Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented, and evidence-based form of psychotherapy developed primarily by Aaron T. Beck. It is based on the principle that thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected, and that modifying maladaptive thinking patterns can lead to positive emotional and behavioral changes. CBT follows a systematic process consisting of several stages that help clients recognize, evaluate, and modify dysfunctional beliefs and behaviors. Although the number of stages may vary slightly depending on the therapist and the client's needs, the therapy generally follows a sequence from assessment to relapse prevention. The first stage is assessment and case formulation. During this stage, the therapist establishes rapport and gathers detailed information about the client's presenting problems, emotional symptoms, personal history, family background, medical history, and current functioning. Standardized assessment tools, interviews, and behavioral observations may be used to identify cognitive distortions, emotional difficulties, and behavioral patterns. The therapist develops a cognitive formulation that explains how the client's thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and behaviors interact to maintain psychological distress. The second stage involves psychoeducation. The therapist educates the client about the cognitive-behavioral model and explains the relationship between thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and behaviors. Clients learn that their interpretation of events, rather than the events themselves, largely determines emotional reactions. This understanding increases motivation and encourages active participation in therapy. Psychoeducation also includes discussing the nature of the psychological disorder, treatment goals, and the importance of homework assignments. The third stage is goal setting. CBT is collaborative, and therapist and client jointly identify clear, realistic, measurable, and achievable treatment goals. Goals may include reducing anxiety, managing depression, improving self-esteem, enhancing social skills, or changing unhealthy behaviors. Setting specific goals provides direction to therapy and helps monitor progress throughout the intervention. The fourth