Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), or Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), is a widely used evidence-based form of therapy.
It focuses on helping individuals understand the connections between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.
It has been an effective tool to tackle multiple mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD and more.
CBT has several benefits, including:
- Improved emotional regulation
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Enhanced self-awareness and self-esteem
- Improved relationships
- Increased resilience and coping skills
Learn more about how CBT can benefit you through a Personalised Behaviour Assessment
1. What is Cognitive Behaviour Therapy?
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy focuses on assessing an individual’s thoughts, feelings and emotions and identifying negative thinking patterns. These patterns are then targeted by personalised coping strategies and positive behaviour patterns are reinforced through constant support from our professionals.
CBT is a collaborative process where therapists and their clients focus more on the present. By addressing negative thought patterns and maladaptive behaviours, CBT aims to cultivate healthier cognitive processes, leading to improved emotional well-being and a more balanced outlook on life.
There is no one size fits all when it comes to therapy. CBT is often used in collaboration with other therapy techniques based on an initial behavioural assessment performed by the therapist.
2. What can I expect in my first Behaviour Therapy Session?
It’s completely normal to be nervous about your first therapy session. Knowing the structure of the therapy support definitely helps calm the nerves. While every counselling service might offer a different plan, they mainly consist of similar steps.
At Butter Fish Services, we provide a clear plan to our clients outlining what you can expect from our Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, also known as Positive Behaviour Support services.
- Behaviour Assessment: First, we evaluate your actions and interactions. We have a confidential and honest assessment without any barriers, which is essential to create an effective therapy plan.
- Therapy Planning: We develop your Support Strategy, initiating your journey toward responding to demanding situations with constructive and affirmative behaviours.
- Achieve Together: Collaborate with your therapist to acquire the guidance and instruction essential for successfully putting your plan into action.
- Therapy Implementation: Lastly, we support you in putting your Positive Behavior Support Plan into practice!
Make a referral for yourself or a loved one
3. Behaviour Therapy Types & Techniques
Positive Behaviour Support is an amalgamation of various techniques, based on your assessment your therapist will pick the ones best suited for you.
The techniques might vary but will have a deep focus on solving problems like;
- Identifying how inaccurate thoughts can exaggerate the problem
- Acquiring skills to tackle problems with a solution oriented mindset
- Employing role-playing and relaxation methods when encountering potentially demanding circumstances
The objective of employing these methods is to substitute counterproductive or self-sabotaging thoughts with more uplifting and pragmatic ones.
4. Core Components of CBT
CBT or PBS primarily operates on the notion that there is an unreliable interdependence between your thoughts, emotions, and actions.
In simpler terms, the manner in which you perceive and feel about a situation can impact your actions.
The fundamental premise of CBT/ PBS is that these thoughts and behavioural patterns can be transformed through practice, patience and consistent positive reinforcement.
Key Concepts of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Cognitive Restructuring
Cognitive restructuring is a pivotal aspect of CBT, involving the identification and challenge of irrational or distorted thought patterns. By replacing these thoughts with more balanced and rational alternatives, individuals can experience a shift in their emotional responses.
Behavioural Experiments
CBT often employs behavioural experiments to challenge and test the validity of negative beliefs and assumptions. By engaging in real-life scenarios, individuals can gain insights into their thought-emotion-behaviour connection, leading to informed and adaptive behavioural changes.
Homework Assignments
Between therapy sessions, clients are typically assigned homework tasks aimed at reinforcing CBT techniques. These assignments, such as journaling, thought recording, or practising relaxation exercises, help individuals apply what they’ve learned in real-life situations.
5. Who is CBT not suitable for?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a versatile therapeutic approach that can benefit many individuals dealing with various mental health concerns. However it may not be successful or suitable for everyone. There can be multiple reasons for this however the 3 most common reasons are:
- CBT might not be the optimal choice for individuals who have severe or untreated mental disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, as these conditions often require specialised and intensive treatment approaches. This can be detected in the initial behavioural assessment with Butter Fish Services and we can guide you to more appropriate treatments.
- The success of CBT relies on active participation and commitment. Individuals who are not willing or able to actively engage in self-reflection, introspection, and structured exercises may find CBT less effective.
- Those seeking a quick-fix solution without the willingness to invest time and effort into the therapeutic process might not experience the desired outcomes from CBT. While it is an investment it rewards you with effective tools and techniques that you can use for life.
Another common reason why people might feel that CBT/PBS is not suitable for them is because their therapist is not right for them. Therapy is an extremely intimate journey and it is necessary to find the right therapist to accompany you on this journey.
The only way to find out if the therapist is right for you is by doing your research and talking to your therapist openly about what is working for you and what is not. We understand that this can be difficult which is why we will support you every step of the way.
Begin the journey to a greater you.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy offers treatment and support for individuals seeking effective and transformative solutions to their mental health challenges. By unravelling the intricate web of thought, emotion, and behaviour, CBT empowers individuals to take control of their mental well-being, fostering resilience, and ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Embrace the power of CBT, and embark on a journey towards positive change and emotional liberation.