What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapeutic treatment that can help you learn how to identify and change destructive or disturbing thought patterns that have a negative influence on behaviour and emotions.

CBT focuses on changing the automatic negative thoughts that can contribute to worsen emotional difficulties. These spontaneous negative thoughts have a detrimental influence on mood. Through CBT, these thoughts are identified, challenged, and replaced with more objective and realistic thoughts. CBT encompasses a range of techniques and approaches which can range from structured psychotherapies to self-help materials.

CBT is more than identifying thought patterns; it is focused on using a wide range of strategies to help you overcome these thoughts. Techniques may include journaling, role-playing, relaxation techniques, and mental distractions.

How does CBT work?

Using CBT I will emphasize what is going on in your current life, rather than what has led up to your difficulties. A certain amount of information about your history is needed, but the focus is primarily on moving forward in time to develop more effective ways of coping with life.