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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis - usually called CBTp - is a psychological therapy recommended within NICE guidance for people experiencing psychosis, or symptoms such as hearing voices, visual hallucinations or feelings of suspiciousness and paranoia.​CBTp does not involve a therapist simply telling you that your beliefs are wrong or that your experiences are not real. It is a collaborative process in which we explore what has been happening, what sense you have made of it and how it is affecting your emotions, behaviour and daily life.​Depending on your needs, CBTp may help you to:Develop a clearer understanding of your experiencesRecognise situations that intensify distress, voices or suspicious thoughtsConsider different possible explanations without being forced to accept oneFeel less frightened or controlled by particular experiencesDevelop more helpful ways of respondingReduce avoidance, checking or reassurance-seekingRebuild confidence and return to meaningful activitiesWork towards personal goals and a life that feels less dominated by fear​The aim is not necessarily to make every unusual experience disappear. It is to help you feel less distressed, more able to cope and more in control of how you respond.

You do not need to be certain that you are experiencing psychosis or have a diagnosis, and you do not need to agree with a particular diagnosis or explanation before getting in touch.​You may be experiencing:Voices, sounds or other sensations that other people do not seem to experienceA strong feeling that you are being watched, followed or targetedConcerns that other people intend to harm, deceive or control youBeliefs or experiences that feel difficult to discuss with othersFear, anxiety or uncertainty following an episode of psychosisDifficulties with sleep, motivation, confidence or returning to everyday activitiesConcerns about being at risk of developing psychosisOngoing distress despite receiving other forms of support​These experiences can feel confusing, frightening and isolating. Therapy provides a confidential space in which we can explore them without immediately dismissing what you believe or telling you what you must think.

The first stage involves taking time to understand your experiences, the circumstances surrounding them and what you would most like to change.​We may develop a shared map - or formulation - of how different factors interact. This could include life experiences, stress, sleep, thoughts, emotions, coping strategies, relationships and the meaning you attach to what is happening.Therapy is then tailored to your goals. Sessions might involve:​Exploring patterns in voices, paranoia or other experiencesUnderstanding what contributes to feeling threatened or unsafeDeveloping strategies for managing distressConsidering alternative possibilities at a pace that feels manageableCarrying out carefully agreed exercises between sessionsReducing coping strategies that provide short-term relief but may keep fear goingReconnecting with relationships, interests, work or other valued areas of lifeDeveloping a plan for recognising and responding to future difficulties​You will not be pressured into discussing something before you feel ready. We will regularly review whether therapy feels helpful and whether our work remains focused on what matters to you.

CBTp can be offered alongside medication, psychiatric care and support from NHS or other mental health services. Private therapy is not intended to replace care that you may need from a GP, psychiatrist, community mental health team, early intervention or crisis service.I do not prescribe medication or advise people to begin, stop or change medication. Any medication decisions should be discussed with an appropriately qualified prescriber.With your agreement, it may sometimes be helpful for me to communicate with other professionals involved in your care. We would discuss this with you first, including what information would be shared.The free initial consultation allows us to consider whether remote private therapy is appropriate for your current needs or whether another form of support would be more suitable.

I’m Ben Crabtree, a BABCP-accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist based in Manchester.I have specialist NHS experience working with people experiencing psychosis, paranoia, distressing voices, bipolar disorder and difficulties associated with being at risk of developing psychosis.My approach is compassionate, straightforward and collaborative. I will take your experiences seriously without making assumptions or rushing to impose an explanation. Our work will focus on developing a shared understanding and identifying changes that could make a meaningful difference to your life.All appointments are currently provided online through Microsoft Teams.

It is common for the first enquiry to come from a relative, partner or friend who is worried about someone they care about.You are welcome to contact me to ask about the service and whether CBTp might be appropriate. However, therapy can only take place with the prospective client’s agreement and participation. Their privacy, choices and confidentiality remain central to the process.The initial conversation can help clarify the options available and what the next steps might be. It is not a substitute for urgent assessment or crisis support.​

I offer a free 20-minute initial consultation before any therapy is booked.This provides an opportunity for you to:Meet me and ask questionsTell me, in broad terms, what has been happeningLearn more about how I workConsider whether online CBTp may be appropriateDecide whether you feel comfortable working with meThe consultation is not a full clinical assessment or therapy session, and there is no obligation to continue.Individual therapy sessions last 60 minutes and currently cost £70. A package of five sessions costs £300.Email admin@bencrabtreetherapy.com with a brief enquiry. Please avoid including extensive personal or medical information by email.

Ben Crabtree Therapy is not an emergency or crisis service, and messages are not monitored continuously.If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 or attend your nearest A&E department.If you need urgent mental health support in England, contact NHS 111 online or call 111 and select the mental health option. If you are already receiving care from a mental health service, follow your care plan or contact the team supporting you.