What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented type of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of many problems such as anxiety, phobias, depression, relationship conflicts, addiction, and more. It is the most widely researched and empirically supported psychotherapeutic method.
CBT is based on the concept that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are constantly interacting and influencing one another. How we interpret or think about a situation determines how we feel about it, which then determines how we’ll react.
The following example of this concept shows how unhelpful ways of thinking contribute to negative emotions and dysfunctional behaviors.
Imagine two people, Person A and Person B, both call a friend. The friend doesn’t answer. Their thoughts about the situation lead to different emotional and behavioral responses:
Person A |
Person B |
Thought: “They must be busy or didn’t hear the phone.” |
Thought: “They are upset with me or don’t want to talk to me because I’m boring.” |
Emotion: Neutral / No change |
Emotion: Sad / Worried |
Behavior: Tries to call their friend again later. |
Behavior: Avoids calling again and withdraws from the friend. |
In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), l assist clients in recognizing how their thoughts influence their emotions and behaviors. Together, we assess the accuracy of these thoughts and replace self-limiting beliefs with constructive, reality-based perspectives that reduce distress, foster resilience, and promote personal growth.
CBT also focuses on modifying unhelpful behavioral patterns to enhance well-being. Key strategies include:
Exposure Therapy – Gradually confronting anxiety-provoking situations instead of avoiding them
Behavioral Activation & Positive Reinforcement – Engaging in meaningful activities to enhance motivation, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment, reducing feelings of help- and hopelessness
Problem-Solving Skills – Developing effective strategies to navigate and cope with life’s challenges
Role-Playing Exercises – Practicing social interactions to improve communication skills, build confidence, and prepare for challenging situations
Relaxation & Mindfulness Techniques – Learning proven methods to calm the mind and body, reducing stress and emotional distress.
I will work with you in a collaborative and supportive manner, helping you develop the insights and skills necessary to achieve your personal goals, build resilience, and reach your full potential to create lasting, positive change.
APPOINTMENT SCHEDULING
I look forward to hearing from you.
Appointments are available by prior arrangement. Please feel free to contact me by phone or email. You are also welcome to leave a message on my voicemail. I will return your call at the earliest opportunity.
Privatpraxis für Psychotherapie am Wörthsee
Melanie Viereck, Dipl.-Psychologin
Münchner Straße 6, 82237 Wörthsee
Telefon +49 170 7449555, Mail: viereckpsychotherapy@gmail.com
Privatpraxis für Psychotherapie am Wörthsee
Melanie Viereck, Dipl.-Psychologin
Münchner Straße 6, 82237 Wörthsee
Telefon +49 170 7449555
viereckpsychotherapy@gmail.com
“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.“
Albert Einstein
Private Psychotherapy Practice at Wörthsee, Germany | Melanie Viereck | Telefon +49 170 7449555 | viereckpsychotherapy@gmail.com