What is Cognitive Therapy?

Cognitive therapy (CT), also referred to as cognitive-behavioral therapy, is a focused and practical approach to treatment that is scientifically based. Developed in the early 1960s for depression, CT has since been adapted to the treatment of many problems and disorders. In cognitive therapy, the therapist guides you to identify and change thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that contribute to and maintain your difficulties

Cognitive Therapy is:

Empirically Supported. In hundreds of rigorously controlled clinical studies, CT and cognitive behavioral treatments have been shown to be effective for numerous problems and disorders. Research also indicates that CT produces durable results, making the individual less prone to relapse than with other forms of psychotherapy or medical or pharmacological therapies.

Goal Oriented. CT uses a collaborative approach where therapist and client work together to establish and achieve treatment goals.

Time-Limited. CT focuses on skill building and problem solving. Therapy is structured and the therapist utilizes an active approach to consistently work toward the general goals of symptom relief and behavioral change. The structured and active approach helps keep the therapy focused and short term and contributes to reducing the overall cost of treatment.

Individualized. Therapist and client work together to understand the specific difficulties being experienced and in developing strategies to target the unique problems impacting the client’s life.

Optimizes Treatment. CT teaches clients to maximize the efficacy of their treatment by providing between session "homework" in order to practice skills learned in therapy in real life circumstances and to test out new behaviors.

Emphasizes Behavioral Change. Behavioral Change is an implicit part of cognitive therapy. Changing beliefs helps to change maladaptive behavior (e.g. avoidance patterns, compulsions, passivity, impulsiveness, aggressiveness). "Behavioral tests" are used to challenge distorted beliefs and to guide the course of therapy. Behavioral strategies also emphasize replacing unproductive behavior with constructive behavior. 

Choose Wisely!

As noted in a recent Forbes magazine article regarding CT, "there is a serious quality issue no one is talking about." (http://members.forbes.com/forbes/2007/0409/080.html)  Many mental health providers claim to practice cognitive therapy since CT has enjoyed a reputation as the "gold standard" of treatment for many psychological disorders. Indeed, many governmental agencies and health insurance companies will not reimburse mental health providers for psychotherapy if they do not practice empirically supported or evidence based treatments. Unfortunately, while these providers may be well intentioned, the therapy they deliver does not always meet the standards and qualifications of authentic cognitive therapy. As a consumer, you should be intent on choosing a practitioner who has been thoroughly trained in cognitive or behavior therapy.

Long Island Center for Cognitive Therapy (LICCT) is dedicated to providing authentic and high quality cognitive behavioral treatment. As such, therapists at LICCT have been extensively trained in CT and its application to a variety of problems and disorders. Additionally, therapists at LICCT are distinct in that they must hold or be working toward the attainment of certification in cognitive therapy from the Academy of Cognitive Therapy (www.academyofct.org), the premier and internationally recognized certifying organization for CT providers and are encouraged to pursue other advanced certifications and degrees in support of building knowledge of evidence based consumer oriented psychological services.

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