Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, what is it?
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is based on the idea, there is a connection between thoughts, emotions and behaviors. The Cognitive model's
focus is on identifying then modifying dysfunctional (many times automatic) thoughts and behaviors that underlie psychological distress.
symptoms of psychological distress can manifest in a wide range of symptoms to be targeted in a session (e.g., depression, anxiety, paranoia, delusions,
anger, low self-esteem, fear, etc.).
The focus is on learning how to modify our thoughts from negative self defeating
to positive, self affirming. A number of features differentiate Cognitive Behavior Therapy from other therapeutic approaches,
these features include: collaborative empiricism, structured format, focused interventions and homework assignments.
Often in CBT more work and insight is accomplished in the time between
sessions doing the homework than actually "in session".
About the Author: Donald W. Ahrens Jr, PMH-NP, A.R.N.P. is a
psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides full spectrum psychiatric service
(both psychotherapy and medication therapy) to the people of Wichita and the
surrounding metropolitan area.