When people hear the words ‘Cognitive Behavioural Therapy’, or CBT, they might feel slightly confused, or even intimidated. It can seem quite scientific and perhaps even a bit cold, but the truth is that CBT is a pretty simple, compassionate form of therapy. It is also the most widely researched and empirically backed up therapeutic modality out there, and has helped so many people manage issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, and low self-esteem.
As an experienced CBT therapist in Swindon and online, I have seen first-hand how effective this form of therapy can be. And I have also seen how misunderstood it can be as well! And so, to help you understand how CBT works, this blog walks you through what I offer my clients as a face-to-face therapist in Swindon.
What is CBT?
CBT is essentially a talking therapy that encourages the client to take an active role in the process. Its central goal is to change the way you think about yourself and others in the present moment. Our work together will involve looking at the negative thought patterns that you experience on a daily basis and understanding the impact they have on your behaviour, emotions, and general outlook on life. The process is highly structured, with us walking through specific thought patterns and formulating new modes of thinking that apply to your particular situation.
We may employ journaling or some other exercise to facilitate the process. What we are doing, in essence, is challenging your automatically negative interpretations of situations and events ahead of replacing them with more rational, compassionate thoughts. We are essentially training your brain to be nicer to itself! Doing this puts you in a better place to deal with difficult situations and feelings when they show up.
How Does It Help?
You are given the tools to control how you interpret and deal with your own thoughts. You become more aware of the internal cognitive processes that over time can lead to problems like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, insomnia, PTSD, substance abuse, and others. With my help in a private, non-judgmental space, you can become more equipped to spot certain patterns and prevent them from having a destructive role in your life. In other words, CBT gives you more control.
Someone with a drug addiction, for example, would benefit from the way CBT makes them aware of certain triggers and supplies them with coping skills in moments where they may be encouraged to relapse – like social situations. It is not an easy process; it takes time to integrate these lessons into your life, but staying loyal to this framework has been shown to bring you to a better place.
And so, if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, or any trauma-related issue, I am here to provide compassionate, personalised CBT therapy in Swindon. Feel free to get in touch and we will set up an initial consultation.