.png)
Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy (CBT)
What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapeutic approach that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, behaviour and physical responses.
It is based on the understanding that the way we interpret a situation can strongly influence how we feel and how we respond. Through therapy, clients learn to identify patterns of thinking and behaviour that may be contributing to their difficulties, understand them more clearly and gradually develop more helpful and adaptive responses.
CBT is a collaborative and active form of therapy. Therapist and client work together to understand current difficulties, develop practical skills and strengthen emotional resilience.
Key features of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Focus on the present: Attention is given to the difficulties a person is experiencing now and to the ways in which these affect everyday life.
The connection between thoughts, emotions and behaviour: Clients learn to recognise how their thoughts influence their emotional responses, physical sensations and actions.
Practical tools and techniques: Therapy may include strategies for managing anxiety, working with negative thoughts, changing unhelpful behaviours and improving relationships.
A collaborative therapeutic relationship: The client takes an active role in the process, while the therapist offers structure, guidance and support.
A focus on change and autonomy: The aim is to help clients understand themselves more clearly and use new coping strategies independently in daily life.
What can Cognitive Behavioural Therapy help with?
CBT can support people experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties. It offers practical ways of understanding and managing thoughts, emotions and patterns of behaviour.
It may be particularly helpful for:
-
anxiety and excessive worry
-
panic attacks
-
phobias
-
low self-esteem
-
negative thinking and self-criticism
-
difficulties in interpersonal relationships
-
emotional pressure and high levels of stress
-
anger management difficulties
-
concerns relating to food and body image
-
grief and loss
-
difficulties with boundaries and assertiveness
-
personal development and greater self-awareness
Through the therapeutic process, clients can begin to recognise how repetitive thoughts and behaviours affect their lives and develop new skills that allow them to respond with greater calm, flexibility and confidence.
How we achieve our goal
Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy begins with a detailed assessment of the client's needs, difficulties , and goals . From there, a treatment plan is developed that may include:
Understanding the Connection Between Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors – Through the therapeutic process, the client learns to recognize how their thoughts influence their feelings, physical reactions, and behavior. Understanding this connection is a key step to change.
Identifying and Modifying Dysfunctional Thoughts – CBT focuses on identifying automatic negative thoughts, beliefs, and internal patterns that may be reinforcing anxiety, low self-esteem, or other emotional difficulties. Gradually, the person learns to challenge them and replace them with more realistic and helpful ways of thinking.
Development of Coping Skills – Through practical techniques and exercises, the client is trained in new ways to manage their difficulties. This may include stress management techniques, increased assertiveness, improved communication, emotion regulation, and better boundary setting in relationships.
Applying New Strategies to Everyday Life – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is not limited to the session. The client is encouraged to gradually apply what they learn in their daily life, through small steps, exercises or practical tests, so that the change becomes more stable and substantial.
Strengthening Self-Awareness and Autonomy – The goal of therapy is for the client to better understand themselves and acquire tools that they can use after the completion of the therapeutic process. This enhances self-confidence, mental resilience, and the ability to manage future challenges.