What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is rooted in the idea that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected, meaning that altering one can lead to changes in the others. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented approach that empowers individuals to develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve their mental well-being.
How Does CBT Work?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) works by helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. The process typically begins with a therapist guiding the individual to recognize automatic thoughts—those quick, often subconscious reactions to situations that can be unhelpful or distorted. Once these patterns are identified, the individual learns techniques to challenge and replace them with more balanced and rational perspectives. CBT is a structured, solution-focused therapy that often involves homework assignments and practice outside of sessions.
Common techniques used in CBT include:
- Cognitive Restructuring – Identifying and challenging negative or irrational thoughts.
- Behavioral Activation – Encouraging engagement in positive, meaningful activities to combat depression.
- Exposure Therapy – Gradually facing fears in a controlled environment to reduce anxiety and PTSD symptoms.
- Journaling & Thought Records – Writing down thoughts and emotions to identify recurring patterns and triggers.
- Relaxation & Stress Reduction Techniques – Learning mindfulness, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation.
- Problem-Solving Skills – Developing strategies to cope with difficult situations more effectively.
By focusing on practical skills and real-world applications, CBT empowers individuals to regain control over their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, leading to lasting improvements in mental health.
Our Clinical Approach to Administering CBT
At Aspen View Mental Health, we take a highly individualized and evidence-based approach to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ensuring that each client receives the most effective treatment for their specific needs. Our team of licensed and experienced mental health professionals, including Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), and Clinical Psychologists (PhDs/PsyDs), specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. Their expertise allows us to provide compassionate, research-backed care that empowers individuals to develop healthier thought patterns and coping mechanisms.
Individual and Group Therapy for a Holistic Approach
CBT at Aspen View Mental Health is offered in both individual and group therapy settings to maximize its effectiveness.
- Individual Therapy: In one-on-one sessions, clients work closely with their therapist to identify negative thought patterns and learn skills to challenge and replace them. Individualized treatment plans ensure that therapy is tailored to each person’s unique challenges and goals.
- Group Therapy: Group sessions provide a supportive environment where clients can practice CBT techniques with peers facing similar struggles. These sessions help normalize experiences, foster community, and reinforce the practical application of CBT skills in daily life.
Why We Use CBT in Our Treatment Programs
CBT is one of the most well-researched and effective therapies for treating mental health conditions. At Aspen View Mental Health, we incorporate CBT into our treatment programs at the Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and Outpatient (OP) levels of care because of its ability to provide long-term benefits.
- CBT is structured and goal-oriented, making it ideal for a treatment setting where clients need clear, measurable progress.
- It equips clients with practical coping skills they can continue using long after treatment ends.
- CBT is effective for dual diagnosis treatment, helping individuals struggling with both a mental health disorder and addiction by addressing the negative thought patterns that contribute to both conditions.
Integrating CBT with Other Therapeutic Approaches
While CBT is a cornerstone of our treatment approach, we recognize that each client’s journey to healing is unique. That’s why we integrate CBT with other evidence-based modalities, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness practices, and trauma-informed care. This well-rounded approach ensures that our clients receive comprehensive support that addresses all aspects of their mental health.
At Aspen View Mental Health, our goal is to provide effective, compassionate, and research-backed care that empowers individuals to take control of their mental health and build a foundation for lasting well-being. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, or a dual diagnosis, our expert clinicians use CBT and complementary therapies to help them find a path to healing and betterment.
Is CBT Effective at Treating Mental Health Conditions?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is highly effective and widely recognized as one of the most successful forms of psychotherapy. Research has consistently shown that CBT helps individuals manage and reduce symptoms of various mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. It is also particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with addiction and dual diagnosis, where a mental health condition coexists with substance use disorder. By addressing both aspects simultaneously, CBT helps individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and break cycles of destructive behavior.
One of the key reasons CBT is so effective is its structured, evidence-based approach. Instead of just talking about problems, individuals actively work on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Studies have shown that CBT can be as effective as medication for some conditions, and in many cases, a combination of both leads to even better outcomes. Its success is rooted in its ability to teach individuals long-term coping skills, making it a sustainable and empowering form of therapy for those dealing with mental health disorders, addiction, or both.
A Healthier Mind Starts with the Right Support
At Aspen View Mental Health, we believe that everyone deserves a path to healing and betterment—and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be a powerful tool in that journey. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, or a dual diagnosis, our expert clinicians are here to help you develop the skills needed to regain control of your thoughts, emotions, and life.
If you or a loved one is looking for compassionate, evidence-based mental health treatment in Greeley, CO, we’re ready to support you. Contact us today to learn more about our CBT-based treatment programs. Take the first step toward lasting well-being—call us now or fill out our online form to get started.
Initial assessment and medication evaluation
Individualized treatment plan
Medication management
Follow up psychiatry visits