You can expect the first session to focus on putting you at ease, feel comfortable and safe. Once you are ready, I will ask questions and take information, including your name, GP and contact details. We will cover the therapy contract which covers use of video or telephone equipment, cancellations, payment of fees, complaints etc. I will ask you about your expectations of CBT and what you are hoping to achieve.

I will ask what has brought you to CBT, and gather information that will enable us to understand what the most appropriate treatment should be. I will ask you about risk to yourself and others, including self-harm. The first session is often emotional. I will take the session at your pace, no rush. A second assessment session may be required. At the end of the assessment I will share my observations and thoughts on your treatment. CBT is a collaborative endeavour and I will ask you what your thoughts are on my assessment. If we agree, we can move towards treatment, if that is what you would like to do.

First session - Setting the scene and assessment

Treatment

I will explore with you your knowledge and understanding of your problems.

I will help you to see the links between your past experience, beliefs, thoughts, emotions and behaviours. The aim here is so you can understand the problem from a different perspective and psychological understanding.

As we move toward treatment (in reality treatment may have started for the first session!). Treatment will focus on your thoughts, behaviours and emotions. CBT uses a number of tools and techniques too numerous to outline here.

As you progress we will check your progress and amend the approach accordingly. We will agree and set a number of sessions. We will review progress frequently to ensure your goals are on track. The later stages of CBT focuses on therapy coming to a close and ensuring you know as much as you can to sustain your improvement. Please contact me on 07352070308 or chris@christaylorcbt.co.uk