CBT is an evidence-based treatment approach that has been consistently found to be one of the most effective, efficient, and enduring approaches to improving a wide range of symptoms in children and adolescents including anxiety, depression, impulsivity, habit disorders, social skills difficulties, and relationship difficulties. CBT is a focused, collaborative, solution oriented, treatment approach that teaches specific skills proven to reduce symptoms, improve coping, and increase quality of life. CBT has been shown to lead to meaningful, lasting changes that endure years later.
Initially developed in the 1960s, and adapted in recent decades to address the specific needs of children and adolescents, this treatment approach is based on the idea that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other and interact in patterns that can lead to a wide range of difficulties. As a result, CBT treatment helps youth undo unhelpful patterns by learning and practicing adaptive skills to understand and manage emotions, thoughts, and behavior.