What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that is used to help treat many mental health disorders, eating disorders and substance abuse disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy concentrates on patterns of abnormal thinking and distorted beliefs that are the underlying causes for irrational emotions and thought patterns that can lead to mental illness.

This key concept for this type of therapy approach lies within the idea that thoughts and feelings are directly related to behavior, and therefore gaining control of one’s thoughts and emotions can better dictate their behavior. Negative thoughts are often ingrained in us since early childhood and over time they become automatic and as a result turn into dysfunctional behaviors.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Eating Disorder Treatment

Eating disorders, which are often associated with deep rooted underlying emotional and mental triggers, such as trauma, low self-esteem, personality disorders, poor relationships and devastating conflict resolution skills. Cognitive behavioral therapy specifically works to help eliminate these negative aspects and develop positive coping skills by fixing abnormal thought processes.

CBT is also an effective form of therapy for depression, addiction, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance abuse, psychotic disorders and anxiety. CBT has also been shown to help with anger issues, low self-esteem, and physical health problems, such as pain or fatigue.

The Stages of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy is generally a shorter-term treatment option (five to ten months) compared to other types of therapy however it is a step wise therapy approach where each phase must be completed successfully before an individual can move onto the next phase:

Functional Analysis-The stage of CBT where the individual is learning to identify problematic beliefs
Actual Behaviors-The second stage of CBT where new skills are learned, practiced, and applied to real-world situations
Behavior Change-Final phase of CBT that encourage an individual to take steps towards implementing a developmental transformation.

We’re Here for You

If you are struggling or someone you know is struggling, we are here for you. Center for Discovery’s Treatment Centers specialize in treatment for eating disorders, mental health and dual diagnosis treatment with unique treatment programs for every individual to get them on their way to eating disorder recovery.

For more information, resources, or to consult with one of our specialists, call 800.760.3934.