How to Benefit From Cognitive Therapy

Cognitive Therapy, often called Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is a holistic approach to dealing with many behavioral problems that people suffer from every day. Most cognitive therapy is achieved without the assistance of medication, although your therapist may recommend medicinal treatment as well. This type of therapy considers an individuals behavior, environment and emotions. It is important to be an active participant in the treatment process by considering these steps.

Instructions

1. Know that you will have to change. You must be willing to work with your therapist to change harmful or destructive behaviors, patterns and beliefs.

2. Understand that cognitive therapy is a short-term option for long-term benefits. Issues such as anger management, phobias, anxiety and many other behavioral reactions can be manipulated positively without lifelong treatment.

3. Follow the directions of the therapist. Even if you do not believe charting certain behaviors or journaling is important, be open to doing what your therapist recommends.

4. Schedule and keep your appointments. Consistency is the key to cognitive therapy. If you want the therapy to work, you must keep your scheduled appointments as prescribed by your therapist.

5. Be honest. You must be honest with your therapist and yourself. Real and lasting results will only be accomplished if the real problem is being treated. Cognitive therapy relies on you as an individual to assess your good and bad qualities.

6. Become self-aware. Noticing your behavior and your thought process before, during and after an encounter with yourself or others will help you and your therapist devise a workable plan.

7. Prepare to face your fears and feelings. It is easy to push uncomfortable or painful fears and feelings off to the side. You will need to address your fears and personal feelings with your therapist, not matter how painful or distressing.