Psychological therapies offered at OHP
Understanding Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
We are a team of experienced psychologists trained in a range of evidence-based psychological therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Relational Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, evidence-based psychological treatment that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It helps individuals identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns and beliefs, and develop more balanced, realistic ways of thinking. By learning practical strategies to change unhelpful behaviours and manage distressing emotions, CBT supports individuals in improving their mood, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall functioning. CBT is widely used to treat a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, and stress-related difficulties, and is tailored to each person's specific needs and goals.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
This psychological approach helps individuals build a more flexible and meaningful life by learning to accept difficult thoughts and feelings rather than avoiding or fighting them. ACT encourages people to develop mindfulness skills, connect with the present moment, and clarify their personal values—guiding them to take committed action toward what truly matters.
Rather than trying to eliminate distress, ACT supports individuals in changing their relationship with it, fostering greater psychological resilience and well-being. It is effective for a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and chronic pain.
Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)
CFT helps people recognise and make sense of their struggles by acknowledging the complexity of the human mind. It draws on insights from evolutionary science, neuroscience, and psychological theory to understand how our emotional systems are shaped by biology, life experiences, and our environments. Through practices such as mindfulness, imagery, cognitive strategies, and compassion-based exercises, CFT supports the development of emotional resilience, flexibility, and connection. It fosters the motivation to be helpful and equips individuals with the skills to respond to distress with courage, wisdom, and understanding.
Relational Psychological Therapy
Relational therapy explores how early life experiences and relationships shape the way we see ourselves and connect with others. It helps identify repeating patterns in thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that may cause distress or relationship difficulties.
A key part of this approach is the safe, supportive relationship between therapist and client, where patterns can be noticed in real time. This awareness can lead to positive change, helping people build healthier relationships, improve emotional wellbeing, and develop a stronger sense of self.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a therapeutic approach that helps people work through distressing or traumatic memories. While it's known for using bilateral stimulation (like eye movements or tapping), EMDR also supports people in developing ways to manage emotions, feel grounded, and better understand their experiences.
Because trauma and personal histories are often complex, EMDR often begins by creating a sense of emotional safety and building trust in the therapeutic relationship. This can include learning helpful coping strategies before working directly with painful memories.
EMDR has been shown to be effective for a range of issues, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. For those with more complex or relational trauma, EMDR can be adapted to include a more attachment-informed approach. Over time, it helps reduce the emotional intensity of difficult memories and supports healing and resilience.
