Cognitive Therapy

Cognitive Therapy (often used interchangeably with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT) is a structured, evidence-based form of talk therapy that helps individuals identify, challenge, and change unhelpful or distorted thinking patterns that influence emotions and behaviors.

It is based on the idea that how you think affects how you feel and act—and by changing your thoughts, you can improve your mood, reactions, and decision-making.


Core Principles of Cognitive Therapy

1.    Cognitive Distortions
People often have automatic negative thoughts that are inaccurate or unhelpful (e.g., “I’m a failure,” “No one likes me”).

2.    Thoughts – Emotions – Behaviors Link
Thoughts influence emotions, which then impact behavior. Changing thoughts can break negative cycles.

3.    Change Is a Skill
Cognitive therapy teaches practical tools that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened over time.


In Summary
Cognitive therapy is practical, structured, and collaborative. Counselors using this approach help clients become their own “thought detectives,” replacing patterns that keep them stuck with healthier ways of thinking and coping.