What is CBT Therapy? A Plain-English Guide

If you've been considering therapy, you've probably come across the term CBT. It gets mentioned a lot — but what does it actually mean in practice?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is one of the most widely researched forms of therapy available today. It's recommended by NICE as a first-line treatment for anxiety and depression, and has a strong evidence base for OCD, PTSD, phobias, and more.

The Core Idea

Our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are all connected. When one changes, the others shift too. CBT helps you notice unhelpful patterns and learn practical skills to break them.

"Applying CBT theory to your own situation and using helpful tools learned in therapy can improve mood, reduce anxiety and promote overall well-being." — Ian Stewart, MBABCP

What CBT Treats

• Anxiety disorders — GAD, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety
• Depression and low mood
• OCD and intrusive thoughts
• PTSD and trauma
• Phobias
• Low self-esteem
• Insomnia

What Happens in a Session?

Sessions are structured and goal-focused. You'll identify unhelpful thought patterns, examine evidence for and against them, and try behavioural experiments between sessions. Most programmes run 8–16 sessions.

Is CBT Right for Me?

CBT works best when you're ready to engage actively — to do exercises, reflect between sessions, and be honest with your therapist. A free consultation is a no-pressure way to explore whether it's right for you.