Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

CBT focuses on developing an understanding between the way we think (our cognitions), the way we feel (our emotions) and the way we behave. Often we fall into vicious cycles between these areas and CBT explores ways to change them. CBT differs from counselling approaches as it mainly focuses on the here and now- ‘What is the problem and what is keeping it going’, with the exception of Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT)

CBT is identified by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) as the recommended choice of treatment for the following disorders:

• anxiety disorders (including panic attacks)

• depression

• obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• psychosis and schizophrenia

• bipolar disorder

• eating disorders

• tinnitus

• insomnia

 

There is also good evidence that CBT is helpful in helping people cope with the symptoms of many other conditions, including:

• chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

• irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• fibromyalgia 

• chronic pain

 

CBT approaches can be used with children as well as adults and older adults. 

 

The variation of CBT used for clients who have suffered trauma is Trauma Focused CBT. TF-CBT which along with EMDR is the NICE recommended treatment for Post Traumatic Stress disorder. Both treatments view PTSD as a problem with memory. CBT treatment for PTSD involves piecing together what has happened to help the brain process the traumatic experience in a healthy way. We aim to reduce the triggers of the traumatic event and symptoms of PTSD. We also focus on the themes and perceptions following a trauma such as shame, guilt and fear. Trauma can change our beliefs of others, ourselves and the future. Trauma can also feel like it is robbing us of our lives, what we enjoy, our purpose our ability to create and maintain relationships. CBT aims to regain our lives and create positive change. 

 

 

 

 

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