Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, time-limited form of psychotherapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It is based on the premise that psychological distress is often maintained by maladaptive thinking patterns and unhelpful behaviours. CBT aims to help individuals identify and challenge these patterns, replacing them with more realistic and balanced alternatives.
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CBT is an evidence-based approach shown to be effective for a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Its practical, skills-based nature makes it especially suitable for one-to-one settings, where therapy can be tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals.
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In one-to-one CBT sessions, therapy is typically delivered in a collaborative and goal-oriented manner. Sessions last 50 minutes and are held weekly. At the outset, I will work with you to identify the main issues and goals for treatment based upon your thought patterns, symptoms and behavioural responses.​
​A key feature of CBT is the use of a case formulation, a shared understanding of your difficulties, how they developed, and what maintains them. This model helps guide the therapeutic work and provides a roadmap for change. I will encourage you to explore how specific thoughts and beliefs influence your emotions and actions. For example, someone with social anxiety might hold the belief, “If I speak up, people will think I’m stupid,” leading to avoidance of social situations and reinforcing their fear.
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CBT employs a range of techniques to challenge and modify unhelpful thoughts. One common approach is cognitive restructuring, where the client learns to examine the evidence for and against their thoughts and develop more balanced alternatives. Behavioural experiments and exposure tasks are also used to test out new beliefs and reduce avoidance behaviours.
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Homework is a central component of CBT. I will often ask you to complete tasks between sessions, such as keeping thought records, practicing new behaviours, or experimenting with different ways of thinking. These assignments help consolidate learning and ensure progress continues outside the therapy room.
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Throughout the process, I provide support, education, and feedback, while encouraging you to take an active role in your own recovery. As therapy progresses, typically you will gain greater insight into your thinking patterns and develop more effective coping strategies.
CONTACT ME
If you have any questions about my services, or want to book a consultation or initial assessment, please do not hesitate to contact me using the form on this page. I offer both face to face, clinic appointments and online options too.
+447790682783