CBT Counsellor in Burnaby
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Changing negative thoughts and behaviors to improve emotional well-being.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a present-focused, goal-oriented form of talk therapy that helps clients understand the deep connection between their thoughts (cognitions), feelings (emotions), and actions (behaviors). The core principle of CBT is that while we can't control every life circumstance, we can control how we interpret and respond to them. It is highly structured and educational, aiming to identify and modify the negative cycles that maintain mental health challenges. Rather than focusing on past traumas, CBT equips clients with practical, evidence-based tools to manage distress and make tangible changes in their daily lives.
How CBT Helps
CBT is a proven, effective treatment for conditions including anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. It helps clients by providing them with concrete skills for sustainable emotional regulation. This involves Cognitive Restructuring, where unhelpful thinking styles (like catastrophizing or all-or-nothing thinking) are identified, challenged, and replaced with more balanced, realistic perspectives. Additionally, clients learn to engage in Behavioral Experiments and Activity Scheduling to change maladaptive actions and increase positive, meaningful engagement. By mastering these techniques, clients develop lasting coping strategies and gain confidence in their ability to handle life's challenges independently.
My therapeutic approaches
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT explores the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. We'll identify patterns contributing to distress and develop more helpful ways of thinking and responding to challenges.
Person-Centered Therapy
This approach places you and your experiences at the center of our work together. I create a supportive environment where you can explore feelings without judgment.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
SFBT concentrates on building solutions rather than dwelling on problems. We'll identify your strengths and past successes to develop strategies for achieving your goals.
Mindfulness based practices
These techniques help you develop greater awareness of the present moment without judgment. Mindfulness can be integrated into any therapeutic approach to enhance self-awareness.
Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)
EFT helps you develop healthier ways of understanding and responding to emotions. Rather than avoiding difficult feelings, you'll learn to use emotional awareness as a guide.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR supports you in processing distressing memories that shape your thoughts and feelings. Using gentle bilateral stimulation, we ease emotional reactions.
Attachment Theory
Attachment Theory explores how childhood bonds shape adult relationships. We'll identify your attachment patterns and develop strategies for creating more secure, fulfilling connections.