CBT explained: What happens during cognitive behavioural therapy and how to apply

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There’s a diverse range of different treatments and therapies available in Britain to treat a number of psychological issues, from anxiety and depression to PTSD or psychosis. Cognitive behavioural therapy, commonly known as CBT, is one of the better-known treatments, but what exactly is it? Express.co.uk spoke to Sam Nabil, a licensed psychotherapist and the creator of the Positive Existential Therapy method, who detailed exactly what goes on in CBT sessions, how it can benefit those who enrol for a course of treatment and how you can apply for sessions.

What is CBT and what happens during a therapy session?

Cognitive behavioural therapy focuses on exploring relationships among a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.

CBT is meant to uncover unhealthy patterns of thought and how they may cause self-destructive behaviours and beliefs.

Sam explains that CBT is “based on the idea that it’s not events themselves that upset us, but the meanings we give them.”

During a session, the client and therapist will work together through conversation to understand what the problems are, working on developing new strategies to tackle said problems.

The way strategies are developed is usually influenced by the client and their own individual needs.

Sam told us that therapy “usually takes a couple of months” for the original issues to start seeing improvements as a result of the CBT.

The process varies from patient to patient, but the typical course according to Sam is “anything between five and twenty sessions, all lasting around 45 minutes.”

Therapy usually takes a couple of months to feel better about the original problems, between five and 20 sessions, each lasting around 45 minutes.

Which conditions are typically associated with CBT and who can conduct sessions?

Originally CBT was intended to help patients with depression, but it has since developed to include anyone with underlying issues.

It’s commonly associated with anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and bipolar disorder.

Sessions are usually conducted by a psychotherapist but require the collaboration of the patient that also does some work post-session to aid their improvement.

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How much does CBT cost?

Sam explains that prices are very varied nowadays, as you can get free therapy through either the NHS or community clinics.

Unfortunately, this isn’t a legitimate option for many as waiting lists can be months or even years-long and are famously difficult to be added to in the first place as you require a referral.

There are a variety of low-cost options available across the UK, but there’s also the option of going private.

This will ensure a quicker service with little to no waiting time.

However, these can cost in the region of £80-200 per session depending on your therapist.

There are many online tools that help you find the right cognitive behavioural therapist for you, the most important thing is feeling comfortable with your chosen practitioner.

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