Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) therapy and EMDR therapy overview

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based talking therapy used to treat a variety of difficulties. Research has shown that CBT therapy is as effective as medication for treating anxiety and depression. 

CBT focuses on the connections between our thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and physical symptoms, all of which influence one another. Negative thoughts and behaviors can trap you in a vicious cycle. In CBT, you and your therapist will explore tools to challenge these negative behaviors and thinking patterns that perpetuate the cycle, which can improve your emotional and physical well-being.

While CBT is centered on addressing the present challenges you face, it can also be beneficial to delve into the history of these problems. This approach helps with a deeper understanding of how they developed over time.

CBT is a practical, problem-solving-based therapy that aims to equip you with effective strategies for dealing with your difficulties. For those interested in learning more about CBT, Mind offers a brilliant video explaining what it entails, which you can watch here: https://youtu.be/9c_Bv_FBE-c. Additionally, for certain cases, combining CBT with EMDR therapy may provide further benefits in addressing trauma-related symptoms.

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is recognized by EMDR UK as a powerful, scientifically validated psychotherapy aimed at helping individuals recover from traumatic events that negatively impact their mental health. While EMDR therapy is most commonly associated with treating PTSD, it is also beneficial for a variety of mental health conditions across all age groups, including depression and anxiety. 

So, how does EMDR therapy work? Often, our brains fail to properly process traumatic events because they trigger the fight or flight response. This can result in a range of emotional difficulties, with memories becoming "stuck." EMDR therapy assists the brain in reprocessing these trapped memories, leading to an improvement in negative symptoms. Many individuals find EMDR more appealing than traditional talking therapies like CBT therapy because it requires less verbal exploration of their memories. 

To learn more, visit the EMDR UK Association website for foundational information.