal is to anchor clients to the present moment, catch negative thoughts as they occur, and reframe them to positive or neutral thinking.
Empowering clients with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Techniques
CBT is like a muscle that needs to be strengthened. In order to do that, a counsellor will work on techniques with clients to reframe thoughts, including:
- Journaling
- Role-playing
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
- Development of coping skills
- Mental Distractions
These techniques help clients identify their negative thought patterns, rehearse new skills so they become automatic in daily life, set short and long-term goals for recovery, and effectively solve problems.
The goal of these techniques is to reframe the underlying thought patterns that lead to distress. So, reframing thoughts and events in a neutral or positive way helps clients move away from their automatic negative thoughts. This leads to more ease, less distress, and better coping skills — no matter what pops up in life.
CBT and mental health disorders
CBT is an effective treatment for a wide range of mental health and mood disorders, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bipolar Disorder
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Eating disorders
- Insomnia
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Substance use
One of the most impressive benefits of CBT is how fast-acting it is. As a result, clients can expect to see a change in their mental state within 5 to 20 sessions — pretty remarkable.
Is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy right for you?
CBT can be an incredible tool in reframing thoughts and offering a fresh, more holistic view of day-to-day conflicts. Speaking to a counsellor is the best way to find out if CBT is right for you. Wellin5’s team of registered clinical counsellors can determine which kind of counselling is best suited for your unique needs. Start feeling better today.