What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?
CBT is one type of psychotherapy (talking treatment). Unlike other types of psychotherapy it does not involve talking freely, or dwell on events in your past to gain insight into your emotional state of mind. It is not a "lie on the couch and tell all" type of therapy.
CBT tends to deal with the here and now - how your current thoughts and behaviours are affecting you now. It recognises that events in your past have shaped the way that you currently think and behave. In particular, thought patterns and behaviours learned in childhood, However, CBT does not dwell on the past, but aims to find solutions to how to change your current thoughts and behaviours so that you can function better now and in the future.
CBT is also different to counselling, which is meant to be non-directive, empathetic and supportive. Although the CBT therapist will offer support and empathy, the therapy has a structure, is problem-focused and solution driven.
Please view the NHS Choices video below featuring David Clark, Professor of Psychology at Kings College, London for more information.
CBT tends to deal with the here and now - how your current thoughts and behaviours are affecting you now. It recognises that events in your past have shaped the way that you currently think and behave. In particular, thought patterns and behaviours learned in childhood, However, CBT does not dwell on the past, but aims to find solutions to how to change your current thoughts and behaviours so that you can function better now and in the future.
CBT is also different to counselling, which is meant to be non-directive, empathetic and supportive. Although the CBT therapist will offer support and empathy, the therapy has a structure, is problem-focused and solution driven.
Please view the NHS Choices video below featuring David Clark, Professor of Psychology at Kings College, London for more information.
What can CBT help with?
CBT has been shown to help people with various conditions - both mental health conditions and physical conditions. For example:
As a rule, the more specific the problem, the more likely CBT may help. This is because it is a practical therapy which focuses on particular problems and aims to overcome them.
- Certain anxiety disorders, including phobias, panic attacks and panic disorder.
- Depression.
- Eating disorders.
- OCD.
- Body dysmorphic disorder.
- Anger.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Sexual and relationship problems.
- Habits such as facial tics.
- Drug or alcohol abuse.
- Some sleep problems.
- Chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME).
- Chronic (persistent) pain.
As a rule, the more specific the problem, the more likely CBT may help. This is because it is a practical therapy which focuses on particular problems and aims to overcome them.
Who can benefit from CBT ?
CBT does not suit everyone and it is not helpful for all conditions. You need to be committed and persistent in tackling and improving your health problem with the help of the therapist.
It can be hard work. The homework may be difficult and challenging. You may be taken 'out of your comfort zone' when tackling situations which cause anxiety or distress.
However, many people have greatly benefited from a course of CBT which has helped them focus and realise their goals more comfortably.
One example is Carol Cattley (see the video below) who used CBT after the death of her husband to help her cope with the grieving process.
It can be hard work. The homework may be difficult and challenging. You may be taken 'out of your comfort zone' when tackling situations which cause anxiety or distress.
However, many people have greatly benefited from a course of CBT which has helped them focus and realise their goals more comfortably.
One example is Carol Cattley (see the video below) who used CBT after the death of her husband to help her cope with the grieving process.
