CBT Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is CBT?

  Cognitive Behavior Therapy is based on the theory that the way we perceive situations influences how we feel emotionally. For example, one person reading this website might think, “Wow! This sounds good, it’s just what I’ve always been looking for!” and feels happy. Another person reading this information might think, “Well, this sounds good, but I don’t think I can do it.” This person feels sad and discouraged.  

  So, it is not a situation that directly affects how people feel emotionally, but rather, their thoughts in that situation. When people are in distress, their perspective is often inaccurate and their thoughts may be unrealistic. CBT helps people become aware of and evaluate their thoughts so that they can think in more realistic and helpful ways. It also teaches skills to help people cope with negative emotions, make decisions, solve problems, improve their communication, and more.

  When implemented correctly, CBT helps people feel better and stay better long term.

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• How do I know CBT is effective?

  Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that helps people change their inaccurate or unhelpful thoughts and behavior, feel better, and act in alignment with their aspirations and values. Over 2,000 studies demonstrate that CBT can help people with a wide range of health and mental health conditions and quality of life concerns.

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• How does CBT work?

  Cognitive Behavior Therapy helps people identify their underlying and consistent thought patterns and then evaluate how accurate those thoughts are. They then learn to modify thoughts that are inaccurate or limiting.

  CBT can also help people figure out what they most want from life, and take steps toward achieving their goals. They learn skills to change unhelpful behaviors to achieve lasting improvement in mood and functioning and a greater sense of well-being.

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• How can CBT help?

  CBT has been scientifically tested and found to be effective in more than 2,000 studies for the treatment of many different health and mental health conditions. Learn more about common health and mental health conditions and how CBT treatment can help. If you are wondering whether CBT is right for you, finding a certified CBT therapist to consult with can help you decide.

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• What are CBT sessions like?

  CBT treatment is tailored to each individual and involves active collaboration between the therapist and the client. However, there are certain elements that are common to CBT treatment across a range of populations and settings. 

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• Are there different types of Cognitive Behavior Therapy?

  Following CBT’s demonstrated success, researchers and clinicians around the world have developed and tested a range of specialized treatments that build and expand on the theory behind CBT. Many of these treatments were designed to extend the benefits of CBT to special populations, diagnoses, or clinical settings.

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• Is CBT hard?

  It can be challenging. CBT believes that the way people get better is by making small changes in their lives every day. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself working on an “Action Plan” with your therapist. This collaborative plan will allow you to practice the new skills you’ve learned between sessions. Regular Action Plan completion is associated with better results in CBT.

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• What is Cognitive Behavioral Wellness Coaching?

  Beck Institute’s Cognitive Behavioral Wellness Coaching program empowers people to learn how to make lasting changes in their lives using science-backed strategies—improving health, enhancing wellbeing, and building resilience for life.

  Through tailored one-on-one sessions via phone or Zoom, your coach will help you learn to evaluate thoughts that can get in the way of forming and maintaining new healthy habits and learn new skills that you can use for the rest of your life.

  Whether you’re looking to eat healthier, improve sleep, or take control of your time, we focus on total wellness—both mind and body.

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• How do I know if therapy or coaching is a better fit?

  Understanding the distinction between CBT therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Wellness Coaching can help you determine which approach would be better for you.  Read more about the differences between therapy and coaching to determine which option is best suited to your situation.

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• What if I’m not sure about therapy?

  You may have questions or reservations about starting Cognitive Behavior Therapy. This article by Beck Institute President and Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Judith Beck, can help inform your decision.

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• How can I find a CBT therapist near me?

  There are certified CBT clinicians all over the world who can provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy. Use our clinician directory to find Beck Institute Certified CBT therapists near you.

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