What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely-used, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours.
Developed by Dr. Aaron T. Beck in the 1960s, CBT is grounded in the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected, and that by changing distorted or harmful thinking, we can improve our emotional well-being and behaviour.
How does CBT work?
CBT is a structured, goal-oriented approach that helps individuals address specific issues, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, and stress.
During therapy, you will work with me to identify negative thought patterns, challenge them, and replace them with more positive, realistic ones.
CBT also emphasises learning practical coping strategies and problem-solving skills to manage everyday challenges.
What are the benefits of CBT?
CBT is a widely used, evidence-based approach to mental health treatment. Here are some key benefits:
1. Helps Identify and Change Negative Thought Patterns
CBT teaches individuals to recognise unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with healthier, more constructive ones. This can improve mood and decision-making.
2. Effective for a Range of Mental Health Issues
CBT is proven to help with anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and many other conditions. It provides practical tools to manage symptoms and reduce distress.
3. Provides Long-Term Coping Strategies
Unlike some therapies that focus on past experiences, CBT is action-oriented and equips individuals with skills to handle future challenges independently.
4. Structured and Goal-Oriented
CBT sessions follow a clear structure, helping individuals set and achieve specific goals, making the therapy process more focused and measurable.
5. Can Be Short-Term and Cost-Effective
Many people experience significant improvements in a relatively short number of sessions, making CBT a practical and efficient approach to therapy.
Would you like more details on a specific aspect of CBT?
