Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitve Behaviour Therapy or CBT, as it is often called, is one of the talking therapies. CBT has been proven to be helpful and effective in the treatment of a wide range of emotional and physical conditions. CBT can be used to help both adults and children.
Cognitive behavioural therapy aims to look at the way we think about specific situations (Cognitions) and how the way we are thinking affects the way we act (Behaviour) and therefore in turn how it affects how we feel. The cognitive behavioural therapist or Psychologist work together with the client in an effort to change the client's behaviours and thoughts which helps to improve self esteem,
What to expect from CBT
Usually clients meet with their CBT therapist or Psychologist weekly or fortnightly. The therapist will help to explain what the difficulties need to be addressed in order that there is a common understanding about how therapy will progess. CBT will then aim to make specific changes to the way the person feels, thinks and behaviours, hopefully resulting in the client feeling more in control of their situation. CBT usually continues for between 6 - 12 sessions, this can be extended, often to a maximum of 20 sessions. CBT usually does not look too deep at the underlying cause of distress instead it focuses on changing the way we think and feel.
What if CBT does not work for me?
CBT is just one of the talking therapies modalities. It has been proven to be effective towards a number of different disorders, however not everyone will find CBT the right therapy for them. Some CBT therapists are only trained in CBT, however experienced Psychologists and Psychotherapists may also be trained in different techniques. Your therapist will talk to you about how the therapy is going and if it is felt that it is not suitable either the method can be adapted or a referral can be made to another member of the team. If CBT is not right for you it does not mean you have failed it simply means you may benefit from a different approach.
CBT Treatments
CBT can be helpful for a wide range of conditions including:
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Low self esteem
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Eating Disorders
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Panic attacks
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Stress
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Excessive Worry
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Obsessive Comulsive Disorder (OCD)


More information on CBT
If you would like to know more about how Cognitive Behaviour Therapy may be helpful please call us on 01189 680 900 and we will be happy to talk through any questions you may have. If we feel CBT is not suitable we will be able to discuss alternatives.