TABLE W1.

Cognitive behavioral therapy: It’s different from “talk” therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a broad group of therapies that differ from traditional “talk” therapy in a number of important ways. It is a scientific, evidence-based form of psychotherapy based on the belief that our thoughts, emotions, and behavior are linked and that changing the way we think and behave will positively influence our emotions. Key features of CBT include:

Cognitive restructuring. CBT practitioners help patients identify irrational beliefs and negative automatic thoughts and “self-talk” that result in pessimistic beliefs and negative overgeneralizations, and replace them with more realistic and positive thoughts and beliefs.

Behavioral activation. Strategies are developed to create pleasurable experiences to overcome the inertia and avoidance behavior associated with depression.

Problem-solving collaboration. CBT requires an active collaboration between therapist and patient.

Between-visit practice. “Homework” is an expected component of CBT, with patients advised to practice the skills they are taught and to work on specific behavioral or cognitive tasks between visits.

Short duration. CBT, which typically encompasses 12 to 15 sessions over a 12-week period, is of much shorter duration than traditional talk therapy