What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is regarded as a gold standard therapy in the world of counselling and psychology. It is research- and results-based. CBT works on the idea that our thoughts affect our feelings which affect our behaviours/actions/inactions. If we can pinpoint and adjust unhelpful thoughts, there is a “domino effect” that improves the associated negative feelings and behaviours, leading to healthy change. Many people notice decreased stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms.
Are you a great candidate for CBT?
CBT is often used for those who experience anxiety (worry about the future) and depression (upset about the past/current situation). It is great for those experiencing low self-esteem and those who have trouble achieving their goals. If you often notice negative self-talk (that mean, nagging voice in your own head), CBT would likely be an excellent choice for you.
While CBT is an effective choice for most people, the people who notice the greatest success are those who are willing to do the work in between sessions. These are not overwhelming, oppressive, or time-consuming tasks, but rather paying attention to negative thoughts and patterns, and using conscious effort to adjust them with the techniques practiced in session.
What issues can CBT help you address?
Lauren Berger has used CBT to help people who are struggling with work stress, body issues, challenges with dating/relationships, and those who feel sad or nervous but don’t know why. If you find that you’re experiencing negative thoughts, in any capacity, it is likely that CBT will be helpful for you.
Why choose Lauren Berger, MSW RSW to use CBT with you?
While CBT practitioners can vary significantly in style, Lauren makes a point of adjusting her style based on the needs and personality of my client. She prides myself on avoiding “cookie cutter” therapy, so a CBT-based session with one client may look completely different from a CBT-based session with another client. She also appropriately, combines CBT with other therapies and techniques to make the best recipe for success for each individual. This way, you don’t feel locked into a therapy that you may not be identifying with, or feel like it’s too much “work” for you. She always encourage frequent feedback so that you can adjust our work accordingly, leading to greater results for you.
Is there anyone who should not be using CBT?
CBT is a non-invasive therapy with a simple premise: adjust your thinking and you feel better and act more positively. There is very little risk. If you do not feel you can dedicate up to 10 minutes per day to commit to the work, then this may not be the best choice for you.
Is there any other information I can access?
CPA.ca
The Efficacy and Effectiveness of Psychological Treatments
http://www.cpa.ca/docs/File/Practice/TheEfficacyAndEffectivenessOfPsychologicalTreatments_web.pdf
Psychology Today
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: Proven Effectivness
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/anxiety-files/201111/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-proven-effectiveness
Lauren Berger is a Registered Social Worker providing counselling and psychotherapy at IHI. Check her out at www.laurenberger.ca, drop her a line at lauren@laurenberger.ca, follow her on Twitter: @LaurenBergerMSW, or sneak a peek at her Instagram: laurenberger_msw.
