Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is based on the idea that how we think about situations can affect the way we feel and ultimately how we behave. As an example, if you interpret a situation negatively, you might experience negative emotions which may lead you to behave in a certain way. CBT combines two types of therapy to help you deal with these thoughts and behaviours:
- Cognitive therapy, examining the things you think
- Behaviour therapy, examining the things you do
Whilst CBT is most commonly used to treat anxiety and depression, it can also help treat other mental health problems such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder and eating problems amongst many more.
In CBT you work with a therapist to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviour. We might focus on what is going on in your life right now, and you might want to talk about how your past experiences have affected you.