Frequently Asked Questions About CBT
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured psychological therapy that focuses on the relationship between your thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and situations. It helps you identify unhelpful patterns and develop more effective ways of responding.
Who can benefit from CBT?
CBT can be helpful for people experiencing concerns such as anxiety, low mood, excessive worry, stress, low self-esteem, avoidance, and recurring unhelpful thought or behaviour patterns. Suitability depends on your individual circumstances.
What happens in the first session?
The first session focuses on understanding what you're experiencing, what you'd like support with, your goals, and relevant patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Together, you'll discuss whether a CBT-based approach is appropriate for you.
How long is each session?
Sessions are approximately 50–60 minutes. The exact duration can be mentioned according to your actual session format.
How many sessions will I need?
There isn't a fixed number of sessions for everyone. The number and frequency depend on your concerns, goals, progress, and individual needs. Your plan can be reviewed throughout the work.
Are sessions online or in person?
If you're currently offering online sessions, write:
Sessions are currently offered online via [your platform].
If you offer both, simply list both options and the locations available.
Is CBT suitable for everyone?
No single psychological therapy is suitable for everyone. CBT may not be appropriate for every concern or situation. An initial assessment can help determine whether a CBT-based approach is suitable for your needs. Where additional or different professional support is required, you may be referred to an appropriate mental-health professional or service.
What is the cancellation policy?
I'd make this very specific to your actual policy. For example:
Please provide at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice may be charged according to the cancellation policy.
Is my information confidential?
Information shared during sessions is treated as confidential, subject to applicable professional, legal, and safety-related exceptions. Your confidentiality policy should be clearly explained before sessions begin.
Is CBT the same as counselling?
Not exactly. Counselling is a broader term that can involve different approaches and focuses. CBT is a specific, structured psychological therapy based on principles concerning the relationship between thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and situations.
What if I need urgent or emergency mental-health support?
CBT sessions are not an emergency or crisis service. If you are experiencing an immediate mental-health crisis or believe you may be at risk of harming yourself or someone else, please contact your local emergency service or an appropriate crisis/mental-health service immediately.