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Dana Andersen, LISW is a social worker in West Des Moines, IA specializing in social work. Dana Andersen, LISW is affiliated with Broadlawns Medical Center.
1089 Jordan Creek Parkway Suite 116
West Des Moines, IA 50266
1761 Hickman Road Outpatient Behavioral Health Main Campus
Des Moines, IA 50314
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Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a form of psychotherapy or treatment for mental illness. It comes in a variety of methods, but the basic concept behind all CBT is the same -- thoughts cause feelings, which cause actions. If someone wishes to change problematic behaviors or emotions in their lives, they need to start by changing their thoughts. CBT examines ideas and looks for patterns that may be causing harmful actions. The therapist helps patients modify those thought patterns and, in doing so, helps them feel better and cope more effectively.
CBT is one of the most widely studied forms of psychotherapy, and it has been shown to be extremely effective for a variety of mental illnesses. Some of the issues that respond well to CBT include mood disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse, sleep disorders, and psychotic disorders. In some cases, CBT has been shown to be as effective or even more effective than medication. One of the interesting things that the scientific study of CBT has shown is that CBT actually changes the way the brain works, physically improving its function.
CBT differs from traditional psychotherapy in a few key ways. One of the most important distinctions is the emphasis on the power and responsibility of the patient in CBT. The patient will be encouraged to be the one asking the questions in CBT therapy, and most patients are assigned homework to complete outside of therapy sessions. There is a concept in CBT that everyone has power the power to change how they feel, even if they cannot control the situation, and this can be very empowering for patients. Because of this power shift, the therapist-client relationship is not as critical to success in CBT as it is in other modes of therapy. Patients should still get along well with their therapists, but they do not need a deep, dependent emotional connection to them. Finally, because CBT often treats a specific issue or problem, it is usually shorter in duration than traditional therapy. While some therapies may continue for years, CBT lasts on average just 16 sessions.
She is certified by the Licensed Independent Social Worker and has a state license in Illinois.
Board Certification: Licensed Independent Social Worker
Licensed In: Illinois
Dana Andersen, LISW is associated with these hospitals and organizations:
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Ms. Dana Andersen specializes in social work. In her practice, Ms. Andersen focuses on acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness. She is affiliated with Broadlawns Medical Center.
