How Can CBT Help Me?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective, evidence-based approach that has been proven through extensive research to help people manage and overcome a wide range of issues, particularly anxiety disorders and depression. In our CBT sessions together, we'll work collaboratively to understand the specific ways your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours are interconnected and influencing how you feel.

We’ll start by exploring what happens when you experience difficult emotions, like anxiety, anger, or sadness. Together, we’ll look at your thoughts in these moments—what are you imagining or telling yourself? We’ll also examine the physical sensations that arise in your body, and the actions or reactions you have as a result. By identifying these patterns, we’ll gain clarity on what is keeping you stuck in cycles of distress, often referred to as "vicious cycles."

Once we've gained a better understanding of these patterns, we’ll work on breaking the cycle. The goal is to build a "virtuous cycle," where you begin to take small, manageable steps toward change. We’ll explore new, healthier ways of thinking and responding to situations that promote a sense of well-being and reduce distress. This is where the power of behavioural experiments comes in. You’ll try out new behaviours or thought patterns and then share your experiences with me. These experiments are a key part of the process, giving you the opportunity to test out new ways of being and thinking in real life, and see firsthand how they can shift your emotional state.

Along the way, we'll also dive deeper into the origin of your thoughts and beliefs. We'll ask: Where did these ideas come from? Are they still serving you today? Together, we’ll challenge unhelpful thoughts and beliefs and work toward replacing them with more balanced, constructive perspectives. CBT is not just about changing how you think in the moment, but also about reshaping how you approach life in general, helping you feel more in control and empowered.

Through this process, you’ll not only gain insights into your unique struggles but also develop practical skills and tools to create lasting change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or just feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, CBT offers a clear roadmap to help you regain balance and build a life that feels more fulfilling, purposeful, and connected.