Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

 

There are many different types of therapy available therefore it is important for you to understand what Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is so you can decide whether it is right therapy approach for you.

 

There are two main Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approaches; Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT) and Cognitive Therapy (CT). I am trained in REBT.

 

REBT is based on the idea that unwanted emotions and behaviours are maintained by the beliefs we hold about others, the world and ourselves. It is our beliefs that can influence how we perceive and respond to events. For example, if you believe that travelling on a plane is dangerous then you will likely experience anxiety. Or if you have rigid rules about the way people should behave towards you then you are likely to feel anger if they don’t behave in the way you think they must.

The aim of REBT is to identify and challenge the beliefs that underpin these difficult emotions and behaviours and work towards creating healthier alternatives.

 

It is not always possible to change what has happened to you or predict what will happen in the future, but it is always possible to change what you tell yourself about it.

 

​​CBT is a ‘doing’ therapy as well as a talking therapy so involves working together in the sessions to overcome avoidance and approach life without using behaviours which may have kept you feeling stuck. We will often work through exercises and ‘behavioural experiments’ together, both in session and between sessions, these are to help you to explore or test out your beliefs about yourself, other people and how the world works.

Our sessions will end with putting together a plan detailing what you have learnt in therapy and how you are going to continue making progress.

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CBT is considered the ‘gold standard’ for talk therapy. It has shown to be the most effective form of treatment for those coping with depression and anxiety.