Cognitive Behavioural (CBT) Counselling in Knutsford

Photo of Joanne Robertson, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Joanne Robertson
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help you to free yourself from fears, beliefs and behaviours that are keeping you stuck and in distress.
Hi, I'm Joanne, I'm a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and EMDR practitioner based in Knutsford, Cheshire. I specialise in working with adults who are struggling with anxiety problems, low confidence, depression and trauma-related difficulties.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help you to free yourself from fears, beliefs and behaviours that are keeping you stuck and in distress.
Hi, I'm Joanne, I'm a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and EMDR practitioner based in Knutsford, Cheshire. I specialise in working with adults who are struggling with anxiety problems, low confidence, depression and trauma-related difficulties.
01565 743735 View 01565 743735
Photo of Ailish Oliver, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Ailish Oliver
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16  (Online Only)
I am a friendly CBT therapist with five years total experience of psychological practice in voluntary and private sector. I offer unconditional positive regard and empathy as we work together. You can expect to feel attentively listened to as we discuss and address the difficulties you are facing. My therapeutic style is compassion focused; we could all benefit from being a little kinder to ourselves. My goal is for you to build healthier coping tools, emotional resilience and start living the life you want to live.
I am a friendly CBT therapist with five years total experience of psychological practice in voluntary and private sector. I offer unconditional positive regard and empathy as we work together. You can expect to feel attentively listened to as we discuss and address the difficulties you are facing. My therapeutic style is compassion focused; we could all benefit from being a little kinder to ourselves. My goal is for you to build healthier coping tools, emotional resilience and start living the life you want to live.
01565 743906 View 01565 743906
Photo of Lisa Woolfenden, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Lisa Woolfenden
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
I use a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as I believe everyone is unique requiring a personal approach.
Hello, my name is Lisa, I’m an accredited, experienced counsellor based in Knutsford, Cheshire. We have all faced times in our lives where we have encountered struggles, felt overwhelmed and maybe experiencing problems such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues or losing sense of who we are. You may have support from people around you and gain comfort from this, although sometimes what you may want to talk about may not be simply shared. This is when a talking to a professional counsellor may help to explore coping strategies and work together towards the results you may desire.
I use a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as I believe everyone is unique requiring a personal approach.
Hello, my name is Lisa, I’m an accredited, experienced counsellor based in Knutsford, Cheshire. We have all faced times in our lives where we have encountered struggles, felt overwhelmed and maybe experiencing problems such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues or losing sense of who we are. You may have support from people around you and gain comfort from this, although sometimes what you may want to talk about may not be simply shared. This is when a talking to a professional counsellor may help to explore coping strategies and work together towards the results you may desire.
01565 748954 View 01565 748954
Photo of Deborah Anne Spencer, MBACP, Counsellor
Deborah Anne Spencer
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
I am Therapist, using Person-centred, Solution focused, CBT, Psycho-dynamic theories.
Hello, my name is Debbie. Thank you for taking this time to read my profile. This means that you have already taken the first step to improve your Well-being, to be happy & positive, plan & focus on 'your' future. I provide therapy to CYP, Adults & families. Working with presenting issues, such as; anxiety, abuse, bereavement, exploitation, low mood, loss, Parenting & family dynamics, relationship concerns, self harm and many others. I also provide Clinical Supervision to therapists and practitioners.
I am Therapist, using Person-centred, Solution focused, CBT, Psycho-dynamic theories.
Hello, my name is Debbie. Thank you for taking this time to read my profile. This means that you have already taken the first step to improve your Well-being, to be happy & positive, plan & focus on 'your' future. I provide therapy to CYP, Adults & families. Working with presenting issues, such as; anxiety, abuse, bereavement, exploitation, low mood, loss, Parenting & family dynamics, relationship concerns, self harm and many others. I also provide Clinical Supervision to therapists and practitioners.
01928 244569 View 01928 244569
Photo of Janine Lee Norris, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Janine Lee Norris
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knutsford WA16
My therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), which I have found to be powerful tools in helping individuals recover from a wide range of psychological challenges.
Hello, I'm Janine, a dedicated and compassionate trauma-informed therapist. I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with over 9 years of experience helping teenagers, and adults overcome a wide range of psychological challenges. I can successfully treat; anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, phobias, and other mental health problems so that you can enjoy life again as you once did.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), which I have found to be powerful tools in helping individuals recover from a wide range of psychological challenges.
Hello, I'm Janine, a dedicated and compassionate trauma-informed therapist. I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with over 9 years of experience helping teenagers, and adults overcome a wide range of psychological challenges. I can successfully treat; anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, phobias, and other mental health problems so that you can enjoy life again as you once did.
01925 598713 View 01925 598713
Photo of Hannah Paskin, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Hannah Paskin
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
I am trained in both ERP and Cognitive Therapy for OCD, and can tailor treatment to your needs.
OCD is forever changing. Just as you find a way to shut it up, it finds a sneaky way to come at you - a new variation of an intrusive thought, a new behaviour it convinces you to do, a new topic completely it jumps to. It's a slippery so and so, which is why working with an experienced therapist is so important. Effective treatment isn't just about the intrusive thought that is at the front of your mind right now, it's about tackling any cycle where you are acting as if your intrusive thoughts are true when they absolutely are not. Treatment isn't easy, most people have had OCD for years before therapy. But it is possible to Win!
I am trained in both ERP and Cognitive Therapy for OCD, and can tailor treatment to your needs.
OCD is forever changing. Just as you find a way to shut it up, it finds a sneaky way to come at you - a new variation of an intrusive thought, a new behaviour it convinces you to do, a new topic completely it jumps to. It's a slippery so and so, which is why working with an experienced therapist is so important. Effective treatment isn't just about the intrusive thought that is at the front of your mind right now, it's about tackling any cycle where you are acting as if your intrusive thoughts are true when they absolutely are not. Treatment isn't easy, most people have had OCD for years before therapy. But it is possible to Win!
01606 531271 View 01606 531271
Photo of Julie Forrest - Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT), MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT)
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knutsford WA16
I'm a fully accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) with post graduate certificate in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). I am an ISST accredited Schema Therapist. I have used Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with social anxiety, OCD, PTSD and depression. I specialise in using schema therapy with people who have life patterns originating from difficulties in early life. In adult life this can shows itself as high levels of anxiety, fear of abandonment, self-criticism, low mood, feeling overwhelmed, feeling like a failure, feeling alone, blaming yourself for everything, feeling guilty and people pleasing.
I'm a fully accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) with post graduate certificate in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). I am an ISST accredited Schema Therapist. I have used Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with social anxiety, OCD, PTSD and depression. I specialise in using schema therapy with people who have life patterns originating from difficulties in early life. In adult life this can shows itself as high levels of anxiety, fear of abandonment, self-criticism, low mood, feeling overwhelmed, feeling like a failure, feeling alone, blaming yourself for everything, feeling guilty and people pleasing.
01606 533793 View 01606 533793
Photo of Ish Jawando - Ish Jawando (VQT Coaching), MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Ish Jawando (VQT Coaching)
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
As a distinguished Life Coach, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, & Person-Centred Counsellor registered with the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), I blend advanced Coaching & Counselling modalities, including the transformative power of mindset coaching, to offer a personalised & bespoke experience tailored to your unique needs. My approach is integral to who you are. My client-centred, empathetic, inclusive, & solution-focused work creates a thought-provoking partnership, assisting you in recognising your blind spots & challenges to unlock your full potential.
As a distinguished Life Coach, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, & Person-Centred Counsellor registered with the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), I blend advanced Coaching & Counselling modalities, including the transformative power of mindset coaching, to offer a personalised & bespoke experience tailored to your unique needs. My approach is integral to who you are. My client-centred, empathetic, inclusive, & solution-focused work creates a thought-provoking partnership, assisting you in recognising your blind spots & challenges to unlock your full potential.
01260 542017 View 01260 542017
Photo of Dan Fitzpatrick, MBACP, Counsellor
Dan Fitzpatrick
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16  (Online Only)
My approach is generally from an eclectic or integrated standpoint, stemming from a Person Centred core and introducing modalities such as CBT, Psychodynamic or Transactional Analysis/Gestalt as appropriate to each unique situation.
My background is 15+ years in healthcare, specifically working in the area of mental health, anxiety, depression and low self esteem. I have a strong passion of supporting people living with Dementia (and their loved ones) and can provide a specific level of support in this regard. I hold a BA in Counselling & Psychotherapy from ICHAS Dublin, a HND in Social Care Practice, and I am a Registered Member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP). I have experience working as an immediate support counsellor offering support to employees of frontline services, including the NHS and the Police force.
My approach is generally from an eclectic or integrated standpoint, stemming from a Person Centred core and introducing modalities such as CBT, Psychodynamic or Transactional Analysis/Gestalt as appropriate to each unique situation.
My background is 15+ years in healthcare, specifically working in the area of mental health, anxiety, depression and low self esteem. I have a strong passion of supporting people living with Dementia (and their loved ones) and can provide a specific level of support in this regard. I hold a BA in Counselling & Psychotherapy from ICHAS Dublin, a HND in Social Care Practice, and I am a Registered Member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP). I have experience working as an immediate support counsellor offering support to employees of frontline services, including the NHS and the Police force.
0161 543 1220 View 0161 543 1220
Photo of Emma Turl, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Emma Turl
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
I draw on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and attachment theory.
Does your child or young person struggle with anxiety, emotional regulation or meltdowns? Are you struggling to know how best to support them? Does it feel as if their world is shrinking as they avoid situations that feel difficult? It can be hard as a parent knowing how to support young people and how to respond for the best. Young people often value a therapeutic space to explore their experiences and tricky feelings, and parents can benefit from sessions to support their understanding of their child's needs. When families have a good understanding of their child’s needs, they are better able to support them in a sensitive way.
I draw on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and attachment theory.
Does your child or young person struggle with anxiety, emotional regulation or meltdowns? Are you struggling to know how best to support them? Does it feel as if their world is shrinking as they avoid situations that feel difficult? It can be hard as a parent knowing how to support young people and how to respond for the best. Young people often value a therapeutic space to explore their experiences and tricky feelings, and parents can benefit from sessions to support their understanding of their child's needs. When families have a good understanding of their child’s needs, they are better able to support them in a sensitive way.
0161 524 6404 View 0161 524 6404
Photo of Helen Louise Jones - Helen Jones CBT and EMDR Therapy, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Helen Jones CBT and EMDR Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Helen - a BABCP-accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist ('CBT') and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing ('EMDR') practitioner. I spent 15 years working within NHS mental health services. For the past 3 years, I have worked as a private practitioner. I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in CBT and an MSc in Applied Social Studies.
Hi, I’m Helen - a BABCP-accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist ('CBT') and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing ('EMDR') practitioner. I spent 15 years working within NHS mental health services. For the past 3 years, I have worked as a private practitioner. I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in CBT and an MSc in Applied Social Studies.
01244 563543 View 01244 563543
Photo of Daniel Quinn, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Daniel Quinn
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
I am a qualified CBT Therapist and a member of the BABCP.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, psychological approach recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for the treatment of a number of common difficulties including: Depression, Panic Disorder, GAD (Worry) Social Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Health Anxiety and specific phobias. Additionally, I can offer support with issues such as low self esteem, anger, stress, poor sleep etc. You do not need a formal diagnosis, together we can collaboratively explore your thoughts and feelings.
I am a qualified CBT Therapist and a member of the BABCP.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, psychological approach recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for the treatment of a number of common difficulties including: Depression, Panic Disorder, GAD (Worry) Social Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Health Anxiety and specific phobias. Additionally, I can offer support with issues such as low self esteem, anger, stress, poor sleep etc. You do not need a formal diagnosis, together we can collaboratively explore your thoughts and feelings.
0161 524 7167 View 0161 524 7167
Photo of Sharon Pritchard, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Sharon Pritchard
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
I am an experienced cognitive behaviour therapist, EMDR practitioner and counsellor. I offer individual therapy, working with anxiety and mood disorders, using Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), EMDR and Counselling in Northwich, Cheshire. I qualified at Keele University with a BSc (Dual Hons.) degree in Psychology and Criminology and subsequently studied for the Post-graduate Diploma in Counselling, passing at Masters level, and the MSc in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at The University of Chester. I trained with Dr Michael Paterson to Level 4 in EMDR in 2015.
I am an experienced cognitive behaviour therapist, EMDR practitioner and counsellor. I offer individual therapy, working with anxiety and mood disorders, using Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), EMDR and Counselling in Northwich, Cheshire. I qualified at Keele University with a BSc (Dual Hons.) degree in Psychology and Criminology and subsequently studied for the Post-graduate Diploma in Counselling, passing at Masters level, and the MSc in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at The University of Chester. I trained with Dr Michael Paterson to Level 4 in EMDR in 2015.
01606 533441 View 01606 533441
Photo of Zoe Rivers - Beyond Barriers Therapy Services, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Beyond Barriers Therapy Services
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
We are a group of experienced psychologists who support a broad range of emotional health needs; specialising in the effects of adversity and trauma using Compassion-focused therapy, EMDR, CBT, CAT and attachment based approaches (see website).
If you have been struggling with anxiety, self-criticism, shame, low mood, difficult emotions & relationships, it may be the right time to find a trusted therapist; someone to help you understand & grow from the effects of adversity, stress & trauma. Our wellbeing can be affected by many things - work stress, early adversity, significant trauma or relationships, and we do our best to find helpful coping strategies. When our ways of coping don't work so well, we can feel stuck and isolated - psychological therapy can help us move beyond those barriers. I focus on you as an individual, without using labels or diagnoses.
We are a group of experienced psychologists who support a broad range of emotional health needs; specialising in the effects of adversity and trauma using Compassion-focused therapy, EMDR, CBT, CAT and attachment based approaches (see website).
If you have been struggling with anxiety, self-criticism, shame, low mood, difficult emotions & relationships, it may be the right time to find a trusted therapist; someone to help you understand & grow from the effects of adversity, stress & trauma. Our wellbeing can be affected by many things - work stress, early adversity, significant trauma or relationships, and we do our best to find helpful coping strategies. When our ways of coping don't work so well, we can feel stuck and isolated - psychological therapy can help us move beyond those barriers. I focus on you as an individual, without using labels or diagnoses.
07723 490322 View 07723 490322
Photo of Helen Cleary, MBACP, Counsellor
Helen Cleary
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
This allows me to draw upon evidence-based approaches designed to meet specific situations, ACT, DBT skills, CBT, CFT and EMDR.
Hi, welcome to my profile. I deal with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, trauma, low self-esteem, gender identity, anger and relationship issues. As each client has their own story I believe it is important to understand and provide an approach tailored to your specific needs. This offers every client a safe and comfortable environment where a relaxed working relationship can be created. This will allow us to build a foundation based on trust to explore your reasons for therapy and to explore the impacts of your thoughts, feelings and behaviours and how they affect your life.
This allows me to draw upon evidence-based approaches designed to meet specific situations, ACT, DBT skills, CBT, CFT and EMDR.
Hi, welcome to my profile. I deal with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, trauma, low self-esteem, gender identity, anger and relationship issues. As each client has their own story I believe it is important to understand and provide an approach tailored to your specific needs. This offers every client a safe and comfortable environment where a relaxed working relationship can be created. This will allow us to build a foundation based on trust to explore your reasons for therapy and to explore the impacts of your thoughts, feelings and behaviours and how they affect your life.
01565 748958 View 01565 748958
Photo of Hannah Lloyd, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Hannah Lloyd
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
I have completed a Masters in Advanced Practice of CBT.
Hi, I’m Hannah. I have worked in mental health services for over 18 years. I enjoy working with clients to help them understand the development and maintenance of their current difficulties, so that it is possible to make meaningful changes using evidence based CBT strategies or EMDR. I incorporate mindfulness and compassionate approaches into my clinical work. I aim to provide a compassionate, non judgmental, therapeutic environment to clients and understand how difficult it can be to reach out for support. I will do my best to help you feel comfortable and at ease whilst helping you to achieve your goals.
I have completed a Masters in Advanced Practice of CBT.
Hi, I’m Hannah. I have worked in mental health services for over 18 years. I enjoy working with clients to help them understand the development and maintenance of their current difficulties, so that it is possible to make meaningful changes using evidence based CBT strategies or EMDR. I incorporate mindfulness and compassionate approaches into my clinical work. I aim to provide a compassionate, non judgmental, therapeutic environment to clients and understand how difficult it can be to reach out for support. I will do my best to help you feel comfortable and at ease whilst helping you to achieve your goals.
01925 730123 View 01925 730123
Photo of Neil Gaw, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Neil Gaw
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
Are you feeling overwhelmed and struggling to deal with life's daily challenges? Are you wanting something different for yourself but are not quite able to understand what it is you need? Have you been surviving for too long and not being living your life to the fullest? Feeling drained and the stresses of each day are getting to you but nobody seems to understand what you are going through? We all feel a little lost sometimes, don't know what decisions are the best ones for us and let the stress of our lives get us down. Together, we can confront your issues and find ways to make your life more manageable.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and struggling to deal with life's daily challenges? Are you wanting something different for yourself but are not quite able to understand what it is you need? Have you been surviving for too long and not being living your life to the fullest? Feeling drained and the stresses of each day are getting to you but nobody seems to understand what you are going through? We all feel a little lost sometimes, don't know what decisions are the best ones for us and let the stress of our lives get us down. Together, we can confront your issues and find ways to make your life more manageable.
01663 790335 View 01663 790335
Photo of Pippa Brindle, PsychD, PNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Pippa Brindle
Psychotherapist, PsychD, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
Thank you for finding out more about how I can help you. I understand this is the first step is supporting your emotional well being and can be a daunting one... I am an integrative person-centred psychotherapist working with a variety of issues including bereavement, anxiety, depression, stress and relationships, anger, coping with change, and self-esteem issues with a person centred approach.
Thank you for finding out more about how I can help you. I understand this is the first step is supporting your emotional well being and can be a daunting one... I am an integrative person-centred psychotherapist working with a variety of issues including bereavement, anxiety, depression, stress and relationships, anger, coping with change, and self-esteem issues with a person centred approach.
01606 668815 View 01606 668815
Photo of Dr Hannah Cowan, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Hannah Cowan
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knutsford WA16
Hello and a very warm welcome to you. My name is Dr Hannah Cowan and I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist working in private practice and the NHS. I provide a compassionate, warm, non-judgemental and effective psychological assessment and therapy service that is completely individualised to your needs and requirements. With over fifteen years of experience, I offer effective therapy for adults experiencing difficulties such as PTSD, anxiety, worry, depression, OCD, complex trauma and other psychological concerns that you may have. My fundamental aim is to work with you to reduce the emotional distress that you are experiencing.
Hello and a very warm welcome to you. My name is Dr Hannah Cowan and I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist working in private practice and the NHS. I provide a compassionate, warm, non-judgemental and effective psychological assessment and therapy service that is completely individualised to your needs and requirements. With over fifteen years of experience, I offer effective therapy for adults experiencing difficulties such as PTSD, anxiety, worry, depression, OCD, complex trauma and other psychological concerns that you may have. My fundamental aim is to work with you to reduce the emotional distress that you are experiencing.
01270 433520 View 01270 433520
Photo of Dr Graham Simpson-Adkins, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Graham Simpson-Adkins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
I aim to support any adult, child, young person, family or organisation to maximise their potential and effectively manage the difficulties that life often brings. I believe that by building an understanding of your social, emotional, psychological and physical needs, you can be supported to feel safe, ready to cope and able to achieve the goals that matter to you. My aim will be to help you to explore your needs, to better understand the difficulties you face and to provide tailored psychological support, based on a wide range of evidence based interventions to help develop solutions that work for you.
I aim to support any adult, child, young person, family or organisation to maximise their potential and effectively manage the difficulties that life often brings. I believe that by building an understanding of your social, emotional, psychological and physical needs, you can be supported to feel safe, ready to cope and able to achieve the goals that matter to you. My aim will be to help you to explore your needs, to better understand the difficulties you face and to provide tailored psychological support, based on a wide range of evidence based interventions to help develop solutions that work for you.
01925 931591 View 01925 931591
1

See more therapy options for Knutsford

Cognitive Behavioural (CBT) Counsellors

How does cognitive behavioural therapy work?

Cognitive behavioural therapy works by exploring how your thoughts affect your emotions and experiences. CBT helps you identify distortions in your thinking. For example, you may tend to jump to the worst case scenario catastrophising or think in extremes (all-or-nothing thinking). A therapist can teach you how to push back against those thoughts to ultimately change your feelings and behavior for the better. They can also provide coping skills to better deal with stressors and challenges.

When do I know to seek treatment with cognitive behavioural therapy?

It’s reasonable to consider cognitive behavioural therapy if you struggle to manage difficult emotions or behaviors to such an extent that you are not getting the most out of life on a day-to-day basis. If you want a shorter term, concrete, skills-based approach, CBT is a great option. (By contrast, other types of therapy may devote more time to exploring your past and its effects.) The decision to seek CBT also depends on the condition you’re treating; CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other disorders.

How can I find a cognitive behavioural therapist for someone else?

To find a cognitive behavioural therapist for someone else, you may want to begin by discussing the person’s problem, researching cognitive behavioural therapy, and assessing whether the approach is the right fit. You could then reach out to a few cognitive behavioral therapists in this directory, explain the scenario, have a consultation with those available, and determine who could be a good match.

Why is CBT such a popular form of therapy?

CBT has become a popular form of therapy because it is effective and accessible. Robust research has demonstrated that CBT is an effective treatment for many mental health conditions. And CBT can be learned in relatively few sessions, which means that many people can engage in the process, afford it, and see results quickly. It involves learning concrete skills such as disputing unhelpful thoughts; these skills can also be taught and spread widely.