Cognitive-behavioral therapy involves evaluating the way the client thinks and feels from situation to situation, helping him or her identify faulty thinking patterns that were learned earlier in life. For example, if a client is a "perfectionist" and has the belief that she must do everything perfectly in life, she may sometimes feel very poorly about herself when she makes normal human mistakes. Consequently, cognitive-behavioral therapy includes tasks and strategies designed to help the client re-evaluate his or her core beliefs and cognitive patterns, allowing for a more informed, conscious decision as to whether these beliefs are, in fact, accurate or desirable.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy also includes specific components aimed at altering behavioral responses. Often incorporating stress reduction goals, CBT treatment may include training in relaxation and visualization exercises, and may integrate meditative techniques. CBT work also commonly involves practical strategies for problem solving, time management and increased focus. If a client wishes to change careers, lose weight or improve his dating life, for instance, CBT helps him better structure his time, organize his goal-directed strategy and become increasingly aware of self-defeating habits as he pursues his desired behavior.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is usually of a shorter duration than other types of therapies, and is especially appropriate when the client has specific goals that he or she wishes to reach in a relatively short amount of time. CBT is supported by a large body of research indicating it is quite effective in treating a variety of emotional difficulties in the short term, although studies of long term efficacy have mixed results. Aspects of CBT may be used in conjunction with other types of therapy in order to achieve more long-lasting effects.

Dr. Heather Robbins has received extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy at UT Southwestern Medical Center, where she was supervised by widely recognized CBT expert, Monica Basco, Ph.D., author of Never Good Enough (as seen on Oprah). Dr. Robbins is qualified to administer CBT for the treatment of depression, anxiety and a multitude of other common issues. She utilizes the CBT approach within the context ofindividual, couples or family psychotherapy, when appropriate.

Program Director James Robbins also specializes in CBT. James utilizes his years of experience as a meditation teacher as well as licensed therapist, incorporating NLP (neurolingiustic programming) to help clients change unwanted patterns and reach their goals.