Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, time-limited, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that focuses on the interrelationships among thoughts, emotions, physiological responses, and behaviors, and how patterns of thinking and behaving contribute to psychological distress. Developed by Aaron T. Beck in the 1960s and drawing on earlier behavioral and cognitive traditions, CBT helps individuals identify and modify unhelpful cognitions (such as automatic thoughts, cognitive distortions, and core beliefs) and maladaptive behaviors through techniques including cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, exposure, problem-solving, and skills training. CBT is typically delivered in a collaborative, goal-oriented format and is considered a first-line treatment for a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders.