Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an established, evidence based talking therapy.  CBT is based on the connections between our thoughts, behaviours, emotions and physiology.  It allows an individual to understand and make changes to their thoughts or behaviour, which can have an impact on how they feel.  Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can enable people to explore challenges within their lives.  During CBT the therapist and client work together to establish any factors which are preventing the client’s situation from changing.  These factors are the foundation of the treatment.  Cognitive and behavioural approaches are used to help make changes to these factors.  Making changes can help to break negative cycles within a person’s life. 

CBT concentrates on the present, although it can also help to understand if any past events have influenced a client's current situation.  CBT is a collaborative therapy which encourages a client to have an active role in their treatment, during sessions and at home.  The period of time receiving CBT can range from a few weeks to several months.  One 50 minute session a week is recommended, particularly during the start of treatment.  Within the first session individuals have the opportunity to set realistic goals for the future.  Throughout sessions the therapist will introduce techniques and strategies which are designed to help with specific problems.  These approaches can be applied to other problems later in life.