Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Many people who are considering therapy hesitate to reach out because they think therapy is “just” talking. While discussing difficulties and working through complex emotions in conversation is an essential part of therapy, it’s not the only thing we do. By utilizing research-supported, proven techniques, like cognitive behavioral therapy, with our NYC clients, we turn all our talk into tools and strategies you can utilize to live your most fulfilling life.
Don’t hesitate to ask about this approach when you visit The Center for CBT in New York City.
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
How does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy work?
During therapy sessions using CBT, you and your therapist will be in a constant dialogue. In movies and TV shows therapists are typically shown sitting silently while the client talks. In CBT we use socratic questioning, an engaging and collaborative approach. CBT is present and solution focused. Your therapist may ask you to compare your response during ordinary life events with your response during complicated or upsetting experiences.
They may also ask you questions about both ordinary and upsetting experiences like:
- How did the experience make you feel? – anxious, worried, angry, happy, sad, joyous, hopeful
- What level of emotional response did you experience? – very heightened, stable, fluctuated
- How would you rate the intensity of your response on a scale from 1 to 10?
- What did you think before, during, and after the event?– planning, self-blame, self-advocacy, shame, negative thoughts, cyclical thoughts, catastrophizing
- What action did you take in response? – stay, leave, fight, let it go
- How did the situation make you feel physically?– shaking, heart racing, stomach upset, headaches, inability to sleep
As you discuss the way you felt, thought, and acted in a full range of situations, you will start to identify areas where you want to see change. With your therapist, you’ll discuss ways you would like to adjust your responses in certain situations, your therapist will partner with you to develop strategies and tools to help you achieve your goals. These new skills can and should be deployed in your everyday life.
The more you practice these strategies to address painful or difficult emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, the more you will find space to enjoy all of life’s moments – even the ones you once found challenging.
Who should consider Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
- General anxiety disorder
- Depressed mood
- Post-traumatic stress disorder and unprocessed trauma
- Panic attacks
- Phobias
- Mood swings
- Obsessive compulsive disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Relationship difficulties or transitions
- Life stage transitions
Who offers therapy using CBT?
What Should I Do Next?
When you’re ready to begin therapy, we hope you’ll consider contacting The Center for CBT in New York City. We offer a safe space where you are free to be who you really are and express yourself and your values authentically. We embrace, value, and welcome people of all sexual orientations, genders, and racial identities. The Center for CBT in New York City makes beginning your therapy journey simple. You can get started any time by completing our online consultation request form. One of our team members will be in touch within 24 business hours to answer your questions.
Choose Your Path
