Sarah Lawson
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in Edinburgh

Frequently asked questions

What happens in CBT Sessions?

You and I will work together to develop a shared understanding of your problems. During the first couple of sessions you will explain what has brought you to therapy and we will identify how your thoughts, feelings and behaviours affect your daily functioning. We will work on identifying your goals and a treatment plan to help you achieve them.

What sort of problems does CBT help?

Research has shown CBT to be helpful with a wide range of psychological and emotional problems including:

• Depression
• Stress
• Anxiety and Panic Attacks
• Phobias
• Low self esteem
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Eating Problems
• Relationship Problems
• Anger Management
• Drug and Alcohol Problems
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

How can I be sure CBT is the right approach for me?

Come along for an initial free consultation. I can tell you more about CBT, and answer any questions you may have. We can then agree whether CBT is the right approach for you. There are other counselling approaches which can be better suited to particular individuals or issues.

How long do sessions last?

The session will last for an hour. Between sessions you will probably have ‘homework’ tasks to complete that will help you achieve your goals. You will gain most benefit if between sessions you put into practice the techniques that you have learned. For instance, we might work on an issue about being assertive at work and rehearse what you might say in a given situation. Between sessions you would have a go at testing this out in real life. In the next session we would look at what happened, how you felt, what you were thinking, what you learned and see how you can take this learning forward.

How many sessions will I need?

CBT is solution focused and time limited. Depending on the problem that has brought you to therapy and the severity of your symptoms we may contract for six, or maybe, eight sessions. We will review progress regularly and may decide to contract again for another six or so. Sometimes it may only require two or three sessions if the issue is in just one area of your life.

How much does it cost?

The sessions cost £45 per hour. However if you are a low earner please ask for a discount.

How do I pay?

Payment is by cash or cheque, at the end of each session.