What is cognitive behavioural therapy?
Cognitive behavioural therapy, usually shortened to CBT, is a talking therapy based on a simple idea: thoughts, feelings, physical sensations and actions are connected, and changing one can change the others. The NHS describes CBT as a therapy that helps you manage problems by changing the way you think and behave.
CBT is practical and focused on the present. Rather than analysing the past at length, the therapist and client agree on specific goals and work on current difficulties, with exercises to practise between sessions.
How online CBT therapy works
Online CBT follows the same method as CBT in a clinic. The difference is the setting: sessions take place over a secure video call, so you can attend from home anywhere in India.
- Assessment: an initial conversation, often supported by a clinical questionnaire, to understand what you are facing.
- Goals: you and your therapist agree what you want to change.
- Sessions: regular, structured sessions that look at how situations, thoughts and reactions link together.
- Practice: short exercises between sessions, such as thought records or gradual exposure to things you have been avoiding.
- Review: progress is checked against your goals and the plan is adjusted.
Who online CBT can help
CBT is one of the most widely researched talking therapies. It is commonly used for:
- Anxiety, persistent worry and panic
- Low mood and depression
- Stress and difficulty coping
- Phobias and obsessive-compulsive patterns
- Sleep problems linked to worry
Online CBT vs in-person therapy
For common difficulties such as anxiety and depression, research comparing therapist-guided online CBT with face-to-face CBT has found broadly similar results (Carlbring et al., 2018). Online sessions also remove travel time and make it easier to find a suitable therapist outside the largest cities.
Online therapy is not right for every situation. Severe symptoms, complex conditions or a risk of self-harm usually call for in-person care. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services.
How to connect with professional support
MHITR® offers CBT and other evidence-based approaches through its Psychotherapeutic Services, with licensed psychologists providing individual, couples and family therapy online or in a hybrid format across India. Care starts with a clinical assessment so that you are matched with a suitable therapist.
You can book a session or contact the team with questions. The articles below explore therapy, technology and common myths about mental health in more depth.
