Anxiety can tell us when a threat is coming, it can signal us to mobilize resources, and it can help us prepare for future events. Anxiety keeps us safe. But intense persistent anxiety, as in Generalized Anxiety Disorder, can be problematic.

One difference is that a CBT therapist aims to be very collaborative with the client. The client is an active participant in the therapy process. In addition, CBT sessions are structured in a way that makes them more efficient. The CBT model aims for a shorter therapeutic process than other types of therapy.