What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based talking therapy, available through the NHS and organisations like Healios, that helps people understand how to make sense of their thoughts, feelings and behaviours, and learn practical ways to manage difficult emotions and situations.
CBT is often used to support people experiencing low mood, depression, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other common mental health challenges.
At Healios, CBT is delivered online by experienced clinicians, meaning that children six plus and young people can access structured support from home or their preferred location.
Unlike some forms of therapy, CBT focuses on current difficulties and the practical strategies that can help manage them. A CBT clinician will take time to understand the person’s difficulties, alongside their strengths, motivations and goals. Over a series of sessions, the individual will work through guided exercises to build an understanding of their difficulties, develop new coping skills and feel more able to navigate challenges.
Why is CBT so popular?
It is backed by research
CBT has a strong evidence base showing effectiveness across a wide range of mental health conditions and ages.
It is time-limited
CBT is typically offered over a brief number of sessions. Many people find this structured, focused approach helps them experience positive outcomes and build resilience relatively quickly.
It is flexible
CBT has been found to be effective when delivered face to face or online, making it accessible to people who may find travelling to clinical settings challenging.
How do people access CBT at Healios?
Healios is an experienced provider of online CBT. Our services meet high clinical standards, and our approach to CBT has received NICE endorsement.
We work in partnership with NHS services and Health Boards across the UK, including CAMHS. In fact, most individuals access CBT at Healios through a referral from their local CAMHS service. Some people who complete a mental health assessment with Healios may also be recommended CBT as part of their care.
Once a referral is received, our team will be in touch to explain the next steps and arrange an appointment.
How does online CBT work at Healios?
All CBT sessions at Healios are delivered online by experienced clinicians using our digital platform, Panacea. This allows individuals to access support from a familiar and comfortable space, without the need to travel. With Panacea, people can join video sessions, view written summaries, manage appointments and involve supportive family members or caregivers where appropriate.
Over a series of sessions, the client will work through supportive exercises with their clinician to build resilience and develop better coping skills. Examples of the techniques used include, noticing unhelpful thinking patterns, practicing relaxation, or testing out new ways of doing things.
Each session is tailored to the person’s goals. As well as talking through experiences, clinicians may use on-screen tools or activities that help illustrate the connections between thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Individuals may also be given supportive exercises or resources to use between sessions.
When sessions are complete and the individual is ready to end their support, they will receive a personalised health and wellbeing plan, along with information about further support available in their area.
CBT can be a powerful, practical therapy that helps children and young people build skills for managing difficult emotions and navigating everyday challenges. Healios clinicians are experienced in delivering engaging and supportive CBT remotely and can work with young people to adapt sessions where required. If you have been referred to Healios and have a question, click the Contact us button below.
Frequently asked questions about CBT
What can CBT help with?
CBT is commonly used to support people with mental health experiences including low mood, depression, OCD, social anxiety, trauma and PTSD, separation anxiety, generalised anxiety disorder and worry. Your clinician will explain whether CBT is likely to be helpful for your specific challenges.
How long does CBT last at Healios?
CBT at Healios is usually offered over a set number of weekly sessions, often around 8–12, depending on your age, needs and local NHS pathway. Your clinician will discuss the planned number of sessions with you at the start.
Is online CBT as effective as face-to-face CBT?
Online CBT at Healios follows the same evidence-based principles as face-to-face CBT. Sessions are delivered by qualified clinicians using secure video appointments, and many people find that accessing therapy from home helps them feel more comfortable and engaged.