The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy model focuses on the complex interaction between cognitions (thoughts), behavior (which can include avoidance as well as checking or reassurance-seeking), and affect (feelings). By mapping out this complex system, we can find multiple points at which to interrupt the insidious cycle (or "loop") of anxiety and depression. CBT is very collaborative, in that we design the treatment plan together, and communicate frequently about how you're feeling about your (or your child's) progress. In addition, CBT frequently includes exercises that you or your child will need to do between sessions, which are a critical component of success in therapy.
Whether I'm working with adults or kids, I like to find ways to tap into my clients' creativity and humor. I find that much of the treatment is connected to finding a new way of orienting to anxiety or other symptoms, in order to reduce the power of the anxious thoughts and beliefs. I like to use drawing, role-playing, and data collection ("detective work") to facilitate this shift in orientation. I almost always include parents in therapy sessions with kids and young teens (at least for part of each session), as learning how to respond to your child's anxiety is integral to long-lasting change.
Copyright © 2024 Julie Lewis, Ph.D - All Rights Reserved.
Powered by GoDaddy Website Builder