CBT and person-centred therapy
This page is for people comparing two common talking-therapy approaches. Many practitioners integrate ideas from more than one tradition.
CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy)
Often structured and goal-focused. Looks at links between thoughts, feelings, body states and behaviour, with collaborative tasks between sessions. Widely used in NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression; also offered privately.
Person-centred
Emphasises a warm, non-judgemental relationship and your own pace and meaning-making. Sessions may feel less "homework-led" and more exploratory. Many counsellors train in this tradition.
Choosing
Neither is universally "better". Some people want skills and structure; others want space to talk freely. Ask on an introduction request what a typical course of work looks like. Filter Find by approach (for example CBT) or browse how to choose.