Cognitive behaviour therapists recognise that rational descriptions and analysis of thought processes may not be sufficient to mediate change. Evocation of emotion, development of motivation, and experiential techniques that generate new experiences and activate feelings may also be necessary (Leahy, 2003).

Because Thoughts, Feelings and Behaviours all influence each other, any of these three can act as an ‘entry point’ for changing problematic patterns. While thoughts are often used as the main point of entry for intervention, CBT has also developed a range of strategies that focus directly upon changing behaviour, and processing emotion.

Behavioural exercises such as relaxation, activity scheduling and exposure get the client to do something different with the intention that this will lead to new experiences that have a positive influence on feelings and thoughts.