WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is cognitive behavioral therapy? Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of mental health therapy. It is used to help you create more realistic, appropriate thoughts about yourself and your behaviors. CBT is short-term therapy that may last up to 20 sessions. You may work individually with a mental health provider, or in a group of others with similar disorders. CBT may be combined with medicines that help treat your disorder. What happens during CBT? Your therapist will help you identify unhealthy thought patterns and how they lead to negative actions. You will set goals for the behaviors you wish to change. You will be asked to keep a journal of your feelings, thoughts, and the result of your actions. What are the most common disorders treated by CBT? - Anxiety disorders
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Panic disorders and phobias
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Eating disorders
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You become more sad or fearful.
- Your behaviors return or continue after treatment.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
When should I seek immediate care or call 911? - You feel like hurting yourself.
- You have done something on purpose to hurt yourself.
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