What is Cognitive Behaviour Therapy?
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is a modality of psychotherapy that involves learning skills and strategies to help people navigate their world. It can be short term or long term, depending on the needs of the person. It is the most evidence-based talk therapy technique that has developed in the field.
CBT can be offered in several ways and throughout several sessions (4-12 sessions or more). For example, for individuals with more adverse experiences resulting in lasting traumatic reactions (e.g. hyper-vigilance, extreme sadness, mood swings, impulsivity, severe relationship issues etc.) , more sessions may be needed before diving straight into interventions. This method is employed to reduce re-traumatization. During sessions, this means clinicians will be adopting a more holistic and gentle method of getting to know the client. This may be in contrast with other approaches whereby questionnaires that are probing or traumatizing may be employed. If you would like to read more about why the trauma-informed approach is one of the better practices we have in psychotherapy, please click here.
CBT can be used to manage symptoms of several different concerns. For example, it may help you:
1. Understand, identify and change the pattern of your thoughts and behaviours that are negative
2. Cope with grief and loss
3. Find new meaning in life after coming out of a difficult or abusive relationship
4. Pick up new ways of communication that are effective so that you can break the cycle of shutting down or getting angry
5. Manage chronic pain and learn coping skills that are effective
6. Deal with traumatic experiences involving Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Some clients may already be diagnosed (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Panic Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, Eating Disorders etc.) and have been asked by their doctors or nurse practitioners to learn how to manage their mental health issues through the eclectic approach; a combination of medication and talk therapy. If you believe that you would benefit from talking to someone, please reach out today.
Therapy for Depression (Using CBT)
Are you feeling hopeless, isolated, and not your usual self?
Do these thoughts often enter your mind?
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I am worthless and can’t do anything about it.
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I feel guilty for just wanting to eat, sleep and be alone.
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I hate who I am these days.
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I can’t stop crying, which makes me want to stay away from others.
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I feel gut-wrenching pain, but no one understands.
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My life and the world around me are dark. I hate it, but I can’t change it.
If you have had any variation of these thoughts and don’t feel like your usual self, chances are you may be suffering from depression.
We want you to know that you are not alone and there are people who can help. Many of my clients find relief in realizing that their struggle does not own them and that there are many options available to once again have hope for their lives.
We understand the social stigmas that come with the label of being depressed and thus aim to help clients sort out their environmental, biological, and circumstantial factors while offering support and care through a very dark time in their lives.
If you are hoping to finally lighten this load and feel like yourself again, contact us today for a free consultation.