What is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is best described as a type of psychotherapy that specifically focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT operates on the principle that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and that by altering negative thoughts, individuals can influence their emotions and actions in a positive way. This approach is structured and goal-oriented, making it effective for various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and stress.

In CBT, individuals learn to recognize distorted thinking and develop healthier thinking patterns. Techniques often include cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and skill-building to promote coping strategies and improved emotional regulation. This makes CBT a widely utilized and evidence-based treatment option in clinical psychology.

Other choices provided do not align with the core principles of CBT. Medication management involves pharmacological treatment rather than psychological techniques; relaxation and mindfulness relate more closely to other therapeutic approaches, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction; and community support approaches emphasize social connections rather than focused cognitive restructuring. Thus, the identification of CBT as a psychotherapy aimed at changing negative thought patterns is accurate and captures the essence of this therapeutic modality.