CBT helps clients to overcome problems by teaching them how to successfully modify their thinking (their ‘cognitions’) and their behaviour. The focus of CBT is on your thinking and behaviour today, rather than your early childhood experiences.
However, we do acknowledge that, depending on your circumstances, it may be important to explore past events and relationships if you feel that they have had a significant impact on the way you see yourself or the world now ie. having experienced significant trauma either in childhood or later in life).
Research has shown that CBT is at least as effective, and often more effective than medication in the treatment of emotional problems. In addition, because clients learn to become ‘their own therapist’, CBT is superior to other treatments (including medication) in preventing relapse.
CBT is effective with individuals as well as couples and families in a range of situations including: