Posted by Roman on October 23, 2002, at 13:12:09
In reply to Re: Have you tried Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?, posted by Tepiaca on October 23, 2002, at 11:54:51
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) teaches you how to identify/change thoughts that effect the way you feel and behave. Then, it often includes exercises where you're actually assisted in facing the things that trouble you.
For example: Someone who has a fear of flying will discuss what goes through their mind when they get on a plane (or think about getting on one) so they become aware of the thoughts connected to the fear ("The plane is going to crash, I'm going to get sick, etc.") and work on changing them, with the therapist, to reduce the negative thinking. Then, with the therapist's guidance, the person is slowly introduced to flying on a plane. First, they go to the airport--then leave. Then they go to the airport, go to the gate, then turn around and leave. Next, they step on the plane but get off, etc., etc. until the person becomes "desensitized" to flying on a plane--problem solved.
First you work on your thoughts (cognitions), then on your actions (behaviors). Once you achieve your goal, it doesn't wear-off like meds. Also, it can be very effective and often results can be seen in a short time. Sometimes meds and CBT make an effective combination.
Here's a link for some more info:
http://www.nacbt.org/whatiscbt.htm
Good luck!
poster:Roman
thread:124525
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021019/msgs/124880.html