Which type of therapy focuses on changing dysfunctional thoughts related to anxiety and depression?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is centered on the premise that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and that altering dysfunctional thinking can lead to changes in behavior and mood. In the context of anxiety and depression, CBT addresses negative or distorted thought patterns that contribute to these emotional states. The therapy typically involves identifying and challenging these cognitions, replacing them with more realistic and positive thoughts, and ultimately leading to improved emotional regulation and coping strategies.

This approach is particularly effective because it empowers individuals to take an active role in their treatment by providing them with tools to understand and manage their thought processes. By focusing on the cognitive aspects of mental health, CBT directly targets the sources of distress in anxiety and depression, making it a highly regarded method in psychological treatment.

On the other hand, psychoanalytic therapy delves into unconscious processes and early life experiences but does not primarily concentrate on altering cognitive distortions. Humanistic therapy emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization rather than directly addressing dysfunctional thoughts. Behavioral therapy focuses solely on modifying observable behaviors without a significant emphasis on the cognitive aspects that CBT integrates.