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Frequently Asked Questions 

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)? CBT is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on how thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected. It will help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

What conditions does CBT treat? CBT is effective for treating a wide range of conditions, including: Depression Anxiety disorders (e.g., panic, phobias, OCD, health and social anxiety) Trauma Substance misuse Disordered Eating Chronic pain/fatigue Insomnia In addition CBT can be helpful for developing healthier habits and self development such as improving; Self esteem Relationships Communication Goal setting Maladaptive habits Anger management Stress Management

How many sessions are typically needed? The number of sessions required varies depending on your individual needs and the severity of condition, symptoms and experiences. However, many clients see significant improvement within 8-20 sessions.

What is the cost of CBT? The cost of CBT can vary depending on several factors, including the therapist's experience, location, in-person vs online and any potential insurance coverage. I understand that financial concerns can be a significant barrier to accessing mental health care. Let's discuss your specific situation together. I'm committed to finding a solution that works for you, whether it's exploring affordable options, group-work, downloadable content or discussing potential insurance coverage.

Is CBT effective? Yes, CBT has been extensively researched and is considered one of the most effective forms of psychotherapy. Many studies have shown its efficacy in treating various mental health conditions. CBT is one of the most highly recommended treatments by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for anxiety and depression.

What can I expect from a CBT session? Everyone’s therapeutic journey is unique. I believe in a personalised approach tailored to your specific needs. In our CBT sessions, we’ll delve into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Together, we’ll gently explore negative thought patterns and cultivate a deeper awareness of how they influence your actions. This will empower you to choose healthier, more adaptive behaviours

What qualifications do CBT therapist have? CBT therapists typically possess a mental health degree, such as Psychology, Counselling, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, or Social Work, along with specialised training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. As a qualified Occupational Therapist and CBT therapist, I offer a unique and comprehensive approach to treatment, combining my expertise in both fields to address your mental health needs holistically.

Are CBT therapists regulated in the UK? Yes, CBT therapists in the UK are regulated for your protection. As an OT and CBT therapist, I'm registered with both the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists (BABCP) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This dual registration ensures I meet the highest standards of education, training, and ethics, giving you confidence in my qualifications and professionalism.

Are my private CBT records stored safe, securely and confidential? Yes, I store all your therapy notes securely on Clinix, a trusted electronic patient record system. Clinix uses data protection-compliant platforms that are GDPR-compliant, ensuring your privacy is protected in accordance with UK data protection laws. As a registered member of the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), I'm committed to handling your personal information responsibly and securely.

Do you have to inform my GP about therapy sessions? No, if you prefer to keep your therapy sessions confidential, I will respect your wishes and will share any information with your GP unless there are immediate safety concerns or risks that require disclosure.

Can I combine CBT with prescribed medication? Yes, NICE guidelines often suggest combining medication with talking therapies like CBT for optimal treatment outcomes. If you think medication might be helpful, please discuss this option with your GP. It’s generally recommended to start therapy once you’re stable on medication to ensure a smoother and more effective treatment process.

How do I find a CBT therapist? Congratulations, you have found one! Well done on taking this important step towards improving your mental well-being. With 14 years of experience in mental health as both an Occupational Therapist and CBT therapist, I'm fully qualified, licensed, and insured to provide you with the highest quality care. I offer both in-person and online therapy options, ensuring you have the flexibility to choose the format that best suits your needs.

If I cancel my CBT therapy session, am I entitled to a refund? Cancellation refunds vary depending on the circumstances and how much notice is given. Please refer to the Cancellation Policy for specific details.

Which locations do you cover for in-person CBT treatment? I offer flexible treatment options, including both in-person and online therapy. For in-person sessions, I serve the Durham and Tees Valley areas; Middlesbrough, Stockton-on-tees, Hartlepool, Redcar and Cleveland, County Durham, Wynyard, and North Yorkshire. We can discuss specific locations to suit your convenience. If you don't want to travel, or live outside of this catchment area. maybe consider online therapy. Let's coordinate a schedule that works best for you.

Can I bring my Carer into the CBT Therapy session with me? If having a Carer present would make you feel more comfortable, I’m open to discussing that option, on a individual basis. However, we’ll need to establish some ground rules to ensure their presence doesn’t interfere with the therapeutic process.

Do you offer online CBT treatment? Absolutely! I offer online CBT sessions, providing a convenient and accessible way to receive therapy. We can connect via video call, ensuring a comfortable and confidential space for our sessions.

Are online CBT Therapy video calls safe and confidential? Yes, my online therapy video calls are safe and confidential. I use secure, Data Protection-compliant video conferencing platforms that are also GDPR-compliant, ensuring your privacy is protected in accordance with UK data protection laws. Additionally, I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), demonstrating my commitment to data security and handling your personal information responsibly.

What are the benefits of online therapy? Flexibility: Attend sessions from anywhere at a time that suits you. Accessibility: Ideal for those with limited mobility, high anxiety, living in remote areas or outside of traveling distance to therapist. Comfort: Discuss sensitive topics in a private, familiar setting. Reduced time commitment: No need for travel, saving you valuable time. Rapport building: online session does not reduce the ability or effectiveness of therapeutic relationship. Effective communication: Therapists can still observe your nonverbal cues through video.

If I do therapy online, does this mean I can have my children with me? I understand that childcare can be a challenge, but unfortunately, it’s not suitable to have children present during our therapy sessions. Therapy is a confidential space where you can focus on your own well-being and express yourself freely. Having children or family members nearby can be a distraction and hinder this process, potentially making the therapy less effective.

Is CBT suitable for everyone? While CBT has proven effective for many, it’s important to recognise that it may not be the best fit for everyone. I’m committed to finding the most suitable approach for your unique needs. If I believe another therapeutic modality might be more beneficial, I’ll be open and honest with you and explore those options together.

Is therapy the right choice for me? Therapy is a journey of self-discovery and growth. It's most effective when you're ready to invest time and energy into the process. Are you open to exploring your thoughts and behaviours, and willing to challenge patterns that might be holding you back? Remember, like any skill, therapy requires practice and engagement outside of sessions. Just like in the gym, the more you put in, the more you'll get out.

When should I consider therapy? If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling with relationships, or stress it might be time to consider therapy. Remember, mental health challenges can manifest in various ways, so don't hesitate to reach out if you're feeling stressed or unsure how to cope. Therapy provides a safe and supportive space to explore your emotions and find effective strategies to improve your well-being.

I'm feeling distressed, low or anxious, but it's not that bad. Should I ignore it and hope it gets better? It's important to remember that your feelings are valid, no matter how big or small they seem. Comparing yourself to others can be unhelpful and minimises your own experiences. Even if you feel like your distress isn't as severe as someone else's, it's still impacting your life. Ignoring your feelings can lead to them worsening over time. Seeking help early on can prevent things from escalating and make it easier to address the underlying issues. A therapist can provide you with tools and strategies to manage your distress, work towards feeling better and support you to enhance your life.

My negative self-talk and limiting beliefs are affecting my relationships and career. Can therapy help? Absolutely! Therapy can be a valuable tool for addressing negative self-talk and limiting beliefs. Even if you're not experiencing severe distress, these patterns can still have a significant impact on your life. By working with a therapist, you can develop greater self-compassion and learn to challenge negative thoughts. This can lead to improved relationships, increased self-confidence, and greater fulfilment in your career. Therapy can help you unlock your full potential and live a more fulfilling life.

CBT helped my friend, can I have the same treatment plan? While it's tempting to compare our experiences, everyone's journey in therapy is unique. Just like fingerprints, no two people's mental health struggles are exactly the same. Your life experiences, thought patterns, and goals are all factors that shape your individual treatment plan. It's important to focus on your own path and trust that your therapist will guide you towards the best approach for you.

I've had therapy before and it didn't work. Will it be different this time? It's understandable to feel discouraged if past therapy experiences haven't been successful. Sometimes, the right therapist, timing, or approach can make all the difference. Consider if you're currently ready to make changes and if your mindset is open to exploring new perspectives. Building a strong therapeutic rapport is crucial, so it's important to find a therapist you feel comfortable and connected with. Remember, the pain of staying in the same cycle can be a powerful motivator for change. With the right support and commitment, you can break free from negative patterns and find a path to healing.

I want therapy but I also feel so distressed that I want to end my life. What can I do? It's important to acknowledge that having distressing thoughts about ending your life is a serious matter and more common than you might think. These thoughts can be overwhelming and frightening. Therapy can be a valuable tool in helping you manage these thoughts and develop healthier coping mechanisms. However, I am not available to offer 24/7 or crisis support. If you're currently feeling an immediate urge to end your life it's crucial to seek specialised support right away. Please visit my "Immediate Help" page for helpful contact information and crisis hotlines. Remember, you're not alone, and help is available. Don't hesitate to reach out and get the support you need.

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