At the core of CBT is the idea that our perceptions of events can influence our emotions and actions. For example, if we perceive a situation negatively, it may lead to negative emotions, which in turn affect our behaviour.

To address these patterns of thinking and behaviour, CBT combines two therapeutic approaches:

Cognitive therapy focuses on examining your thoughts and beliefs. Behavioural therapy explores your actions.

Through cognitive therapy, you may uncover how your thoughts contribute to emotional issues, and your therapist will work with you to develop more constructive ways of thinking. Between sessions, you and your therapist will collaboratively set tasks to help you address issues independently, reducing the need for ongoing counselling.

As sessions progress, your therapist will help you identify patterns contributing to your difficulties and guide you in changing these patterns. Journaling and progress tracking may be suggested to reinforce learning and develop coping strategies for use beyond therapy sessions.

Behavioural psychotherapy aims to modify behaviour, often used to overcome specific fears or phobias by gradually facing them with support and relaxation techniques.

CBT typically targets specific issues and is delivered in brief programs, usually consisting of 6 to 20 sessions. It’s important to find a therapist who can tailor CBT to your needs, offering practical skills to challenge automatic thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. This may include using written or visual aids like diagrams, diaries, or tables to support you outside of sessions.

At Islington Therapy House, our therapists provide CBT on a short or long-term basis, accommodating your individual pace and preferences.