Cognitive Therapy (or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT) is based on the idea that the way we perceive and interpret situations and events influences how we feel emotionally. It is a focused, problem-solving approach to therapy that helps people to identify their distressing thoughts and the beliefs that underlie them. This process allows individuals to consciously assess the accuracy of their thoughts, and to begin to change both the content and style of their thinking.
Cognitive Therapy has been extensively scientifically tested and has been demonstrated to be effective for a wide variety of problems in over 375 outcome studies. It has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, panic and anger problems. It has also been successfully used to treat marital distress, obesity and eating disorders, and as an adjunct treatment for medical disorders such as chronic pain and fibromyalgia. Dr. Kingsley is a Founding Fellow of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy.