Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Overview

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. CBT aims to identify and change negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to negative emotions and behaviours. It is a structured and goal-oriented approach that can be applied to a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders.

How CBT works

CBT is based on the premise that thoughts, emotions, and behaviours are interconnected and influence each other. Negative thought patterns, also known as cognitive distortions, can lead to negative emotions and behaviours. CBT aims to identify and challenge these negative thought patterns and replace them with more realistic and positive ones. The therapist and client work together to identify problematic thought patterns, such as all-or-nothing thinking, over-generalisation, and catastrophising. The therapist then helps the client to develop alternative ways of thinking that are more adaptive and realistic.

CBT is typically a short-term treatment that is structured and goal-oriented. The therapist and client work collaboratively to develop specific goals and a plan to achieve them. The client is often given homework assignments to practise new skills and behaviours outside of therapy sessions.

What techniques are used in CBT?

CBT incorporates a range of techniques that can be tailored to the individual needs of the client. Some of the techniques used in CBT include:

• Cognitive restructuring: This involves identifying negative thought patterns and beliefs and replacing them with more adaptive and realistic ones.
• Exposure therapy: This involves gradually exposing the client to feared situations or stimuli to reduce anxiety and fear.
• Behavioural activation: This involves increasing engagement in positive activities to improve mood and decrease negative behaviours.
• Relaxation techniques: These techniques, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, can be used to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Mindfulness: This involves being present in the moment and accepting thoughts and feelings without judgement.

What can CBT treat?

CBT has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including:

• Anxiety disorders, such as generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder
• Borderline personality disorder
• Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD)
• Depression
• Eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder
• Insomnia
• Key takeaways
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Substance use disorders

Key takeaways

Cognitive behavioural therapy is a structured and goal-oriented approach to psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. CBT aims to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to mental health conditions. It incorporates a range of techniques, including cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and behavioural activation. CBT has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, making it a valuable tool in the treatment of mental illness.