Understanding Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
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What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a focused psychotherapy approach designed for a wide range of psychological problems. It's a way of talking about how you think about yourself, the world, and others. CBT helps people understand the intricate links between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
Essentially, how you think (your cognition) influences how you feel (your emotions) and what you do (your behaviour). CBT operates on the principle that our emotional and behavioural responses depend significantly on our perception and understanding of events. What we think and anticipate can greatly affect our reactions to people and situations.
The CBT Process
CBT is a structured, present-focused, and time-limited psychotherapy. It is problem-focused, goal-orientated, and primarily deals with challenges in the "here and now." However, there are times when discussing your past may be necessary to understand its impact on your current situation.
This form of therapy combines both cognitive and behavioural techniques. Once you understand your thought patterns and how to address them, CBT helps you train yourself to respond differently, potentially leading to a more satisfying way of life. It utilises practical techniques and exercises to help you make lasting changes in your thinking and behaviour, ultimately making you feel better.
Therapy typically lasts between 6-12 sessions, each of 50 minutes duration, depending on the nature and severity of your current difficulties.
Problems CBT Can Help With
CBT has been shown to effectively address many different types of psychological problems. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) also indicates its utility for individuals with long-term physical health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease. You can find more information on the NICE website.
How Effective is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?
Research has consistently shown Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to be highly effective. It is the treatment of choice for a number of common mental health problems, as indicated in The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) clinical guidelines.
- The effectiveness of short-term CBT is well established for anxiety disorders, depression, obsessional problems, reactions to trauma, and eating disorders.
- CBT has been clinically proven to work and is considered the most effective treatment for moderate and severe depression.
- CBT works as well as antidepressants for many forms of depression and evidence suggests it may be better than antidepressants in helping with anxiety.
- CBT has also been shown to be effective for more complex emotional problems requiring longer-term treatment.
- Evidence, such as that from the Royal College of Psychiatrists, also suggests that CBT can lead to lasting changes and help prevent future relapse.
Take the Next Step
If you feel CBT could be right for you, or if you'd like to find out more, please feel free to contact me. I aim to respond to all enquiries within 48 hours.
You can also reach Joyce directly at: joyce@trinitycbtsuffolk.com