Psychological Treatments

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is based on the theory our thoughts, the way we interpret events around us, create our moods. Treatment involves learning to recognise negative thoughts & behavioural patterns as they occur and then to modify them.

In CBT the client and therapist work collaboratively to understand problems in terms of the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviour. The approach usually focuses on difficulties in the here and now. This leads to the identification of personalised, time limited therapy goals and strategies which are continually monitored and evaluated. Treatment will also involve the therapist setting tasks to complete between sessions to enable the client to apply and practice changes in everyday life.

There is a large evidence base supporting the efficacy of CBT in improving emotional wellbeing. The National Institute for Health & Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends CBT in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions, PTSD and other conditions.

Schema Focused Therapy

This is an innovative integrative psychological therapy applicable to a wide range of relationship difficulties. It is a structured approach which addresses core beliefs, coping styles and behavioural patterns. The therapy has depth and complexity but can be presented in a straightforward and accessible manner. Treatment is active and directive and goes beyond insight to lead to lasting cognitive, emotional, interpersonal and behavioural change.
Schema Therapy integrates elements of Cognitive Therapy, Behaviour Therapy, Object Relations and Gestalt Therapy into one unified systematic approach to treatment. Further information can be obtained at www.schematherapy.com

Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT is an empirically-based psychological intervention which uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies mixed in different ways with commitment and behavior-change strategies, to increase psychological flexibility. The objective of ACT is not the elimination of difficult feelings; rather, it is to be present with what life brings us and to “move toward valued behavior”. Acceptance and commitment therapy invites an individual to open up to unpleasant feelings, and learn not to overreact to them, and not avoid situations where they are invoked.

Attempts to over-control, avoid or get rid of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings often results in greater suffering and poorer emotional well-being. ACT enables individuals to cope with uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, and to reconnect with their values and life in a meaningful way.

Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an interactive psychotherapy technique used to relieve psychological stress. It is an effective treatment for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). During EMDR therapy sessions, the client may relive traumatic or triggering experiences in brief doses while the therapist directs eye movements or auditory stimulation. Over time, this technique lessens the negative impact of traumatic memories or thoughts. There is a large evidence base supporting the efficacy of EMDR in reducing trauma symptoms in PTSD. This treatment is also recommended in NICE guidance.