How Do I Choose the Best Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Programs?

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a common technique used in talk therapy, both in group and individual settings. To choose the best cognitive behavioral therapy programs for you, you will likely need to consider your goals and maybe meet with a few different therapists until you feel comfortable with the person you have chosen. If you are uncomfortable in certain cognitive behavioral therapy programs, they will simply not be effective, so don't be afraid to look elsewhere. As the therapy progresses, be sure that you still feel as if the therapy is helping you to meet your goals, and that you and your therapist are on the same page.

Most people do not begin talk therapy with extensive knowledge of different cognitive behavioral therapy programs, but rather start by determining whether they are more comfortable in an individual or group setting. Many people have private issues that they would only feel comfortable discussing one on one with a therapist. Others enjoy the support of a group and knowing that other people have experienced what they are currently going through. This is a personal determination, but it can help to narrow down your selection of cognitive behavioral therapy programs.

The next step in choosing cognitive behavioral therapy programs is to meet with a few therapists until you find one with whom you are comfortable. You will want to make sure that you and the therapist both share similar goals for your treatment, and most importantly that you understand the concepts he or she is attempting to work on with you. If the therapist is using certain cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, but you don't understand how to implement them in your own life, they won't be effective. It is perfectly within your right to ask what treatment methods the therapist will likely use, knowing that some therapists might refuse to answer this question.

In some cases, it might take some time to find the best cognitive behavioral therapy programs and a practitioner that you like, but that is not a problem. It is important to find someone you feel comfortable talking to so you will be able to open up and share your concerns; otherwise, it is really a moot point. If you are concerned that you are not making progress, raise these concerns with your therapist first, but don't be afraid to keep looking until you find a program that is the right fit for you.