Learn to manage your anxiety by identifying your unhelpful thinking styles and developing more balanced, realistic ways of interpreting the situation.

Overcoming anxiety’s unhelpful thinking styles

Women are at greater risk of anxiety than men in Australia

Nearly one in three Australians will experience an anxiety disorder during their lifetime. Every person has their own unique factors that contribute to their anxiety disorder and experiences the impact of their anxiety disorder on their well-being in different ways. People at risk include young people, women, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Anxiety disorders – Australia’s number one mental health issue

Dr Lauren Hanegraaf explains CPT to her client

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a cognitive behavioural therapy designed to treat PTSD. It addresses negative beliefs or “stuck points” resulting from trauma. CPT involves 12 sessions, focusing on re-evaluating distorted beliefs and processing the trauma. Research supports its effectiveness in reducing PTSD, depression, and alcohol misuse symptoms.

What is Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)?

A client is reflecting on her sessions by writing notes on her tablet and reading recommended self-help books.

Psychological therapy can greatly enhance well-being. These five tips can maximize its benefits: create space before and after your psychology sessions for reflection, clarify your goals , extend reflection outside of sessions to recognize patterns, actively participate in applying insights, and be patient and kind to yourself throughout the process.

Our five top tips to get the most out of your psychology sessions

Clinical Psychologist Ronit Joel is smiling and encouraging a new client in his first session.

Booking a first psychology session is a significant step. The first session is an opportunity for clients to establish rapport with the psychologist, discuss current concerns, receive feedback and treatment options, and plan the therapy process. Psychologists strive to help you make decisions that are right for you.

Getting started: Your first psychology session