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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): A comprehensive guide

Private CBT for mental health conditions and eating disorders in London at Schoen Clinic Chelsea

scrabble letters that read "CBT"

CBT is a widely recognised and evidence-based therapeutic technique that empowers individuals to understand and manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours effectively.

Through collaborative sessions with our skilled therapists, patients at Schoen Clinic engage in a structured process aimed at identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to distress.

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?


Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and altering negative thought patterns and behaviours. This evidence-based approach helps individuals develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving, which can significantly improve emotional wellbeing and life quality. Understanding the CBT meaning is essential for those seeking to address a variety of mental health conditions.


The principles of CBT: understanding the CBT meaning


CBT is grounded in the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected. By changing negative thinking patterns and behaviours, individuals can alter their emotional responses and improve their overall mental health.


Through this therapeutic approach, individuals are guided by one of Schoen Clinic CBT therapists to adopt more constructive ways of thinking and responding to everyday situations, ultimately enhancing their wellbeing. What sets CBT apart from other therapies is its emphasis on current issues rather than delving into past experiences.


CBT therapy is structured, time-limited, and goal-oriented, making it a practical and effective approach for treating a wide range of mental health issues.



What mental health challenges can CBT treat?


Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a versatile and evidence-based approach that has demonstrated effectiveness in addressing a wide array of mental health conditions. CBT can benefit individuals across all age groups, including children, teens and adults and offers support for individuals experiencing:


  • CBT for anxiety: managing worry and fear


Anxiety disorders, including generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and specific phobias, are among the most common mental health issues addressed by CBT. CBT for anxiety involves helping individuals identify irrational fears and thoughts that contribute to their anxiety. Techniques such as cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy are used to challenge and modify these thought patterns, ultimately reducing anxiety symptoms.


  • CBT for health anxiety: overcoming excessive worry


Health anxiety, sometimes known as illness anxiety disorder, involves excessive worry about having a serious illness despite medical reassurance. CBT for health anxiety helps individuals recognise and challenge their thinking patterns, reducing the compulsive checking of bodily symptoms and frequent doctor visits. This therapeutic approach aims to break the cycle of anxiety and reassurance-seeking behaviour.


  • CBT for eating disorders: developing healthy eating habits


Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, are complex conditions that can severely impact physical and emotional health. CBT for eating disorders focuses on identifying and changing unhealthy thoughts and behaviours related to food, body image, and eating patterns. Through CBT, patients learn to develop a healthier relationship with food and their bodies, improving their overall quality of life.


  • CBT for social anxiety: building confidence in social situations


Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterised by an intense fear of social situations due to the fear of being judged or embarrassed. CBT for social anxiety involves gradual exposure to feared social situations and cognitive techniques to challenge negative beliefs about social interactions. This approach helps individuals build confidence and reduce anxiety in social settings.


  • CBT for depression: alleviating low mood and negative thinking


Depression is a common and serious mental health condition characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. CBT for depression focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns that contribute to depressive symptoms. By developing healthier ways of thinking and engaging in positive behaviours, individuals can significantly improve their mood and overall wellbeing.


  • CBT for OCD: addressing obsessive-compulsive behaviours


Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions) performed to alleviate anxiety. CBT for OCD is highly effective and typically involves exposure and response prevention (ERP), a specific form of CBT that helps individuals confront their fears and reduce compulsive behaviours. This approach aims to break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions, leading to improved quality of life.


  • CBT for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): healing from trauma


Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety. CBT for PTSD involves helping individuals process the trauma and develop coping strategies to manage symptoms. Techniques such as cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy are often used to help patients reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories.

Get in touch with our friendly team today to access CBT sessions with our specialists


If you're looking for CBT sessions with a specialist, please reach out to our team.


Our mental health and wellbeing clinic in London offers private outpatient CBT sessions for children, teens and adults with appointments in as little as 24 hours, as well as specialised CBT groups accessible as part of a mental health treatment programme, or on a pay-as-you-go basis. Simply complete our Online Registration Form & Screening Questionnaire to get started.


CBT is also accessible as part of inpatient treatment for adults with eating disorders in York.


Email our caring team today to get started.


How much does CBT cost?


The cost of different types of treatment, therapy or support will vary. See our full breakdown of our prices and funding options for more information or specific costs.

How CBT works at Schoen Clinic


CBT is an integral part of treatment for many of the conditions we treat across our Schoen Clinic locations. At our inpatient hospital for children in Birmingham, Schoen Clinic Newbridge, and residential hospital for adults in York, Schoen Clinic York, patients have access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists throughout their treatment with expertise in CBT.


For individuals seeking private outpatient CBT sessions, our mental health and wellbeing clinic in London, Schoen Clinic Chelsea, has a multidisciplinary team of specialists available to help. However individuals access our services, the core principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy remain the same.


Our team, including clinical psychologists, psychotherapists and CBT therapists, assists in understanding the root causes of your feelings and guides you in managing challenging emotions, as well as navigating various situations, thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.


The role of a CBT therapist: guiding your journey


A CBT therapist is a trained mental health professional who specialises in administering CBT. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, our CBT therapists work closely with patients to develop individualised treatment plans that address their specific needs and goals. The therapist's role is to guide patients through the CBT process, providing support and strategies to help them overcome their challenges.


What to expect in CBT therapy


CBT therapy is typically a short-term treatment, with sessions often lasting between 8 to 20 weeks, depending on the individual's needs and the condition being treated. Each session is structured, focusing on specific goals and skills. Patients are often given homework assignments to practice techniques learned in therapy, helping them apply these skills in real-world situations.

The effectiveness of CBT: research and outcomes


Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of CBT for a wide range of mental health conditions. It is considered a gold standard treatment for anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, and more.


The structured nature of CBT, combined with its focus on skill-building, makes it an empowering approach that equips individuals with tools for the long-term management of their symptoms.


Integrating CBT with other treatments


While CBT is highly effective on its own, it can also be integrated with other treatments for a more comprehensive approach to mental health care. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we offer a multidisciplinary approach, often combining CBT with medication management, mindfulness techniques, and other therapeutic modalities.


This holistic approach ensures that each patient receives comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs.

How to start CBT therapy at Schoen Clinic Chelsea


If you're considering CBT therapy, the first step is to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced CBT therapists at Schoen Clinic Chelsea.


During this initial session, the therapist will assess your needs, discuss your goals, and develop a personalised treatment plan. We understand that seeking therapy can be a significant decision, and our team is dedicated to providing a supportive and welcoming environment. Email our team today or simply refer yourself online.


Empowering change with CBT therapy


Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a powerful tool for managing a wide range of mental health conditions. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we are committed to providing high-quality CBT therapy to help our patients achieve their mental health goals.


Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, or any other condition, our experienced CBT therapists are here to support you on your journey to better mental health.

Our London-based specialists with expertise in CBT


At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, our CBT specialists and therapists offer expert support to help you overcome life's challenges and achieve lasting emotional balance. Meet our team of dedicated CBT therapists in London at Schoen Clinic Chelsea, committed to guiding you towards mental wellbeing.

Dr Tara Tofiq

Consultant General Adult Psychiatrist

Dr Tara Tofiq

Dr Greg Shields

Consultant Psychiatrist and Cancer Specialist Psychiatrist

Dr Greg Shields

Gabriele McErlean

Lead Psychotherapist

Gabriele McErlean

Magdalena Garcia

Clinical Psychologist & Integrative Psychotherapist

Magdalena Garcia

Dr Joan Brunton

Consultant Psychiatrist

Dr Joan Brunton

Annika Ancverina

Integrative Child & Adolescent Counsellor

Annika Ancverina

Dr Margherita Tanzarella

Consultant Psychiatrist | ADHD Specialist

Dr Margherita Tanzarella

Dr Gil Myers

Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr Gil Myers

Darja Lee

Integrative Psychotherapist

Darja Lee

Dr Katherine Coutsoudis

Chartered Psychologist

Dr Katherine Coutsoudis

Helen Holmes

Senior Consultant Psychologist, Psychotherapist & Family Practitioner

Helen Holmes

Dr Hazel Fernandes

Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr Hazel Fernandes

Kristin McCarthy

Integrative Therapist

Kristin McCarthy

Lorraine Green

Psychotherapist

Lorraine Green

Dr Lorena Dumitrache

Chartered Clinical Psychologist

Dr Lorena Dumitrache

Sofia Likhacheva

Integrative Psychotherapist

Sofia Likhacheva

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