CBT Hertfordshire
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a form of talk therapy which focuses on the present and immediate state of the client seeking help. In that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy addresses symptoms, behaviours, negative feelings, thoughts, and attitudes are impacting a client that are causing the client distress currently. The therapist then aims to teach the client new ways of thinking and behaving which will eliminate this distress. In that it deals in this way with the current situation of an individual and does not look backwards in time for childhood trauma or other past events; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy differs from other forms of psychotherapy which might seek to address the origin of behaviours and feelings causing the symptoms of distress. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is evidence based and has been shown to be effective in dealing with a great number of disorders.
CBT Therapy addresses the unique situations of clients by being tailored individually to the client and to the client's personality and understanding. Specific techniques and concepts are taught by the therapist which enable the client to eventually become independent from the therapist and to continue progress on their own. This is a unique collaboration between therapist and client. After a client has experienced a reduction in their symptoms, client and therapist may elect to explore deeper feelings, attitude and beliefs. However, as CBT is specifically goal-oriented; there is always an agreed end to the therapy. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy does not continue for extended periods of time or indefinitely as other forms of therapy, such as psychoanalysis may do.
CBT therapists employ many different techniques in order to ascertain the necessary information concerning the various underlying beliefs or thoughts that an individual has or holds currently. A client is not told that he or she is wrong. However, the thought and thought processes are examined logically and information is gathered regarding that thought. This helps the client to re-evaluate his or her position and subsequent behaviour. Homework is usually set for the client to practice the various techniques that are being taught; and this process gradually allows the client to address issues as they arise instead of having to wait for his or her next appointment. The goal is for the client to see that his or her own efforts are contributing to the reduction in symptoms. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a very flexible intervention and is very often utilised in conjunction with other treatments like hypnotherapy or medication depending on the individual and the agreed goal of the therapy.
Further Reading:
Negative Automatic Thoughts ('NATs) and Core Beliefs
CBT Thinking Errors and Cognitive Distortions
My CBT Hertfordshire practice is in the City Therapy Centre in Radlett. This is situated within the Grant and Glass Optical Practice at the very beginning of the parade along historic Watling Street. For more information on CBT in Hertfordshire or if you would like to book a consultation.
The City Therapy Centre
367 Watling Street,
Radlett,
Herts. WD7 7LB
Centre Tel: 01923 289377
Paul Levrant Direct Tel: 0844 736 1438
