9 Common Cognitive Behavior Therapy Exercises

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapy approach that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT is effective for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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CBT aims to help individuals develop more adaptive thoughts and behaviors that can improve their mental health and overall quality of life. CBT involves identifying negative automatic thoughts and replacing them with more balanced and realistic thoughts.

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In an online group therapy setting, such as the ones offered at Grouport Therapy, individuals can practice CBT techniques with the support of a qualified mental health professional and other group members. Online group therapy can benefit individuals who may not have access to in-person therapy or prefer the convenience and flexibility of being in a remote setting.

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What are some cognitive behavioral therapy exercises?

There are tons of cognitive behavior therapy exercises that are suitable for anyone of all ages to consider. Here are some of the common cognitive behavior therapy exercises that therapists cover with clients:

1. Thought Records: This exercise involves identifying negative automatic thoughts and evaluating the evidence for and against them. It can help individuals to challenge negative thoughts and develop more balanced thinking.
2. Behavioral Experiments: This exercise involves testing new behaviors to see how they affect thoughts and feelings. It can help individuals to overcome avoidance behaviors and develop more adaptive responses to situations.
3. Exposure Therapy: This exercise involves gradually exposing individuals to feared situations or stimuli to reduce anxiety and avoidance. It can be helpful for individuals with phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other anxiety disorders.
4. Imagery Rehearsal Therapy: This exercise involves visualizing optimistic scenarios or experiences to replace negative thought patterns. It can be helpful for individuals with depression and anxiety.
5. Cognitive Restructuring: This exercise involves identifying and changing negative thought patterns, such as all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and catastrophizing. It can be helpful for individuals with depression and anxiety.
6. Mindfulness Meditation: This exercise involves focusing on the present moment and accepting thoughts and feelings without judgment. It can be helpful for individuals with anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders.
7. Problem-Solving Therapy: This exercise involves identifying problems and developing solutions to address them. It can be helpful for individuals with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
8. Progressive Muscle Relaxation: This exercise involves tensing and relaxing muscles throughout the body to reduce physical tension and promote relaxation. It can be helpful for individuals with anxiety and stress-related disorders.
9. Social Skills Training: This exercise involves developing skills to improve social interactions and relationships. It can be helpful for individuals with social anxiety and other interpersonal difficulties.

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These exercises are often combined with other therapy techniques to help individuals achieve their goals in CBT. The specific activities used may vary depending on the individual's needs and goals in therapy. Working with a qualified mental health professional is vital to determine which exercises are most appropriate for your unique situation.

How Grouport Can Help

Here at Grouport Online Group Therapy, we offer online group therapy for cognitive behavior therapy for anxiety, depression and PTSD & Trauma. Not sure which is best for you? Fill out a form and choose your desired group, schedule a 20-minute consultation with one of our matching counselors, who will make sure you join the group that's best for you, and then join your group over video chat at the same time each week.

Your therapy group will meet once a week, at the same time and day, for approximately one hour. Grouport for CBT costs just $35 per week and can be canceled anytime. You can find out more at our FAQs.