What is CBT?

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CBT is an abbreviation for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. “Cognition” is a synonym for “thinking,” whereas “Behavior” is defined as observable,

measurable actions. CBT is the most well studied and empirically supported form of psychological treatment. NBI offers evidence-supported

CBT for a variety of psychological conditions and problems.

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The term CBT is used to classify a set of empirically-based psychotherapies that focus on the present as opposed to developing “insights”

about past experiences, and address problems in “thinking” and “behaving” directly. This does not mean, however, that CBT ignores

emotions. CBT has ancient roots in Western philosophy and a modern foundation in learning theory. Most recently, some CBT approaches

have sought to integrate Western ideas with Eastern philosophies that emphasize mindfulness and acceptance.

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Patients and families generally find CBT concepts readily understandable and can usefully employ its strategies after a relatively brief period

of learning about them. They also like the fact that CBT provides specific target goals and that progress toward them can be quantified.

The NBI staff has specific training and extensive experience in providing CBT. The clinical directors of NBI are each board-certified in

Behavioral and Cognitive Therapy.

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Who Might Benefit from CBT?

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CBT can be tailored according to needs, and level of functioning. There is no age barrier to using CBT—for example, CBT can be provided to

parents and family members as well as in treating the very young and across the lifespan. Although it would not be accurate to say CBT is

for everyone, it would be fair to say that for many it’s worth a try.

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Although CBT is often short-term for treating specific psychological symptoms, it is also applicable to more severe, complex, or chronic

disorders that necessitate intensive or longer-term treatment. In fact, CBT is utilized for some of the most severe and debilitating psychological

conditions.

 

A few examples: CBT has shown to be effective in the treatment of OCD and Related Conditions, Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and

even in coping with Thought Disorder symptoms. CBT strategies are also used in managing general stress, as well as in school, workplace, and

career challenges.

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How does CBT work?

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As the understanding of the brain, mind, behavior, and sociocultural factors increases, theories about how CBT works are also evolving.

Learning theory suggests CBT works because it decreases maladaptive cognitions and behaviors and creates more adaptive ones. It is also

thought that perhaps CBT benefits brain functioning almost like how physical exercise affects the body, with the ultimate goal of making

lasting positive changes in its capacity to deal with symptoms and stressors.

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What is the evidence that CBT is effective?

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CBT has a solid and increasing evidence base for its efficacy. In fact, it has been studied more than any other type of psychotherapy.

Research has consistently found strong evidence for CBT in treating anxiety disorders, tics, and Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders—in

both pediatric and adult patients. CBT has also been found to be effective in treating depression, personality disorders, anger management

and/or impulse control problems, and many other conditions.

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CBT research is ongoing, which forms a basis for improving treatment protocols, “personalizing” treatment, and identifying prognostic

factors that can be used in determining when CBT is, and is not, indicated. CBT has been found to also have utility in supporting “readiness

for change,” motivation, and relapse prevention in conditions such as Substance Use Disorders and other addictive behaviors, as well as in

Eating Disorders.

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Can CBT work together with medication?

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Absolutely, yes—CBT and medication can work very well together. While in many instances CBT is effective as a “stand-alone” treatment, in

certain conditions or situations, utilizing medication together with CBT is considered “best practice.” One compelling reason for combining

CBT and medication is when symptoms are severe enough that without medication, there is insufficient, or no ability to participate in CBT.

In such cases, the hope is that CBT and medication will work synergistically. However, on a case-by-case basis, and only after consulting

with the physician, there may be times when it may be safe to reduce or stop the medication and continue with CBT alone. When CBT is used

in conjunction with medications, good communication among the clinical team is vital.