What does cognitive behavioural therapy involve?
We can say that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is focused on practice and effect – and striving for change „here and now”.
This is an approach that helps you see how your thoughts influence your emotions and behaviours, and then gives you the tools to change those thoughts. In CBT we do not delve deep into the past unless it helps to resolve current problems. Thanks to CBT you can quickly notice the changes taking place – you will feel relief and sense that your effort is truly paying off.
- At the MECAL Psychological Clinic you will find a team of specialists who will support you in the real change of your negative thought and emotion patterns – and in developing lasting behaviours that will influence your well-being – your Good State (Dobry Stan) – on a daily basis.
CBT is a short-term, goal- and task-oriented approach.
What does cognitive behavioural therapy involve?
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) focuses on the analysis of thoughts, beliefs and schemas that influence our emotions and behaviours. In CBT, we work with the patient to identify negative thinking patterns and replace them with more realistic, helpful interpretations. However, CBT is not limited to conversation – the therapist introduces concrete techniques that help the patient better cope with everyday difficulties.
Discover the MECAL Psychological Clinic in Gdańsk Oliwa and its specialists.
Who is this form of therapy for?
Cognitive behavioural therapy is recommended for many psychological problems and disorders, such as depression, anxiety disorders (e.g. phobias, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder), eating disorders, stress-related issues, and difficulties associated with low self-esteem.
Support in emotional management
CBT also works well for people who want to better manage their emotions and develop healthy ways of coping with the challenges of everyday life. At the MECAL Clinic, we provide CBT therapy for adults and adolescents, tailoring the method, number of sessions, and duration of therapy to the specific nature of the problem the patient presents with.
What does a cognitive behavioural therapy session look like?
During each session, together we will look at your current difficulties and what is happening in your life.
A therapist will not only listen, but will guide the conversation so that, together with you, they can analyse your thoughts and emotions connected with specific situations.
- CBT sessions have a specific structure, which helps to achieve clarity and quick results.
The start of each session is a summary of previous meetings and your experiences between them. Then we tackle current challenges and set concrete steps that you can take after the session. This is a practical form of therapy that leads to lasting improvement.
The therapist's role – a partner in the change process
In CBT, the therapist is not just a listener, but an active guide and support on the path to change.
Therapists at MECAL work in full partnership with the patient – they are here to help you understand which thought patterns and reactions may be holding you back.
Instead of just talking about problems, we will work together to find ways for you to feel that you have a real impact on your life. Through this kind of collaboration, step by step you will gain the tools to independently cope with difficulties that at first seemed overwhelming.
CBT techniques (in cognitive behavioural psychotherapy)
CBT is a toolkit that supports your development on a daily basis. The most commonly used techniques include:
- Socratic dialogue – by asking questions, the therapist helps you to discover and challenge thoughts that may be unhelpful or untrue.
- Note-taking – daily noting of your thoughts and emotions helps in better understanding how you react to situations and where difficulties stem from.
- Exposure – a method used mainly in working with anxiety; gradually approaching the source of anxiety helps to alleviate the intensity of the reaction over time.
- Homework – supporting your progress between sessions, they allow for the practical application of learned techniques in everyday life.
- Cognitive reframing – a technique involving changing the way you perceive different situations in order to cope with them more effectively.
Homework tasks in CBT therapy
Homework tasks are a key element of CBT, thanks to which the patient consolidates and tests in real-life situations what they have learned during the session. This may involve recording thoughts and emotions, trying out new behaviours, or reframing unhelpful beliefs.
Homework tasks support the therapeutic process and help the patient to actively implement changes in everyday life. The psychotherapist ensures that the tasks are tailored to your capabilities and the stage of therapy, enabling you to effectively utilise the techniques you have learned.
Benefits of CBT therapy – practical effects and independence
CBT is a therapy that equips you with practical skills – you quickly learn how to recognise thoughts that hold you back and how to build more positive patterns.
- Thanks to CBT, you have the chance to regain a sense of control and acquire tools to independently cope with emotions and challenges.
Meet the specialists at the MECAL Psychological Clinic. We support you in developing positive patterns and skills that stay with you for life.
- CBT is more than just therapy; it is a path towards a fuller, more mindful and happier life.
our therapy rooms
MECAL Psychological Clinic – book your first appointment
If you feel that cognitive behavioural therapy could help you with your daily difficulties, you are welcome to visit the MECAL Psychological Clinic in Gdańsk. Our therapists will help you to understand your own emotions, thoughts and patterns that affect your well-being and satisfaction with life. You do not have to struggle with your problems alone – contact us to arrange your initial appointment.
