It works best for people who:
- Struggle with negative thinking patterns: If you often have self-critical, irrational, or distorted thoughts (“I’m a failure,” “Nobody likes me”), CBT can help you challenge and replace them.
- Have anxiety, depression, or stress-related issues: CBT is one of the most evidence-based treatments for these conditions.
- Are motivated to actively participate: It works best for people who are willing to put in effort, since CBT involves learning new skills and practicing them between sessions.
- Prefer structured, goal-oriented therapy: CBT has clear techniques and homework assignments that focus on measurable progress, unlike open-ended talk therapy.
- Want to develop long-term coping skills: CBT teaches strategies you can use for life to prevent relapse instead of just managing symptoms.
- Are looking for an alternative or complement to medication: CBT can work alone for mild-to-moderate conditions or alongside medication for more severe cases.