Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Therapy involves a collaborative effort between psychologist and client to examine and understand negative thought patterns that are related to the emotional and behavioral disturbance. Individuals are often able to quickly gain insight into the self-defeating thoughts that cloud their everyday lives. Clients are able to improve their awareness of irrational thought and learn to challenge these core beliefs. Examples of irrational thought patterns include catastrophizing, all or none thinking and overgeneralization. The tendency to perceive events in these and other ways contributes to great emotional distress for many people. These thoughts may also lead to unhealthy behaviors as individuals try to alleviate their discomfort.

Cognitive Therapy identifies and reduces unhelpful patterns of functioning. Clients learn techniques that enable them to rid themselves of unwanted habits and establish healthier ways of living. Behavioral strategies like exposure therapies and systematic desensitization are used to treat phobias, obsessive patterns of thinking and compulsive or ritualistic behaviors. Progressive muscle relaxation and active alert hypnosis are also taught to help individuals reach their goals by reducing fear, conquer procrastination and lessen physical and mental discomfort.

When combined effectively, these approaches can have a powerful influence on clients, helping them achieve their goals and realize their potential in all areas of living.

Contact Behavior Therapy of New York to learn how the techniques can help.