Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a short to medium term therapy that focuses attention on the present rather than the past.  This therapy stems from the belief that emotional distress is caused by the way we think, and that changing our thoughts reduces worry and emotional anxiety.

CBT has a definite structure: it is problem-focused, goal-oriented and practical.  It is important that you understand the process of the therapy, so I would become your educator, using guided discovery to teach you to be your own therapist in the future.

Homework between sessions is a key part of CBT, which may consist of keeping a journal, and undertaking relaxation - or conversely, activating - exercises.  Together we would devise experiments for you to test out the validity of any negative thoughts that are causing you distress, enabling you to find new ways of thinking and responding to difficult situations.

Although this form of therapy requires commitment and persistence in tackling your issues, many people have benefited enormously from a course in CBT.  Evidence has shown that it is particularly effective for treating anxiety and depression.