If you are feeling weighed down or stuck mentally, support is available to help you work through these challenges. Trauma and difficult life experiences can sit with us, negatively impacting our thoughts and behaviors in ways that might be outside our awareness. This can impact every aspect of life, including our self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, career, and overall sense of wellness.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in Washington, D.C. can help adults with a variety of mental health concerns and life goals. At The Wake Kendall Group, our dedicated clinicians and therapists are here to help you understand what to expect from CBT.
CBT is a well-researched form of psychotherapy that teaches adults to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthier habits and behaviors, and improve emotional regulation.
It is based on the scientific concept that your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are deeply intertwined and all contribute to your overall well-being and quality of life. Your thoughts influence how you feel, and your feelings guide your behaviors. By exploring ineffective thoughts and reworking them to develop new mental habits, we can break self-destructive cycles and learn better ways to respond to challenges.
At The Wake Kendall Group, one of our licensed therapists will oversee your treatment. The frequency and duration of your CBT sessions in our Washington, D.C. office will depend on your unique mental health needs and goals, but most clients meet once per week for an hour. If necessary or desired, we can offer virtual telemedicine visits to make effective mental healthcare more accessible and convenient.
CBT treatment is typically a short-term, collaborative process that will initially focus on identifying unhelpful habits or behavioral traps. Some examples include catastrophizing events or feelings, overgeneralizing, or isolating. We will then challenge these thoughts and reframe them into more balanced perspectives. Once you have realigned your thought patterns, we can then focus on changing behaviors and building healthier coping mechanisms. This often includes behavioral experiments, where your therapist will gradually and safely guide you toward facing situations you usually avoid.
The foundation of CBT is actionable change. We want our clients to learn practical steps toward overcoming challenges, improving mental health, and feeling more at peace in their daily lives. Your therapist will help develop plans for how you can practice these skills between sessions.
To learn whether cognitive behavioral therapy is right for you, the first step is to complete a client intake packet with one of our intake specialists at the D.C. office. From there, one of our coordinators will pair you with the therapist who can best serve your needs. If you prefer any particular demographic or gender for your therapist, please let us know.
We will then schedule an initial consultation with your therapist. The first visit typically consists of a general introduction. Your therapist will ask you questions about your background, medical and psychiatric history, and goals for CBT. This is a great opportunity to ask your therapist any questions and decide whether the therapist is the right fit for you.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in Washington, D.C. is an evidence-based approach that can empower you to take control of your thoughts and behaviors and become the best version of yourself. Your licensed clinician will work with you to develop a personalized care plan that reflects your needs and treatment goals. Contact us today to learn how to get started.
