Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
At Seven Lion Yard
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely used, evidence-based form of psychological treatment that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviours. It is a structured, goal-oriented approach that helps individuals identify and challenge unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour and replace them with more constructive and adaptive alternatives.
What Is CBT?
CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts (cognitions), rather than external events, heavily influence our emotional and behavioural responses. For example, if two people are faced with the same stressful event, they might react very differently depending on how they interpret the situation. CBT helps people become more aware of these interpretations and learn how to reframe them in a more balanced and realistic way.
This therapy is typically short-term and problem-focused. It is collaborative, meaning the therapist and client work together to set goals and track progress.Â
How Does CBT Work?
CBT usually begins with an assessment phase where the therapist and client identify specific problems and goals. The therapist then helps the client explore how their thoughts and beliefs contribute to emotional distress and problematic behaviours. Through guided discussions, thought records, behavioural experiments, and homework tasks, clients learn to:
- Recognise distorted thinking patterns
- Evaluate the evidence for and against negative thoughts
- Develop more balanced thoughts
- Experiment with new behaviours and coping strategies
- Build skills for long-term emotional resilience
The approach is highly practical, with a strong emphasis on applying techniques outside of sessions to real-life situations.
What Can CBT Help With?
CBT has been extensively researched and found effective for a wide range of mental health conditions and life challenges, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety, panic disorder, generalised anxiety)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Sleep disturbances
- Stress and burnout
- Chronic pain or illness-related distress
It is also used to improve self-esteem, interpersonal effectiveness and overall emotional regulation.
Is CBT Right for You?
CBT might be a good fit if:
- You notice recurring patterns of negative thinking that affect your mood or behaviour
- You feel stuck in a cycle of anxiety, low motivation or unhelpful habits
- You prefer a structured, here and now, goal-oriented approach to therapy
- You are open to practising skills between sessions to support your progress
- You want to better understand the links between your thoughts, emotions and actions
While CBT is highly effective for many people, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Some individuals may benefit more from other approaches especially if underlying issues are deeply rooted in early life experiences or if emotional processing is a central need.
Summary
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a practical, skills-based approach to managing mental health and improving quality of life. By learning to identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours, individuals can gain greater control over their emotional wellbeing and make meaningful, lasting changes. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or distressed, speaking with one of our team trained in CBT could be an empowering first step.
