Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
An evidence-based psychotherapy that targets the relationship between maladaptive thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to reduce psychological distress.
Full Definition
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, time-limited psychotherapy with a substantial evidence base for conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorders. It operates on the premise that dysfunctional thinking patterns influence emotions and behavior and that modifying cognitions produces symptom relief. Editors will encounter CBT in treatment plans, progress notes, grant applications, and training materials. The American English spelling is 'Behavioral' (one 'l'); British and Australian English use 'Behavioral.' Documents should be internally consistent. 'CBT' should be expanded on first use; it must not be confused with CBTSP (CBT for Suicide Prevention) or CBT-I (CBT for Insomnia), which are distinct protocols.
Usage
Usage note: American English: 'Behavioral' (one 'l'). British English: 'Behavioral.' Maintain internal consistency. Expand 'CBT' on first use. Distinguish from CBT-I (insomnia) and DBT.
In Context
- "The treatment plan specified 16 sessions of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy targeting the patient's catastrophic thinking patterns." — Treatment Plan
- "Ensure 'Cognitive Behavioral Therapy' uses American English spelling ('Behavioral') throughout unless the document follows a British style guide." — Editorial Style Note