Rapid and not-so-rapid responses to cognitive behavioral therapy

The occurrence of early changes, presumably before cognitive behavior thera py (CBT) has had a chance to take hold, is a significant finding and raises theoretical problems. In addition, however, we need to recognize and expla in delayed-onset therapeutic changes. It is argued that CBT sessions common ly initiate a process that then unfolds after and between sessions-the evid ence of change emerges after a delay. The need to study timing and sequenci ng of CBT changer is endorsed, and it is suggested that the best and quicke st results will come from investigating the action of CBT on anxiety disord ers.