Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a type of psychotherapy designed to help solve problems such as depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or drug misuse.

The theoretical framework of CBT bases itself on the premise that the way we think (cognition)about a situation, affects our behaviour; and in turn our behaviour can affect how we think and feel.

Therefore, CBT works by changing both the act of thinking and behaviour at the same time. Essentially CBT recognises that problems are often created by thoughts and reactions of an individual to any given situation, rather than the situation itself being the problem.

CBT works by the therapist helping the client break down problems into smaller parts so that it is easier to see how they are connected and how this affects your thoughts, emotions, physical feelings and actions; and how they can all affect each other.

With the therapist, the client’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours are analysed to work out if they are unrealistic or unhelpful, and how each expression affects each other and the individual. The therapist will then help the client to work out how to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours.

The client is encouraged to practise the suggested changes in their everyday life to incorporate theory into application. The client sets the pace for the treatment, and what they will and will not try.

CBT is an empowering tool that provides clients with skills that they can continue to develop outside of therapy sessions, making it less likely that symptoms or problems will return.