What is
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a an evidenced based therapy that is collaborative, structured and goal directed treatment for depression and anxiety related disorders. The focus of the treatment is on the current problem areas in an individual’s life.
Origins of CBT
Whilst CBT was developed in the 1960’s by psychiatrist Aaron T Beck, the link between negative thinking patterns and quality of life was first recognised by the ancients. Over 2,000 years ago, Marcus Aurelias Antonius stated, “The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts”. This statement is as true today as it was all those years ago.
What Beck had noticed in his patients was that those diagnosed with depression were verbalising distorted thinking patterns. Specifically he noticed that it was not the situation itself that was the problem, rather it was the way the situation was interpreted by his patients. The premise of CBT is that how we think (cognitions), how we feel (emotions) and how we act (behaviour) interact and influence each other. Our thoughts determine our feelings and behaviours and influence how we see ourselves and the world around us.
The delivery of CBT.
The mental health issues for which CBT is an effective treatment include the following:
- Depression including Major Depressive disorder
- Anxiety related disorders (Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Phobias, Health Anxiety- Chronic Pain, Panic Anxiety, Worry, Separation Anxiety)
- Grief and Loss
- Relationship Issues.
- Bullying
- Self-Identity and self-esteem
- Addiction
- Trauma
Prior to completing a comprehensive biopsychosocial and risk assessment, I first discuss my role, your rights regarding privacy and confidentiality and the limits thereof.
Clinical measures such as the Anxiety Depression and Stress scale (DASS 21) will be administered at first session and throughout therapy. The scores will provide an indication on how therapy is progressing.
From the information gathered from the assessment, a formulation will be developed which identifies triggers, physiological responses, negative cognitions and coping behaviours that help maintain the problem.
Goals for therapy will be developed and treatment options will be discussed.
The range of therapeutic techniques may include:
