What is CBT?  Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy in which physician and patient work together as a team to upgrade the patient's thinking and behavior, thereby solving problems and improving emotions. CBT has been refined in more than 500 scientific studies—far more than any other psychotherapy—and today is considered the "treatment of choice" for many conditions. CBT was pioneered by Dr. Aaron Beck at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Greg Dubord was the first Canadian to be fellowship trained at the Beck Institute, and has been a leader in bringing CBT to Canada in the twenty years since then.

 

What conditions does CBT help?  At our clinic, we have particular expertise in the following applications of CBT: unipolar depression, chronic worry, panic disorder, phobias, and social anxiety.



Will CBT work for me?  Although CBT is considered the most "evidence-based" psychotherapy, it does not work well for everyone. You will therefore begin with an intake evaluation of one to two sessions to evaluate the likelihood that CBT will be helpful for you.

 

What are CBT sessions like?  Sessions at our clinic are generally a little over an hour in length. Unlike other forms of therapy, CBT is very structured, and you and your therapist will set a clear agenda at the start of each session. Sessions focus primarily on a review of "homework" done between sessions. 

 

What if I'm on psychiatric medication?  In most cases, medication does not interfere with CBT, and in some cases it's best that the two approaches be combined. If you're on medication, your therapist will likely ask that you continue to be supervised by your prescribing physician.

 

Do you offer evening appointments?  Regular clinic hours are 9:30AM to 5:00PM from Monday to Friday. Occasional evening appointments are available. If your therapist is not available and you are in crisis, please see your family doctor or go to your nearest emergency department.