A short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy method that aims to systematically examine and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Indication
- Depression (especially mild to moderate)
- Generalized anxiety, panic disorder and social anxiety
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (with adapted protocols)
- Sleep disorders and insomnia
- Eating disorders (especially bulimia and binge eating)
- Adaptation to chronic pain, fibromyalgia and long-term illness
Preparation
- Before the first session, the onset and course of complaints can be noted
- Observing the situations that trigger negative thoughts is helpful
- A schedule that allows regular session attendance is arranged
- Previous psychiatric assessments or reports are shared
How it's performed
- Goals and a problem list are determined together in the first sessions
- The thought-emotion-behavior link is worked through with concrete examples
- Automatic negative thoughts are recognized and tested with thought-record forms
- Techniques such as gradual exposure and behavioral activation are applied
- Small home assignments are given in each session and reviewed together in the next session
- Sessions are usually held weekly for 45-50 minutes
Post-procedure
- The typical treatment duration is 12-20 sessions; in some cases it may be shorter or longer
- Effects become lasting when skills are applied regularly in daily life
- Reinforcement sessions may be planned at 1-3 month intervals after treatment ends
- Early consultation is recommended if symptoms recur
- Call 112 in case of an acute mental health crisis
Risks
- Temporary increase in anxiety may occur during exposure exercises
- Progress slows when home assignments are not done regularly
- Severe depression or high suicide risk may not be appropriate for CBT alone; additional treatment is required
- For the therapy to be effective, the therapist's training in this method is important
FAQ
How is CBT different from other therapies?
CBT is structured, goal-oriented and short-term; it works on thoughts and behaviors with concrete techniques. Its effectiveness in many disorders has been examined in clinical research.
How many sessions does it last?
It is generally between 12-20 sessions depending on the complaint. In some cases shorter or longer protocols are recommended.
Can it replace medication?
In some conditions CBT alone can be effective. In moderate-to-severe depression and certain other conditions, CBT combined with medication may be more beneficial; the decision is made together with the physician.
Is it also applied to children and adolescents?
Yes. Age-adapted CBT protocols are available for children and adolescents; family involvement is often part of the process.
Related Information
Related Medical Services
Other services in the same specialty or with similar indications you may want to explore.
Treatment of anxiety disorders
Psychiatry Services
Anxiety disorders — treatment of generalized anxiety, panic and social anxiety with therapy and, when needed, medication.
Psychiatric Evaluation
Psychiatry Services
Comprehensive clinical evaluation of mental health — diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment planning.
Individual Psychotherapy
Psychiatry Services
One-on-one mental health counseling — addressing emotional and behavioral difficulties with evidence-based methods.
Panic Disorder Treatment
Psychiatry Services
Panic disorder treatment — comprehensive psychiatric approach combining cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Treatment
Psychiatry Services
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment — exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy combined with high-dose SSRIs.
Depression Treatment
Psychiatry Services
Depression treatment — a holistic approach combining psychotherapy, medication when needed, and lifestyle adjustments.
Sleep disorders treatment
Psychiatry Services
Sleep disorders treatment — CBT-I (cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia) and, when needed, medication for insomnia, delayed sleep phase and psychiatric-related sleep problems.
Bipolar Disorder Follow-up
Psychiatry Services
Bipolar disorder follow-up — long-term monitoring of manic, hypomanic and depressive episodes and treatment with mood stabilizers.