Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a collaborative, present-focused, time-limited approach to addressing problematic thinking, behaviours, and emotions. Based on the theory that beliefs, behaviours, emotions, and physiology are all interrelated, CBT sessions are directed towards achieving clear and lasting solutions to the challenges you face.
Through CBT, you’ll learn realistic alternative ways of thinking and behaving that can transform how you respond to life’s difficulties.
How CBT Works: A Practical Example
Understanding how CBT works is easier with a real-world example. Consider this common scenario:
The Situation: You’ve had a difficult day and feel fed up, so you go out for a walk. As you walk down the road, someone you know walks by and apparently ignores you.
Unhelpful Thought Pattern
Thoughts: “They ignored me – they don’t like me”
Mood & Feelings: Low, rejected
Physical Reaction: Stomach cramps, feeling sick
Behaviour: Go home and avoid the person
Helpful Thought Pattern
Thoughts: “They look a bit wrapped up in themselves, I wonder if there’s something wrong?”
Mood & Feelings: Concern for the person
Physical Reaction: Calm, balanced
Behaviour: Get in touch with them to make sure they’re okay
This example demonstrates how the same event can have at least one alternative appraisal, leading to completely different emotional and behavioural outcomes.
Grounded in Science
CBT is guided by rigorous scientific study of thoughts, feelings, brain function, and behaviour. Treatment programmes are subjected to extensive testing to obtain convincing evidence of their effectiveness before being introduced to the public. This evidence-based approach ensures you receive treatment that has been proven to work.
The History of CBT
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy was developed in the 1960s by Dr Aaron Beck, a psychiatrist based in the United States. Dr Beck began working with clients’ negative thoughts and developed CBT to help them appraise their patterns of thinking and view issues more realistically.
Over the past 50 years, CBT has become an effective mainstream psychological treatment for emotional and behavioural problems including:
Depression
Panic attacks
Anxiety (one of the most common reasons for seeking CBT counselling)
Stress management
Phobias
Obsessive-compulsive behaviours
Is CBT Right for You?
If you’re struggling with negative thought patterns, anxiety, depression, or behavioural challenges that are affecting your quality of life, CBT could be the solution you’re looking for. This practical, evidence-based approach provides you with tools and techniques you can use long after therapy ends.
Ready to take the first step towards positive change? Contact us today to discuss how Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help you develop healthier thinking patterns and improve your wellbeing.
