What Is CBT? A Practical Guide to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
At Beam, we believe that therapy should be grounded, evidence-based, and empowering. One of the most trusted and widely used forms of therapy is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, commonly known as CBT.
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or just feeling stuck in unhelpful patterns, CBT therapy offers practical tools that can help you reconnect with your brightest self.
What Is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. It’s based on the idea that what we think directly affects how we feel and what we do—and that by identifying and changing those patterns, we can create real, lasting change.
CBT is often used to treat:
Anxiety disorders (including panic attacks and social anxiety)
Depression and low mood
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
ADHD
Phobias and fears
Chronic stress, insomnia, and burnout
How CBT Therapy Works
In CBT therapy sessions, you’ll work collaboratively with your therapist to:
Identify unhelpful thoughts (like catastrophizing or self-criticism)
Reframe limiting beliefs
Explore how these thoughts affect your emotions and behaviors
Practice new, more supportive ways of thinking and responding
CBT often includes real-life tools and take-home exercises to help you apply what you’re learning outside of sessions. It’s an active, skills-based therapy—and research consistently shows it’s one of the most effective treatments for anxiety, depression, and other common challenges.
CBT for Anxiety, Depression, and More
If you’re looking for relief from anxiety, CBT can help you reduce worry, interrupt spirals, and feel more in control of your thoughts. If you’re living with depression, CBT can help you shift out of cycles of hopelessness and gently re-engage with what matters to you.
At Beam, we also integrate CBT with somatic therapies, trauma-informed approaches, and other modalities like EMDR and mindfulness—so your care can support not just your mind, but your whole self.
Is CBT Right for You?
CBT therapy can be especially helpful if:
You want a structured and focused approach to therapy
You’re ready to learn new skills and apply them in everyday life
You’re curious about how your thoughts influence your emotions
You want to feel more in control of anxiety, low mood, or stress
That said, CBT isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Beam, we get to know you as a whole person—your strengths, your story, your needs—and tailor your care accordingly.
Ready to Explore CBT Therapy?
We offer CBT therapy both in-person in Vermont and virtually across select states. If you’re curious about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or wondering whether CBT is a good fit for your goals, we’re here to talk.
Reach out to us here or book a free consult with a Beam therapist. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—and we’d be honored to support you on your path.