Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy and counseling. In CBT, therapists collaborate with clients to help them reframe their thoughts, manage distressing emotions, and modify behaviors to achieve personal growth and wellness.
CBT is based on a straightforward idea: changing unhelpful thinking patterns can lead to improvements in emotions and behavior.
鈥淏y making alterations to disruptive behavioral patterns, individuals can experience improvements in their cognitive and emotional functioning,鈥� explained Mark Cassano, PsyD, an adjunct professor in the MS in Mental Counseling program at PCOM and Director of Behavioral Sciences for the Crozer Health Family Medicine Residency Program.
CBT builds on models such as the Diathesis-Stress Model, which examines the relationship between genetic predispositions and environmental factors, and the Cognitive Triad, which focuses on negative thought patterns about the self, world, and future.
CBT emphasizes understanding various types of thought:
One of the primary principles that underlies CBT is the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. These interconnected pieces contribute to how individuals perceive and respond to various different situations or moments in life.
CBT can be effective in treating a wide range of conditions. Mental health concerns commonly addressed include depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and OCD. It may also be helpful for managing behavioral health challenges such as chronic pain, insomnia, and stress related to physical illnesses like diabetes.
鈥淐BT has been identified as one of the most evidence-based approaches to mental health treatment for a wide range of biopsychosocial concerns,鈥� said Nic Schmoyer-Edmiston, PhD, NCC, an assistant professor in the MS in Mental Health Counseling program at PCOM.
CBT sessions are tailored to each individual鈥檚 needs. According to Schmoyer-Edmiston and Cassano, common CBT exercises may include:
These strategies enable clients to take an active role in managing their mental health.
CBT takes a goal-oriented approach to personal growth and wellness. Sessions are focused on practical solutions. The therapist and client work together to develop skills that can be applied to real-life situations.
鈥淏ecause CBT is oriented toward a hypothesis-testing and educational model of care, clients will have the opportunity to test out their beliefs and experience situations that help them develop new perspectives on their life circumstances and practice coping skills aimed to manage ongoing distress,鈥� Cassano said. 鈥淭here is also a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship, with providers promoting a collaborative approach to the therapeutic process.鈥�
CBT has been thoroughly researched and established as a first line treatment approach for a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns, Cassano added. Because of this, CBT providers can be found in almost any clinical and education setting including outpatient clinics (both mental health and physical health), hospitals, schools, and organizations.
鈥淏eyond developing a collaborative and supportive relationship with their treatment provider, individuals who receive a course of cognitive behavioral therapy will have the opportunity to heal and grow,鈥� Cassano explained. 鈥淐lients learn skills and strategies to navigate their individual concerns so they can feel empowered to independently navigate future challenges as they arise.鈥�
Training to become a cognitive behavioral therapist typically begins with a master鈥檚 degree. Programs such as PCOM鈥檚 MS in Mental Health Counseling integrate CBT methods into their curriculum to prepare students for practice.
鈥淓arly in their training, students are immersed in the basic tenets of CBT as they learn about the various facets of functioning as a well-rounded mental health counselor,鈥� Cassano said. 鈥淭he students begin their training at PCOM by completing courses in basic assessment and counseling skills, as well as learning the fundamentals of cognitive behavioral therapy.鈥�
Coursework and clinical experiences that emphasize the cognitive behavioral methodology and conceptualization framework enhance those foundational skills.
Schmoyer-Edmiston notes that while obtaining a master鈥檚 and/or doctoral degree is a great way to become initially trained as a cognitive behavioral therapist, it is important to receive targeted CBT supervision while working towards licensure.
鈥淭his supervision allows for a more experienced CBT clinician to provide clinical insight and training to enhance a clinician鈥檚 CBT skill and knowledge,鈥� Schmoyer-Edmiston added.
Continuing education, including workshops and certifications, is also important for therapists to stay informed about advancements in the field.
鈥淧erhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of being a CBT provider is witnessing your clients grow and heal as they progress through the therapeutic process,鈥� Cassano said. 鈥淏eing that CBT tends to be goal-focused in nature, CBT providers have the privilege to guide and observe clients as they make positive changes to their life.鈥�
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