What does CBI mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CBI) is an evidence-based psychotherapy with a focus on changing attitudes and behaviors. CBI uses techniques from both cognitive (mental) and behavior (action) theories to change how people think, feel, and act to improve mental health.

CBI works by helping individuals identify negative thinking patterns that can lead to maladaptive behaviors. Through sessions of psychoeducation, self-monitoring, cognitive restructuring and skill building activities, individuals learn how to recognize unhealthy thinking patterns so they can replace them with positive thoughts and healthier behaviors.

Techniques used in CBI include psychoeducation about mental illness, how it can be managed through lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, cognitive restructuring (identifying negative thought patterns and replacing them with positive ones), problem-solving strategies, relaxation therapy, coping skills training and systematic desensitization for treating phobias.

CBI has been shown in numerous studies to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, eating disorders as well as other mental illnesses.

The length of treatment varies depending on the individual's needs but usually involves 12-15 one hour sessions over several months or more intensively concentrated in a shorter period of time.