How Does CBT Work?

How Does CBT Work?

a person smiles at a therapist and asks how does cbt work

We are committed to providing comprehensive and personalized mental health treatment at Peer Mental Wellness. We understand the complexities of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and the effectiveness of CBT techniques in treating various mental health conditions. So how does cognitive-behavioral therapy work? Our dedicated Santa Ana, California team is ready to support your journey toward improved mental health through education and treatment. Contact Peer Mental Wellness online or call 714.844.5473 today to learn more about our services.

What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?

Behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that aims to change potentially self-destructive or unhealthy behaviors. It functions on the idea that all behaviors are learned, and unhealthy behaviors can be changed. The focus of treatment is often on current problems and how to change them.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of behavioral therapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It helps individuals understand how their thoughts and beliefs influence emotions and actions. The goal is to identify and replace problematic thought patterns with more realistic and constructive ones. It is effective for a range of problems, including the following:

  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression
  • Panic disorder
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Substance abuse and other addictions

By addressing both thoughts and behaviors, CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thinking patterns or maladaptive behaviors that contribute to their mental health issues. CBT techniques can be used in individual, group, or self-help settings.

How Does CBT Work?

CBT works by helping you make sense of overwhelming problems by breaking them down into smaller parts. It’s a practical approach, which means it deals with your current problems rather than focusing on issues from the past. It looks for practical ways to improve your state of mind daily.

The process of CBT involves these steps:

  • Identifying troubling situations, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
  • Gaining awareness of your thoughts and beliefs about these problems.
  • Identifying harmful or inaccurate thinking.
  • Reshaping harmful or erroneous thinking.

At Peer Mental Wellness, our therapists guide you through this process, teaching you CBT techniques and helping you apply them to everyday life.

Benefits of CBT for Mental Health Treatment

CBT provides numerous benefits for those undergoing mental health treatment:

  • Effectiveness – CBT is as effective as medication in treating many mental conditions.
  • Problem-solving skills – CBT teaches you skills that will be useful throughout your life. It can help you cope with difficult situations and keep mental health symptoms at bay.
  • Coping strategies – You learn how to reduce and manage symptoms in your everyday life.
  • Self-awareness – CBT helps you become aware of negative thinking to view challenging situations more clearly and respond more effectively.
  • Improvement in self-esteem and self-confidence – CBT can help you change your negative self-image and recognize and use your strengths.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a proven, effective treatment for various mental health issues. At Peer Mental Wellness, we provide CBT as part of our comprehensive treatment options, including intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs). Our therapies, such as art and music therapy, yoga, breathwork, tai chi, and Chinese medicine, complement CBT to provide a holistic approach to mental health treatment.

Call Peer Mental Wellness Today to Inquire About Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Santa Ana, CA

As one of only three mental health facilities in California with a primary mental health license, we offer a middle ground between therapists and psych hospitals, ensuring that patients do not need a substance abuse issue to participate in treatment. If you or a loved one are seeking mental health treatment in Santa Ana, consider Peer Mental Wellness. Our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive, personalized care to help you navigate your journey towards improved mental health. Contact Peer Mental Wellness online or call 714.844.5473 today to learn more about our services.