aPPROACHES

Tampa Behavioral Therapy

Our Behavioral Therapy services in Tampa & St. Petersburg are designed to help individuals manage a wide range of mental health challenges by focusing on changing unhelpful behaviors and thought patterns. Behavioral therapy is an evidence-based approach proven effective for conditions such as anxiety, depression, phobias, and stress-related issues.

What is Behavioral Therapy?

Behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on changing unhelpful (also known as maladaptive) behaviors and replacing them with helpful (or adaptive) behaviors. It is often effective at improving the quality of life of those who engage with it. Behavioral therapy is based on a theory known as behaviorism, which is the study of the relationship between a stimulus, response, and reinforcer. If you've ever taken an Intro to Psychology course, you've probably learned about Pavlov's dog - this is one of the main cornerstones of behaviorism. While behavior therapy has moved past the simplicities of focusing solely on stimuli and responses, the basic principles do still influence the approach.

How Can Behavioral Therapy Help?

Behavioral therapy can help people understand the link between a stimulus (or trigger) and their response to it, as well as how to make adjustments that are more helpful and adaptive for their lives and mental health. Behavioral therapy can be combined with other treatments, such as medication, to enhance its effectiveness.

What can behavioral therapy treat? (e.g., anxiety disorders)

  • Anxiety disorders, like Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Social Anxiety Disorder

  • Posttraumatic stress disorder

  • Eating disorders (i.e.: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge-eating disorder)

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

  • Substance Use Disorders

What Does Behavioral Therapy Involve? (e.g., exposure therapy)

The specific approach will always be influenced by the therapist you are working with, but here is a brief list of some of the interventions that they might utilize:

  • Cognitive behavior therapy: identifying, challenging, and changing negative thought patterns

  • Exposure therapy: Gradually exposing individuals to situations or stimuli that trigger anxiety or fear, helping them become desensitized to these triggers over time.

  • Dialectical behavior therapy: increasing awareness of yourself and the environment in the present moment without judgment

  • Behavioral activation: increasing engagement in activities that bring pleasure and fulfillment

  • Problem-solving: identifying and solving problems that contribute to symptoms

These techniques are effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They also help manage symptoms of eating disorders, substance use disorders, and other mental health conditions, making behavioral therapy a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment.

Effectiveness of Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy has consistently demonstrated its effectiveness in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. Research shows that it can lead to significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life for individuals with anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Moreover, behavioral therapy has been effective in reducing symptoms of eating disorders, substance use disorders, and other mental health conditions. It also helps individuals manage symptoms of chronic pain, insomnia, and other medical conditions, showcasing its versatility and broad applicability in improving mental health and overall well-being.

What to Expect in Behavioral Therapy Sessions

During behavioral therapy sessions, our therapists work collaboratively with you to set clear, achievable goals tailored to your needs. The sessions are interactive, with a focus on learning practical skills you can apply in your daily life. Therapy may involve worksheets, tracking your progress, and regular check-ins to evaluate and refine strategies. You will receive support, feedback, and guidance as you work toward creating positive change in your thoughts and behaviors.

Benefits of Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved symptoms: Significant reductions in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.

  • Increased self-esteem: Development of a more positive self-image and improved self-esteem.

  • Improved relationships: Healthier relationships through enhanced communication and problem-solving skills.

  • Increased coping skills: Development of effective coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety.

  • Improved quality of life: Overall enhancements in quality of life by managing symptoms and promoting well-being.

These benefits make behavioral therapy a valuable tool for individuals seeking to improve their mental health and overall quality of life.

Types of therapy stemming from behavioral therapy and CBT

While behavioral therapy itself is able to be sought out and can be effective, most often therapists use one of the following offshoots of behavioral therapy in their work with clients:

  • Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT): a type of therapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that result from those thoughts

  • Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): a type of therapy that focuses on helping individuals accept their thoughts and emotions (rather than judging them) and take action towards their goals

  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): a type of therapy focused on combining mindfulness with understanding thought patterns; aspects of CBT and ACT are present in DBT

  • Exposure therapy: a type of behavioral therapy that involves gradually exposing individuals to a feared stimulus while teaching them relaxation techniques to increase their ability to cope

While each of these types of therapy have their roots in behavioral therapy, they would be best suited to different things. You can go to our pages on CBT, DBT, and ACT to learn more about what those would be best suited for. Exposure therapy is often best suited for phobias or fear-related issues.

Cognitive Therapy

Cognitive therapy is a type of psychotherapy that zeroes in on identifying and altering negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to mental health disorders. Rooted in the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, cognitive therapy posits that by changing our thoughts, we can transform our feelings and behaviors. Often used in conjunction with behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy helps individuals manage symptoms of anxiety disorders, depression, and other mental health conditions.

Key techniques in cognitive therapy include:

Identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs: This involves recognizing harmful thought patterns and questioning their validity.

  • Reframing negative thoughts: Learning to view negative thoughts in a more positive or realistic light.

  • Relaxation techniques: Practicing methods such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce stress.

  • Engaging in self-esteem boosting activities: Participating in activities that promote self-confidence and a positive self-image.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Behavioral therapy is effective for a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, OCD, stress management, addiction, and behavioral challenges in children and teens. It focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors to improve emotional well-being.

  • The duration of behavioral therapy varies depending on individual needs and treatment goals. Many people begin to see improvement within a few weeks, but lasting change typically requires several months of regular sessions. Your therapist will work with you to establish a timeline and review your progress.

  • In a behavioral therapy session, your therapist will help you identify specific goals and introduce techniques to address your challenges. Sessions are interactive and may involve exercises, progress tracking, and practical strategies you can apply in daily life. The focus is on building skills to promote positive, lasting change.

Schedule Free Consultation

We offer comprehensive mental health services and free consultations for all of our skilled therapists. Our belief is that the strongest factor in your success through therapy is the relationship with your therapist - and we want to ensure that.