What is the theory behind CBT? CBT is based on the idea that how we think about situations can affect the way we feel and behave. For example, if you interpret a situation negatively, you might experience negative emotions. And those bad feelings might lead you to behave in a certain way.
What does CBT treat?
CBT is a common treatment for many mental health problems and experiences, including: anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, OCD, and panic attacks.
Outside the sessions
CBT can involve activities for you to do outside your sessions with a therapist
- These might include filling in worksheets or keeping a diary
- You may need to commit your own time to complete the work over the course of treatment and continue this after the treatment has ended
How can I get CBT?
CBT might be able to be accessed through the NHS, charities, your place of work or education, or the private sector
Stepped care
If you are offered NHS treatment for your mental health, they might offer you CBT as a first treatment. They might then offer you other types of talking therapy or counselling if CBT doesn’t work.
Can I do CBT by myself?
Yes, you can.
- Try an online CBT service like Beating the Blues, which is available for free in some areas
- Some books, such as the Reading Well series of self-help books suggest worksheets or other resources that could be helpful for you to try
What are CBT sessions like?
CBT is a short-term treatment where you work with a therapist to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behavior
- You and your therapist might focus on what is going on in your life right now, or how your past experiences have affected you
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