CBT is one of the few forms of psychotherapy that has been scientifically tested and found to be effective in hundreds of clinical trials for many different disorders. In contrast to other forms of psychotherapy, cognitive therapy is usually more focused on the present, more time-limited, and more problem-solving oriented. In addition, patients learn specific skills that they can use for the rest of their lives. These skills involve identifying distorted thinking, modifying beliefs, relating to others in different ways, and changing behaviours.

CBT is based on the cognitive model, which makes a link between our thoughts, feelings and behaviours. In other words, how we perceive situations influences how we feel emotionally and how we subsequently behave. So, it is not the situation, itself that directly affects how people feel, but rather their interpretation (or thoughts) in that situation. When people are in distress, their perspective is often inaccurate and their thoughts may be unrealistic.