What is cognitive behavioral therapy?

Cognitive behavioral therapy, also called CBT, is a way to help you stay well or cope with a problem by changing how you think and behave.

CBT can help you learn to think in a healthy way. It can help you notice negative thoughts and reframe them so they're more helpful.

If you learn how to reframe negative thoughts, you may be more able to care for yourself and handle life's challenges. You will feel better. And you may be more able to avoid or cope with stress, anxiety, and depression.

CBT also teaches you how to notice and change unhelpful behavior. For example, you might learn ways to respond to stress differently by calming your mind and body. Techniques may include meditation, yoga, muscle relaxation, or guided imagery.

Many people work with a therapist or a counselor for CBT. But you also can practice CBT skills on your own.

You can use your CBT skills throughout your life. You may find that more "tune-up" sessions help you stay on track with your new skills.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of counseling that helps you stay well or cope with a problem by learning to change the way you think and behave.

Many people see a counselor for CBT. A counselor can help you learn how to identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. You may also learn techniques for how to calm your mind and body. Some people learn CBT skills on their own, without the help of a counselor.

CBT is used to help treat a variety of problems, like stress, depression, anxiety and panic disorders, eating disorders, and ongoing (chronic) pain. It helps by teaching you to think and behave in a healthy way. And that can help you feel better and be more able to handle life's challenges.