Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT, examines what you think, feel, and do in difficult situations. You and a therapist identify recurring patterns and try different responses. It is used in care for anxiety, depression, and other problems, with the actual work shaped around your circumstances.

It isn't about persuading you that everything is fine. You may be asked to attempt things you avoid or question strongly held assumptions. Changing your responses doesn't remove difficult working conditions, financial pressure, or problems in a relationship.

By questionnaire

You start by discussing what's happening and agreeing on what to work on. Sessions then examine specific situations, include practice, and prepare tasks to try between appointments. Treatment can be individual, group-based, or remote; its length depends on your needs and progress.

The same difficulties that brought you to therapy can make the tasks hard. If you can't do them, the reasons need discussing and the plan may need adjusting. Hiding that out of embarrassment leaves you discussing exercises you never actually try.

Ask your primary care or mental health service about psychological treatment, or look for a qualified clinician trained in CBT. Ask about experience with your difficulty, expectations between sessions, and how you'll review whether the approach fits.

A CBT label doesn't tell you how much appointment time you'll receive or whether you and the therapist will work well together. Check availability and waiting times in public services, and likely ongoing costs and cancellation terms in private care.