Understanding how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most researched and effective forms of psychotherapy. It's based on the understanding that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected—when we change one, we can positively influence the others.
In my Auburn practice, I frequently use CBT techniques because they provide practical tools that clients can use both in session and in their daily lives. CBT is particularly effective for anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other mental health concerns.
Thoughts
Feelings
Behaviors
CBT is built on the principle that these three elements constantly influence each other. For example, if you have the thought "I'm going to fail this test," you might feel anxious, which could lead to behaviors like avoiding studying or procrastinating. These behaviors might then reinforce the original thought, creating a negative cycle.
CBT helps you identify these patterns and develop more balanced, helpful ways of thinking and responding. By breaking negative cycles, you can experience significant improvements in your emotional well-being.
Learning to identify and examine automatic thoughts that arise in challenging situations. We explore the evidence for and against these thoughts and develop more balanced alternatives.
Example: Instead of "I always mess everything up," we might develop "Sometimes I make mistakes, and that's normal. I can learn from this experience."
Testing negative predictions in real-world situations to gather evidence about their accuracy. This helps challenge avoidance patterns and builds confidence.
Example: If you believe "Everyone will judge me if I speak up in class," we might design an experiment to test this prediction safely.
Gradually facing feared situations in a systematic way, starting with less challenging scenarios and building up to more difficult ones.
Example: For social anxiety, we might start with making eye contact, then progress to small talk, and eventually to giving presentations.
Learning systematic approaches to identify problems, generate solutions, evaluate options, and implement effective strategies.
Example: Breaking down overwhelming situations into manageable steps and developing action plans.
In my Auburn practice, I often use CBT to help university students manage academic anxiety, social pressures, and transition challenges. The practical, skills-based nature of CBT makes it particularly appealing to students who want concrete tools they can use in their daily lives.
The evidence-based nature of CBT means you can trust that the techniques we use have been thoroughly researched and proven effective. This approach appeals to many in our university community who value scientific rigor and practical results.
CBT might be a good fit if you:
During our initial sessions, we'll discuss whether CBT aligns with your goals and preferences, and I'll explain how we might integrate CBT techniques with other therapeutic approaches to best meet your needs.
Let's discuss whether CBT techniques might be helpful for your specific concerns and goals.
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