What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?

You may have heard the term “talking therapies”, but may feel a little confused about what they are, what happens in a session, and what they can help with. 

Put simply, talking therapy means talking to a trained professional about your thoughts, feelings or behaviours. It is a safe space for you to explore what it is that makes you feel anxious, stressed, lonely, sad, whatever it may be that you’re struggling with. 

Talking therapy sessions can be done in the comfort of your own home through video calls, or in person with your therapist or counsellor – whatever works best for you and your lifestyle. 

There are many different types of talking therapies, so you may be wondering what they all are and how one is different from the next. 

Throughout a series of posts, we will explain all the different varieties of talking therapies, what to expect in a session, and what they can all help with, starting with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. 

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)? 

While the title may sound a little daunting, CBT involves talking about any negative thoughts or feelings you may have with a therapist. The NHS describes CBT as focusing on how your feelings, thoughts, sensations and actions are connected, and that negative thoughts and feelings can trap you in a negative cycle. CBT focuses on your current thoughts and feelings, rather than drawing on your past experiences. 

What does a CBT session look like? 

During CBT sessions, you will learn how to challenge your negative thought patterns to help you feel more like yourself, dealing with larger issues by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable chunks. You will learn how to identify negative thought patterns, and how to turn them around into a more positive way of thinking. 

What can CBT help with? 

Feeling anxious, low or depressed, among many other mental health issues 

For more information on CBT and how to contact a local provider, please see this link.