Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)


Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a short term therapy which has been shown to be effective in the treatment of a number of emotional difficulties.

N.I.C.E guidelines recommend CBT for the treatment of anxiety disorders  (such as panic, agoraphobia and social anxiety), depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder,  bipolar disorder, psychosis and medically unexplained symptoms.

CBT derives from early theories of behaviourism, with the view that our responses to events of any kind, are mediated by our thoughts, images and beliefs.  As a result of our experiences in the world we have each developed a set of beliefs about how the world functions and our place within it.  These beliefs and assumptions can sometimes be  incorrect, distorted or biased and lead to unhelpful behaviours and debilitating psychological and/or physiological symptoms.  CBT aims to identify and then adapt the beliefs and behaviours that may be causing or maintaining  problematic symptoms such as depression or anxiety.  Focusing on the here and now, the therapist and client work actively and collaboratively to develop effective strategies to change the way the individual thinks and behaves in order to improve symptoms and emotional well-being.