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On November 1, 2021, psychiatrist Dr. Aaron T. Beck passed away at the age of 100 in his Philadelphia home. Regarded as the founder of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Beck put forward the idea that our thoughts are powerful enough to influence our emotions and behaviors. When we challenge the accuracy of negative thinking patterns, like self-criticism or faulty assumptions, we begin to undermine those patterns and can ultimately transform our emotions and behaviors for the better. Without Beck, we wouldn’t have one of the most commonly practiced and extensively researched psychotherapies in the world.

What Is CBT?

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a structured, goal-oriented treatment intervention that aims to increase awareness of negative or inaccurate thinking patterns that may be the cause of a person’s current dysfunction or life stressors. As the person identifies negative thinking patterns, the CBT counselor will encourage them to challenge the accuracy of these thoughts or beliefs by replacing them with more helpful, accurate thoughts. 

Throughout CBT treatment, individuals learn how to challenge and reframe unhelpful thinking patterns by practicing other behavioral coping strategies such as stress management, muscle relaxation and breathing, resilience, and assertiveness skills.

What Is CBT Used For?

CBT is an effective therapy tool for mental health issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, eating disorders, addiction, and schizophrenia. CBT can also help people address how they respond to stress in everyday life or manage feelings such as fear, worry, panic, and anger. 

Is CBT Right For Me?

CBT provides numerous benefits for individuals who want to develop new coping skills to manage and prevent problems. CBT can also help with:

• Problem-solving skills
• Goal-setting
• Identifying and managing emotions 
• Self-monitoring to prevent relapse
• Conflict resolution
• Communication skills
• Managing chronic health symptoms

If you feel that you or a loved one would benefit from CBT, or if you have questions about the therapy itself, contact us to speak with one of our counselors for a free 15-minute consultation.

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References

Benedict, C. (2021, Nov 1). Dr. Aaron T. Beck, developer of cognitive therapy, dies at 100. Retrieved Nov 4, 2021, from https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/01/health/dr-aaron-t-beck-dead.html

Cherry, K. (2021, May 7). What is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)? Retrieved Nov 4, 2021, from https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-cognitive-behavior-therapy-2795747

Gillihan, Seth J. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Made Simple: 10 Strategies For Managing Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Panic, And Worry. Emeryville, CA: Althea Press, 2018.