Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for teens
Throughout a teenager’s growth and development, it is not uncommon for teens to struggle with mental health issues that make it hard for them to function in daily life. CBT is one of the most effective treatments for addiction and mental health disorders, and it can help your teen learn how to manage their symptoms and stay on track.
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What is Teen Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps teenagers change their thoughts and behaviors. It is a popular form of therapy for many different types of teen mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and substance abuse. CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all connected. So, if we can change our thoughts, we can change our behavior.
There are many benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy for teens including emotion regulation, problem solving, negative behavior reduction, and relationship building. In some cases, these benefits can be enhanced when CBT is part of a broader program, such as those offered by adolescent residential treatment centers.
How CBT for Teens Works
CBT is a goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment that takes a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving. CBT is based on the idea that negative thoughts and feelings can trap us in a vicious cycle. CBT aims to help adolescents break out of that cycle by changing their patterns of thinking and behavior. If you’re dealing with an trouble teenager, our out of control teenager programs can help them break this cycle and regain control.
One of the key things that makes CBT different from other types of therapy is that it is very structured. The therapist and client work together to set specific goals, and each session is focused on working towards those goals.
CBT generally includes homework assignments, in which the client practices what they have learned in session. CBT can be done in individual or group therapy sessions. It usually lasts for 12-20 weeks, although some people may need more or less time depending on their specific situation.
Help Your Teen Gain Control with CBT
Cognitive behavioral therapy empowers teens to identify negative thought patterns, build healthier habits, and take charge of their mental health. Contact us today to learn how CBT can support your teen’s growth, resilience, and long-term well-being.
CBT Activities and Techniques for Teenagers
CBT for teenagers usually includes a blend of activities and techniques. Techniques are catered to the individual needs and interests of your teen. Some common teen CBT activities include:
Journaling
Journaling is a way to help teens process their thoughts and feelings. They can use journaling to track their moods, identify negative thinking patterns, and practice positive self-talk. This activity is used in-between sessions and discussed in therapy.
Cognitive Restructuring
This helps teens challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs. They learn to identify distorted thinking patterns, such as all-or-nothing thinking, and replace them with more balanced thoughts.
Behavioral Experiments
This activity helps teens test out their beliefs about themselves. For example, a teen with social anxiety may be asked to go to a party and talk to 3 new people. This helps the teen learn that their beliefs about themselves may not be accurate.
Relaxation and Stress Management
Relaxation and stress management techniques can help teens manage their anxiety and stress. These may include breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation.
Problem-solving
Problem-solving helps teens identify and find solutions to the problems in their lives. This may include goal-setting, brainstorming, and role-playing. Problem solving can also help teens with conflict in their relationships.
Guided Discovery
Guided discovery helps therapists understand where teens are coming from and then challenge their beliefs. Teens will be asked to provide the reasoning for their beliefs and work to broaden their thinking. Teens then begin to see things from other perspectives.
Our goal in developing Key Healthcare was to create programs that gave teens the guidance they needed to draw on their strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling happy lives. Based on our own experiences, we believe that everyone has the ability to change if given the proper structure and connection
Ryan Blivas & Evan Powell
Founders of Key Healthcare
CBT for Teenagers in Los Angeles, CA
Key Healthcare provides CBT for adolescents as a part of our teen treatment programs. Patients will participate in individual and teen group therapy los angeles sessions that utilize CBT to treat their mental health condition(s) and dual diagnosis substance abuse.
To learn more about our intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential treatment centers for teens, contact us today.
It might feel like a big step, but remember why you're here—you’re looking for a way forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
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