Today, teens need to learn many skills, techniques, and methods to navigate the increasingly complex world of higher education and adulthood. How can these skills be developed in a way that will be useful and manageable for young people? Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the ways that teens who are struggling can learn to approach problem-solving with confidence and a healthy outlook. Even though CBT is often used in the context of mental health counseling, the methods used for CBT and problem solving are very similar. Using CBT, problem-solving skills can be sharpened with the same tools that might also help the teen manage their own mental health.
Contact Imagine by Northpoint in Boise at 888.597.2807 to learn more.
What is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?
CBT is a therapeutic approach that focuses on how thoughts and emotions are affected by our own perceptions, preconceived ideas, and environments. Patients who participate in CBT learn to recognize negative or unproductive thought patterns and replace them with healthier, more empowering ones. Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been shown to help patients of all ages, but even people who are not struggling with mental health can benefit from learning some techniques of CBT.
How Can CBT Help Teens Develop Strong Problem Solving Skills?
There are many aspects of cognitive-behavioral therapy that can apply to the development of problem-solving skills, but some of the most helpful aspects are:
- Evaluating thought patterns and challenging the ones that seem less helpful can give teens coping skills. These tools can help them take a step back and think about situations before they react. This technique also highlights the value of a rational, calm approach to problem-solving.
- Relaxation techniques are often taught as part of CBT because, in order to properly evaluate a situation, including one’s own feelings about it, it is critical to do so calmly and with an even temper.
- Organizational, lifestyle, and communications skills are a vital part of CBT and also translate well when teens are learning how to solve problems on their own
- The SMART style of goal setting can be a helpful concept when teens are learning how to approach a complicated problem. Learning this acronym can be a good way to remember how to evaluate a goal. SMART stands for:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Attainable
- Realistic
- Time-specific
What Are the Benefits of CBT for Teens?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is used for many different situations. People who are learning to manage mental health conditions, suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, living with chronic physical illnesses, and many others can benefit from participating in CBT. For teens, developing the skills learned in CBT can set them up to become healthy and well-adjusted adults who are good communicators as well as good problem solvers. These are vital skills in today’s world, not only for young people who are struggling with mental or behavioral health issues but for every teen. CBT has been shown to be helpful in a variety of situations for young people and is a common component of many treatment programs that focus on the health of teenagers.
Imagine by Northpoint Can Help Your Teen Become an Excellent Problem Solver
Our center in Boise, Idaho, serves young people ages 12-17 who are struggling with mental and behavioral health issues. We are committed to helping our patients and their families heal and achieve a better future. We offer a variety of evidence-based programs for adolescents featuring best clinical practices and licensed, caring staff members. If you are looking for help for your teenager, reach out to our compassionate and knowledgeable staff today at 888.597.2807 and let us tell you what we can do for your family.