What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

CBT is based on the idea that how we think (cognition), how we feel (emotion) and how we act (behaviour) all interact together.  Specifically, our thoughts influence our feelings and our behaviour.  Therefore, negative and unrealistic thoughts can cause us distress and result in problems.

An example which is a common occurrence is that after making a mistake, you might think “I’m useless and can’t do anything right.”  This then impacts negatively on your mood, making you feel down; the problem may be exacerbated if you react by avoiding certain activities. Therefore reducing the possibility of experiencing success, which can reinforce the original thought of being “useless.”  Jackie will use CBT by addressing the way you think in response to similar situations and will help you develop more flexible ways to think and respond, including reducing the avoidance of activities.  This can help you escape a negative thought pattern and feelings of sadness or even depression can be relieved. Jackie will then teach you how to be more proactive, succeed more often, and improve your self-esteem and confidence.