Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Playa Del Rey, CA

Photo of Shannon M. Kalberg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon M. Kalberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Drawing on my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, and somatic work, I blend a pragmatic approach with an experiential one.
Everyone experiences challenges from time to time, but when the tough times are starting to outweigh the good times or you keep seeing the same patterns repeat over and over in your life, you may want to consider seeking help. I am here not to give you advice, but to help you learn to listen to and trust yourself deeply and fully so that you can live the kind of life you've always wanted.
Drawing on my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, and somatic work, I blend a pragmatic approach with an experiential one.
Everyone experiences challenges from time to time, but when the tough times are starting to outweigh the good times or you keep seeing the same patterns repeat over and over in your life, you may want to consider seeking help. I am here not to give you advice, but to help you learn to listen to and trust yourself deeply and fully so that you can live the kind of life you've always wanted.
(310) 906-4176 View (310) 906-4176
Photo of Mark Mitchell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293  (Online Only)
Through a holistic and integrative approach, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Approach and Mindfulness, I tailor my interventions to meet your unique needs and goals.
Welcome! I'm Mark Mitchell, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to helping individuals with healing, growth, and transformation in a very pragmatic way. With over 40 years of experience in the field, I bring a wealth of knowledge and empathy to guide you through life's challenges. After all, this is Grow Therapy.... I can help you with your roots, trunk, leaves, fruit, pests and even fertilizer!:) Of course, I am speaking in metaphor.
Through a holistic and integrative approach, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Approach and Mindfulness, I tailor my interventions to meet your unique needs and goals.
Welcome! I'm Mark Mitchell, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to helping individuals with healing, growth, and transformation in a very pragmatic way. With over 40 years of experience in the field, I bring a wealth of knowledge and empathy to guide you through life's challenges. After all, this is Grow Therapy.... I can help you with your roots, trunk, leaves, fruit, pests and even fertilizer!:) Of course, I am speaking in metaphor.
(424) 226-5652 View (424) 226-5652
Photo of Dr. Malika Stewart-Bey, LMFT, DMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Malika Stewart-Bey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, DMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293  (Online Only)
Malika's treatment approach consists of a combination of solution-focused and cognitive behavioral therapy modalities.
You are welcome to positively change your life. Dr. Malika is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with clients in the entire state of California. Dr. Malika offers a safe space of unconditional positive regard for you to totally be yourself, as you explore your thoughts and feelings. Dr. Malika has worked in the areas of child development, parenting, addiction treatment, couples therapy, premarital counseling, non-monogamous/Polyamory, LGBTQIA, foster-care/transitional aged youth issues, homelessness, issues pertaining to systemic racism, as well as joined alongside clients overcoming anxious and depressive symptoms.
Malika's treatment approach consists of a combination of solution-focused and cognitive behavioral therapy modalities.
You are welcome to positively change your life. Dr. Malika is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with clients in the entire state of California. Dr. Malika offers a safe space of unconditional positive regard for you to totally be yourself, as you explore your thoughts and feelings. Dr. Malika has worked in the areas of child development, parenting, addiction treatment, couples therapy, premarital counseling, non-monogamous/Polyamory, LGBTQIA, foster-care/transitional aged youth issues, homelessness, issues pertaining to systemic racism, as well as joined alongside clients overcoming anxious and depressive symptoms.
(424) 233-1178 View (424) 233-1178
Photo of Sydney Selecky, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sydney Selecky
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
I am trained in multiple modalities but most frequently use Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
As humans, we tend to shy away from pain. In order to heal the pain, we must first acknowledge it. When we take a closer look at our pain, a number of emotions can emerge. In therapy, I will provide a safe space for you to experience emotions and memories that are difficult to face alone. In session, clients experience me as attentive, compassionate, and authentic. By exploring and asking questions about your experiences, I will help you create a strong sense of self-awareness that will help you navigate life difficulties more effectively.
I am trained in multiple modalities but most frequently use Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
As humans, we tend to shy away from pain. In order to heal the pain, we must first acknowledge it. When we take a closer look at our pain, a number of emotions can emerge. In therapy, I will provide a safe space for you to experience emotions and memories that are difficult to face alone. In session, clients experience me as attentive, compassionate, and authentic. By exploring and asking questions about your experiences, I will help you create a strong sense of self-awareness that will help you navigate life difficulties more effectively.
(310) 879-5281 View (310) 879-5281
Photo of Shannon M Kalberg - Westside Therapy Collective, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Westside Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
(844) 592-0133 View (844) 592-0133
Photo of Delena Zimmerman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Delena Zimmerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
I draw from a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic.
As a strengths-based therapist, I am here as a warm and compassionate partner to walk alongside you through some of life's most difficult challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to explore, process, and cope with past pain, present fears, and future uncertainties. I provide empathy, insight, and a fresh perspective, as we sort through the muck of life together, and you discover your own inner strength and power. You experience healing hope. I'm highly intuitive, coupled with an open heart, and experience working with a range of emotional issues to help guide you toward leading the fulfilling life you desire.
I draw from a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic.
As a strengths-based therapist, I am here as a warm and compassionate partner to walk alongside you through some of life's most difficult challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to explore, process, and cope with past pain, present fears, and future uncertainties. I provide empathy, insight, and a fresh perspective, as we sort through the muck of life together, and you discover your own inner strength and power. You experience healing hope. I'm highly intuitive, coupled with an open heart, and experience working with a range of emotional issues to help guide you toward leading the fulfilling life you desire.
(213) 223-8027 View (213) 223-8027
Photo of Kate Boswell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Boswell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is known to be the most effective approach for anxiety.
Overthinking things. Analyzing every decision to death. Wanting to know for sure what the outcome will be. Not taking the first step unless you feel for sure it will work out the way you want it to. These obsessive tendencies can be paralyzing. They can hold you back from living a more enjoyable life. There is hope and help. I have devoted my work to helping people overcome symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Phobias, and Panic Attacks.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is known to be the most effective approach for anxiety.
Overthinking things. Analyzing every decision to death. Wanting to know for sure what the outcome will be. Not taking the first step unless you feel for sure it will work out the way you want it to. These obsessive tendencies can be paralyzing. They can hold you back from living a more enjoyable life. There is hope and help. I have devoted my work to helping people overcome symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Phobias, and Panic Attacks.
(310) 658-3158 View (310) 658-3158
Photo of Bernadette Reyes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bernadette Reyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I implement a variety of evidenced based practices (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to find the best treatment for you because successful treatment looks different for everyone.
Hi, I’m Bernadette and I’m a therapist in the South Bay of California. I work with women to overcome anxiety and self-doubt so they feel empowered and confident. Do you feel anxiety and self-doubt are taking over your life? Are you constantly questioning yourself and your ability to thrive in your environment? If so, schedule a free 15 minute consultation by pasting the following link into your browser: bewelltherapyandcounseling.com/contact
I implement a variety of evidenced based practices (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to find the best treatment for you because successful treatment looks different for everyone.
Hi, I’m Bernadette and I’m a therapist in the South Bay of California. I work with women to overcome anxiety and self-doubt so they feel empowered and confident. Do you feel anxiety and self-doubt are taking over your life? Are you constantly questioning yourself and your ability to thrive in your environment? If so, schedule a free 15 minute consultation by pasting the following link into your browser: bewelltherapyandcounseling.com/contact
(310) 361-1302 View (310) 361-1302
Photo of Natasha Mehta, PhD, Psychologist
Natasha Mehta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90291
I have extensive training in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, as well as specialized training in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure for trauma.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly a decade of experience in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, and depression. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and understand your struggles and to help you obtain the tools to be more effective in achieving the life you want. In addition to private practice, I have worked as the Team Lead on the women’s unit of a mental health residential rehabilitation treatment program and currently work in a medical center’s outpatient mental health clinic, where I provide psychotherapy and supervise trainees.
I have extensive training in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, as well as specialized training in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure for trauma.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly a decade of experience in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, and depression. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and understand your struggles and to help you obtain the tools to be more effective in achieving the life you want. In addition to private practice, I have worked as the Team Lead on the women’s unit of a mental health residential rehabilitation treatment program and currently work in a medical center’s outpatient mental health clinic, where I provide psychotherapy and supervise trainees.
(424) 232-0695 View (424) 232-0695
Photo of Cz Helps Inc: Carrie Zerling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cz Helps Inc: Carrie Zerling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293  (Online Only)
I am eclectic in my orientation and offer an integrative approach using traditional psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness techniques to treat trauma, mood/anxiety disorders, grief, and relational conflicts.
Many of us struggle with issues such as stress, depression, anxiety, social isolation, fear, grief, loss, trauma, relationship difficulties, or we just feel generally overwhelmed with life. You don't have to be alone with these struggles. Psychotherapy is an empowering tool that helps you to better understand yourself and the obstacles that are preventing change. I have worked with clients from various backgrounds in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status & political affiliations. My mission is to help you to improve your life skills and to progress from the difficult experiences that you've had.
I am eclectic in my orientation and offer an integrative approach using traditional psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness techniques to treat trauma, mood/anxiety disorders, grief, and relational conflicts.
Many of us struggle with issues such as stress, depression, anxiety, social isolation, fear, grief, loss, trauma, relationship difficulties, or we just feel generally overwhelmed with life. You don't have to be alone with these struggles. Psychotherapy is an empowering tool that helps you to better understand yourself and the obstacles that are preventing change. I have worked with clients from various backgrounds in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status & political affiliations. My mission is to help you to improve your life skills and to progress from the difficult experiences that you've had.
(323) 844-3504 View (323) 844-3504
Photo of Harper White, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Harper White
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
I utilize a balanced approach combining attachment techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed approaches.
Navigating your 20s and 30s can often feel anxiety-provoking, overwhelming, and lonely. It’s understandable that juggling relationships, work, family, and a social life may leave you feeling depressed, anxious, and burnt out. I work with young adults who are navigating this challenging phase of life and are looking to improve their important relationships, reduce levels of stress, and heal from past painful experiences. Working together collaboratively, we will focus on helping you understand what you need in relationships, identify how to best take care of yourself through your stressors, and live in alignment with your key values.
I utilize a balanced approach combining attachment techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed approaches.
Navigating your 20s and 30s can often feel anxiety-provoking, overwhelming, and lonely. It’s understandable that juggling relationships, work, family, and a social life may leave you feeling depressed, anxious, and burnt out. I work with young adults who are navigating this challenging phase of life and are looking to improve their important relationships, reduce levels of stress, and heal from past painful experiences. Working together collaboratively, we will focus on helping you understand what you need in relationships, identify how to best take care of yourself through your stressors, and live in alignment with your key values.
(818) 350-5688 View (818) 350-5688
Photo of Don Rubish, PhD, Psychologist
Don Rubish
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Sometimes when things go wrong, we don’t know exactly why. Problems at home or work, health issues, relationship struggles, and life transitions can all create a sense of deep disconnect. Being understood will often increase your personal satisfaction and improve your life on a deeper level. The ultimate goal of this work and my main interest is that you come to know yourself more deeply and live a more complete and satisfying life, thereby raising your level of functioning and returning to or discovering a life of gratification and vitality. I am a clinical psychologist with 35 years of experience, licensed in Calif. and Colorado.
Sometimes when things go wrong, we don’t know exactly why. Problems at home or work, health issues, relationship struggles, and life transitions can all create a sense of deep disconnect. Being understood will often increase your personal satisfaction and improve your life on a deeper level. The ultimate goal of this work and my main interest is that you come to know yourself more deeply and live a more complete and satisfying life, thereby raising your level of functioning and returning to or discovering a life of gratification and vitality. I am a clinical psychologist with 35 years of experience, licensed in Calif. and Colorado.
(310) 870-9472 View (310) 870-9472
Photo of Noel Joy Plourde, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Noel Joy Plourde
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
I have over 30 years of experience in helping people of all ages with a variety of presenting problems, including depression, anxiety, severe and chronic mental illnesses, etc. I have extensive experience in work with trauma, addictions, and adults from dysfunctional families. I also work with people who have chronic and terminal illnesses and their families, and in accepting losses of all kinds. I welcome children, adolescents, adults and families to experience the benefits of therapy.
I have over 30 years of experience in helping people of all ages with a variety of presenting problems, including depression, anxiety, severe and chronic mental illnesses, etc. I have extensive experience in work with trauma, addictions, and adults from dysfunctional families. I also work with people who have chronic and terminal illnesses and their families, and in accepting losses of all kinds. I welcome children, adolescents, adults and families to experience the benefits of therapy.
(424) 254-5532 View (424) 254-5532
Photo of Ann O'Brien, LCSW, MSc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSc
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
My clients are lovely people going through difficult things. Whether you are going through a break-up, loss, life transition or adjusting to the post-pandemic world, it can be a struggle to find your footing on your own. I have found that, in order to move forward with an empowered and clear mind, it is helpful to integrate the recent past into an evolving narrative that feels right for you. I offer a kind, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and find tools to quiet the noise, develop new perspectives and connect to your unique voice and path to self-fulfillment.
My clients are lovely people going through difficult things. Whether you are going through a break-up, loss, life transition or adjusting to the post-pandemic world, it can be a struggle to find your footing on your own. I have found that, in order to move forward with an empowered and clear mind, it is helpful to integrate the recent past into an evolving narrative that feels right for you. I offer a kind, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and find tools to quiet the noise, develop new perspectives and connect to your unique voice and path to self-fulfillment.
(424) 372-1560 View (424) 372-1560
Photo of Dr. Steven Werber, PhD
Dr. Steven Werber
PhD
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293  (Online Only)
Life Coaching: I use my 20+ years of experience to help plan and elevate my clients’ lives to the next level. I help clients focus on their present life, make adjustments (big or small), and help them move toward positive goals in their personal and professional life. Whether going through a major transitional phase, or just needing some motivation and encouragement, I serve as a professional mentor. I work by asking the right questions and by providing creative exercises to derive insights, develop action plans and provide feedback needed to help clients discover and make positive changes for greater happiness and success.
Life Coaching: I use my 20+ years of experience to help plan and elevate my clients’ lives to the next level. I help clients focus on their present life, make adjustments (big or small), and help them move toward positive goals in their personal and professional life. Whether going through a major transitional phase, or just needing some motivation and encouragement, I serve as a professional mentor. I work by asking the right questions and by providing creative exercises to derive insights, develop action plans and provide feedback needed to help clients discover and make positive changes for greater happiness and success.
(310) 388-3423 View (310) 388-3423
Photo of Christine Sarkissian - No Limit Trauma Specialty Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
No Limit Trauma Specialty Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293  (Online Only)
Greetings, my name is Christine, owner/trauma specialist at No Limit Trauma Specialty Group exclusively focused on trauma treatment (EMDR, Seeking Safety, and Individual Psychotherapy services in California). Our main goal in therapy is to help client's find their true identity by identifying and processing the root cause of all present-day challenges. We may have a wealth of knowledge, we may have a diverse amount of professional experiences, but at the end of day each person is the true expert of their own lives.
Greetings, my name is Christine, owner/trauma specialist at No Limit Trauma Specialty Group exclusively focused on trauma treatment (EMDR, Seeking Safety, and Individual Psychotherapy services in California). Our main goal in therapy is to help client's find their true identity by identifying and processing the root cause of all present-day challenges. We may have a wealth of knowledge, we may have a diverse amount of professional experiences, but at the end of day each person is the true expert of their own lives.
(323) 475-7311 View (323) 475-7311
Photo of Barbara Gani, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Gani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
If you’re here it means something isn’t sitting right with you. Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next steps? Maybe you’re noticing a lot of self-doubt and not feeling “good enough”. Maybe you’re feeling lonely in your marriage when it has been easy for so long. Are you noticing a lot of imbalances in your relationships and friendships, where you don’t get back what you provide? Things that may have worked in the past may not work anymore, and maybe you’re ready for a new approach. An approach where you can be compassionate towards yourself and take new steps to support yourself.
If you’re here it means something isn’t sitting right with you. Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next steps? Maybe you’re noticing a lot of self-doubt and not feeling “good enough”. Maybe you’re feeling lonely in your marriage when it has been easy for so long. Are you noticing a lot of imbalances in your relationships and friendships, where you don’t get back what you provide? Things that may have worked in the past may not work anymore, and maybe you’re ready for a new approach. An approach where you can be compassionate towards yourself and take new steps to support yourself.
(424) 672-3490 View (424) 672-3490
Photo of Jessica Gallo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Gallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293  (Online Only)
Together, we can make sense of the messiness of life. My treatment approach is strengths-based, authentic, holistic, collaborative & highly customized to each client. In sessions, you can expect to be equipped with practical tools, observations, insights and nurturing containment. You can expect an honest, connected relationship where both laughter and tears are welcomed. Our work will allow you to build on your innate resiliency. Connecting with a professional therapist can shed light on what may need to shift in order to heal and align with the healthiest version of you.
Together, we can make sense of the messiness of life. My treatment approach is strengths-based, authentic, holistic, collaborative & highly customized to each client. In sessions, you can expect to be equipped with practical tools, observations, insights and nurturing containment. You can expect an honest, connected relationship where both laughter and tears are welcomed. Our work will allow you to build on your innate resiliency. Connecting with a professional therapist can shed light on what may need to shift in order to heal and align with the healthiest version of you.
(424) 372-0962 View (424) 372-0962
Photo of Kaitlyn Power, LCSW
Kaitlyn Power
LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Life, especially nowadays, comes with a lot of unparalleled challenges, and I hope to provide support and compassion to encourage my clients to feel safe in expressing their current thoughts and feelings about their unique life circumstances. I aim to help my clients make more more satisfying life choices through increased insight into how their mind works. This will in turn help my clients better tackle life's challenges, especially surrounding life transitions, relationships, and family issues.
Life, especially nowadays, comes with a lot of unparalleled challenges, and I hope to provide support and compassion to encourage my clients to feel safe in expressing their current thoughts and feelings about their unique life circumstances. I aim to help my clients make more more satisfying life choices through increased insight into how their mind works. This will in turn help my clients better tackle life's challenges, especially surrounding life transitions, relationships, and family issues.
(310) 361-2707 View (310) 361-2707
Photo of Katrina Paulino - Well Thought Space, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Well Thought Space
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
We are a diverse group therapy practice serving Los Angeles since 2012. We are currently working with clients on attachment & trauma work (including dissociation), anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, and goal development/personal growth. We have clinicians who specialize in working with adults, kids & teens, families as well as couples. We offer both in-person sessions at our Playa del Rey and Santa Monica locations, as well as virtual sessions.
We are a diverse group therapy practice serving Los Angeles since 2012. We are currently working with clients on attachment & trauma work (including dissociation), anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, and goal development/personal growth. We have clinicians who specialize in working with adults, kids & teens, families as well as couples. We offer both in-person sessions at our Playa del Rey and Santa Monica locations, as well as virtual sessions.
(424) 480-5469 View (424) 480-5469
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Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists

How does cognitive behavioral therapy work?

Cognitive behavioral therapy works by exploring how your thoughts affect your emotions and experiences. CBT helps you identify distortions in your thinking. For example, you may tend to jump to the worst case scenario catastrophizing or think in extremes (all-or-nothing thinking). A therapist can teach you how to push back against those thoughts to ultimately change your feelings and behavior for the better. They can also provide coping skills to better deal with stressors and challenges.

When do I know to seek treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy?

It’s reasonable to consider cognitive behavioral therapy if you struggle to manage difficult emotions or behaviors to such an extent that you are not getting the most out of life on a day-to-day basis. If you want a shorter term, concrete, skills-based approach, CBT is a great option. (By contrast, other types of therapy may devote more time to exploring your past and its effects.) The decision to seek CBT also depends on the condition you’re treating; CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other disorders.

How can I find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else?

To find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else, you may want to begin by discussing the person’s problem, researching cognitive behavioral therapy, and assessing whether the approach is the right fit. You could then reach out to a few cognitive behavioral therapists in this directory, explain the scenario, have a consultation with those available, and determine who could be a good match.

Why is CBT such a popular form of therapy?

CBT has become a popular form of therapy because it is effective and accessible. Robust research has demonstrated that CBT is an effective treatment for many mental health conditions. And CBT can be learned in relatively few sessions, which means that many people can engage in the process, afford it, and see results quickly. It involves learning concrete skills such as disputing unhelpful thoughts; these skills can also be taught and spread widely.