An introduction to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

The Cognitive Behavioural approach refers to how people think and make meaning of situations, symptoms and events in their lives. We all develop beliefs about ourselves, others and the world. This therapy uses specialised techniques to help people become more aware of how they think, reason, and interpret behaviour and events in order to make sense of their actions and life.

We know that increasing and improving our awareness of our thinking is a factor in the success of CBT. The focusing of awareness can be considered a basic therapeutic process in CBT.  Homework in the form of thought diaries and activity timetables can make us more aware of the extent of our difficulties and are important areas to target along with recording and observing the areas of improvement.

Acknowledging awareness is important, to access our thinking patterns.  Sometimes we need to focus on the process we go through to understand our behaviour and responses, rather than just focus on the nature of the difficulties.  So a problem-solving approach may assist us to find solutions to our difficulties, so gaining control over important emotions.

Associated with the web downloads available here are a range of other support options such as web sites, booklets and books. Link to reading list