Meet Emily Willis, Founder of CBT in CPT
I founded CBT in CPT to make evidence-based, practical therapy accessible in Cape Town and beyond. With a background in psychology and specific training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I specialize in helping adolescents and adults manage anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, academic stress, and life transitions.
​
My journey into psychology has taken me across the world - from simultaneously studying and teaching in South Korea to working with clinicians in Edinburgh - experiences that gave me a deep understanding of people, resilience, and the challenges of modern life. My diverse experience across industries and countries have fueled my passion for empowering clients with the tools they need to thrive, not just in therapy but in everyday life.
​
I believe therapy should feel collaborative, practical, and empowering. My goal is to help you build skills that last long after our sessions, so that you can feel confident, calm, and in control of your mental health.
I felt like CBT helped me gain skills and finally work on my anxiety instead of just talk about it.
Each session with Emily felt purposeful. I loved starting with an agenda and then being able to walk away with something I could try immediately.
I liked to refer to CBT as "therapy with direction" and I really felt like that direction was in my hands.
My Timeline
Present
2023-2025
CBT in CPT Director & Counsellor
SafeSpace Counselling Affiliate
MSc: Psychological Therapies
University of Edinburgh
2023
PGC & Counselling Skills
LifeLine Western Cape
2024
Student Psychotherapist
Creation of CBT in CPT
2019-2023
Medical Project Coordinator
Medical Executive
2018
Honours: Psychological Counselling (Cum Laude)
UNISA
2017-2019
ESL Instructor, South Korea
HR assistant
Medical Sales Instructor
2014-2016
BSc Human Physiology & Psychology
Stellenbosch University
Qualifications & Accreditation
BSc (Stellenbosch University)
BA Hons Cum Laude (UNISA)
MSc (University of Edinburgh)*
​
*Official graduation November 2025
ASCHP Registration as a Counsellor
BABCP Student CBT Therapist
PsySSA Member
*HPCSA registration only after graduation