Micah Perkins, M.S., L.P.C.

Professional Counseling for Teens & Adults, Individuals, Couples & Families
1300 East 9th Street, Suite 5, Edmond, Oklahoma 73034 (405) 625- 6785

Cognitive Behavior Therapy

        What is Cognitive Behavior Therapy ?

The term Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is not the name of one specific therapeutic approach, but rather is the name of a group of approaches which focus on thinking and actions as being the prime mediators for change.

Schools within Cognitive Behavior Therapy include: Cognitive Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, and Reality Therapy - to name only a few.

Cognitive behavior therapists agree that difficult situations contribute to feelings of sadness, anger,  and worry. However, CBT therapist maintain that it is not the situation alone which causes these feelings but rather it is also our thoughts about these situations that also contribute to our feelings.

In addition, CBT therapists focus on   the problem solving strategies (behaviors) of the client and helps him or her to find ways to either solve the problem or , if the problem is unsolvable, learn better ways of coping with the problem.

The CBT therapist also acknowleges that certain biological factors contribute to feelings and will make a referral to a  medical doctor when indicated.

Therefore, the cognitive behavior therapist provides, not only an "empathetic ear", but also coaches the client in addressing his or her "Total Self"- mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, and physically.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy, has been widely researched and has proven itself to be effective for a variety of conditions including: depression, anger, anxiety, eating disorders, and many personality disorders.