Barry Slone:

Cognitive Behavior Therapy

About Dr. Barry SloneAs a private therapist in Aliso Viejo, California, Barry Slone specializes in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT), a solution-based form of psychotherapy. With his expertise in the field, Barry Sloan answers questions about the treatment method.

Question: What is the goal of cognitive behavior therapy?

Barry Slone: CBT helps people identify negative or inaccurate thought patterns. Once they can recognize those patterns, they have a clearer view of things. If you see a situation with clarity, then you can respond more effectively. The ultimate goal remains to have one’s choices and actions come from a positive and accurate view of the world rather than a negative or ineffective one.

Question: Who can benefit from CBT?

Barry Slone: The technique is very effective for treating conditions like anxiety and depression. It can also help people under tremendous stress or those who are in difficult relationships.

Question: Can you describe the process?

Barry Slone: When clients come to me, I encourage them to share the things that are troubling them. Once we have identified some of the key circumstances and emotions my clients would like to address, we set goals for the focus of our sessions. Next, I help my clients become aware of the ways they are thinking about their situations. Many people are unaware of how they think about things, and paying attention is a key part of finding a solution. During therapy, we identify negative thought processes, or those that are inaccurate, and then we challenge those viewpoints. I often assign homework that allows my clients to practice their skills in real world situations outside of therapy.

Question: How does this help?

Barry Slone: CBT is about empowerment. I help my clients find tools to deal with situations in an emotionally healthy fashion, and they use those tools when stressful situations arise.