Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
At Sunrise Marriage and Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the therapeutic modalities we use to help individuals, couples, and families identify and change patterns of thought and behavior that contribute to emotional distress. CBT is a structured, evidence-based approach that empowers people to understand how their thoughts influence their emotions and actions—and to replace unhelpful patterns with healthier, more effective ones. Our clinicians can apply CBT alongside our other treatment methodologies to help clients find lasting relief and build practical coping skills that improve both individual well-being and relationship dynamics.
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It teaches clients to recognize distorted or self-defeating thinking, challenge those patterns, and develop realistic, balanced perspectives. In doing so, CBT creates meaningful change not only in how people feel but also in how they respond to life’s challenges.
CBT works in concert with other treatment modalities, and works best as a collaborative process between client and therapist. Sessions are active and goal-oriented, combining guided self-reflection with structured exercises designed to promote insight and growth. We help clients move beyond automatic reactions to create intentional, mindful responses that foster emotional resilience and stronger relationships.
Mental Health Concerns Treated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a versatile and effective treatment for a range of emotional and behavioral concerns, including:
Anxiety and panic disorders
Depression and mood challenges
Relationship conflicts
Stress management and burnout
Obsessive-compulsive symptoms
Trauma and post-traumatic stress responses
Adjustment difficulties and life transitions
Behavioral issues in children or adolescents
Our therapists tailor CBT techniques to meet each client’s unique needs—whether working individually, as a couple, or within a family system.
Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Extensive research has shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most effective and scientifically supported treatments for a variety of mental health conditions. Its structured, skills-based approach helps clients make measurable progress, often in a shorter time frame than less directive forms of therapy.
At Sunrise, we see CBT not only as a treatment but also as a tool for long-term self-awareness and personal growth. Clients often report feeling more confident managing emotions, communicating needs, and navigating relationships after completing CBT treatment.
Process of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
The process of CBT begins with a collaborative assessment, where we identify specific thought and behavior patterns contributing to distress. From there, therapy focuses on learning and applying cognitive and behavioral techniques—such as thought journaling, behavioral activation, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Sessions typically include homework assignments and skill-building exercises designed to reinforce progress between meetings. Over time, clients learn to recognize unhelpful thoughts automatically, respond to challenges more effectively, and sustain meaningful emotional balance.
At Sunrise Marriage and Family Therapy, CBT sessions are structured but compassionate, always tailored to the client’s personal goals. We guide individuals, couples, and families through practical steps that strengthen emotional health and restore harmony in daily life.
For every step of your journey, we at Sunrise Marriage and Family Therapy are dedicated to providing comprehensive, accessible, and personalized mental health care. We deliver professional, quality services that are designed to support and sustain your family’s wellbeing every day.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy FAQs
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy used for?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to treat a wide range of emotional and behavioral concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and relationship challenges. It helps people understand how their thoughts influence their emotions and behaviors, and then develop healthier ways of thinking and responding.
How does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy work?
CBT works by identifying unhelpful thought patterns and replacing them with balanced, realistic perspectives. Clients learn practical strategies to manage difficult emotions, improve communication, and change behavior patterns that contribute to distress. Over time, these changes lead to greater emotional stability and improved relationships.
How long does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy take?
The length of CBT varies depending on the individual and their goals. Some clients see progress within a few months, while others benefit from ongoing sessions to address more complex patterns. Because CBT is structured and goal-oriented, many clients appreciate that it provides both short-term relief and long-term skills for continued growth.
What happens during a CBT session?
In each session, the therapist and client work collaboratively to explore current challenges, identify thought and behavior patterns, and apply specific techniques to address them. Sessions often include reflection, skills practice, and between-session exercises that help clients use what they have learned in daily life.
Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy effective for couples or families?
Yes. CBT can be highly effective for couples and families who want to improve communication, manage conflict, or address shared stressors. At Sunrise Marriage and Family Therapy, we use CBT techniques to help partners and family members understand each other’s thought patterns, reduce reactivity, and build empathy and cooperation.
Can Cognitive Behavioral Therapy be done online?
Absolutely. We offer CBT sessions both in person and online to make therapy accessible for individuals, couples, and families throughout Utah and Colorado. Our virtual sessions provide the same structured, evidence-based support as in-person therapy, with the added convenience of meeting from home.
How is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy right for me?
CBT is a strong fit for people who want a practical, skills-based approach to mental health and relationship improvement. During your first session at Sunrise Marriage and Family Therapy, your clinician will assess your goals and recommend the approach best suited to your needs, which may include CBT or a combination of therapeutic methods.