Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)is a structured, evidence-based approach that helps individuals identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours. By focusing on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, CBT aims to help you gain more control over your emotional responses and improve your overall mental health.
CBT is effective for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It involves practical strategies and tools that can be used both during therapy and in daily life to challenge negative thinking and adopt healthier, more balanced perspectives. The therapy is typically short-term, goal-oriented, and focused on providing immediate relief and long-term coping skills.
Trauma-Focused CBT
Trauma-Focused CBT is a specific adaptation of traditional CBT, designed for individuals who have experienced trauma, such as traumatic accidents, birth trauma, or past abuse. This form of therapy integrates trauma-sensitive practices and works to help individuals process and cope with distressing memories and emotions linked to traumatic experiences.
Trauma-Focused CBT is highly effective for treating PTSD, anxiety, and depression resulting from trauma. The therapy involves techniques such as addressing negative beliefs about the trauma and processing memories to help individuals reduce trauma symptoms in a safe and supportive environment, reducing the impact of past events on current functioning.
CBT and Trauma-Focused CBT offer practical, evidence-based tools to help you challenge negative thought patterns and regain control of your emotional health.
Evidence Behind the Therapy
Aaron T. Beck, the founder of CBT, explained: “CBT is based on the principle that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected, and by changing unhelpful thoughts, we can improve emotional well-being.”
Research by Hofmann et al. (2012) supports that “CBT is highly effective in treating a variety of mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, with long-lasting results.”
According to a study by Cohen et al. (2010): “Trauma-Focused CBT has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD and improve overall functioning in individuals who have experienced trauma.”
