Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment that takes a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving. Its goal is to change patterns of thinking or behavior that are behind peopleâs difficulties, and so change the way they feel. It is used to help treat a wide range of issues in a personâs life, from sleeping difficulties or relationship problems, to drug and alcohol abuse or anxiety and depression. CBT works by changing peopleâs attitudes and their behavior by focusing on the thoughts, images, beliefs and attitudes that are held (a personâs cognitive processes) and how these processes relate to the way a person behaves, as a way of dealing with emotional problems.