What is CBT?
CBT is a therapeutic approach which aims to change unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviours. A basic CBT model has 5 areas, these being our environment, thoughts, emotions, behaviours and physiology. Each area is linked to all the others. For example, if someone’s thoughts are ‘I am useless’ and ‘I can’t cope’, then their emotions may be ‘sad’ and ‘low’, they may be less active and sleep more, and may feel physically tired. By working on thoughts and behaviours, a helpful impact can result, such as by feeling less sad, less tired and becoming more active.
CBT has a strong present or here-and-now focus, is collaborative in that you work with the therapist on the problem, and is goal-orientated in the sense of working towards your therapeutic goals. It is not about “just thinking positively”- it’s about giving you tools that actually work in real life.
Within my practice, I also use elements of other therapeutic approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) if and when appropriate.
Why choose CBT, and when may it not be suitable?
CBT is recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) as a treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Acute Stress, Phobias and Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD), and has a strong evidence base in support of it’s effectiveness. CBT may not be effective for people who do not engage at an appropriate emotional level, who are intoxicated with alcohol or high levels of non-prescribed mind-altering drugs. Some long-term emotional problems and personality disorders require more than standard CBT.
What happens in sessions?
This varies according to individual needs, however very generally we will do the following:
• In the initial session agree on a working contract and begin to clarify what the problem is.
• Make use of any assessment and treatment tools relevant to your presenting problem.
• Pay particular attention to your view of the problem and what you want to achieve from therapy.
• Develop your understanding of the problem, and agree on what you can do between sessions to help you to progress.
• Prepare you for the ending of therapy sessions, when the timing is right, including how how can maintain progress and manage possible setbacks.
Will you contact my GP?
I will not contact your GP as a matter of course but will ask your permission to hold details of your GP practice. Your GP will not be contacted, except in situations where there is a serious concern for your safety or the safety of others.
What about confidentiality?
I place a great deal of importance on confidentiality and this is reflected in the therapy contract. All information about you will be relevant, accurate and stored securely. I may need to contact a relevant third party if there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or another person, or I become aware of a serious criminal matter.
Russell Young Cognitive Behavioural Therapist 