Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

“What if I get it wrong?” “Nobody likes me.” “I can’t do this.” Thoughts like these can feel convincing to a child. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach that helps children and teens explore how thoughts, feelings, and behaviours connect, and learn practical ways to respond when they get stuck.

At YEG Psychology Kids, we turn CBT into a process of discovery. Children become curious about their thoughts, try out new strategies, and build confidence through experience. Goals and activities reflect their age, interests, and the challenges that matter to them.

How CBT works

Imagine a child who worries that everyone will laugh if they answer a question incorrectly. They may feel a knot in their stomach and stay quiet in class. CBT helps them explore that prediction, consider other possibilities, and practice speaking up in supported steps. Key elements include:

Recognizing Unhelpful Thoughts: Children learn to spot patterns such as expecting the worst, assuming what others think, or judging themselves harshly.
Exploring Different Perspectives: Young people consider the evidence for their thoughts and whether there is another explanation. “I’m terrible at everything” might become “This is difficult, but I can learn with practice and support.”
Learning Through Action: Small, supported steps help children approach fears, return to enjoyable activities, or try something new. These experiences reduce avoidance and build confidence in their ability to cope.
Strengthening Coping Skills: Therapy provides tools for recognizing body cues, solving problems, managing stress, and asking for help. Children rehearse strategies they can use at school, at home, and with friends.

Games, drawing, role-play, and between-session practice help bring these skills into daily life. Caregivers may learn how to encourage progress and reinforce new skills without taking over tasks the child is learning to manage.

Effective for a Variety of Issues

CBT can help children and teens with concerns such as:

Anxiety, worry, and panic
Separation anxiety and social anxiety
Phobias and fears
Depression and low mood
School-related stress and avoidance
Anger and difficulty managing frustration
Perfectionism, self-criticism, and confidence struggles
Sleep difficulties and coping with chronic pain or illness

Treatment is tailored to the concern, the child’s abilities, and the circumstances affecting their well-being.

Why Choose CBT?

CBT gives children something concrete to try when a problem feels too big. They can investigate a worried prediction, work through a problem, or take a small step toward something they have been avoiding. Progress grows through trying, reflecting, and trying again.

Our therapists make room for questions, mistakes, and moments of success. Over time, children and teens can build a collection of skills they can turn to when school, friendships, or everyday demands feel challenging.