Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based therapy method that will support you in making lasting change in your life and improving your overall well-being. MellaHealth clinicians are trained in utilizing CBT to address the symptoms of anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions.
What is CBT?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment method that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT is a highly effective, research supported and goal-oriented method that helps you develop healthier and more positive thoughts and behaviors.
How does CBT work?
CBT begins with identifying your goals for personal growth and wellbeing. During therapy sessions, you will work with your clinician to identify and challenge your negative thought patterns that interfere with achieving your goals. This approach can help you develop more effective and positive ways of thinking, which can in turn influence your behaviors, improve your mood, and lead to an improved outlook on life.
CBT involves both individual therapy sessions and real-life application. Between therapy sessions, your therapist will support you in finding ways to reinforce what you have learned in therapy and apply these skills in your daily life.
Benefits of CBT for Anxiety
CBT can help you manage your anxiety by teaching you coping skills and providing you the tools to face your fears. CBT has been shown to be effective for treating anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorder. CBT for anxiety starts with identifying and challenging the fear-based thoughts and avoidance behaviors that contribute to anxiety. Once identified, your therapist will work with you to address your symptoms and provide tools to help you manage your anxiety. Once you identify these thoughts and triggers, you’ll work with your therapist to develop coping strategies to manage anxiety symptoms.
Benefits of CBT for Depression
If you are struggling with depression, CBT is an effective method to help you challenge negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to your symptoms. This type of therapy can help you to develop more positive ways of thinking and take positive steps to improve your daily life. When addressing depression with CBT, you will learn to develop coping skills that will help manage depression symptoms, begin to feel better, and let you start setting goals for a more positive future.
Benefits of CBT for Other Mental Health Conditions
CBT can also be highly effective for treating a range of other mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, and more.
CBT for all mental health conditions begins by identifying the negative thought patterns and problematic behaviors, and supporting you in developing coping skills to manage your symptoms.
Tips & Advice
If you are coping with a mental health condition, it’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. CBT therapy is an effective method to address a wide range of mental health challenges. Additionally, below are a few tips from CBT therapy that you may find helpful:
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is a key component of CBT, and involves being present in the moment without any self judgment. Mindfulness can help you observe your thoughts and feelings, and it can help you develop a greater sense of self-awareness.
Use behavioral activation: Behavioral activation involves engaging in activities that you enjoy and that give you a sense of accomplishment. This can help to counteract feelings of depression or anxiety, and can help to build momentum towards more fulfilling goals.
Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery, can help you to reduce feelings of stress or anxiety. These techniques can also help you to cultivate a sense of calm and relaxation, which can be helpful for managing symptoms.
Create a support network: Having a support network can help you stay motivated and on track. Surround yourself with people who are supportive and understanding, and consider joining a support group or online community.
Why Choose MellaHealth for CBT?
At MellaHealth, we understand that choosing the right therapist can be difficult, which is why we offer a free consultation to have our experienced care coordinator identify the best-fit CBT trained therapist for you. All of our therapists at MellaHealth foster a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your mental health concerns. We believe that the therapeutic relationship is a key factor for success in therapy, and we carefully match each individual with a therapist who is the right fit for their unique needs and personality.
Collaborative Approach to Treatment
The CBT method emphasizes a collaborative process between you and your therapist. At MellaHealth, your best-fit therapist will work collaboratively with you to develop your unique goals and a personalized treatment plan. We believe that everyone has the potential to make positive changes in their life, and we are committed to helping you develop the skills and strategies needed to achieve this!
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy FAQs
Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) covered by insurance?
At MellaHealth, CBT is covered by all major insurances. MellaHealth has partnered with all major insurance companies to ensure access to compassionate CBT specialized therapists is accessible. We accept Aetna, Anthem BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, ConnectiCare, as well as Tricare, Medicaid (Husky), and Medicare on an in-network basis.
Can I do cognitive behavioral therapy by myself?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is designed as a collaborative approach between you and a licensed therapist to address your mental health challenges. Your therapist will offer you cognitive behavioral skills and strategies to manage your symptoms.
What does a cognitive behavioral therapy session look like?
During your cognitive behavioral therapy sessions, you and your therapist will work collaboratively to create your treatment goals. Your therapist will utilize CBT interventions, addressing both thoughts and behaviors, to help you achieve your goals. The clinician will offer interventions and strategies that will be reinforced through practice outside of session. Once treatment goals are met, you and your therapist will discuss next steps including the possibility of establishing additional goals or concluding therapy.