Anxiety and/or depression can be very debilitating for anyone but particularly for young people. It can impact on their social relationships, studies and self-image. It can present in the form of panic attacks, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and social anxiety, as well as isolation and withdrawal.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a short term, goal-orientated therapy that offers a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving. CBT is interested in the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviour and how problems can become maintained by these patterns.
CBT can help to change how one thinks ('Cognitive') which will have an impact on what one does ('Behaviour') and how one feels.
Often, when children are anxious or depressed, they are overwhelmed with thoughts of inadequacy and doubt. These thoughts become automatic. CBT strives to help reconsider their assumptions and helps them to see that if they change the way they view themselves and their environment, they can improve their condition.
Unlike some of the other talking treatments, it focuses on the 'here and now' problems and difficulties rather than focusing on the causes of distress. I think it is this emphasis that makes it particularly appealing to adolescents and young people.
After an initial assessment of 90 minutes, weekly appointments of one hour duration would normally be recommended.