Avon CBT : CBT in Bristol and North Somerset; Online CBT
Calm and compassionate counselling in times of challenge, change or crisis.
Understanding CBT - A Guide to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-focused form of therapy that explores how our thoughts, feelings and behaviours influence one another, sometimes in ways that hold us back. CBT helps us to recognise and change unhelpful patterns that may contribute to difficulties such as social anxiety, phobias or work stress.
Client Testimonial:
“CBT with Simon has helped me to reframe my experiences, including those in childhood and adolescence, to be more compassionate to myself. I understand that I did not, and do not, experience those things because I am "bad". I understand that I am trying my best, and to treat myself with greater respect.” UN (former client)
Client Testimonial:
“CBT with Simon helped me to learn and utilise strategies to manage my reactions to various situations and "triggers". I also learnt to recognise my disordered and negative thinking patterns, using CBT to change these destructive and incorrect thought processes into more positive ones.” CN (former client)
What can CBT help with?
CBT helps us to look objectively at the way we think and behave and supports us to change any negative thinking or behavioural patterns, where appropriate.
Many people find these changes bring them a new experience of emotional freedom from the problems that have been bothering them.
CBT is recommended by the NHS for a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including:
Anxiety
Panic Attacks
Depression
Low Self-Esteem
Health Anxiety
PTSD and Trauma
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Stress
Sleep problems (insomnia)
In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends CBT as an effective form of therapy for use within the NHS and by therapists trained in its safe delivery. Find out more by clicking the link, which will direct you to a NICE guidance page illustrating treatment pathways for common mental health conditions. I am highly experienced at adapting CBT to make it fully accessible for those with ADHD or autism.
How does CBT work?
CBT focuses on the link between our thoughts, feelings, and actions. In therapy, we work together to:
Identify unhelpful thought patterns
Understand how these thoughts affect feelings and influence behaviour
Develop new, more balanced ways of thinking
Learn practical coping skills to manage our symptoms
Does CBT work for everyone?
The honest answer is no! CBT can be very effective but we are all individuals and no single therapy suits everyone. Alongside CBT, I am trained in Person-Centred Counselling and can draw on different therapeutic approaches to suit your needs. We can discuss what feels right for you before deciding how to work together.
My Approach to CBT
I offer supportive CBT at your pace, guided by your goals and my experience gained in the NHS, Armed Forces, schools and police. Some people benefit from a short, focused series of sessions; others prefer longer-term work. We will discuss the options available before you decide how to proceed.
Flexible & Accessible:
- CBT in Bristol
- CBT Online
I offer a flexible booking process, allowing you to schedule appointments around your availability and individual circumstances.
Therapy can be provided in the following ways:
In-person CBT sessions in Bristol (Abbots Leigh - BS8)
Online CBT sessions for clients across the UK and abroad
Walk and Talk therapy sessions in North Somerset
Get Started
Request a free 15-minute consultation, by phone or online via video call, to discuss what you need and whether CBT could help: Contact Simon