Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a short-term form of psychotherapy (talk therapy) that has a specific goal to solve a problem. It focuses on how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are closely connected, and how they control the way we react to situations or events.

There are many different types of cognitive-behavioral therapy, but most involve:

• Timeline: definitive timeframe to reach your goals (called time-limited)
• Collaboration: to learn skills to implement on your own
• Education: understand how and why you react a certain way, so you can make positive changes
• Homework: you’ll complete assignments, such as journaling, reading, or practicing techniques you learned in therapy

CBT can be prescribed with medication, interpersonal psychotherapy, and/or other therapies.

Who is a Candidate?

Children, adolescents, adults, and older adults with mental health disorders can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy. CBT can also help people cope with stress and manage chronic pain related to medical illness or surgery.

CBT can be a successful treatment for:

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD)
• Autism spectrum disorders
• Bipolar and anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders
• Substance use disorders

What to Expect

Your first therapy session (or sessions) involves learning about you, your concerns, and goals for change.

During treatment, you’ll explore your emotions and thoughts, which can be uncomfortable at times. Your CBT therapist will help reshape the way you think about — and react to — specific situations, and give you tools to use in daily life.

It takes practice to form new habits. You’ll apply the skills you learned in therapy, and report back about how they worked for you.

CBT is short-term therapy that usually involves 10 to 20 weekly sessions, depending on your condition and symptom severity. Your therapist will work with you to plan your treatment and schedule.

Why Choose UHealth?

Unbiased treatment from an academic research center. Our psychiatrists and CBT teams are deeply committed to helping you be your best, no matter what. We study mental health disorders and co-existing conditions, and train the next generation of leaders in psychiatry. Here, you get the best care possible, from the most qualified physicians.

Proven therapies for people of all ages. We are actively involved in clinical trials and follow evidence-based practices in CBT for all ages, from children to older adults. You can trust that you’re getting the most innovative approach to care.

Customized treatments based on your needs. There are many types of cognitive-behavioral therapy, each with its own benefits. Our team listens to you and uses the best CBT methods to help you reach your personal goals, in a variety of locations close to where you live.