Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a practical, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps people understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are connected—and how changing unhelpful thought patterns can lead to more positive emotions and actions.

CBT is one of the most well-researched and widely used forms of therapy and has been proven effective for a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties.

How Does CBT Work?

CBT focuses on the here and now. Instead of spending long periods exploring the past, CBT helps clients identify negative or distorted thinking patterns that may be contributing to emotional distress or unhelpful behaviours.

For example, someone who often thinks, “I’m not good enough,” might begin to avoid challenges or social situations, reinforcing low self-esteem. CBT helps to:

  • Recognise these thoughts
  • Understand how they affect feelings and behaviours
  • Replace them with more balanced, realistic thinking

Therapists often use structured exercises, thought records, and behavioural experiments between sessions to help clients apply what they’re learning to everyday life.

CBT Can Help With:

  • Anxiety disorders (e.g., generalised anxiety, panic, social anxiety)
  • Depression
  • Stress and burnout
  • Low self-esteem
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Phobias
  • Sleep issues
  • Chronic pain or health-related anxiety

What to Expect

CBT is usually goal-oriented and time-limited, with a clear structure to each session. You and your therapist work together to:

  • Set specific goals
  • Identify problematic thought patterns
  • Learn practical tools to manage distress and change behaviours
  • Build resilience and emotional awareness

CBT encourages active participation, both in and outside of sessions, making it a very collaborative and empowering approach to therapy.

Call us on (087) 798 0611 / (087) 671 9049 or email info@innertherapy.ie to speak to one of our team today or book an appointment with us now