CBT | therapy worth talking about
The information on this page is available in translated form. Please see the bottom of this page for the languages currently available.What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or CBT, is a family of talking therapies, all based on the idea that thoughts, feelings, what we do, and how our bodies feel, are all connected. If we change one of these we can alter all the others. When we’re low or upset, we often fall into patterns of thinking and responding which can worsen how we feel. CBT works to help us notice and change problematic thinking styles or behaviour patterns so we can feel better. CBT is a collaborative therapy – it’s not something that is done to someone, it’s a way of working together with a CBT therapist on mutually agreed goals. In our animation, Jo Brand takes a minute to explain CBT.CBT helps you uncover the patterns that influence your mood. These automatic thought cycles can become habitual responses when you’re feeling low or upset. By identifying these, you can challenge your thinking, regain control over your emotions, and develop more positive reactions.
With the guidance of your therapist, you’ll learn practical tools to recognise and break these patterns.
In our animation, Jo Brand takes a minute to explain CBT.
How can CBT support you?
CBT can help anyone, of any age, from any walk of life.
As a family of talking therapies, it includes different techniques for different people. Since everyone thinks and acts in their own way, CBT is a flexible approach that centres around you.
Its effectiveness is widely recognised and endorsed by national treatment guidelines across the UK, EU, and North America. In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides independent, evidence-based guidance on proven treatments. CBT features in NICE guidelines for addressing various conditions, including:
- Anxiety disorders (including panic attacks)
- Depression
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Psychosis and schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Eating disorders
- Tinnitus
- Insomnia
CBT is also proven to help people cope with symptoms of many other conditions, including:
- Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic pain
CBT can be done on its own or alongside medication prescribed by a GP or doctor.
Listen to our podcasts
By hearing from real people, with real stories of how this has helped them, you can feel more confident taking the next step.
Our podcast: Let’s Talk About CBT includes honest accounts of therapy for a range of challenges.
What to expect from CBT
CBT can be provided in individual therapy sessions with a qualified therapist or as part of a group. The number of sessions will depend on the complexity of the issues, but there’s usually between five and 20, each lasting around an hour.
In these sessions, understanding the past can help us understand the present. Whilst CBT mainly focuses on changing current thoughts and behaviours, it can also address previous experiences, if they relate to current challenges.
CBT is goal-orientated so the more we understand about the problem and the triggers, the more we are able to develop a treatment strategy.
Setting goals together
Setting goals for therapy gives you a point of focus so you know what you’re working towards. At the start of the session, you’ll work with your therapist to set these goals and an agenda. This helps break the content into manageable, relevant parts. It’s important to note that the therapist won’t tell you what to do or what to talk about – this is a collaborative process.
Working between sessions
CBT works best when you apply what you’ve learned to real-life situations. Your challenges likely extend beyond the therapy room, so the tasks you work on will support you outside of therapy, without overwhelming you. As the sessions comes to a close, you’ll also discuss how to continue applying CBT techniques in your everyday life.
Making CBT accessible
CBT is designed to be as accessible as possible, so there are no barriers to getting support. Whether you’re at school, visiting your GP, attending a specialist clinic, or even in a hospital, there’s options to fit your routine. There is also online therapy available, allowing you to choose between telephone, video, or face-to-face sessions.
Supporting your CBT journey with self-help
Learn useful techniques at your own pace, from home with CBT-based self-help books and websites. However evidence shows they work better with support from a qualified therapist.
Finding a Therapist
CBT is available through the NHS. It’s generally best to start by discussing your difficulties with your GP, although self-referrals are an option in some NHS services. Private therapists are also available.
Choosing an Accredited Therapist
Before starting CBT, it’s important to ensure your therapist is accredited by us. BABCP-accredited members have met rigorous standards of training and experience in CBT. They are committed to maintaining high standards of clinical practice, ongoing supervision, and professional development.
If you’re looking for a qualified CBT therapist, we recommend consulting our register of accredited members.
Understanding qualifications
You want to know that the therapist you choose is qualified, experienced, and trustworthy. However the title ‘CBT therapist’ isn’t legally protected. This means that some individuals who aren’t accredited or registered with BABCP may still practice.
Anyone can join BABCP, but accreditation signifies professional status. Accredited members uphold high standards in practice, ethics, and accountability, ensuring your therapist is committed to your well-being.
Our commitment to you
We’re passionate about advancing cognitive and behavioural therapies while upholding the highest standards of professionalism. Head to www.cbtregisteruk.com to connect with a qualified therapist.
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