Fox Psychological Services

CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are closely connected. When we experience difficulties, these connections can create unhelpful cycles. CBT helps you to:

• Identify unhelpful or distorted thinking patterns
• Understand how your emotions are connected to what you think and do
• Gently test new, more helpful ways of thinking and acting

• Typically 6–20 weekly sessions of around 50 minutes each, depending on your needs
• Sessions are collaborative — you and your therapist work together as a team
• Practical exercises between sessions help you apply what you are learning
• Focused on your current difficulties rather than an in-depth exploration of the past
• Aims to give you lasting skills you can use long after therapy ends

CBT has a strong evidence base and is recommended by NICE for a range of difficulties, including:

• Anxiety and worry
• Depression
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Phobias
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Low self-esteem
• Sleep difficulties

CBT works best when you are ready to engage actively with the process — both in sessions and through between-session practice. It may not suit everyone, and your therapist will always discuss the most appropriate approach for your individual needs and circumstances.