What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidenced based structured and time-limited therapy that helps individuals identify and change thought patterns and behaviours that do not serve them. CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected, and that changing one can positively affect the others.
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During CBT, our aim is to:
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Identify Patterns of Thoughts: Recognise and challenge unhelpful thoughts that may be contributing to emotional distress or problematic behaviours.
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Identify Pattern of Behaviours: Recognise and challenge unhelpful behaviours that may be contributing to emotional distress
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Develop Helpful Coping Strategies: Learn practical skills and strategies to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other distressing issues.
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Gain Control and Track Progress: Monitor changes and improvements, adjusting strategies as needed using standard wellbeing questionnaires to ensure we get to where we want to be.
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Why is CBT effective?
1. Evidence-Based
CBT is backed by extensive research showing its efficacy for a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and more. It is the recommended treatment by NICE guidelines for common mental health difficulties.
2. Structured Approach
CBT provides a clear, structured approach to treatment, which helps both you as the client and I as the therapy to stay focused on specific goals and measurable progress.
3. Skill Development
​CBT equips clients with practical skills and techniques that they can use to manage their symptoms and challenges independently, long after therapy has ended.
4. Focus on the Present
While CBT acknowledges past experiences, it emphasises the importance of addressing current thoughts and behaviours, which can be more immediately impactful in improving a person’s mental health.
5. Short-Term and Goal-Oriented
CBT is typically a short-term therapy, with many treatments lasting between 12-20 sessions. It is goal-oriented, helping clients achieve specific outcomes within a relatively short time frame.
6. Empowerment and Self-Efficacy
CBT empowers clients by teaching them to recognise and modify their own negative thought patterns and behaviours, fostering a sense of self-efficacy and control over their mental health.
7. Adaptability and Collaborative
​CBT is highly adaptive, enabling tailored interventions to the unique needs and goals of each individual. Central to CBT is the collaboration between therapist and client, fostering a sense of shared responsibility in the therapeutic process. This partnership encourages active participation (in and outside of sessions) and enhances self-awareness and efficacy to support lasting change.
