If you are looking for local CBT or a therapist near you, you may want someone you can get to easily, speak openly with and trust. Virtual CBT gives you another option: meeting a therapist online, from a private space that works for you.
The decision is personal. Being in the same room matters to some people. Others prefer the convenience of online therapy, or want to work with someone whose experience fits their difficulty even if they live further away.
What is virtual CBT?
Virtual CBT usually means cognitive behavioural therapy delivered remotely, often by video call. You may also see it called online CBT, remote CBT or online CBT therapy. At Calm Breathing Therapies, video sessions are appointments with me, Shavaiz Khan.
Online therapy is a wider term that includes several therapy approaches. CBT has a particular focus on understanding patterns between your thoughts, feelings, body and actions, then practising changes connected to your goals. The NHS explains that CBT can take place in person, online or by phone.
Virtual CBT vs local CBT: what changes?
Here, local CBT means appointments you attend in person. A local therapist may also offer online sessions, so check the format when you enquire.
| What matters to you | Virtual CBT | Local, in-person CBT |
|---|---|---|
| Getting there | No journey to a consulting room; allow time and privacy for the appointment. | Allow for travel, access to the building and getting home afterwards. |
| Your surroundings | You need a suitable device, a reliable connection and somewhere you can speak privately. | The therapist provides the session space, which may suit you if home is busy or shared. |
| Choosing a therapist | You can consider a therapist elsewhere in the UK whose approach and experience fit. | You can prioritise someone within travelling distance and the experience of meeting in person. |
| Practical CBT work | Some exercises can be planned around your everyday environment; others need a different arrangement. | Some exercises may be easier to support in the room or through agreed work outside it. |
| Feeling comfortable | You might find starting from a familiar space easier. | You may prefer having a separate place for therapy and a conversation without a screen. |
Neither format is automatically the right choice for everyone. We would consider what you need, your preferences and whether the work can be carried out appropriately online.
Looking for local therapy near you?
If you specifically want to attend a consulting room, look for an in-person service in your area. You can use the BABCP register to check an accredited CBT therapist. You can also ask your GP about support; in England, many adults can self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies.
If you are open to a video appointment, your therapist does not have to be nearby. Calm Breathing Therapies offers online CBT across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for people aged 16 and over. You can join from a city such as London, Manchester, Sheffield or Newcastle, or from a smaller town or rural area. All sessions are remote; there are no local consulting rooms to travel to.
Why choose Calm Breathing Therapies for online CBT?
I want you to understand who you would be working with and what our sessions would involve. Here is what I can offer:
- A qualified CBT therapist you can get to know. I am Shavaiz Khan, usually called Shav, a BABCP-accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with a PGDip. You can read more about me and check the professional register before booking.
- Experience that may fit what you need. I work with a range of difficulties, with particular experience in anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety and phobias, including needle phobia, blood phobia and fear of spiders.
- A warm, straightforward approach. We make sense of what is happening together. I explain why we are trying something, welcome questions and agree manageable steps with you.
- Room for your circumstances. Your culture, faith, family and identity can matter in therapy. I welcome people from all backgrounds, with particular experience supporting Muslim and South Asian clients.
- A chance to talk before you decide. The first call is free and lasts 5–10 minutes. You can ask about my approach and decide whether you would like to take the next step.
Choosing a therapist is also about fit. If your needs would be better met by another approach or service, we can discuss that honestly.
Online CBT sessions and fees
- Standard online CBT: £70 for 50–60 minutes.
- Extended appointment: £120 for 90 minutes.
- CBT by text or SMS: £50 for a scheduled 50-minute written appointment, subject to suitability.
- Four standard sessions: £260.
Text-based CBT is an option if you prefer writing. We would discuss whether it suits the work you need and the privacy limitations of ordinary SMS. It is not unlimited messaging. See the fees and cancellation terms for full details.
How to choose your next step
Think about where you can speak comfortably, whether you prefer meeting in person or online, and what experience you want your therapist to have. You can ask how they assess your needs, how sessions work and how you will review progress together.
If virtual CBT sounds like a possible fit, request a free first call. You do not need a diagnosis or a perfectly worded explanation. A little about what has been difficult is enough to begin.