Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) - Christchurch
If you are looking for a CBT therapist in Christchurch, you may already know that CBT is one of the most researched and effective psychological treatments available. It is a practical approach that explores the connection between thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and physical responses. Many people seek CBT when they feel stuck in repetitive patterns such as anxiety, low mood, or avoidance. The focus is on identifying what maintains these patterns and introducing strategies to support change. At Positive Psychology & Psychotherapy, our therapists have completed specialised CBT training and integrate it alongside other evidence-based approaches. If you would like to explore whether CBT is the right fit, feel free to get in touch.
How CBT Works in Practice
CBT involves identifying patterns that are maintaining an issue. Together, we look at how thoughts, behaviours, emotions, and physical responses interact, and where targeted changes can interrupt negative patterns. This may involve structured action plans to reduce avoidance, gradual exposure to feared situations, or learning to evaluate thoughts in a more balanced way. CBT can be delivered using worksheets and between session tasks, or in a more conversational format. Often, a combination of both is used so the work feels genuinely useful beyond the therapy room.
Common Reasons People begin CBT Therapy
People begin CBT therapy for a range of reasons, often when patterns start to feel repetitive or difficult to shift. This might include persistent anxiety, low mood, intrusive or self-critical thinking, avoidance of certain situations, or difficulties managing stress. Some people seek CBT after a specific life event, while others notice long standing habits of thinking or reacting that no longer feel helpful. The common thread is a desire for practical strategies to understand what is happening and create measurable change.
Is CBT Right for me?
CBT can be a good fit if you are looking for a structured approach that focuses on understanding and changing present patterns. While CBT is practical and present focused, it can also explore how earlier experiences have shaped current patterns of thinking and responding, which can be important for creating more lasting change. It often suits people who value clear goals and learning skills they can apply between sessions. CBT can be delivered in different ways, and we adapt it to suit your goals and preferences. We regularly blend CBT with other evidence-based approaches when this is likely to be helpful.
Christchurch cbt therapists
We use CBT in a way that feels collaborative and conversational. Rather than sitting in the role of expert and telling you what to think or do, we work alongside you to understand what is happening and decide together which strategies are worth trying. We see therapy as something that happens between two people, not something done to you. Your reactions, questions, and responses actively shape the direction of the work. CBT provides a clear framework that we adjust so that the work feels real and workable, rather than prescribed.
Meet our cbt therapists
We are a family-based team that includes a Registered Psychotherapist and a Registered Child and Family Psychologist. We provide evidence-based CBT therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in a way that is relatable, relational, and attuned to the person in front of us.
We have experience applying CBT to a range of issues, such as anxiety, phobias, depression, OCD, trauma, self esteem, and relationship difficulties. Creating a space that feels safe and supportive is central to how we work. Our therapy animals (Bailey, Ellie, and Milo) are sometimes present in sessions, which can help the room feel calmer and more at ease, especially when working through difficult material.
Start CBT Therapy in Christchurch
If you are considering CBT therapy in Christchurch, we are available to support you. Whether you are looking for concrete strategies or a clear roadmap for change, CBT offers a focused pathway forward. Reaching out is often the first step toward meaningful change.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”