Have you ever wondered about the different approaches used in counseling?
Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) something you are curious about?
What is CBT and is it right for you?
CBT may be just the thing for you!
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, also known as CBT, is a short-term, behavioral treatment approach that helps people address and acknowledge negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. These thoughts, feelings, and behaviors may stem from stressful or triggering situations.
The tenants of CBT (thoughts, feelings, actions) are often considered a cycle! For example, if you happen to have a difficult morning, this may affect your mood and behavior for the rest of the day. If you think negatively about a situation in your life, chances are this may carry into other parts of your mental and emotional state. Thoughts affect feelings, feelings affect behaviors, our actions affect how we feel, and……you get the picture!
Things CBT can help with:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Phobias
- Obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD)
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Substance dependency
- Persistent pain
- Disordered eating
- Sexual issues
- Anger management issues
The use of CBT can alleviate the symptoms associated with many mental health struggles. If you are currently dealing with any of the issues listed above or just want to see what the fuss is all about, I encourage you to seek professional help. In counseling, a licensed therapist using CBT can help enhance your overall well-being. Additionally, you may be able to adjust the thoughts that directly influence your emotions and behaviors. This is often referred to as cognitive reconstructing.
Some CBT techniques are:
- Journaling: Write about anything that makes you feel better and brings joy to you
- Challenging your beliefs: Think about the positive things, even when it feels harder than usual
- Deep Breathing: Breath in and let your belly get full. When you are ready, let it out.
- Meditation: Focus on the present and increase your self-awareness.
- Goal Setting: This will give you guidance and enhance healthy behaviors.
- Desensitization: Through exposure, you can gradually reduce your discomfort with time.
When working with a therapist using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, you may be able to incorporate many of these techniques on your own. Also, in counseling, you and your therapist will agree on goals for your progress, practice certain techniques in session, and decide on homework assignments. These homework activities will continue your progress in between sessions!
Start Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Katy, TX
CBT focuses on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. These are essential components in life. Working towards positive thoughts & productive behavior will assist in creating peace and happiness. To try CBT in Katy, Texas, follow these simple steps:
- Reach out to us through calling or filling out our contact form to schedue your first appointment.
- Get to know your caring online therapist Melissa.
- Begin your journey to a happy life!
Other Mental Health Services Offered at Barton Counseling Services in Katy, TX
In addition to CBT, many other services are provided in the Katy area. Melissa sees clients in office and virtually. Additionally, to address any issues your family could be experiencing, we offer family therapy. Barton Counseling Services offers counseling for teens and for young adults. Melissa also provides anxiety counseling,& depression counseling. Barton Counseling Services provides supervision for LPC Interns. Contact the office to find out information on the ways that Melissa can assist you in your path to happiness.