How CBT works: understand the pattern, practise change.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps us explore the links between what you think, how you feel and what you do. We use that understanding to work towards changes that matter to you.
Watch Mind’s “What is CBT?” video
Make sense of what keeps happening
When you feel anxious or low, the things you do to get through the day can sometimes keep the problem going. For example, avoiding a conversation may bring relief at first, but make the next conversation feel even harder.
We’ll build a clear picture of your own pattern, including your experiences and circumstances. This helps us choose where to begin and understand why a particular exercise might be useful.
We look at the links, not just one symptom.
What is CBT?
Prefer to watch? This video from Mind, the mental health charity, offers an introduction to cognitive behavioural therapy.
As you watch, notice what feels relevant to you. We can talk through your questions and what the approach might look like in your own life.
Read Mind’s guide to CBT
A clear process, shaped around you
- 01
Understand what you need
We talk about what has brought you here, what you hope will change and whether CBT with me is suitable for you.
- 02
Make sense of your pattern
We look at recent examples from your life to understand the thoughts, feelings and responses that keep a difficulty going.
- 03
Try changes together
We practise new ways of responding and agree small tasks to try in daily life. You can tell me what feels manageable.
- 04
Review and plan ahead
We check how things are going, adapt the plan and prepare for using what you have learned when therapy finishes.
We focus on realistic steps you can practise, review and build on.
- A respectful, non-judgemental space
- Honest conversations about what may help
- Evidence-based work tailored to you
- Regular reviews of progress and goals
- Clear boundaries and confidentiality
- Openness about what is and is not helping
- Willingness to try agreed tasks between sessions
- Curiosity about familiar patterns
- Regular attendance where possible
- Patience—change is rarely perfectly linear
Compassion, respect, empowerment, integrity and inclusion
I follow BABCP professional standards and engage in regular supervision, reflection and continuing professional development.
Could CBT be your next step?
We can use a free 5–10 minute consultation to briefly explore what you need and whether this approach feels right.