What is an example of cognitive behavioral therapy?

Here is an example of cognitive-behavioral therapy: Suppose you were involved in a car accident last year that left you hospitalized for three months. Now you get panic attacks whenever you drive your car and have to wait for your partner to drive to avoid flashbacks.

You share this experience with the therapist, and they start reasoning with you on ways of overcoming the fear. The therapist agrees that fear is a normal reaction to trauma but that you shouldn't let it take control of your life. The therapist quotes statistics showing that accidents are rare in your town to demonstrate that your fear is irrational.

The therapist teaches you how to practice positive thinking when driving. They also remind you that you are a fully qualified driver and that you were not responsible for the accident. You soon learn how to overcome the fear through positive self-talk.


Monarch does not employ any provider and is not responsible for the conduct of any provider listed on our site. All information in member profiles, and messages are created from data provided by the providers and not generated or verified by Monarch. As a user, you need to perform your own diligence to ensure the provider you choose is appropriate for your needs and complies with applicable laws and licensure requirements. Monarch is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Monarch assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable, for the quality or any other aspect of the services a provider may provide to you, nor will Monarch be liable for any act, omission or wrongdoing committed or allegedly committed by any provider.

Articles and information and assessments posted on Monarch are for informational purposes only, and it is not intended to diagnose or treat any health conditions. Treatment and diagnosis should be performed by an appropriate health care provider.

IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY, DO NOT USE MONARCH. IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, OR THINKING ABOUT SUICIDE OR HARMING YOURSELF OR OTHERS, CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY OR ANOTHER APPLICABLE EMERGENCY NUMBER.