Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, are a range of talking therapies based on the theory that our thoughts, feelings and behaviours are all connected. Therefore, CBT suggests if we change one of these factors then we can alter the others leading to a happier, more positive version of ourselves.
As young children we make sense of the world mostly by observing and interpreting information from others around us. At times certain things can be misinterpreted leading to negative thoughts or beliefs about ourselves, others and the world around us. This can then lead to a pattern of thinking and behaviours which are unhelpful when trying to live a positive, happy life.
CBT works to help us notice and change these problematic thinking styles and behaviour patterns so we can feel better emotionally. CBT has lots of strategies that can help change you and your life for the better.
What does the evidence say?
NICE recommends CBT in the treatment of the following conditions:
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Anxiety disorders (including panic attacks and post-traumatic stress disorder)
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Depression
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Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
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Schizophrenia and psychosis
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Bipolar disorder
There is also good evidence that CBT is helpful in treating many other conditions, including:
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Chronic fatigue
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Chronic pain
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Physical symptoms without a medical diagnosis
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Sleep difficulties
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Anger management
How is CBT delivered?
CBT can be offered in individual sessions with a therapist or as part of a group. The number of sessions you need depends on each individual's situation. This can be anywhere between six and twenty sessions, sometimes more, and these sessions are usually between 50 and 60 minutes long.
You and your therapist will work together to discuss and identify your specific difficulties and set goals for you to achieve. CBT is not a quick fix – it involves hard work during and between sessions e.g. keeping track of what you are thinking, feeling and doing, or trying out new ways of thinking or acting. Your therapist will not make decisions for you. They will help you decide what difficulties you want to work on in order to help you improve your situation. Your therapist will be able to advise you on how to continue using CBT techniques in your daily life even after your treatment ends.