Photo by Hassan OUAJBIR

Affirmative cognitive behavior therapy strikes at the heart of true living, which is accepting your genuine self and learning to live with yourself, warts and all.

The greatest aspiration that everyone has in their hearts is to find a place where they can find acceptance. A place where they can be themselves and everyone around them is supportive of whoever they are and wherever they want to be. And isn’t that altogether quite obvious? Who would want to continue living onward, only to be dragged down by people who wouldn’t spare them a single glance at any time of day?

Although there is still a bit of hemming and hawing concerning the issue of mental health, the evidence is clear: neglecting the worries of the mind leads to worse outcomes for the individuals involved and the people around them. That is why affirmative cognitive behavior therapy is making the rounds and becoming quite popular. 

Accepting your genuine self, learning about your wants and needs, and discovering yourself are all outcomes that are extremely important to maintaining your mental and emotional needs. This is especially the case for people who belong to marginalized communities, who are bombarded daily with propaganda that their identities and lifestyles are worth less compared to the “standard” template.

Affirmative therapy provides a safe and secure space for these people to slowly discuss their mental health needs while helping them come to realize profound truths about themselves and recognize that they DO have a place in this world.

Where to begin accepting your genuine self?

With affirmative therapy, individuals are always kept in a state of acceptance and openness. Whatever you say is taken seriously, and exploration of your identity goes beyond just the superficial and is geared toward the establishment of a secure self who acknowledges their flaws and, while ready to change if given freedom, is not going to take criticism without first considering its merits.

Also known as positive therapy, affirmative therapy can help both therapist and client. If you’re considering affirmative therapy, keep in mind these key points before starting:

  • Affirmative cognitive behavior therapy is a good way to address internalized biases and prejudices, as well as help people acknowledge the daily challenges faced by members of minority groups.
  • Affirmative therapy offers support and resources that help with minimizing prejudices and biases toward those of other racial, gender, or sexual identities.
  • The therapy serves as a space for individuals to resolve any contradictory beliefs and needs that are in conflict with their identities.
  • Therapists who subscribe to affirmative cognitive behavior therapy and are trained in its use are more understanding of the issues that their clients deal with regularly, including the more insidious aspects like stigma, lack of support, and representation.

Key Points to Remember About ACBT

ACBT is evidence-based.

The most important thing to know about affirmative cognitive behavior theory is that it is a very rigorous and evidence-based approach. There are multiple studies that prove the effectiveness of its techniques and the like.

ACBT is not just positive thinking.

While positive thinking is integral to affirmative therapy, it is not its only focus. It helps with identifying and challenging negativity and attempting to change them into more productive and empowering thoughts.

ACBT is not a quick fix.

Like any form of therapy, ACBT is not a quick fix since it involves teaching clients how to manage their thoughts and emotions more effectively. However, what makes affirmative therapy stand out is its long-lasting and life-changing benefits. 

ACBT can be tailored to your needs.

Affirmative therapy is quite flexible and adaptable to its client’s specific needs. The best part about ACBT is that it has your therapist work with you to identify those challenges that are unique to you and develop methods and approaches that are tailored to you.

ACBT can be used with other therapies.

Another great thing about affirmative therapy is its modular ability to work with other forms of therapy.

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