Getting to know...a cognitive behavioural therapist
Sandra Eriemo is a cognitive behavioural therapist. Here she shares how cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help people with Parkinson’s adapt to any struggles they’re facing.
What does a cognitive behavioural therapist do, and how do you work with people with Parkinson’s?
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a very practical therapy that aims to improve presentday difficulties.
We work with clients to identify and work through the barriers that are getting in the way of their psychological wellbeing. We explore the relationship between thoughts, emotions, body and behaviour. This helps people to make sense of patterns of coping or thinking, that may create a cycle of mood problems and other difficulties. This can include things like such as low confidence or anxiety.
We focus on learning to think more objectively, taking into account the health challenges people with Parkinson’s face. This can help the client to reduce any stress they’re experiencing, that can worsen their symptoms.
We also explore coping after CBT has ended and consider how they can manage setbacks.
What benefits can CBT have for people with Parkinson’s?
CBT can help people in a variety of ways, including:
- reducing symptoms such as depression, and managing anxiety
- improving sleep
- building self-confidence
- improving communication with loved ones and building support networks
- dealing with memory problems
- helping people adjust to their diagnosis and how it impacts how they feel about themselves and their lives
- adjusting to a changing condition and managing the uncertainty it can bring, and fears for the future
What does a typical CBT session involve?
We first agree on the focus of the session and work together to identify what may help the client. We then practice different ways of coping, and plan how they would continue these strategies in daily life, as well as problem-solving any potential barriers to trying them out.
Making practical changes and using these strategies in the real world is essential, so we can see what works and what doesn’t. We usually have written information about the strategies that have been tried, that can be shared with others supporting the client.
With the client’s consent, we can include carers or family members in the sessions to share learning.
We focus on learning to think more objectively, taking into account the health challenges people with Parkinson’s face. This can help the client to reduce any stress they’re experiencing, that can worsen their symptoms.
Can you recommend any CBT strategies for people who are struggling with certain aspects of their condition?
Be kind to yourself. Our nervous systems benefit from compassion rather than self-criticism, so treat yourself kindly as you would someone you deeply care for.
Schedule activities that include a sense of pleasure, purpose or achievement and are linked to the things that matter the most to you. Don’t overload your schedule. Plan time for rest, connecting with others, enjoyable activities, as well as day-to-day things.
Try to notice the thoughts that bother you and consider whether they are completely true. Thoughts are not facts but they do impact how we feel even when they’re untrue. There are lots of CBT-based self-help resources that can help you with this. Working through these with a trusted friend or family member can be helpful.
How can someone with Parkinson’s arrange CBT?
Ask your specialist or Parkinson’s nurse for recommendations. You can also ask your GP for a referral, or self-refer to local NHS psychological therapy services. There may be long waiting lists for services in your area.
You can also look on the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) website to find accredited an CBT therapist.