A brief guide to cognitive behavioural therapy: Background, information, and resources.
A background on CBT
CBT was developed by Aaron Beck in the 1960s. It was originally called cognitive therapy and used to treat depression. The basic premise of CBT is that our thoughts determine our behaviours. For example, clients with symptoms of depression may have negative thoughts about themselves, others, their experiences, and/or their future. These thoughts may lead to feelings of guilt, blame, and hopelessness, which may lead to behavioural patterns, such as isolating from others. CBT posits that we can change our behaviours by changing how we think. In fact, our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours can each influence and affect the other in the CBT model.
