Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

What Is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?

CBT is based on our understanding of the role ‘thinking’ plays in the development of emotional and behavioural problems. The way we think and feel affects how we deal with problems.

Negative thoughts and feelings impact hugely on our emotional wellbeing, contributing to our inability to cope with certain aspects of life. Ultimately they allow emotions and behaviours to spiral out of control.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is recognised by the National Centre for Clinical Excellence (NICE) and the NHS as an effective therapy for many psychological issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, trauma and OCD.

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Myths about Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is ‘formulaic’ or brain washing and form filling.

CBT ignores things that have happened in the past

CBT follows protocols which have been designed to help everyone with the problems they want help with. Accredited CBT therapists know how to apply these protocols to the treatment they are giving to each person.

Writing things down is the best way to help your brain process changes. It helps change moods and emotions. Despite the rise in communications via devices, research still indicates writing on paper helps people commit to making changes, which is why in CBT we encourage the ‘pen and paper’ approach wherever possible.

CBT uses the patterns of the past to help people see how they would like to change, we don’t ignore the past, but the focus is about a positive future. We look compassionately at the past, and help people change their thoughts and behaviours so they can break unhelpful patterns of the past.

CBT is collaborative. We work together to establish the problem, set goals and set a treatment plan. We do not ‘do’ things to you, we ‘do’ things with you. You will get information, tips and techniques which becomes a ‘recipe book’ you can use for the rest of your life.