What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a structured, evidence-based approach designed to help people recognize and reshape unhelpful patterns in thinking and behavior. It’s founded on the understanding that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected, and that by adjusting one, we can influence the others.
The CBT Triangle
At the heart of CBT lies the CBT triangle, which connects three core components: thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. For example, if someone believes “I’m not good enough,” that thought may lead to feelings of sadness or hopelessness, which might cause them to withdraw socially. That isolation reinforces the original thought.
When we interrupt that cycle—say, by challenging the thought or changing a behavior like applying for a job or attending an event—we begin to rewire that feedback loop. The new experience reshapes how we feel and think.
What Are The Three Questions for CBT?
In session, I often use reflective questions to help patients evaluate their thoughts more objectively:
- What evidence supports this belief?
- Is there another explanation or perspective?
- What would I tell a close friend who felt this way?
These questions move people from automatic reactions to thoughtful awareness. Instead of assuming “my boss hates me,” for instance, we explore the actual evidence in the email, the broader context, and alternative interpretations.
What Are The Three Main Goals of CBT?
CBT helps people to:
- Recognize and challenge distorted thoughts.
- Develop more balanced emotional responses.
- Adopt healthier, more effective behaviors.
The ultimate goal is not to “erase” negative emotions but to create better alignment between perception and reality.
Author: Dr. Hong Yin
Hong Yin, MD, has been a practicing medical professional in the Milwaukee community since 2012. She understands that your health and wellness concerns extend beyond routine medical care. She’s a highly trained, board-certified psychiatrist who provides an array of comprehensive services and procedures to help people overcome mental health problems.