Skip to content
Back to Career Guides

How to become a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

Career progression and salary expectations for a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

1

Junior/Trainee CBT Therapist

| Up to £35,000
2

CBT Therapist

| Up to £45,000
3

Senior/Specialised CBT Therapist

| Up to £60,000

The role of a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

Want to turn your empathy into action? You should become a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT)...

Cognitive Behavioral Therapists (also known as CBTs or CBT Therapists) help clients address dysfunctional thoughts and behaviours through techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioural experiments, exposure therapy, and problem-solving to facilitate change.

By working collaboratively with each client, it’s a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist’s job to identify and challenge negative patterns of thinking and behaviour, creating personalised treatment plans that will help them to manage difficulties and lead fulfilling lives.

General tasks and duties for a Cognitive Behavioral Therapists (CBT) include:

  • Conducting initial assessments
  • Setting treatment goals and develop personalised plans
  • Educating clients about CBT principles
  • Teaching skills to challenge negative thoughts
  • Guiding exposure exercises
  • Monitoring progress and adjust treatment strategies
  • Collaborating with other professionals
  • Maintaining appropriate documentation and confidentiality
First and foremost, Cognitive Behavioural Therapists (CBTs) need strong communication skills to establish rapport, convey therapeutic concepts clearly, and foster trust. 

You’ll also need to demonstrate analytical thinking when assessing issues and developing treatment plans, using collaborative goal-setting skills to implement evidence based interventions. 

Key skills for a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) include:

  • Excellent communication skills
  • Empathy and active listening
  • Analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Collaboration and goal-setting with clients
  • Flexibility and adaptability in approach
  • Patience and resilience in the face of setbacks
"Being a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist is incredibly fulfilling. It's about guiding clients through their journey of self-discovery and growth, helping them challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies. Each session is an opportunity to witness the transformative power of therapy and support clients as they make meaningful strides toward positive change."

Get qualified as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

To become a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT), you’ll first need to study for a bachelor's degree in psychology, counselling, or a related field. You’ll then be required to complete a master's degree or postgraduate diploma in CBT, accredited by organisations like the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP).

While licensure isn't mandatory, many practitioners choose to register with regulatory bodies like the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) or the British Psychological Society (BPS) to demonstrate their adherence to professional standards.

Recommended Cognitive behavioural therapy courses

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy CBT, DBT, PTSD, EMDR, REBT & Counselling - QLS Endorsed

    Academy for Health & Fitness
    Spring Sale: QLS Level 5 Diploma with CPD Accreditation| 250 CPD Points| 5 CPD Courses + Student ID | Lifetime Access
    • 22 students
    • Online
    • 41 hours · Self-paced
    • Certificate(s) included
    • 250 CPD points
    • Tutor support
    Great service
    >>24 Hours Left! Don't Let the Winter Deals Slip Away – Enrol Now!<< Do you ever feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts? One in four people in the UK experience mental health problems each year. Whether it's anxiety, depression, or trauma, mental health issues can si …
    Save 10%
    £25.99 £29

  • Level 5 Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) - QLS Endorsed

    Academy for Health & Fitness
    QLS Level 5 Diploma with Certificate| 255 CPD Points| Gift: 10 CPD Courses +Certificate| No Hidden Fees| Lifetime Access
    • Online
    • 44 hours · Self-paced
    • Certificate(s) included
    • 255 CPD points
    • Tutor support
    Great service
    ★★★ 24-Hour Knowledge Knockdown! Prices Reduced Like Never Before ★★★ Ever wondered why you think the way you do? Did you know that in the UK, 1 in 6 people experience a common mental health problem in a given week? This course bundle explores how our thoughts, feelings, and be …
    Save 4%
    £100 £105
Want to see more?
View all Cognitive behavioural therapy courses

CBT jobs

All CBT jobs

Similar Career Guides

View all Career Guides