Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy in which patients identify negative thought patterns and replace them with positive ones. It combines techniques used in behavioral therapy and in cognitive therapy.  It is based on the principle that a person’s beliefs about pain can influence adjustment to the pain experience. 

Unlike typical forms of psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on present and future thoughts and behaviors, not past conflicts. CBT is usually short-term, whereas traditional psychotherapy is often long-term.

CBT is used to treat a variety of mental disorders but is also used to treat pain patients, particularly those experiencing chronic pain. Conditions for which CBT is sometimes prescribed include arthritis, back pain, headaches, insomnia, fibromylagia, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, sickle cell anemia and some types of chest pain, abdominal pain and pelvic pain.

CBT is sometimes used when patients with pain conditions do not respond to other types of treatment, such as physical therapy or medications. It may also be used in conjunction with such treatments.

Before receiving CBT, patients are asked to describe symptoms to determine whether emotional factors may be playing a role in the pain experienced.

CBT may be conducted in one-on-one or group sessions. Skills that patients may be taught include keeping a diary, pacing activities, relaxation therapy and cognitive therapy.

Potential benefits of CBT include decreased psychological distress, better pain management and improved quality of life.