The general term “Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy” (CBT) encompasses a group of therapies with similarities. These CBT approaches include Rational Emotive Therapy, Cognitive Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.

The goal of CBT is to identify and modify thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that interfere with achieving a goal. Each individual therapy is unique, but there are common components in CBT. It is a short-term therapy, and to this end, the therapist recommends readings and practising some learned techniques.

CBT is a useful tool for addressing emotional challenges. For example, it can help to:

• Manage symptoms of a mental disorder, either on its own or in combination with medication.
• Prevent the relapse of mental illness symptoms.
• Treat mental illness when medication is not a good option, for example during pregnancy.
• Learn coping techniques for specific phobias (e.g., public speaking).
• Manage difficult emotions such as anger.
• Resolve relationship conflicts and learn to communicate better.
• Cope with grief after the loss of a loved one.
• Overcome trauma related to abuse or violence.
• Cope with medical illnesses, such as cancer or chronic fatigue.
• Manage chronic physical problems, such as pain, insomnia, or fatigue.

Mental health conditions that can improve with CBT include:

• Sleep disorders

• Sexual disorders

• Depression

• Bipolar disorder

• Generalised anxiety disorder

• Specific phobias

• Eating disorders

• Alcohol/drug abuse or dependence disorders

• Personality disorders

NEST members who offer this approach: