What Is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps people change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours that contribute to emotional distress.
Founded by Albert Ellis (1913–2007), CBT is based on the idea that we all have the potential for both rational thinking and irrational thinking — and it’s often our interpretation of events, not the events themselves, that affects how we feel.
How Does CBT Work?
CBT helps you understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and actions. By identifying unhelpful patterns, you can break negative cycles and start making lasting changes.
You’ll learn to:
-
Challenge negative or irrational thoughts
-
Develop more balanced thinking
-
Replace unhelpful behaviours with healthier ones
-
Improve your emotional resilience and mental wellbeing
What Can CBT Help With?
CBT is proven to be effective for a wide range of issues, including:
-
Anxiety and panic
-
Depression
-
Low self-esteem
-
Phobias and fears
-
Stress and overwhelm
-
Obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours
️ What to Expect in CBT
-
Sessions are typically weekly or fortnightly
-
Most courses last between 6 weeks and 6 months
-
You’ll work with your therapist to set goals and track progress
-
CBT includes simple exercises to try between sessions to support change in real life
CBT is collaborative — your therapist will work at a pace you’re comfortable with and check in regularly to ensure you’re happy with the direction of your therapy.
Why CBT?
-
Focuses on the here and now
-
Builds practical tools to manage problems more effectively
-
Helps you understand how your past experiences may influence current thinking — without getting stuck in the past
CBT empowers you to take charge of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours — and begin to live more in line with your values and goals.
Is CBT Right for You?
If you’re feeling stuck in unhelpful patterns, CBT offers a structured and supportive path forward. It won’t erase your problems, but it will give you the tools to manage them more effectively — and to feel more in control.
