What is CBT?

In simple terms, this is how CBT makes sense of people's problems

CBT Process		Real Life Example
Early life experiences		Childhood abuse
Unhelpful beliefs		I am unlovable
Unhelpful negative emotions		Shame
Self-defeating behaviours		Avoids leaving the house (agrophobic)

Few therapies have generated as much interest over the last two decades as cognitive behaviour therapy. It is based on the fact that thinking plays a role in how emotional and behavioural problems develop. The way we think also plays an important role keeping the problems going! CBT therapy aims to reduce distress by changing unhelpful beliefs and providing new ways to make sense of life. CBT teaches people to change unhelpful behaviours.

For a more in-depth overview of CBT, and examples of thinking and behavioural errors, please click here