Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
These free educational guides explain cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, in plain language. They cover what CBT is and how its core model links thoughts, feelings and actions, the common cognitive distortions and how to challenge them, how to fill out a thought record step by step, how CBT compares with DBT, and what research says about CBT and reoffending.
They are for people who want to understand the thinking skills used in many court-ordered programs, and for family members who want to support them. Read the overview first, then try the distortions and thought record guides on a real situation from your week. The guides are not therapy, a class or treatment, and reading them does not satisfy a court order. If you need CBT or your court ordered a program, work with a licensed provider or ask the court which program it requires. If you have community service hours to complete, our online coursework includes lessons on related themes such as accountability and decision-making, as community service rather than therapy.
CBT vs. DBT: Understanding the Key Differences
A clear comparison of cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. Learn what each approach focuses on, when each is used, and how they relate to court-ordered programs.
Cognitive Distortions: 15 Thinking Patterns That Keep You Stuck
Identify the 15 most common cognitive distortions identified in CBT research. Learn how these thinking errors affect your emotions and behavior, and how to challenge each one.
How CBT Reduces Recidivism: The Research Behind the Practice
Examine the peer-reviewed research showing how cognitive behavioral therapy programs reduce reoffending rates. Understand why courts increasingly favor CBT-based interventions.
CBT Thought Records: How to Use an Automatic Thought Record
A practical guide to the automatic thought record: how to fill one out step by step, challenge cognitive distortions, and build healthier responses to triggers.
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)? A Complete Guide
A thorough introduction to cognitive behavioral therapy, including how it works, what research says about its effectiveness, and how CBT is applied in court-ordered educational programs.