Cognitive therapy can be used as a type of complementary therapy for people with a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal problems.
Cognitive therapy is carried out by mental health professionals. Using cognitive therapies as a complementary treatment recognizes the significance of the mind-body connection, and use that connection to benefit the patient and improve quality of life.
If you want to explore cognitive behavioural therapy or any other kind psychotherapy we suggest you get in touch with a licensed psychotherapist such as the renowned Cristina Rossi, either in her office in Genova, Italy or via Skype.
What is Cognitive Therapy?
There are several different types of cognitive therapy that can be used as complementary therapy to help patients deal with symptoms and even to possibly alleviate their severity and/or effects.
One of these cognitive therapy options is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy in which one is taught new ways of thinking and understanding behaviour and problems.
When you undertake cognitive behavioural therapy, you are given tools needed to understand how your thinking affects your feelings, and how your thinking is affected by your actions. It helps you change the way you think and behave, and this can help you more effectively cope with the symptoms of physical conditions.
CBT is a type of “talking therapy” that helps you avoid the traps of negative thinking, and gives you the mental tools necessary to break down problems into smaller and more manageable components. It focusses much more on the present than the past.
Many people with medical conditions find that cognitive behavioural therapy can give them a greater sense of control over the experience of their symptoms. It can also help to promote relaxation and confidence, and this can assist in alleviating symptoms, in some cases.
If you are interested in undergoing cognitive behavioural therapy, you will need to find a mental health practitioner who is trained in this area. Ask your doctor whether he or she thinks that cognitive behavioural therapy could be of benefit to you.
Usually CBT requires you to attend one session every one or two weeks. You will probably need to complete at least five sessions, but you should know that as many as 20 could be recommended. You will need to devote about 30 minutes to one hour to each session.
Other Mind-Body Complementary Treatments
Other types of complementary treatments that seek to utilize the mind-body connection in alleviating the symptoms of musculoskeletal conditions might be useful. One example is mindfulness work.
Mindfulness: Mindfulness therapy can be useful in helping patients deal with the symptoms of physical conditions. If you pursue this, you will be taught a variety of techniques for making yourself more mindful in your daily life.
Mindfulness is the ability to live entirely in the moment rather than the past or the future. It tends to help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Meditation is likely to be a component of mindfulness training.
Cognitive Therapies Might be Helpful for You
Don’t underestimate how helpful cognitive therapies might be for you, as a complementary treatment option. While they require a certain amount of time commitment, the benefits will make it worthwhile.
References
“Relaxation, hypnosis, and cognitive therapies”, http://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/complementary-and-alternative-medicines/complementary-therapies/relaxation-hypnosis-and-cognitive-therapies.aspx
“Cognitive Behavioral Therapy”, https://thewholeworks.co.uk/therapies/cognitive-behavioural-therapy