Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy based on the principle that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and influence one another. Its goal is to help individuals change negative or maladaptive thoughts and behaviors in order to improve their mental health, manage addictions, and resolve everyday problems. It uses specific techniques, such as cognitive restructuring or exposure, to promote patient autonomy.
Fundamental Principles
Link between thoughts, emotions, and actions:
CBT is based on the idea that there is an interaction between the way we think (cognition), feel (emotions/physical sensations), and act (behavior).
Causality of difficulties:
Psychological difficulties are often linked to inadequate or maladaptive thoughts or behaviors.
Learning and unlearning:
If a maladaptive behavior can be learned, it can also be unlearned.
Goals and Methods
Modifying thought patterns:
The therapist helps the patient identify and restructure negative or unrealistic thoughts.
Changing behaviors:
Techniques such as imaginal exposure or behavioral experiments are used to modify maladaptive reactions.
Developing skills:
The goal is to help the patient become autonomous, for example by learning to better manage stress or improve self-esteem.
Putting into practice:
Concrete exercises are often assigned between sessions to help the patient integrate new strategies.
Common Applications
- Personality disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Mood disorders
- Addictions (including behavioral addictions such as Internet addiction)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
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