Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Autism in Pasadena, CA
What is cognitive behavioral therapy?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a therapeutic approach that aims to identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors. Originally developed to treat mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, CBT has shown great potential in addressing challenges commonly associated with autism.
By combining cognitive restructuring with behavioral strategies, CBT empowers individuals with autism to navigate the complexities of daily life more effectively. It can help improve your relationships, routines, and help establish new patterns for behavior moving forward.
How does cognitive behavioral therapy work?
The purpose of cognitive behavioral therapy is to change thinking and certain behaviors that prevent positive results.
Cognitive behavioral therapy assumes all human behavior is learned. This “behaviorism” point of view helps patients learn new behaviors or unlearn other behaviors.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is:
- Usually short-term
- A problem-focused approach
- Focused on a variety of coping skills
- Aimed to help manage difficult situations
How can cognitive behavioral therapy help with autism?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) usually includes:
- Repetitive behaviors
- Issues with communication
- Limits on social interaction
- Restricted interests
- Emotional problems like anger or depression
Cognitive behavior therapy helps those with autism address the following:
- Cognitive restructuring – identify and change negative thought patterns
- Behavior strategies – identify problematic behaviors and develop strategies to replace them with more appropriate alternatives
- Social skills – help navigate social situations, understand social cues, and develop effective communication skills
- Anxiety management – because anxiety is common with autism, CBT also includes tools and techniques to manage anxiety like relaxation exercises, discussing anxiety-provoking situations, and coping strategies
Benefits of Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Autism
While CBT holds significant promise for individuals with autism, each person is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. As you work with your Anita Red, MD and family, we will develop a plan that works best for you.
Many have seen success with CBT for autism. It is a valuable and person-centered approach to addressing the challenges associated with the condition.
Cognitive behavior therapy can help autism patients:
- Manage their problems
- Recognize patterns
- Increase understanding of how their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions affect each other
- Identify and challenge negative and unhelpful thoughts
- Learn practical self-help strategies to cope with their condition
- See how the situation, thoughts, emotions, physical feelings and actions interact
- See the problem, its effects, and how to deal with it
- Define the triggers of certain behaviors, so they can identify the scenarios themselves
