Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in Birmingham is based on behaviours/feelings being controlled by your mind; this approach looks at issues by adapting your thoughts, emotions and behaviours, with the focus on solutions rather than the issue, challenging any distorted thoughts and unhealthy behaviour patterns.

CBT is a Psychotherapeutic approach to help you solve problems with emotions and behaviours through setting goals and using a systematic procedure. Cognitive (the way we think) behavioural (the way we act) Counselling & Psychotherapy Birmingham looks at the connections between these two things. By becoming aware of the links between the thoughts you have and how your behaviour works, is key because this will allow you to: either accept it as it is or make changes so that your behaviour is more positive and doesn’t have a negative impact on you or your life. CBT has been successful in treating a variety of disorders ranging from eating disorders, substance abuse to personality disorders.

As with any CBT approach isn’t always suitable for everyone e.g. individuals who don’t have specific behavioural issues or may have issues arising from their past may wish to undertake a different type of counselling.

There are many different techniques within CBT:

1. Journal keeping
2. Homework assignments
3. Modelling – Roleplaying
4. Conditioning – Encouragement of a particular behaviour
5. Validity testing – Getting the client to test the validity of their thoughts

CBT is an approach which focuses on your thought patterns, learning to control your thoughts so they no longer control you. There are different methods which can help you control your own mind, your therapist can help you identify the best ones for you, allow you the freedom to make your own decisions and not be compelled to do everything your mind says.

CBT can be offered on a long or short term basis, this can vary from 12 sessions to longer. The sessions are usually are run for 50 minutes each, usually, your appointment is held at the same time/date every week. Your CBT therapist will explore and help you identify your thoughts and issues, this can give you a goal to work towards. The sessions may include exercises, worksheets or work for you to continue with outside the session.