What is CBT?
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is a type of talking therapy which looks specifically at how our thoughts, feelings, physical sensations and behaviours influence each other. The aim of CBT is to provide an opportunity for you to explore and better understand your thinking styles and behaviour patterns, and learn new techniques for improving your psychological health and well-being, in a safe, confidential and supportive environment.
Is CBT effective?
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for conditions where anxiety or depression is the main problem. CBT is recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) who provide independent, evidence-based guidance for the NHS on the most effective ways to treat disease and ill health.
What can CBT help with?
NICE recommends CBT in the treatment of the following conditions:
Generalised Anxiety
PTSD
Social Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Phobias
There is also good evidence that CBT is helpful in treating many other conditions, including:
Chronic fatigue
Chronic pain
Physical symptoms without a medical diagnosis
Sleep difficulties
Anger management
Low self-esteem
“Words cannot express my gratitude for all your help and support over the past few months. Your skilled intervention has guided me through what has been the most difficult period of my life. Thank you”
+ How do I know my therapist is suitably qualified?
A good starting point is to check whether the therapist has an actual qualification in cognitive behaviour therapy, issued by a reputable university. Do they hold professional accreditation with the BABCP the lead organisation and professional accrediting body for CBT therapists and CBT training courses? BABCP believes that accreditation is important in protecting the public and raising the quality of CBT.
To become accredited with BABCP, a CBT therapist must hold a core profession, meet the minimum training standards (completed a BABCP accredited course or a non-accredited postgraduate diploma in CBT). To find out if your CBT therapist is accredited with the BABCP click on the following link and search for their name.
https://cbtregisteruk.com/Default.aspx
+ What can I expect from my CBT therapist?
We will work collaboratively to develop a joint understanding of how your experiences affect you personally, and agree on a treatment plan based on identifying and committing to specific therapeutic goals.
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.
+ How long does a session last?
The CBT session will last 60 minutes, however when working with trauma, sometimes a 90 minute session may be needed. If treatment would indicate that a 90 minute session would be appropriate, this will be discussed with you in advance.
+ What does a CBT session look like?
Our first session will be an assessment session. This session is an opportunity to find out more about your reasons for seeking CBT support, to begin to set goals or outcomes you would like to achieve by attending CBT, to find out about how I work as a therapist and to explore how we might work together.
Most importantly, it is an opportunity for you to determine if I am the right therapist for you.
CBT sessions are structured to ensure the most effective use of time. We will usually begin with a brief check in and review of the previous session. An agenda will be agreed and worked through together. Homework will be set to help you continue the work in between sessions. This helps you get the maximum benefit from our time together.
+ How many sessions will I need?
CBT typically lasts between 6-20 sessions depending on the issue you are seeking help with, and how much work you undertake between sessions. Please discuss with your therapist, who will be happy to review on an ongoing basis. It is our belief that you should not attend any more sessions than are absolutely necessary for you.