CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and CAT (Cognitive-Analytical therapy) are both therapeutic approaches based on the theory that uncomfortable emotions, and even self-defeating behaviours, can be triggered by our ‘cognitions’ – thoughts and beliefs we hold about our self or our world. These thoughts and beliefs are often based on specific situations experienced in the past or in childhood which can then become generalized to other experiences or situations in later life with unfortunate or unpleasant consequences. CBT involves exploring these thoughts and beliefs and accessing and activating new thoughts, beliefs and actions to bring about positive change and resolution of the current difficulty.
Cognitive therapies are short-term psychotherapies are the recommended evidence-based therapies used within the NHS due to clinical findings on their effectiveness. They are the NHS- recommended intervention for anxiety and depression.
Integrating CBT with hypno-psychotherapy offers a supportive, empathetic environment as well as the added benefit of hypnosis using the power of the client’s unconscious mind to take on the new more positive beliefs and thoughts discovered bringing about easier, quicker positive change..
Research on hypnosis with CBT
Many research studies show the effectiveness of hypnosis but, additional studies also detail the increased effects of using CBT with hypnosis for even better results:
- Schoenberger (2000) states that CBT is more effective when combined with hypnosis.
- Bryant et al (2005) also found CBT and hypnosis more effective than CBT alone.