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Anxiety is a common mental health challenge affecting millions globally. It can significantly hinder a person’s well-being, relationships, and work or school performance. Fortunately, effective treatment options exist to manage anxiety and reduce its symptoms. One of the increasingly popular methods to treat anxiety is cognitive therapy.
Cognitive therapy targets the thoughts and beliefs of the patient to achieve positive behavior changes and improve the patient’s mindset. In our guide, we will explain the benefits of cognitive therapy for anxiety, offer helpful tips for choosing a certified therapist, and answer the most common questions about this treatment method.
What Is Cognitive Therapy?
Cognitive therapy, also called cognitive-behavioral therapy (or CBT), is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on a patient’s thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs and how they affect a person’s behavior and emotions. It was developed in the 1960s by Dr. Aaron Beck, who realized people’s perceptions play a major role in their mental health.
The goal of cognitive therapy is to determine which thoughts are inaccurate and harmful to a person so that the patient and the therapist can work together to reframe these perceptions and build a more positive mindset. This type of therapy is often used to treat phobias and entrenched belief systems that stand in the way of a person’s progress.
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Benefits of Cognitive Therapy for Anxiety
Therapists and patients have long praised cognitive therapy when it comes to managing anxiety—here are some of the advantages of this treatment:
Identify Negative Thought Patterns
People who suffer from anxiety often have a distorted view of reality—for instance, they may believe every person they meet is judging them or talking poorly about them behind their back. A therapist will help the patient understand which thoughts are unrealistic and harmful to be addressed and changed.
Reframe Negative Thinking
It is crucial to challenge the thoughts that plague the person and prevent them from living a full life. Instead of feeling nervous and uneasy before a social event or an important presentation, the patient may focus on their accomplishments, practice self-talk, and be kind to themselves.
Manage Symptoms of Anxiety
Therapy will equip the person with skills to cope with anxiety. Breathing exercises, visualization, and meditation—there are many methods to calm the mind that the patient can practice on their own or with a therapist.
How Effective Is Cognitive Therapy for Anxiety
Multiple research studies and papers have concluded that cognitive therapy is a viable option to treat anxiety. Patients who struggle with this mental health disorder have found therapy based on their personal circumstances to be beneficial for their well-being.
On average, patients start feeling better after five or six sessions of cognitive therapy—it is believed that just a few months of this treatment may have a long-term positive impact on a person’s life. If you are unable to visit a therapist in person, you may want to check whether your chosen mental health professional offers online sessions.
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Tips for Choosing a Therapist for Anxiety Treatment
Here are a few suggestions to help you select the best therapist for yourself or your loved one:
- Talk to Your Doctor. It is likely your physician has a network of mental health professionals they can rely on—ask your doctor for a recommendation when you see them next time.
- Check the therapist’s credentials. Do not hesitate to ask the therapist about their education and experience—you need to be sure you are dealing with a qualified professional.
- Book a Preliminary Session. You will understand whether the therapist is a good fit after you meet them and have a short session to explain your struggles and listen to their approach.
FAQs
What is cognitive therapy?
Cognitive therapy is a style of psychotherapy that concentrates on a person’s thoughts and beliefs to determine how their cognition affects their emotions and behavior.
What are the main benefits of cognitive therapy for anxiety?
Cognitive therapy helps the patient realize which of their thoughts are harmful and inaccurate, reframe negative thinking, and develop skills to cope with anxiety daily.
Does cognitive therapy work for anxiety?
Yes, patients and therapists have confirmed that cognitive therapy is effective when it comes to treating anxiety—this method allows individuals to change the way they think and feel.
How long does it take for cognitive therapy to work?
Most patients see the benefits of cognitive therapy after 5-6 sessions. It is recommended to give this therapy a try for at least 3 months to see its positive impact on your life.
How to choose a therapist for anxiety treatment?
To find the best therapist for yourself, get a recommendation from your doctor, check the therapist’s credentials, and have an initial session with the therapist to see whether they suit you.
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Embracing Cognitive Therapy for Anxiety
In recent years, cognitive therapy has become one of the most popular methods to deal with anxiety—patients and mental health professionals have attested to its effectiveness. This therapy will allow you to understand your negative thought patterns, challenge your beliefs, and manage your anxiety.
Ready to give cognitive therapy a chance? Reach out to My Teen Mental Health to book your first session with a certified professional from our team—our therapists will be able to guide you and personalize your treatment.
