Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on the relationship between our thoughts, feelings and behaviours. The central idea is that our thoughts and behaviours influence how we feel, and by changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, we can improve our emotional wellbeing. CBT is one of the most well-researched and supported approaches to therapy.

My overall approach is grounded in CBT. In session we’ll explore thoughts, emotions and behaviours that may be keeping you stuck. We’ll step through practical strategies to shift those unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. I’ll also recommend take-home-tasks to support you to apply these skills in your daily life.

This can be particularly useful when you find yourself caught in patterns that are difficult to change. Your mind might get stuck in loops, you may worry constantly, find particular situations trigger strong emotions, or notice that the same unhelpful ways of thinking and responding keep appearing in work or relationships.

Importantly, I tailor my interventions to meet individual needs. This often involves integrating aspects of other approaches where relevant. We’ll take time to make sense of how your difficulties have developed and what’s keeping them going, so we can meaningfully understand your situation rather than jumping to practical solutions. How you experience our relationship will be of central importance, so our sessions won’t feel formulaic.

For some people, this means looking beyond the immediate anxiety, stress or relationship difficulty that brought them to therapy. There may be experiences from earlier in life that have influenced how you respond to situations now, the expectations you place on yourself, or patterns that have become familiar over time.

Understanding these connections can help make your responses feel less confusing and give greater context to the practical changes you’re working towards.

CBT may be a good fit for you if you’re willing to be actively involved; if you prefer a structured, practical approach; and are motivated to practice skills between sessions.