What is CBT?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy developed in the 1960s by Aaron Beck. It helps individuals identify and change unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior.
CBT is one of the most evidence-based and effective forms of therapy worldwide. Backed by decades of scientific research, CBT is widely recommended by leading mental health organizations such as:
- The American Psychological Association (APA)
- The National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- The World Health Organization (WHO)
CBT is collaborative and practical, focusing on helping you manage current difficulties rather than exploring past events.
Benefits of CBT
CBT offers a wide range of benefits for individuals experiencing emotional, behavioral, or psychological difficulties:
- Structured and time-limited.
- Goal-oriented with measurable progress.
- Based on scientifically validated techniques.
- Helps develop long-term coping strategies.
- Encourages active participation in the healing process.
We provide expert cognitive behavioral therapy tailored to your unique needs, taking special care to ensure cultural sensitivity and clinical effectiveness.
When Should You Consider CBT in Dubai?
You should consider CBT therapy in Dubai if:
- You're experiencing persistent anxiety, depression, or stress.
- You're struggling with negative thought patterns or behaviors.
- You've tried other methods and want a structured, evidence-based approach.
- You're looking for a confidential, professional setting with licensed experts.
- You value culturally sensitive therapy tailored to the realities of life in Dubai.
At Counsel Clinic, our Dubai-based CBT professionals are trained to work with both local and expatriate populations. We understand the challenges of urban life, workplace stress, relationship issues, and identity transitions common in this region.
What Conditions Can CBT Help With?
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), CBT is an effective treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, eating disorders, anxiety, alcohol and drug addictions, marital problems, and more.
The following is a list of common psychological conditions for which CBT can help with:
How Does CBT Work?
CBT is based on the concept that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected. By identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, you can change behaviors and emotional outcomes.
A CBT therapist will work with you to:
- Identify unhelpful thoughts ("I'm a failure," "No one cares about me").
- Understand how these thoughts affect your feelings and behavior.
- Learn to challenge and reframe them using evidence-based techniques.
- Develop healthier ways of responding to difficult situations.
Sessions are highly interactive and may involve between-session exercises or "homework" to apply the tools learned.
What Are the Different CBT Techniques?
Depending on your concerns, your CBT therapist may use one or more of the following techniques:
- Cognitive restructuring: Identifying and challenging distorted thoughts
- Behavioral activation: Re-engaging in positive and rewarding activities
- Exposure therapy: Gradual exposure to feared situations in a controlled way
- Problem-solving skills training
- Mindfulness-based CBT (MBCT): Especially useful for depression and relapse prevention
- Thought records and journaling to track and shift mental patterns
These techniques are adapted to suit each person's unique goals and cultural context particularly important in a diverse city like Dubai.
How Effective Is CBT?
CBT is one of the most extensively studied forms of therapy, with consistent results demonstrating its effectiveness across multiple clinical trials.
- According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), CBT has shown to be effective in several outcome studies for depression, anxiety, personality disorders, substance abuse, and eating disorders.
- A study on CBT titled "Long-term remission and relapse of anxiety and depression in older adults after Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)" published on ScienceDirect concludes that 68% of individuals who underwent CBT treatment for their anxiety disorder were in remission 10 years later, while 53% were in remission of depression.
- CBT has low relapse rates compared to other therapies when combined with follow-up support
- CBT is considered a first-line treatment for many conditions by the WHO and APA
When delivered by licensed and trained professionals, CBT is a powerful tool for long-term emotional health.
Book a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Session
Counsel Clinic features over 50 licensed, Dubai-based male and female therapists trained in CBT, providing expert, culturally sensitive care tailored to your needs.
If you're looking for CBT therapy in Dubai, our team at Counsel Clinic is here to help. Here's what you can expect:
- Licensed and accredited CBT practitioners.
- Sessions are held in a confidential, supportive setting.
- Multilingual therapists available to provide compassionate support in your native language.
- Skip long wait times and get quick access to trusted mental health care online.
Ready to take the first step? Book your session with a professional CBT therapist in Dubai today through the Counsel Clinic website or get in touch with our support team through WhatsApp at +971525609479.
