Will CBT Help Me?

You may have recently received a referral from your GP or Psychiatrist recommending a course of CBT for your mental health issues, and are wondering what it is and if it might help you.

This blog will help you decide if it may be right for you.

What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a treatment approach that helps you recognise unhelpful thought or behaviour patterns that cause distress and maintain poor mental health. It aids in interrupting these patterns and replacing them with more adaptive and helpful ones. It is a shorter term, present and future focused therapy. There are many different types or subtypes of CBT including Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT).

What are the common disorders that CBT treats?

Decades of research has shown that CBT is most commonly and effectively used for treating most depressive and anxiety disorders, ranging from mild to severe. It also had proven efficacy for other issues such as drug and alcohol use disorder, interpersonal problems and stress and adjustment.

Who can CBT work for?

CBT can be useful for those who are comfortable with a focused and structured approach, who have full cognitive capacity and have the ability to reflect on their own thinking and behaviours. Those who are looking for a brief treatment option.

Who does CBT not work for?

For those with more complex mental health needs, or with learning disorder or cognitive impairment, and those with complex trauma. It also may not be suitable for those clients seeking a more long-term treatment option.

What can I expect when I see a Psychologist for treatment with CBT?

A typical session involves examining your thoughts, feelings and behaviours, and working together with your therapist through some exercises that facilitate this. There is often a lot of education and instruction provided by your therapist. You may also be asked to complete some tasks outside of therapy. All exercises and tasks are aimed at reducing your distress and increasing your coping skills. CBT requires the client to be an active participant in their growth and healing. The skills learnt are skills you can take with you far into the future.

Are the Psychologists at PsychWest trained in CBT?

Yes, they are all trained in how to apply CBT techniques, however you will find that most Psychologists use an eclectic approach (provide a combination of other therapies designed to suit your individual needs.) The most important part of therapy (as shown by high levels of research) is the relationship with your therapist, which needs to be respectful, warm, accepting and safe in order for any form of treatment to be effective.

PsychWest have a number of different psychologists with different areas of expertise, so you can be sure you’ll find a therapist to suit your needs. Book your appointment now.