Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

CBT is a psycho-social intervention that is the most widely used, evidence-based therapeutic technique. It been shown to be effective in treating a number of mental health conditions but is primarily used to combat symptoms of anxiety and depression. CBT focuses on the development of personal coping strategies that work to solve current problems and change unhelpful patters in cognition, behaviour, and emotion regulation. It helps individuals identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, and learn or relearn healthier skills and habits. 

CBT has been practiced widely and researched extensively, and its effectiveness and efficiency have been repeatedly demonstrated in a variety of emotional, psychological, and psychiatric contexts. For many problems such as anxiety and depression, CBT is as effective as medication and can also enhance the effects of medication. ​

How does CBT work?
CBT examines all elements that maintain a problem, including our thoughts, feelings, behaviour, and the environment. It is a very structured therapy that includes clients in the treatment planning; it is partnership between client and therapist. Generally, individuals will be given a thorough assessment and in each therapy session will involve discussion, explanation, and practice of useful skills and techniques. Clients are asked also to practice these skills outside sessions ('homework').

If you are looking for a practical method to resolve a specific problem and you are willing to be actively involved in your treatment, CBT may be the best option for you.