Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

As the name indicates, CBT is a combination of cognitive techniques (how we think) and behavioural techniques (how we act).

It is a psychological approach that is based on scientific principles and supported by research over more than two decades that has shown it to be effective for a wide range of problems.  This means that CBT is “evidence-based” and therefore, treatment approaches are constantly being refined and expanded.  Recent extensions of basic CBT include:

i.      Schema Therapy

ii.      IRRT (Imagery Rescripting and Reprocessing Therapy)

iii.      ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy).

Two of our clinical psychologists are trained in the use of EMDR, a treatment modality which is recommended as a first line intervention for PSTD.

The origins of CBT date back to philosophers such as Socrates and Epitites. Epitites said that it is not the things of this world that hurt us but what we think about them.

CBT recognises the powerful relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviour. Thought patterns are very important in a range of disorders as they can have a big impact on the disorder itself, and therefore the recovery.

CBT is very much a partnership approach to problem-solving. The CBT Centre’s clinical psychologists work with their clients by setting goals together and working towards them. Treatments are actively reviewed for the best results. Continual monitoring and evaluation are a hallmark of CBT, which ensures there is progress for the client.

Unlike other therapies that spend a lot of time delving into the person’s past, the CBT approach most commonly focuses on current issues. In some cases, the client’s present and past need to be discussed, assessed and addressed.

CBT is one of the most effective treatments for anxiety and depression.

Anxiety disorders, in which thoughts are particularly important, are generally seen as a major misinterpretation of bodily sensations. Once a person ‘learns’ to misinterpret these sensations, a pattern of fear and avoidance develops which strengthens and maintains the problem. CBT can help a person to examine the evidence which may or may not support their beliefs about what is happening to them.

For people who have severe depression, it is very difficult to focus on therapy. The best strategy is more likely to be a combination of medication and therapy. The medication will help the person to then get the maximum benefit from therapy and develop strategies for managing the depression long-term.

CBT can be very empowering, as it helps people to effectively manage their thoughts which then assists in better management of emotions and behaviour. CBT provides the skills to enable the client to take control.