Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, commonly called CBT, is an evidence-based approach that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behavior. It can help people recognize patterns that may be contributing to anxiety, stress, low confidence, emotional reactions, or other difficulties and develop more helpful ways of responding.
At Endeavor Psychotherapy Associates, our clinicians may incorporate CBT as part of an individualized approach to therapy. CBT is not about simply telling someone to “think positively.” Instead, it helps clients become more aware of how they interpret situations, recognize patterns that may be getting in their way, and practice strategies for approaching challenges differently.
CBT may be helpful with:
- Anxiety, worry, and stress
- Depression or negative thinking patterns
- Low self-esteem and lack of confidence
- Difficulty managing frustration or strong emotions
- School, college, or work-related stress
- Social and relationship difficulties
- Avoidance and fears
- Problem-solving and coping with challenging situations
What Does CBT Look Like in Therapy?
CBT is collaborative and practical. A therapist and client work together to identify concerns, understand patterns, and develop strategies that can be practiced both during sessions and in everyday life.
Depending on the client’s age and needs, this may include learning to recognize unhelpful thought patterns, looking at situations from different perspectives, developing coping and problem-solving skills, practicing new behaviors, or gradually facing situations that have been avoided because of anxiety or fear.
With children and adolescents, CBT concepts are adapted to the young person’s developmental level and may involve activities, examples from school or friendships, and participation from parents when appropriate.
CBT is one of several therapeutic approaches our clinicians may use. Treatment is individualized based on each client’s needs, goals, personality, and circumstances rather than applying the same approach to everyone.
If you’re interested in learning whether CBT or another approach may be appropriate for you or your child, contact Endeavor Psychotherapy Associates in Woodbury, NY. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and families throughout Nassau County and Long Island and can help connect you with a clinician who may be a good fit.