Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a practical, evidence-based talking therapy that helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are connected. The core idea of CBT is that the way we think about situations influences how we feel and how we respond. By identifying and changing unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour, it is possible to improve emotional wellbeing and cope more effectively with life’s challenges.

CBT focuses mainly on the present. While past experiences may be explored where helpful, the emphasis is on understanding current difficulties and developing tools you can use in everyday life. CBT is typically structured and goal-focused, with you and your therapist working collaboratively at a pace that feels manageable.

What are the benefits of CBT?

CBT helps build awareness of unhelpful thinking patterns, such as being overly self-critical, assuming the worst, or jumping to conclusions. With support, you learn to gently question these thoughts and develop more balanced and realistic perspectives, which can reduce distress and build confidence. CBT also focuses on behaviour. Avoidance, withdrawal, or unhelpful coping strategies such as excessive checking, reassurance seeking or procrastination, can maintain difficulties over time. CBT supports you to make small, achievable behavioural changes and become unstuck from the cycles holding you back. It equips you with practical techniques to manage day-to-day and maintain wellbeing long after therapy ends.

Is CBT the right approach for me?

You may find CBT helpful if you want a structured, practical approach to therapy and are interested in developing coping skills. If you are experiencing anxiety in the form of panic attacks, OCD, health anxiety, PTSD, general anxiety or phobias, CBT may be a good fit. If you find yourself feeling low and depressed, struggling with self-esteem, overwhelm or stress, CBT can also support you with these difficulties.  It can be adapted to suit all ages and backgrounds.

Need a little help deciding or want to talk it through? Get in touch!