Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a structured, evidence-based psychological treatment used with both adults and children to help people understand and change unhelpful patterns of thinking, emotions, and behaviour.

CBT is based on the idea that thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and behaviours are interconnected, and that learning new ways of thinking and responding can reduce emotional distress and improve functioning.

• For adults, CBT focuses on identifying and modifying unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours through techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioural experiments, and skills training.
• For children and young people, CBT is adapted to be developmentally appropriate, often using play, visual aids, stories, and involvement of parents or caregivers to help the child understand emotions, develop coping skills, and change unhelpful behaviours.

CBT is commonly used to treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioural difficulties, and stress-related problems. CBT aims to equip individuals with practical skills they can use independently over time.