Cognitive and behavioral therapies (CBT) are short term (approximately once a week for 24 sessions). They emphasize active client participation and include such outside activities as homework. Both therapies encompass a structural approach to problem solving. CBT is a collaborative effort between client and therapist.

Cognitive Therapy (CT) was developed (1960's) simultaneously by Aaron Beck, M.D. at the University of Pennsylvania (as a short term treatment for depression) and by Albert Ellis, Ph.D. as a general short term form of psychotherapy. A cognition is literally a thought. The primary focus of cognitive therapy strategies is to change emotional reactions (i.e. anxiety, depression, stress, anger) and behavioral reactions (i.e. aggressiveness, avoidance, apathy). This is done through restructuring self-defeating and/or distorted thoughts.

Behavioral Therapy (BT) is a form of psychotherapy developed by numerous individuals. Current practitioners include: J. Wolpe, M. D., D. Barlow, Ph. D., M. Seligman, Ph.D., and E. Foa, Ph.D. Behavioral strategies focus on unlearning self-defeating patterns in our minute to minute, day to day actions. These strategies can include changing one's: level of muscle tension, breathing patterns, avoidance patterns and pleasurable activities. Other techniques include changing interpersonal habits such as learning conflict resolution, assertion, active listening skill and social skills. Cognitive and behavioral therapies compliment each other. When an impasse is reached, often one can stimulate growth when the other could not.

Mark Sisti, Ph. D.
Director of Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy
Freedom From Fear, Staten Island, New York.

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