Continuing Professional Development - Chairwork in CBT

Chairwork represents a collection of powerful experiential interventions which utilise chairs and their relative positions for therapeutic purposes. Chairwork has a rich history of applications in CBT and appears to be an effective method for treating a range of emotional and psychological difficulties.

For a more detailed description of chairwork, look at this article from the British Psychological Society.

The training was led by Tobyn Bell. Tobyn is a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, Trainer, Supervisor, and programme-lead at the Greater Manchester CBT Training Centre. He is also a Compassion-Focused Therapist and is part of the training executive for the Compassionate Mind Foundation.

Photo courtesy of Devon & Cornwall BABCP

CBT and EMDR for severe depression and anxiety

I learned very quickly that I could trust Sarah. She listened to what I said, processed it and then came up with relevant strategies to help me. She never judged what I said. Her focus was on using that information to help me move forward. After the first session I walked out of the door thinking “I feel safe. I’ve got someone to help me”.

Within 8 sessions of CBT, I no longer had depression and heightened anxiety. I decided to have some EMDR sessions to process some upsetting memories. Now I just feel completely different, which is wonderful. I feel more self-confident, calmer, resilient and I can speak up for myself. 

(Female aged 48, November 2019)

CBT for Social Phobia - Testimonial

Due to a long term illness I got stuck in a rut. I stopped seeing friends, going out and I withdrew. I had previously been a very active person. When I recovered from my illness, to my surprise I felt anxious about going out. I had never, ever had this before.  Basically my home became my safety net and unfortunately also a prison. Whenever I went out, I just wanted to go home. But being alone at home it felt worse and I got really down. 

Work provided me with 12 sessions of CBT with Sarah. I have really enjoyed the sessions with her.  Each week I have learnt something new. I have put all of this learning into practice. I have been able to challenge myself and successfully  go out socially again and meet new people. I have joined some groups which I am really enjoying. It is making my life better both socially and at work.  

If it wasn’t for the CBT techniques and Sarah encouraging me in the right way, I wouldn’t be having the fun I am having now. 100% thank you Sarah. I am grateful for everything. I feel I had a good connection with her and felt comfortable  from the get go.  

(Male aged 43, January 2020)