City of Villains

Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Psychological Distress

The premise underlying a cognitive-behavioral orientation is that difficulties in living, relationships, general health, etc., have their origin in (and are maintained by) both cognitive and behavioral factors. The cognitive strategies of cognitive behavioral therapy are orientated toward irrational and problematic thinking styles that often accompany psychological distress. In other words, the feelings are a direct extension of one’s thoughts. Behavioral techniques follow from the premise that maladaptive behaviors are learned, and therefore they can be unlearned as well. These techniques have been demonstrated to be highly successful in the treatment of a broad range of specific problems including phobias, repetitive habits, as well as more non-specific generalized complaints such as anxiety and/or depression. These two strategies – the cognitive and the behavioral – work together to create a balanced approach to understanding and treating common life-problems.