Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy or “CBT” is a form of psychological treatment that takes place in talking therapy work via structured sessions and often include tasks outside of the session, such as keeping a thought diary.   

 

CBT is based upon the observation that it is our thoughts and reactions to events that affect our mood and wellbeing.  In CBT, we would seek to identify unhelpful patterns of thinking (e.g., unhelpful thinking style, cognitive distortions etc.), which we might have learnt earlier in life. In CBT, we seek to relieve unpleasant emotions, and develop better coping through more effective thinking and behavioural responses.  Other skills within CBT can include exposure therapy, effective problem solving and relaxation techniques. 

 

There is significant evidence that CBT can be effective in a range of problems such as Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), low self-esteem, Eating Disorders and other mental health conditions. 

 

Sometimes, CBT can also be the umbrella term that alludes to the other therapies and there can be overlap and similarities in treatment.  Most clinicians however would differentiate the specific therapies, whilst being able to use a combination of approaches to support their client’s goals. 

 

You can read more about CBT at these well recognised organisation websites:

Frequently Asked Questions

  • CBT refers to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. In essence, CBT is a framework that helps us learn the association between our thoughts, emotions and behaviours, and how they affect each other. Traditionally, CBT aims at helping us to change a component of these associations, with the hope to modify the others. Traditional CBT is structured, and focuses on changing thoughts and behaviours, in order to change our emotions. 

    CBT is a second wave psychological therapy. Many other therapies are developed based on its principles, and these psychological therapies fall under the category of CBT, such as Schema Therapy (ST), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) etc.

  • CBT has been shown to be an effective treatment for a wide range of mental health concerns, such as Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Complex Trauma, Eating Disorders, OCD, and many others.

  • No single therapeutic approach works for everyone. While CBT has been widely studied and proven to be effective for many people and conditions, it is not suitable for everyone. How CBT may or may not work varies by individual preferences, our communication styles, as well as how we relate to ourselves and emotions.

  • As CBT is a structured therapy that focuses on goals, skills-building, and making meaningful changes, homework is often part of CBT.  Generally, homework is given at the end of each session and reviewed at the following appointment.