Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy in which patients identify negative thought patterns and replace them with positive ones. It combines techniques used in both cognitive therapy and behavior therapy.

Unlike other types of therapy, CBT focuses on patients' present and future thoughts and behaviors, not their past conflicts. CBT is typically short-term, lasting a few weeks or months. However, it may last longer, depending on a patient’s condition and the psychotherapist’s recommendation.

CBT is used for the treatment of various emotional and mental illnessesmental illnesses including depression, anxiety disorders and phobias. It is also sometimes prescribed for some other problems including pain associated with chronic health conditions, such as arthritis (inflammation of the joints) and cancer.

Generally, most patients begin treatment with weekly visits to a therapist’s office or mental health clinic. CBT may be conducted in one-on-one sessions or as part of group therapy. Although it is typically administered in an outpatient setting, depending on the patient’s needs, CBT may also be incorporated while a patient is receiving inpatient psychiatric care. Some skills that patients may be taught during CBT include keeping a journal and relaxation therapy.