What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?
ABOUT CBT
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychosocial talk psychotherapy that helps people understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. The idea is that negative thoughts can lead to unhelpful feelings and actions, and by identifying and changing these thought patterns, people can improve their mental wellbeing. CBT is often used to treat issues like anxiety, depression, and stress. It’s practical and goal-oriented, usually involving exercises or strategies to use in everyday life. Overall, it’s about learning new ways to cope and feel better by thinking differently.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offers a range of benefits that can really improve everyday life. It helps people manage stress, anxiety, and low mood by teaching them how to break negative thought patterns and react to situations in a healthier way. One of the biggest pluses is that it gives practical tools you can use long after the therapy ends, like ways to stay calm under pressure or handle tough emotions. CBT also tends to work fairly quickly compared to some other therapies, and it’s flexible—it can be done one-on-one, in groups, or even online. Overall, it’s a useful, empowering approach that helps people feel more in control of their thoughts and emotions.
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) includes a few key parts that work together to help people feel better. One major component is identifying negative or unhelpful thoughts—like self-doubt or worst-case-scenario thinking—and learning how to challenge and change them. Another part focuses on behaviour, such as facing fears gradually or building healthy habits, instead of avoiding things or getting stuck in unhelpful routines. CBT often includes setting goals, learning coping skills, and practicing techniques like relaxation or problem-solving. These tools are usually used both during sessions and in everyday life through homework or exercises, which helps the changes really stick over time.
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Sessions usually take place on a weekly basis and continue for a minimum of 8- 12 weeks. The length of treatment is dependent on individual goals.
SUITABILITY
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is suitable for pretty much anyone who’s struggling with difficult thoughts, emotions, or behaviours and wants to make a positive change. It’s commonly used by people dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or low self-esteem, but it is also used as a primary treatment to help with things like trauma, phobias, OCD and sleep problems. You don’t need a specific diagnosis to benefit from CBT, it’s helpful for anyone who feels stuck in negative patterns and wants to learn practical ways to feel better and cope with life’s challenges. It’s also a good fit for people who are open to actively working on themselves and trying out new strategies.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) might not be the best fit for people who aren’t ready to actively take part in the process. It also may not be ideal for those dealing with more complex mental health issues, like severe personality disorders and some types of complex trauma. It’s also less effective if someone isn’t open to trying new ways of thinking or making changes in their behaviour.
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If you're unsure about the suitability of CBT for you, feel free to contact me for a brief chat. All treatment begins with an in-depth assessment to ascertain the correct treatment type for your individual needs.
EFFECTIVENESS
CBT is considered one of the most effective forms of therapy, especially for issues like anxiety, depression, stress, phobias, and OCD. Research has found CBT to work just as well as, and sometimes better than, medication—especially when people prefer a non-medication approach or use both together. Studies and real-life experiences show that a lot of people notice real improvements after just a few months.
What makes CBT stand out is that it doesn’t just treat symptoms—it gives people tools and strategies to use long after therapy ends. Of course, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some people respond better than others, and its success can depend on things like the strength of the therapist-client relationship, how motivated the person is, and whether other mental health conditions are involved. But overall, CBT has a solid reputation and a lot of scientific backing behind it.
The impact of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be life-changing for many people. It helps break the cycle of negative thinking and unhelpful habits. People often feel more confident, less overwhelmed, and more capable of dealing with everyday stress. For many, it leads to a more positive outlook, better relationships, and a greater sense of control over their lives.