What does CBT mean in OCCUPATION & POSITIONS

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on addressing current problems while understanding the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It aims to replace negative thought patterns with more positive ones in order to reduce emotional distress and improve overall functioning.

In CBT, the therapeutic relationship itself provides a safe environment for the client to reflect upon their coping skills, thoughts, and beliefs, as well as past experiences. Through this process, clients are able to recognize how their thoughts influence how they feel or behave in a particular situation. The therapist will then provide new perspectives on how these thoughts can be reframed into healthier ways that can ultimately lead to changes in behavior.

CBT can be used to effectively address numerous mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse issues, phobias, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), insomnia and anger management issues.

During each session with a CBT therapist there will typically be time for the client to discuss their progress since the last session and any new ideas or insights they have had about their life or condition. The therapist will also help them explore connections between their experience and feelings which may contribute to an understanding of their current situation. This exploration allows for identification of unhelpful thought patterns which may lead to dysfunctional coping strategies which need replacing with more constructive skill sets.