If you want to feel better, you must realize that your thoughts and attitudes-not external events-create your feelings. You can learn to change the way you think, feel and behave in the here-and –now…The messages you give yourself have enormous impact on your emotions…by learning to change your thoughts, you can change the way you feel.”

This quote from David Burns describes the basis of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Cognition means “thought”, and this therapy teaches us to be aware and recognize our underlying irrational thoughts and beliefs. This puts us in the driver’s seat in our lives, as we can actively choose more rational, adaptive thoughts, which in turn, reduces feelings of anxiety and depression. Based on current research, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy is one of the most effective ways of treating anxiety and depression known today.

To learn more about this approach, please read:

The Feeling Good Handbook, by David Burns
Or
Mind Over Mood, by D. Greenberger and C. Padesky