What is CBT?
CBT is an evidence based therapy recommended by NICE Guidelines for people suffering with various depression or anxiety related difficulties.
The way we feel emotionally and physically can affect how we think or behave and vice versa. 'Cognitive' refers to the thoughts we have and 'Behavioural' to the way we respond in any given moment.
It is understood that thinking and acting in a certain way can affect how we feel and in turn how we feel will affect the way we think and behave. Sometimes we can get stuck in cycles of unhelpful thoughts and actions in such a way that makes us feel bad. This may have happened suddenly due to a life event or over a period of time, sometimes without you even realising. You may find that you are stuck in a pattern that is difficult to break free from which is where CBT can help.
CBT is goal focused and looks to address current issues rather than exploring historical difficulties in too much depth. People often say they like the practical 'here's the problem so what do I do about it?' approach.
The aims of CBT are to provide you with a tool kit to improve your 'psychological flexibility', in other words give you more ways of dealing with any given situation hopefully giving you a chance to feel and respond in a way that is more helpful to you. This enables you to break free of the unhelpful cycle.
More information can be found on the governing body site BABCP.