Understanding Cognitive Therapy and Its Role in Treating Panic Disorder

What is Panic Disorder?

Panic Disorder is a form of anxiety marked by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—intense episodes of fear or discomfort that often peak within minutes. These attacks may involve physical sensations such as a racing heart, dizziness, or shortness of breath, but what distinguishes Panic Disorder is the persistent worry about future attacks and the misinterpretation of bodily sensations as signs of catastrophe. This cycle of fear and misappraisal can significantly impair daily functioning.

What is Cognitive Therapy (CT)?

Cognitive Therapy is a structured, time-limited form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and modifying distorted or unhelpful thought patterns. It rests on the principle that emotional distress is often maintained by inaccurate beliefs and automatic thoughts. By helping individuals examine the logic and evidence behind their fears, CT aims to reduce anxiety and restore a sense of control.

How Does CT Help with Panic Disorder?

Cognitive Therapy addresses the core cognitive distortions that fuel panic attacks. Here’s how:

Identifying Catastrophic Misinterpretations

People with Panic Disorder often interpret benign bodily sensations—like a fluttering heartbeat or lightheadedness—as signs of imminent danger (e.g., “I’m having a heart attack” or “I’m going to faint”). CT helps individuals recognize these automatic thoughts and evaluate their accuracy. Through guided questioning and collaborative analysis, patients learn to distinguish between sensation and threat.

Reframing Beliefs About Panic

CT encourages individuals to challenge deeply held beliefs about panic itself—such as the idea that panic is uncontrollable or inevitably leads to harm. By examining past experiences and testing assumptions, patients begin to see that panic attacks, while uncomfortable, are not dangerous and do not require escape or avoidance.

Strengthening Cognitive Insight

As therapy progresses, individuals develop a more nuanced understanding of their anxiety triggers and cognitive habits. They learn to anticipate and respond to distorted thoughts with greater clarity and confidence. This cognitive shift reduces the intensity and frequency of panic episodes over time.

Benefits of CT for Panic Disorder

• Focused and Efficient: CT targets the specific thought patterns that maintain panic, often yielding results within 12 to 20 sessions.
• Evidence-Based: Numerous clinical trials support CT’s effectiveness in reducing panic symptoms and preventing relapse.
• Empowering: Patients gain tools to analyze and respond to their own thoughts, fostering long-term resilience.
• Non-Invasive: CT does not rely on medication or physical interventions, making it a suitable option for those seeking a purely psychological approach.

Conclusion

Panic Disorder can feel overwhelming, but Cognitive Therapy offers a clear and effective path toward recovery. By addressing the distorted thinking that fuels panic, CT helps individuals regain control and reduce fear. If you or someone you care about is struggling with panic attacks, consider speaking with a mental health professional trained in Cognitive Therapy. Understanding your thoughts is the first step toward changing your experience.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions affecting millions of people worldwide. They can manifest in various forms, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. While these conditions can be debilitating, there are effective treatments available, one of the most prominent being Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Developed in the 1960s by Dr. Aaron Beck, CBT is grounded in the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. By addressing dysfunctional thinking, CBT aims to alter emotional responses and behaviors to alleviate symptoms of anxiety.

How Does CBT Work for Anxiety Disorders?

1. Identifying Negative Thoughts: The first step in CBT is to identify the negative thoughts that contribute to anxiety. These thoughts are often automatic and can be hard to recognize without guidance. A therapist helps the patient to become aware of these thoughts and understand their impact on emotions and behaviors.
2. Challenging Negative Thoughts: Once negative thoughts are identified, the next step is to challenge and reframe them. This involves examining the evidence for and against these thoughts and considering alternative, more balanced perspectives. For example, a person with social anxiety might learn to question the belief that others are constantly judging them.
3. Behavioral Techniques: CBT also incorporates various behavioral techniques to reduce anxiety. These can include exposure therapy, where patients gradually face their fears in a controlled and safe environment.

Effectiveness of CBT

Research has consistently shown that CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety disorders. It has been found to be as effective, if not more so, than medication for many individuals. Moreover, CBT provides long-term benefits as it teaches skills that can help prevent the recurrence of anxiety symptoms.

Finding a CBT Therapist

If you or someone you know is struggling with an anxiety disorder, seeking help from a qualified CBT therapist can be a crucial step towards recovery. Many therapists specialize in CBT and can offer both in-person and online sessions. It’s essential to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and who has experience treating anxiety disorders.

Conclusion

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a powerful tool in the fight against anxiety disorders. By addressing and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, CBT can help individuals regain control of their lives and reduce the debilitating effects of anxiety. If you are dealing with anxiety, consider exploring CBT as a potential pathway to a healthier, more balanced life.

Understanding the Effectiveness of CBT in Treating Depression

Depression is a pervasive mental health condition affecting millions of individuals worldwide. While various treatments are available, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as one of the most effective and widely endorsed methods for managing and alleviating depressive symptoms. But what makes CBT so effective in treating depression? Let’s delve into the core reasons behind its success.

1. Focus on the Present

One of the key aspects of CBT is its focus on the present rather than delving deeply into past experiences. This approach helps individuals address and manage their current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, making it easier to implement changes that have immediate benefits. By concentrating on the here and now, CBT empowers individuals to take control of their mental health in a tangible and actionable way.

2. Evidence-Based Approach

CBT is grounded in scientific research and has been extensively studied in clinical trials. Numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing depressive symptoms, often comparable to or even exceeding the benefits of medication. This solid evidence base provides confidence both for therapists and patients that CBT is a reliable and effective treatment option.

3. Skill Development

CBT equips individuals with practical skills that they can use beyond the therapy sessions. These skills include techniques for identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, problem-solving strategies, and methods for enhancing emotional regulation. By learning these skills, individuals gain tools that help them manage their depression long-term, reducing the likelihood of relapse.

4. Collaborative Nature

CBT is a collaborative process between the therapist and the individual. This partnership fosters a sense of empowerment and ownership over the treatment process. Patients are encouraged to take an active role in their therapy, setting goals, and working on homework assignments between sessions. This active participation can enhance motivation and commitment to the treatment, leading to better outcomes.

5. Structured and Goal-Oriented

CBT is structured and goal-oriented, providing a clear framework for therapy. Sessions typically follow a consistent format, focusing on specific issues and working towards predefined goals. This structure helps individuals track their progress and see tangible improvements over time, which can be incredibly motivating and reinforcing.

6. Short-Term and Cost-Effective

Unlike some other forms of therapy that may require years of treatment, CBT is often short-term, with many individuals experiencing significant improvements within 12 to 20 sessions. This makes CBT a cost-effective option for many, reducing the financial burden associated with long-term therapy.

7. Adaptability

CBT is highly adaptable and can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. It can be integrated with other treatment modalities and adjusted based on the individual’s progress and specific challenges. This flexibility makes CBT an inclusive and versatile approach that can benefit a wide range of people experiencing depression.

Conclusion

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) stands out as a powerful tool in the treatment of depression due to its present-focused, evidence-based, and skill-oriented approach. Its collaborative nature, structured format, and adaptability make it accessible and effective for many individuals. By equipping people with the skills to manage their thoughts and behaviors, CBT not only alleviates current symptoms but also empowers individuals to maintain their mental health in the long run. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, exploring CBT as a treatment option could be a transformative step towards recovery.

In today’s fast-paced world, managing one’s mental health is more crucial than ever. “Mind Over Mood,” co-authored by Dennis Greenberger and Christine Padesky, offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and improving your emotional well-being. Here are compelling reasons why everyone should have a copy of this transformative book:

3. Personal Empowerment:

One of the core messages of “Mind Over Mood” is the idea of self-empowerment. By understanding the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, readers gain the tools to take control of their emotional health. This sense of empowerment can lead to lasting changes and improved quality of life.

4. Versatility:

Whether you’re dealing with a specific issue or just looking to improve your overall mental health, “Mind Over Mood” is incredibly versatile. It’s beneficial for individuals, therapists, and even educators who want to incorporate CBT techniques into their practice.

5. Long-Term Benefits:

The skills and strategies outlined in “Mind Over Mood” are not just quick fixes; they provide long-term benefits. By regularly practicing the techniques, individuals can build resilience and better cope with life’s challenges, leading to sustained mental health improvements.

6. Accessibility:

“Mind Over Mood” is widely available and affordable, making it accessible to a broad audience. Its straightforward language and practical approach ensure that it can be a valuable resource for anyone, regardless of their background.

Conclusion:

“Mind Over Mood” is more than just a self-help book; it’s a powerful tool for personal growth and emotional well-being. Its evidence-based techniques, user-friendly format, and emphasis on self-empowerment make it a must-have for anyone looking to improve their mental health. By incorporating the lessons from this book into your daily life, you can achieve a happier, more balanced state of mind. Don’t wait—get your copy today and start your journey towards better mental health.

CBT for all of us

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a well-known therapeutic approach that has gained widespread recognition for its effectiveness in treating a variety of mental health disorders. But a question often arises: Is CBT only beneficial for individuals dealing with clinical-level issues, or can it also help those who are simply looking to improve their overall mental well-being?

Understanding CBT

CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors, and replacing them with healthier, more constructive ways of thinking and acting. It’s a structured, goal-oriented form of therapy that has been extensively researched and validated for treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more.

CBT for Clinical Issues

For individuals dealing with clinical-level mental health issues, CBT can be incredibly effective. It provides tools and strategies to manage symptoms, reduce distress, and improve daily functioning. Many studies have shown that CBT can lead to significant improvements in mental health, often comparable to or better than medication for certain conditions.

CBT for Non-Clinical Issues

However, CBT is not limited to those with diagnosed mental health conditions. Its principles can be applied to a wide range of everyday challenges and can benefit anyone looking to enhance their mental well-being. Here’s how:

1. Stress Management: CBT techniques can help individuals manage everyday stress by teaching them how to reframe negative thoughts and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
2. Improving Relationships: By understanding and altering thought patterns, CBT can improve communication and relationship skills, leading to more fulfilling interactions with others.
3. Self-Esteem and Confidence: CBT can help individuals build self-esteem by challenging negative self-beliefs and promoting a more positive self-image.
4. Personal Development: The goal-setting and problem-solving aspects of CBT can aid in personal growth and achieving life goals.

Practical Applications

Even without a clinical diagnosis, anyone can benefit from the practical tools that CBT offers. For instance, cognitive restructuring and behavioral activation are techniques that can improve daily life. These strategies can help individuals become more resilient, adaptive, and capable of handling life’s challenges.

Conclusion

While CBT is highly effective for treating clinical mental health issues, its benefits extend far beyond that. Anyone looking to improve their mental health, manage stress, enhance relationships, or achieve personal growth can find value in CBT techniques. Whether you’re facing significant mental health challenges or simply want to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life, CBT offers a versatile and effective approach to achieving better mental well-being.

In our daily lives, we often encounter a variety of problems, ranging from minor inconveniences to more significant challenges. It’s important to differentiate between issues that are part of normal, everyday life and those that require clinical attention. This distinction can help us address our concerns more effectively and seek appropriate help when needed.

Everyday Life Problems

Everyday life problems are situations or challenges that most people experience at some point. These can include things like:

• Stress from work or school
• Relationship conflicts
• Financial difficulties
• Time management issues
• Minor health concerns, like a cold or headache

These problems are typically manageable through common coping strategies, such as talking to friends or family, making lifestyle adjustments, or using self-help resources. They usually don’t require professional intervention and are considered a normal part of life.

Clinical Problems

Clinical problems, on the other hand, are more severe and persistent issues that significantly impact a person’s ability to function in daily life. These problems often require professional diagnosis and treatment. Examples include:

• Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder
• Chronic medical conditions, like diabetes or heart disease
• Severe addiction or substance abuse
• Serious relationship issues, such as domestic violence or severe marital conflict
• Major life events causing prolonged distress, like the loss of a loved one or trauma

Clinical problems often involve symptoms that interfere with daily activities, relationships, and overall well-being. They typically require intervention from healthcare professionals, such as doctors, therapists, or counselors, who can provide appropriate treatment and support.

Recognizing the Difference

Recognizing whether a problem is at a clinical level or an everyday life level can be challenging. Here are some key indicators that a problem may be clinical:

• The issue persists over a long period and doesn’t improve with typical coping strategies.
• The problem severely impacts your ability to perform daily tasks, maintain relationships, or enjoy life.
• You experience intense emotional or physical symptoms, such as severe anxiety, depression, or chronic pain.
• There’s a significant risk to your health or safety, or the health and safety of others.

When to Seek Help

If you suspect that you’re dealing with a clinical problem, it’s important to seek professional help. Early intervention can prevent issues from worsening and improve your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing significant distress or if your problems are affecting your daily functioning.

In conclusion, understanding the difference between everyday life problems and clinical problems is crucial for addressing your concerns effectively. While everyday problems are a normal part of life and can often be managed with self-help strategies, clinical problems require professional intervention to ensure proper treatment and support. By recognizing the signs and seeking help when needed, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining your overall well-being.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has earned widespread recognition as an effective approach for treating a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Having originated in the Western world—particularly in the United States and Europe—CBT’s structured and evidence-based methods have proven transformative for many. As the global landscape grows more interconnected, it becomes increasingly important to understand how CBT can be delivered respectfully and responsively across diverse cultural contexts.

Understanding CBT

At its core, CBT is grounded in collaboration and patient autonomy. The patient takes an active role in determining which issues to focus on, what goals are meaningful, and when they feel their therapeutic journey is complete. The therapist’s role is to facilitate this process, offering expertise, guidance, and support—while ensuring the patient’s values and perspective remain central. Importantly, the therapist refrains from imposing their own cultural norms or values on the patient, upholding a patient-centered approach that honors individual context and goals.

CBT in Western Cultures

In Western societies, where autonomy and self-initiative are highly emphasized, the collaborative and goal-oriented nature of CBT fits well with prevailing values. Patients are encouraged to articulate their own priorities, and the therapist serves mainly as a guide and partner, helping to define and measure progress in ways that matter most to the individual.

CBT in Collectivist Cultures

In collectivist cultures—such as those found in many parts of Asia, Latin America, and Africa—the socialization process to CBT may be thoughtfully extended to include family members and close friends. This inclusion is solely designed to help the patient and their support network understand the principles and methods of CBT, including the importance of confidentiality within the therapeutic process. In these contexts, it is sometimes necessary for family and friends to be introduced to CBT not as participants in the content of therapy, but to ensure they grasp its purpose and respect its boundaries.

The aim of involving loved ones is to create an environment of understanding and support, rather than one of interference. By providing education about CBT’s aims, strategies, and the centrality of confidentiality, therapists enable family and friends to become allies in the therapeutic journey. This prevents potential misunderstandings or cultural barriers from impeding the patient’s progress and ensures that the support system reinforces, rather than detracts from, the intended outcomes of therapy.

Confidentiality remains a foundational pillar of CBT and responsible psychotherapy in all cultural contexts. Its importance is explicitly emphasized during the socialization process—for both the patient and, in collectivist settings, for family and friends as well. While loved ones may be included to learn about therapy and the vital role confidentiality plays, or sometimes to reinforce these concepts, they are not privy to the actual therapy. Throughout the process, confidentiality is steadfastly honored, ensuring the patient’s sense of safety and trust remains intact.

Conclusion

By maintaining these principles—empowering the patient as the architect of their therapeutic goals, integrating supportive cultural practices where appropriate, and upholding confidentiality—CBT can adapt to diverse contexts and remain both respectful and effective worldwide.

The Therapist in CBT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, time-limited, and goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that focuses on the interplay between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It has been proven effective for a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One of the key elements that contribute to the success of CBT is the role of the therapist. Here, we explore the multifaceted ways a therapist facilitates the CBT process.

1. Explainer

A CBT therapist often acts as an explainer, introducing clients to the foundational principles and techniques of CBT. This involves clarifying how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and how recognizing and addressing unhelpful thinking patterns can lead to improved emotional well-being and behavior. By making the therapeutic process understandable, the therapist empowers clients to actively engage in their own treatment with increased confidence.

2. Collaborator

CBT is fundamentally a collaborative process. The therapist and client work together to identify specific goals and co-create a treatment plan tailored to the client’s unique needs. This partnership fosters a sense of shared responsibility and active participation, which are crucial to the therapy’s success. Progress is continually evaluated jointly, and any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan are made together.

3. Guide

In the role of a guide, the therapist supports the client in exploring the often-complex landscape of thoughts and emotions. The therapist introduces cognitive techniques, such as cognitive restructuring, and helps the client learn and practice these tools in their daily life. By offering guidance and encouragement, the therapist ensures the client feels supported as they work through their challenges, while leaving room for the client to take the lead in applying these techniques.

4. Supporter

Emotional support is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship. A CBT therapist provides a space that is both safe and non-judgmental, where the client feels comfortable expressing thoughts and emotions. This supportive environment helps clients confront difficult feelings and situations while feeling understood and validated. The therapist’s reassurance plays a key role in fostering trust and openness.

5. Facilitator

Rather than directly challenging the client or their thoughts, the therapist in CBT acts as a facilitator in helping clients evaluate their thoughts through structured techniques. The client takes the lead in determining what they perceive as negative or unhelpful thoughts. With the therapist’s guidance, they assess these patterns and decide if they wish to address them. If needed, the therapist collaborates with the client to explore how to develop more constructive responses to triggering situations. This client-centered approach ensures the therapy respects the client’s autonomy while providing the tools for meaningful self-discovery and growth.

Conclusion

The therapist’s role in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is dynamic and multifaceted, encompassing the roles of educator, collaborator, guide, supporter, challenger, motivator, and evaluator. By fulfilling these roles, the therapist helps clients gain the skills and confidence needed to overcome their challenges and lead a more fulfilling life. Whether you are considering CBT for yourself or a loved one, understanding the therapist’s role can provide valuable insight into what to expect from this evidence-based approach to mental health treatment.

The patient in CBT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized and effective treatment for a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. At the heart of this therapeutic approach is the active participation of the patient. Unlike some other forms of therapy where the therapist leads the majority of the sessions, CBT requires a collaborative effort between the patient and the therapist. Here’s a closer look at the patient’s role in CBT:

1. Active Participation:

One of the key principles of CBT is that the patient must be actively involved in the therapy process. This means attending regular sessions, being open and honest about thoughts and feelings, and fully engaging in the exercises and activities designed by the therapist. The more effort a patient puts into the process, the more they are likely to benefit from it.

2. Homework Assignments:

CBT often includes homework assignments that patients are expected to complete between sessions. These assignments are designed to reinforce the concepts discussed during therapy and help patients practice new skills in real-life situations. Completing these assignments is crucial for the progress of the treatment. It allows patients to apply what they have learned and gain insight into their patterns of thinking and behavior.

3. Self-Monitoring:

Patients are often asked to keep track of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors through self-monitoring exercises. This can involve maintaining a journal, filling out worksheets, or using apps designed for this purpose. Self-monitoring helps patients identify negative thought patterns and understand the relationship between their thoughts, emotions, and actions. It also provides valuable information for the therapist to tailor the treatment more effectively.

4. Challenging Negative Thoughts:

A significant component of CBT is learning to challenge and reframe negative thoughts. Patients are taught to question the validity of their thoughts and consider alternative, more balanced perspectives. This process requires patients to be introspective and willing to confront uncomfortable emotions and beliefs. By doing so, they can develop healthier thinking patterns and reduce the impact of negative thoughts on their well-being.

5. Practicing Skills:

CBT equips patients with various coping strategies and skills to manage their symptoms. These can include relaxation techniques, problem-solving skills, and strategies to improve communication and assertiveness. Patients need to practice these skills regularly, both during and outside of therapy sessions, to build confidence and make them a natural part of their daily routine.

6. Providing Feedback:

Open communication between the patient and therapist is essential for the success of CBT. Patients should feel comfortable providing feedback about what is and isn’t working for them. This feedback allows the therapist to adjust the treatment plan and ensure that it is meeting the patient’s needs. It also fosters a sense of partnership and trust in the therapeutic relationship.

Conclusion:

The role of the patient in CBT is both active and essential. By engaging fully in the therapy process, completing homework assignments, self-monitoring, challenging negative thoughts, practicing new skills, and providing feedback, patients can make significant strides in their mental health journey. CBT is a collaborative effort, and the more committed the patient is, the more they are likely to achieve positive and lasting change.

Understanding the Unique Aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has gained significant attention in the field of mental health for its unique and effective approach to treating various psychological issues. What sets CBT apart from other therapeutic modalities? Let’s delve into the distinctive characteristics that make CBT a popular choice for both therapists and clients.

1. Focus on the Present

One of the key features of CBT is its emphasis on the present moment. While traditional psychoanalysis might explore childhood experiences and subconscious motivations, CBT prioritizes current thoughts and behaviors. This present-focused approach helps clients address immediate issues and develop practical strategies for managing them.

2. Structured and Goal-Oriented

CBT is highly structured and goal-oriented. Sessions typically follow a specific agenda, and clients work collaboratively with their therapists to set and achieve concrete goals. This structured format not only provides a clear direction but also allows for measurable progress, making it easier for clients to see improvements over time.

3. Short-Term Treatment

Unlike some forms of therapy that may continue indefinitely, CBT is generally designed to be a short-term treatment. Most CBT programs last between 12 to 20 sessions, depending on the individual’s needs. This focused timeframe can make therapy more accessible and less daunting for those seeking help.

4. Evidence-Based Practice

CBT is one of the most researched and evidence-based forms of psychotherapy. Numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in treating a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorders. This robust evidence base provides both therapists and clients with confidence in the efficacy of the treatment.

5. Active Participation

In CBT, clients are expected to take an active role in their therapy. This includes participating in homework assignments, practicing skills learned in sessions, and consistently applying new strategies to real-life situations. This active participation is crucial for reinforcing changes and ensuring long-term success.

6. Cognitive Restructuring

A central component of CBT is cognitive restructuring, which involves identifying and challenging distorted or unhelpful thoughts. By learning to recognize these cognitive distortions, clients can reframe their thinking patterns, leading to healthier emotions and behaviors. This technique empowers clients to take control of their mental health by changing how they perceive and respond to situations.

7. Behavioral Activation

Behavioral activation is another unique aspect of CBT. This technique focuses on encouraging clients to engage in activities that bring them pleasure or a sense of accomplishment. By increasing positive behaviors, clients can break the cycle of depression and inactivity, leading to improved mood and overall well-being.

8. Versatility

CBT is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various populations and settings. It can be delivered in individual, group, or even online formats, making it accessible to a wide range of people. Additionally, CBT techniques can be tailored to address specific issues, such as social anxiety, phobias, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Conclusion

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy stands out for its practical, evidence-based, and structured approach to mental health treatment. By focusing on the present, setting clear goals, and actively involving clients in the process, CBT offers a powerful framework for achieving meaningful and lasting change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or another mental health issue, CBT provides the tools and strategies needed to improve your quality of life.