Calm and compassionate counselling in times of challenge, change or crisis.
An Introduction to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a therapeutic approach, used to help overcome many common psychological difficulties.
The basic concept of CBT is that our thoughts, emotions and feelings, along with the way we behave, are all connected together. Any changes in our thoughts, emotions and behaviour impact our whole life, either positively or negatively.
“CBT with Simon helped me to learn and utilise strategies to manage my reactions to various situations and "triggers". I also learnt to recognise my disordered and negative thinking patterns, using CBT to change these destructive and incorrect thought processes into more positive ones.” CN
How can CBT help?
CBT helps us to look objectively at the way we think and behave and supports us to change any negative thinking or behavioural patterns, where appropriate.
Many people find these changes bring them a new experience of emotional freedom from the problems that have been bothering them.
In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends CBT as an effective form of therapy for use within the NHS and by therapists trained in its safe delivery. Find out more by clicking the link, which will direct you to a NICE guidance page illustrating treatment pathways for common mental health conditions.
Does CBT work for everyone?
The honest answer is no!
We are all individuals and what works well for some, does not work for everyone. Whilst the principles of CBT can be applied to many issues, it is unrealistic to expect one therapeutic approach to feel comfortable for all.
As well as practicing CBT, my foundational counselling training was in Person-Centred Counselling.
I am able to draw on these different counselling approaches, to provide the right therapeutic approach for each individual, rather than assuming that one specific form of therapy will work for everyone.
Contact me if you would like to discuss this in more detail.