Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used and well-researched forms of therapy. CBT helps children, teens, and parents understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. By identifying unhelpful thinking patterns and learning healthier ways to respond, families can build lasting emotional and behavioral change.
How CBT Works
CBT teaches practical skills to manage difficult emotions and situations. A clinician (psychologist, licensed professional counselor, or provider-in-training) helps clients notice the thoughts that drive certain feelings or behaviors, and then guides them in testing or reframing those thoughts. Some clinicians and clients like to think of this as learning to think more “scientifically.” Over time, these small shifts lead to improved mood, confidence, and coping.
For children, CBT can incorporate games, stories, and visual tools to make learning fun and developmentally appropriate. Kids learn how to name their feelings, challenge worries, and practice calming strategies.
For teens, CBT focuses on managing anxiety, depression, school-related perfectionism, and social stress. Adolescents develop tools for self-awareness, emotional regulation, and decision-making so they can build resilience.
For parents, CBT can offer guidance on how to respond to challenging behaviors, support anxious or moody teens, and reduce family conflict. Sometimes, our clinicians will use parent coaching to help families practice CBT skills at home.
Common Concerns Addressed with CBT
Research has shown that CBT is effective for a wide range of challenges, including:
- Anxiety and worry
- Depression and low mood
- School stress and perfectionism
- Behavioral challenges
- Family communication and conflict
Children or teens facing challenges such as eating disorders or persistent suicidal ideations may benefit more from other types of therapy, offered in a higher level of care, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in an intensive outpatient setting.
Getting Support
At the Children’s Program in Portland, many of our clinicians use CBT to help children, teens, and families build healthy thinking habits and emotional balance.
Ready to get started? Schedule an appointment today to learn how CBT can support your family’s growth and well-being.
