COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY (CBT)
What is CBT
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a psychological treatment based on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, physical sensations and behaviours. The way people interpret a situation can influence how they feel and respond, while their behaviours can reinforce or reduce distress over time. CBT helps people identify patterns that are contributing to their difficulties and develop more useful ways of thinking and acting. It is practical, goal-oriented and generally focuses on problems that are affecting a person's life in the present, while recognising the influence of past experiences.
HOW DOES IT WORK
CBT involves working with a psychologist to understand what maintains a particular difficulty and develop strategies to address it. This might include identifying unhelpful thinking patterns, testing assumptions, gradually approaching avoided situations, developing problem-solving skills or changing behaviours that reinforce anxiety or low mood.
Sessions often involve a clear focus and practical exercises between appointments. The psychologist and client review what is working and adjust the approach as needed. CBT is not simply about positive thinking; it involves examining thoughts realistically and adapting patterns that are unhelpful to the individual.
CBT is used for a wide range of psychological difficulties, including anxiety disorders, depression, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety, and PTSD. It can also support people managing stress, adjustment difficulties and other challenges where thoughts and behaviours play an important role in maintaining distress. The specific techniques vary according to the presenting problem. CBT is not a single, identical treatment for every diagnosis, and a psychologist will tailor the approach to the person's needs, preferences and goals.
WHERE DOES IT COME FROM
CBT developed through the integration of behavioural therapy and cognitive therapy during the 1960s and 1970s. Behavioural approaches focused on how learning and reinforcement shape behaviour, while psychiatrist Aaron Beck's cognitive therapy emphasised the role of habitual interpretations and beliefs in emotional difficulties. These traditions, alongside later developments, contributed to modern CBT. It has since become one of the most extensively researched psychological treatments, with a substantial evidence base across a range of mental health conditions.
Ready to Begin?
At Ensemble Psychology, we are committed to providing evidence-based, collaborative care that respects your identity, values, and goals.
If you are seeking thoughtful, personalised support from an experienced clinical psychologist, we invite you to get in touch to arrange an initial consultation.
Initial phone consultations are free of charge. Standard appointments (50 minutes) are charged at $260 per session.