What is CBT for menopause — and does it actually work?

CBT — Cognitive Behavioural Therapy — for menopause isn't quite what it sounds like. It's not therapy in the traditional sense, and you don't need to be struggling with your mental health to benefit from it. It's a structured, evidence-based programme specifically designed to help women manage hot flushes and night sweats. Here's what it is, what the evidence says, and what to expect.

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Does it work?

Yes — and there is good quality evidence to support it. NICE (the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) recommends CBT as an effective approach for managing menopausal symptoms (guideline NG23). The approach is based on the Hunter and Smith model, developed through NHS randomised controlled trials with menopausal women. The research shows that CBT can reduce the frequency and impact of hot flushes — not by stopping them entirely, but by changing how your body and mind respond to them.

Who it's for:

CBT for hot flushes is for any woman experiencing hot flushes and night sweats who wants practical, evidence-based tools for managing them. It's not a last resort — many women do the programme alongside other approaches, including HRT. It's suitable whether your symptoms are mild or severe.

What the programme involves:

The programme runs over 6 structured sessions and covers: how hot flushes work and what makes them worse; the role of stress, anxiety, and thoughts; practical self-management strategies; sleep and mood; and building a plan that works for you long term. Sessions are available individually or in small groups.

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Interested in finding out more? Learn about the CBT programme for hot flushes and night sweats, or get in touch to ask a question