Description In her practice over the years, Dr. Cadow has treated the full spectrum of anxiety disorders using CBT. CBT targets well-established patterns of negative thoughts and behaviors. The objective of CBT is to change patterns of thinking (the "cognitive" part) that thwart people's efforts to overcome their fears and anxiety (e.g., "I cannot handle all these people. I will say something stupid?" at a social event).
These thoughts lead to self-defeating actions (the "behavioral" part), that prevent people from achieving their goals (e.g., leaving a party where they hoped to make new friends). CBT offers alternative ideas and actions, often exposing the person to their fear with support and a game plan.
Although Dr. Cadow's primary treatment focus is CBT, she often incorporates other tools targeting anxiety reduction such as hypnosis, relaxation techniques, role-playing, exercise, stress management, meditation, systematic desensitization or exposure, and time management. Psychodynamic tools can often help foster an understanding of the anxiety and provide additional interventions. Referrals to a psychiatrist are available for medication evaluations.
