Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a therapy with a very strong evidence base for working with issues like anxiety and depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, eating disorders, sleep difficulties, anger management and pain management. Research trials have found it to have a significant positive, long-lasting impact on symptoms, distress and problems associated with emotional difficulties.

CBT is an approach that looks at the patterns and links between our thoughts, our emotions and how we behave. Often thoughts can be self-critical and lead us to be constantly thinking about what others may think of us or lead us to think about our future in an anxious or negative way. This thought process can impact on our mood and self-esteem. Although we cannot control or switch off our thoughts we can learn to adapt our response to thoughts in order to improve our mood and wellbeing. 

CBT is a therapy method that is focused and collaborative. You will be actively involved in the process. You work with your therapist to look for patterns and identify the things that are keeping the difficulties going. Confronting fears or anxieties can be challenging the therapist will support you through this with exposures that are paced. Psycho-education is offered also offered. You will be taught skills to help manage or overcome difficulties. You will learn new skills, and be expected to practice them at home (e.g. keeping diaries of your thoughts, feelings and behaviour) and in the sessions. You will develop a toolkit of skills to use.