What is cognitive therapy?

What is Cognitive Therapy?

Cognitive Therapy is a focused, problem-solving psychotherapy that
has been shown in over 375 outcome studies to be highly effective for
the treatment of many mental health problems such as depression,
general anxiety disorders, panic, anger and marital distress. It has also
been shown to be effective in the treatment of medical conditions such
as chronic pain, hypertension, and fibromyalgia.

The therapist and client work together as a team to identify and solve
problems, and therapists help clients to overcome their difficulties
through changing their thinking, behavior, and emotional response.

Time Magazine (01/20/03) has stated that Cognitive Therapy is "…
quick, practical, goal oriented." It involves three primary activities: a)
Education, b) Skill Building, and c) Problem Solving. During treatment,
the client actively applies strategies learned to the problems which
brought them to therapy. If indicated, Cognitive Therapy is also
compatible with the use of prescribed medication.