What is the primary goal of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?

The primary goal of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is to change negative thought patterns and behaviors. This therapeutic approach is founded on the premise that our thoughts influence our feelings and behaviors. By identifying and challenging negative or unhelpful thoughts, individuals can alter their emotional responses and behaviors in a more constructive way.

CBT involves practical strategies to help patients recognize distorted thinking, develop skills for dealing with challenging life situations, and ultimately replace maladaptive behaviors with healthier ones. It is a structured, goal-oriented form of therapy that is particularly effective for a range of emotional and behavioral issues, including anxiety and depression.

Other options such as exploring past experiences focus on psychodynamic therapy, which emphasizes understanding the influence of the past on present behaviors. While fostering emotional expression through creativity may be valuable in expressive therapies, it does not encapsulate the main objective of CBT. Establishing a therapeutic alliance is essential for all forms of therapy but is not the specific aim of cognitive-behavioral therapy.