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How does it work? of Cognitive behavioural therapy
A therapist will usually works with you once a week for anywhere between 8-20 sessions, depending on the problem. Each session usually lasts 50-60 minutes. Success will depend on your commitment and active participation.
In the first session, the therapist will try to identify the problem and any associated thoughts, feelings and behaviours. You will then begin to learn techniques for controlling your anxious or negative thoughts and changing your behaviour.
You will be given reading material and tasks (homework) between sessions to encourage the practice of the techniques learned. The therapist will teach you to identify the symptoms, and outline a treatment plan and treatment goals and tasks on which you both agree.
Some people find CBT very difficult to begin with as you have to be open and honest about your issues.
CBT by computer
Some trials have studied the effectiveness of CBT by computer. There is some evidence to suggest that the delivery of CBT via a computer interface (CCBT) may help with anxiety and depressive disorders. (3)
In one study, CBT treatments by therapist and computer eliminated the occurrence of panic attacks in 67% of the individuals involved. (4)









