Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a short-term, highly focused therapy that has been shown to be the best treatment for numerous psychological problems. Whereas traditional talk-therapy often focuses on early childhood, cognitive behavioural therapy is an active goal-oriented treatment aimed at solving problems and reducing symptoms by focusing on the present . Rather than rehashing early experiences and past relationships, CBT helps people solve the actual problems they currently face, resulting in greater treatment gains in a shorter period of time.
In a nutshell, CBT is based on the idea that the way we think about situations can affect the way we feel and behave. Over the years, a pattern of negative thoughts and feelings can trap us in a vicious cycle with unwanted consequences. CBT can help you identify unhelpful thinking patterns, find new ways of behaving and improve the way you feel .
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the National Health Service (NHS) recommend CBT as the main evidence-based therapy for the treatment of a range of psychological difficulties.
Over 1,000 research studies have shown CBT to be among the most effective treatments for a range of problems, such as:
It is important to emphasise that advances in CBT have been made based on both research and clinical practice. Indeed, CBT is an approach for which there is ample scientific evidence that the methods that have been developed actually produce change.
©Copyright Mind, the mental health charity.
Counselling allows people to discuss their problems and any difficult feelings in a safe, confidential environment. Whilst in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, therapists and clients work together to change a client’s behaviour or thinking patterns, counselling is a less directive approach. Through listening, empathy, encouragement and challenge, counselling helps the client to understand themselves better and find their own solutions to cope with the issues that face them.
Counselling is not about giving advice or telling you what to do. Counselling is about listening to you without judgement, enabling you to explore your thoughts and feelings, and helping you access resources within. Counselling can help you gain new perspectives about yourself and support you in resolving your difficulties. Talking through your issues can help you come to terms with current challenges and identify a future where you are calmer, more confident and in charge of your life.
In our counselling sessions, we will carefully explore your problem. Then I will help you understand your feelings and support you in any changes you want to implement as you move forward.
Counselling may be more appropriate for a particular life event or life transition. Some of the typical problems that might bring people for counselling may include:
