CBT Reviews

 by Dr Timothy Sharp

The international quarterly Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy confirmed in 2001* what some of us have known for quite some time now.  Cognitive therapy (and cognitive behaviour therapy) is an effective treatment for depression and anxiety.

In a special edition, experts from around the world reviewed the existing evidence for cognitive behaviour therapy (or CBT) as it is applied to a range of problems.  Of most relevance, are the reviews of CBT for depression, anxiety and relationship problems.

Overall, the reviews found that CBT:

1. is at least as effective as medications, 
2. is more effective than other forms of psychotherapy and counseling, and
3. provides protection against relapse.

Interestingly, several of the reviews also found that CBT is more cost-effective, over the long term, than medications.

In summary, it can be concluded that "cognitive therapy works well and should be strongly considered as a first-line treatment" for people with depression and anxiety.

For more information about these reviews you can contact Dr Timothy Sharp. Dr. Timothy Sharp & Associates provide cognitive therapy programs for depression and anxiety.

* Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy (2001) Volume 15, Issue 4.