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by Kasey Wittmann (Author)
Basic concept behind Cognitive Behavioral TherapyThe theory behind CBT is that a person's emotions, feelings or behavior are a result of their own personal analysis of a stimulant. Feelings or thoughts about certain events or situations might emerge organically, no matter how negative and erroneous they are. Such thoughts eventually lead to depression and anxiety: CBT teaches people how to notice when this negativity is coming so that they can alter their views to something healthier and more realistic, without drastically changing the circumstance.There are various types of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatments, but the majority of them have these same following characteristics.-CBT treatments are centered on the theory that an individual's thoughts, not outer influences, define their behavior and emotions. This is considered a plus, since it grants people the ability to change the way they view a certain stimulant and therefore accommodate their behavior to react positively without the need of changing the stimulant. -CBT produces quicker results and is done within a specific timeframe. CBT on average lasts 16 sessions, with the objective of achieving drastic improvement in a very short timeframe. In the early stages of treatment, the patient will be informed that the process will not carry on indefinitely, and standard therapy will end after a certain length of time. After each session, the patient will receive homework related to their experiences to speed up the therapy.-While a trusting and constructive relationship between the therapist and patient is a requisite feature of CBT, the role of the therapist is not simply to advise the patient, but also to teach them how to process their thoughts and emotions in a rational and calm manner.-CBT is structured and complies with a standard system. Each session will focus on it's own specific procedure where concepts and techniques are taught which are meant to have the patient figure out how to achieve their goals, and what behaviors they should adopt in order to achieve said goals.Hands-on application of the concepts and methods learned in CBT are meant to expose the patient to their amplified response to certain situations and teach them more effective and reasonable ways to channel their thoughts. CBT is very effective in reducing anxiety disorder symptoms and is frequently used in the place of anti-depressants. CBT is also an essential part of drug rehabilitation therapy, insomnia treatment, and to offer pain relief to the elderly who suffer from arthritis.
