Dr. Cecily Portillo
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Introduction to CBT
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence based treatment that is effective for a wide range of emotional disorders and problems. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce and alleviate symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety...etc) and problems (e.g., lack of assertiveness, relationship distress) in order to help you live a better life. It is a therapy that is directive, present-oriented and involves an ongoing collaborative process. In therapy, you'll work with me to identify what problems to target and how to target them in a structured way.
What is the underlying theory?
CBT treatment strategies are based on cognitive and behavioral theory. CBT proposes that problems emerge as a result of faulty thinking and/or on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior. You'll learn how to catch unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and replace them with alternative ways of thinking and behaving.
This treatment is considered the gold-standard of psychotherapy for treating the following and more:
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Personality disorders
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Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
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Chronic Pain
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PTSD
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Panic attacks
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Eating disorders
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Insomnia
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...and more
Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of CBT. Visit Beck's Institute Research Corner to read more.
If you are wondering if CBT is the best treatment approach for you, feel free to reach out and schedule a phone consultation. I am happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have.