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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (CBT)is a collaborative, practical and problem oriented approach to emotional problems whereby the client and therapist work together towards understanding problems in terms of the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviour. The influence and reach of CBT have been growing steadily since this treatment method was introduced in the 1950s. CBT is effective for a wide range of emotional problems and its efficacy has been proven through major research studies. CBT is growing in popularity. More and more GPs and psychiatrists refer their patients for CBT to help them overcome a wide range of emotional problems. CBT is quite different from counseling; in CBT the therapist and client are equal partners. The more involved the client is in the process the better the therapy outcome.

The cognitive aspect of CBT is based on the cognitive model, which is, simply that the way we perceive situations influences how we feel emotionally. For example, one person reading this pamphlet might think, "Wow! This sounds good, it's just what I've always been looking for!" and feels happy. Another person reading this information might think, "Well, this sounds good but I don't think I can do it." This person feels sad and discouraged. So it is not a situation which directly affects how a person feels emotionally, but rather, his or her thoughts in that situation. When people are in distress, they often do not think clearly and their thoughts are distorted in some way. Cognitive therapy helps people to identify their distressing thoughts and to evaluate how realistic the thoughts are. Then they learn to change their distorted thinking. When they think more realistically, they feel better. The emphasis is also consistently on solving problems and initiating behavioural change.

HOW DOES CBT WORK?

CBT addresses the vicious circles that can arise between negative thoughts, self-defeating behaviour, difficult emotions (such as overwhelming anxiety) and physiological reactions (such as sweating and trembling).

The aim of CBT is to empower the client to generate cognitive and behavioural solutions to problematic aspects of his/her life. Various approaches to specific problem areas are experimented with between the individual and the therapist.

CBT uses a variety of techniques directed at three areas: cognition, behaviour and physiology, in order to help with emotional difficulties. These often include:

• In cognitive work, individuals learn to find alternatives to their unhelpful thinking patterns
• In behavioural work, individuals learn activity scheduling, social skills, assertiveness etc
• In physiological work, individuals are taught relaxation techniques, meditation etc

In Asante Therapy Centre we use CBT in conjunction with other therapies such as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and Mindfulness Meditation to great effect. Our intention is to help clients obtain relief from depression and anxiety as well as many other behavioural conditions. We also work towards helping them to prevent relapse by teaching these techniques as practical skills. For further information contact David Culver on 087-0555858.