What is Behavioural Cognitive Therapy?

CBT is a clinical approach that challenges the person to find a connection between their emotions, thoughts and behaviours.

It argues that these three concepts influence each other and as such works on all of them, in a cause-effect relationship:

• Validates and deciphers emotions

Accepts and understands the individual's emotions, understanding that they contain valid insight into their inner workings.

(Example: “I feel sad and unmotivated.”)

• Restructures dysfunctional thoughts

It studies the individual's cognitive schemes. It identifies and modifies cognitive distortions, comparing them with reality in order to correct them. Cognitive distortions are dysfunctional thoughts often created in childhood, which may be interfering with the individual's perception of their life and their surroundings.

(Example: “It's not even worth trying, it will never work.”)

• Modifies behavioural patterns

Recognizes and modifies behavioural patterns that may be negatively interfering in an individual's life, by teaching them to deal with their emotions and thoughts.

(Example: I give up without trying and don't go ahead with my plans.)

This is a brief therapy focused on the present moment. It helps to deal with big problems by breaking them down into smaller, more easily achievable goals.

It is a type of therapy that uses practical and structured techniques. Over time, it can become self-sufficient since, during his/her time in therapy, the person actively participates in the therapeutic process. The therapist suggests challenges and activities and even “homework” in accordance with the goals outlined for the therapeutic process. With this, the patient gains a series of strategies and tools that he can use in his daily life.