What is CBT?

WHAT IS COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY (CBT)?

CBT is a talking therapy that is primarily concerned with the way we think, feel and behave in everyday situations.  It explores the origins and consequences of thinking, feeling and behaving in these ways in order to help resolve emotional difficulties.

CBT has been extensively researched and has been shown to be effective with a range of presenting difficulties.  It is also important to note that while the research indicates the effectiveness of CBT, research also indicates that the relationship between the client and the therapist is important and can impact on the success of the treatment.  This is something only you can judge, which is why there is no commitment to future sessions.

CBT is a time-limited therapy.  Typically, 6-20 sessions and a noticeable change can often be seen within 4-8 sessions.

CBT is a therapy that focusses on the here and now.  The past is used to inform us to why we may think or behave in certain ways.

CBT uses a collaborative approach – client and therapist work together on understanding difficulties and unhelpful patterns of thoughts and behaviours.  Goals for therapy are set and client and therapist work together to achieve these goals.  Progress is reviewed regularly to ensure therapy does not continue longer than necessary.

CBT can help to develop and learn more helpful ways of managing past, present and future life events.

Sessions will be tailored to meet the needs of the individual, emotionally and developmentally e.g. by using games, crafts, play, drawing, activities etc.  This is done to ensure that the content of sessions is understandable and helpful.