Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, especially for teenagers who are navigating the challenging years of adolescence. One effective approach to mental health management is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). But what is cognitive-behavioral therapy, exactly?
Imagine Omaha utilizes evidence-based therapies like CBT to help adolescents between 12 and 18 manage their mental health. Our program is designed for teens who do not need inpatient treatment or around-the-clock care. Teens at Imagine Omaha are able to engage in comprehensive treatment while still keeping up with school, extracurriculars, and home life. Call 888.306.2681 to get started.
What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?
CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals understand the link between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It focuses on identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns, developing alternative ways of thinking, and changing behaviors that contribute to one’s problems.
It is based on the belief that our thoughts, rather than external factors like people, situations, or events, are the primary influence on our feelings and behavior. The goal of CBT is to teach teens effective strategies to identify negative thought patterns, evaluate their validity, and replace them with healthier ways of thinking.
How Can Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Help with Mental Health?
CBT is a powerful tool that can help teens manage various mental health issues, including:
- Anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder and social anxiety disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Depression
- Stress
- Substance use disorders
The therapy equips teens with practical coping strategies they can use in everyday life. This includes problem-solving skills, stress management techniques, and resilience-building strategies. It also promotes self-awareness and emotional intelligence, which are vital for mental health and well-being.
The Long-Term Benefits of a CBT Program
One of the significant advantages of CBT is its long-term benefits. Since CBT focuses on teaching skills, not just providing temporary relief, the benefits often continue long after the therapy has ended.
Teens who undergo CBT learn to become their own therapists. They acquire valuable skills that they can apply throughout their lives, helping them confront future challenges more effectively. Furthermore, CBT can improve their self-esteem, communication skills, and ability to handle stress—all of which contribute to better mental health in the long run.
What to Look for in a CBT Program
When choosing a CBT program for your teen, it’s essential to consider several factors, including:
- Length of program – How long is the program? Are there different levels (e.g., residential, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization) available?
- Setting – Is the program residential, outpatient, or online?
- Therapist qualifications – What are the credentials and experience of the therapists who will be working with your teen?
- Treatment approach – Does the program adhere to evidence-based practices? How does it integrate different types of therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, art therapy, etc.)?
- Flexibility – Can the program accommodate your teen’s school and extracurricular
It’s also important to know when to find a CBT program. If your teen is struggling with mental health issues, it’s best to seek help as soon as possible. The earlier the intervention, the better your teen’s chances of establishing the foundation for a healthy future. At Imagine Omaha, we strive to provide teens with a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.
Find Help at Imagine Omaha’s CBT Program
If you are looking for a CBT program for your teen, consider Imagine Omaha. Our evidence-based treatment approaches help teens understand and manage their mental health issues in a safe, supportive environment. We focus on providing teen-specific tools to empower them to take charge of their well-being.
For more information about our CBT program or to schedule a consultation, call 888.306.2681 or complete our online form today. We look forward to helping your teen live an emotionally-balanced life.