CBT is a psychological treatment approach that is relatively short-term (6-20 sessions). The therapy approach focuses on the individual in the present while looking to the future. There may be some discussion of relevant past events, but these are not usually examined in depth. The reason for this is that you do not need to know why you think, feel and act in a certain way. You only need to know what is keeping you in that pattern in order to promote a change.

CBT helps us to understand the interaction between your thoughts, feelings and behaviour. Through this approach, irrational thoughts are identified, and strategies are taught for reworking the way you think. This ultimately helps change the way you feel and act.

CBT is much more than “talk therapy”. In addition to weekly or bi-weekly sessions, homework tasks are assigned in order to:
1) monitor problems and progress, 2) practice CBT strategies at home/work, and 3) provide a sense of continuity between sessions. Homework is assigned to fit in with the individual’s personal lifestyle.