Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Results In Reaching Goals

By Stephen Schmidt


Some types of therapy take months and even years. CBT is not one of them. It is a practical way to solve a problem with short term counseling. Goals are reached by changing patterns of incorrect beliefs held by the patient. What he believes is preventing him from achieving goals. This successful method, cognitive behavioral therapy, is offered in New Jersey as well as other places.

It is considered one of the shortest psychotherapies. The problem is identified and a way to change it is planned out. The inaccurate beliefs can be changed when the patient sees they are not true. After that, the problem can be overcome.

The therapy is headed for success when the patient recognizes the wrong belief is damaging. Then she can set a goal and go on to achieve it. If she feels she can never be successful, she will be dispel that incorrect belief.

A CBT therapist will be able to identify his problem. It may be fear of applying and interviewing for a good job. The inaccurate beliefs have prevented him from attempting to get a higher level position. New beliefs may dispel that fear and lead to finding a better job.

The first appointment identifies the disorder the patient feels is impacting his life. There is no exploring past events. CBT is concerned with how the patient feels currently. Therapy finds the best way to resolve whatever troubles him.

A fear of dogs is one example. Unless a dog has bitten them, most people love dogs. If a patient has to choose between giving up a partner or tolerating his dog, she may prefer to accept the dog. Although she is unlikely to adore the canine buddy, she can learn to dispel the fear and live with the dog.

The therapy might start with a discussion about dogs and how people love them as if they were children. Looking at photos of the different breeds may be next. Since CBT uses homework as part of the therapeutic process, she may be asked to drive to a dog park. From the safety of her car, she will observe how owners and dogs play and have fun with each other.

Her next homework might be walking past dogs on leash as their owners take them down the sidewalk. She does not have to look directly at them as some dogs perceive that as threatening. Then she may be ready to visit in a home with small dogs. She will reach down to pet them and just spend time around them.

Homework assignments are used as an integral part of CBT. The patient will be advised about that during the first appointment. Visiting the local humane society will be one of those assignments. She may learn to empathize with dogs longing to be adopted and go to their forever homes. Being close to them may no longer feel threatening.

By reaching her goal of tolerating dogs she may be ready to accept the one her partner owns. She will be cognizant of the fact that not all dogs bite. One day she might even find herself feeling affection for the dog her partner loves.




About the Author: