As you go through the therapy process, your therapist may ask you to do homework — activities, reading or practices that build on what you learn during your regular therapy sessions — and encourage you to apply what you're learning in your daily life.

Since then, CBT has evolved and expanded, incorporating elements from various psychological theories and adapting to treat a wide array of mental health conditions.

That being said, medication does still perform better for some conditions, and many people find it most beneficial to combine CBT with medication.

But don’t be fooled by its seemingly simple premise – CBT is a sophisticated and nuanced approach that requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to challenge long-held beliefs.

It’s increasingly common for someone to be diagnosed with a condition such as ADHD or autism as an adult. A diagnosis often brings relief, but it can also come with as many questions as answers.

The course structure will vary according to the specialist pathway chosen. Reading, completion of written assignments and presentations will be undertaken in addition to the teaching days. Many students find it effective to set aside at least six to seven hours a week for private study.

it teaches you useful and practical strategies that can be used in everyday life, even after the treatment has finished

Most therapists’ websites list the conditions and problems they treat. If you have questions, call or email the therapist’s office before you choose.

Socratic questioning, or the socratic method, is a key technique in CBT. You help your patient understand themselves by asking questions about their thoughts, examples include:

It may not be enough. For people with more complex or intense health concerns, CBT may not be the right approach — or it may simply not be enough to reduce symptoms by itself.

Instead, it’s about developing a healthier relationship with your inner world, learning to respond rather than react, and building the resilience to face life’s challenges with confidence and grace.

People experiencing psychological issues can learn better ways of coping with them. This can help relieve their symptoms and improve their mental and emotional health.

The first session is also an opportunity for you to interview your therapist to see if he or she will be a good match for you. Make sure you understand:

Get help immediately if you have thoughts of suicide Anxiety relief or if you’re thinking about harming yourself or others.