CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. It is a form of talk therapy that focuses on changing negative patterns of thought and behaviour that may be causing or contributing to mental health issues.

CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected. The therapy involves identifying negative patterns of thought and behaviour, challenging and changing those patterns, and developing more positive and effective ways of thinking and behaving.

CBT has been shown to be effective in treating a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, and substance abuse.

The number of sessions needed varies depending on the nature and severity of the issues being addressed, as well as the client's individual needs. Some clients may benefit from only a few sessions, while others may require longer-term therapy.

In a CBT session, you will work with a therapist to identify negative patterns of thought and behaviour, challenge and change those patterns, and develop more positive and effective ways of thinking and behaving. The therapist may also give you homework assignments to practice outside of therapy sessions.

While some forms of therapy may focus heavily on the past, CBT is primarily focused on the present and future. However, it may be helpful to explore past experiences that have contributed to current issues.

CBT can be an effective treatment for many people, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It may not be the best approach for everyone, and it is important to work with a mental health professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs.

Sessions are normally weekly initially and then dialled back to once every two weeks for as long as you need them.
I don't normally see people for single or adhoc sessions as this rarely builds lasting change.

Similar to coaching, CBT requires active participation in solving your problems. It isn't just about talking through your problems. It's about discussing them, understanding them more fully, and developing strategies that you will implement to improve your situation and how you feel.

Some forms of counselling concern themselves purely with the past and how they affect your present day feelings. CBT takes the next step by helping you focus on your present situation and what you can do to change it for the better.

While some forms of counselling focus largely on coming to terms with the past, CBT helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings and behavours are connected, and how by changing any one of these things you can affect the others.

In short, CBT is about giving you a toolkit to cope with the ups and downs of life.