CBT looks at both your thoughts and your behaviour. The idea is that what we think can shape how we feel and what we do, and that by noticing these patterns we may be able to make helpful changes.

For survivors of childhood sexual abuse, this can be a gentle way of understanding how past experiences may still be affecting day-to-day life. It may help with patterns such as worry, self-blame, avoidance, fear or feeling overwhelmed.

Your therapist will work with you to focus on what feels most relevant and manageable, rather than trying to deal with everything at once. The aim is to make things feel more understandable and less overwhelming, while supporting you at a pace that feels safe.