Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or CBT represents an umbrella term for therapies that stem from the paradigms of behaviourism and cognitive psychology. Modern approaches to CBT include a mixture of both paradigms and in addition, often include elements from evolutionary psychology.
Throughout the middle and towards the latter half of the 20th century, CBT was far more divided. Instigated by behaviourists researching fundamental principles such as operant and classical conditioning (learning theory has also played a major background role since CBT’s inception), they began investigating how these could be applied to psychotherapy. These approaches emphasised how mental health problems are influenced by unhelpful behaviour and how understanding and cassifying which kind of behaviour is problematic leads to the implementation of techniques and specific behavioural changes that reaped some benefit. Mental health difficulties were therefore understood as problems that can be addressed in a very tailored yet specific way.
It’s History
Cognitive therapy started out by analysing how people’s beliefs about their environment, themselves and their future relate to difficulties such as depression. The focus was on challenging these beliefs in a more fundamental way through for example addressing what are called core beliefs or by looking at more surface level, but easier to get to views of the world which can be represented by negative automatic thoughts.
Many therapists in London tend to mix cognitive and behavioural methods. The third wave of cognitive behavioural therapy also introduces ways of changing one’s relationship with their own thinking processes instead of challenging the content. This is done through methods borrowed from buddhism which work in a similar to thought habituation techniques related to first wave behaviourism. In addition, there is a strong focus on behaviour in a way as to not only “battle a problem” but also looks at how one’s life can be changed in a way towards living a more valued existence. Often internal stimuli such as emotions or thoughts are observed and the short term battle with these by for example avoiding an important meeting or by other forms of avoidance such as drinking or computer games is discouraged. This allows individuals to live a more rewarding form of existence.
CBT in London
When searching for psychotherapy in London, especially CBT, there can be many options to choose from. It is best to find London based therapists that have been trained or are at least aware of all three waves of development within CBT. This knowledge is crucial towards improving therapeutic ability as many therapists in London will have received limited training such as more manualised approaches practiced at many institutions within the NHS.
We at seekapsych have selectively screened the London based psychotherapists in our network and make sure that they are trained to the highest standard. In addition, we heavily value experience as a crucial part of training involved in becoming a competent psychotherapist is received within practical application. You can connect with a psychotherapist by clicking this Link. Mention what you are looking for an we will be able to connect with you some of the best therapists in London. In addition we are also able to offer remote based psychotherapy.
