Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Christina Nicole Cabral, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Nicole Cabral
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
(619) 762-3626 View (619) 762-3626
Photo of Jovonna Smith, ACSW
Jovonna Smith
ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
I utilize Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here taking this step. Are you needing someone to walk alongside on this journey? I am honored to be alongside you and provide the tools you need to heal, grow, and develop into the best version of you. I would like to know your story.
I utilize Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here taking this step. Are you needing someone to walk alongside on this journey? I am honored to be alongside you and provide the tools you need to heal, grow, and develop into the best version of you. I would like to know your story.
(619) 361-7789 View (619) 361-7789
Photo of Chad K Cox, PsyD, Psychologist
Chad K Cox
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92119  (Online Only)
The therapy I provide is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which is a scientifically validated form of treatment.
Dr. Cox has a experience providing assistance to high performing professionals such as lawyers, doctors, executives, business owners and even other counselors. Courage is needed when facing a personal problem. My mission is to provide compassionate and professional assistance to those struggling with emotional, behavioral or relational problems. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement, where sensitive issues can be explored. You can get help for mood difficulties, drug/alcohol problems or relational concerns. To start, we can have a free consultation to discuss your goals for self-improvement.
The therapy I provide is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which is a scientifically validated form of treatment.
Dr. Cox has a experience providing assistance to high performing professionals such as lawyers, doctors, executives, business owners and even other counselors. Courage is needed when facing a personal problem. My mission is to provide compassionate and professional assistance to those struggling with emotional, behavioral or relational problems. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement, where sensitive issues can be explored. You can get help for mood difficulties, drug/alcohol problems or relational concerns. To start, we can have a free consultation to discuss your goals for self-improvement.
(619) 458-3380 View (619) 458-3380
Photo of Claire Deierhoi-Clark, PhD, Psychologist
Claire Deierhoi-Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
I also trained at Sharp Mesa Vista, where I used CBT and DBT interventions to address self-harm, suicidal ideation, and intense anger.
People often think therapy is a place to vent; it definitely CAN be that - validation is important. Therapy is also a place where you are challenged to see things differently, face your fears and take steps toward creating the life you deserve. It can be scary, which is why having a therapist is so helpful. I'm not here to tell you what to do, but I will point out the barriers in your way (even the ones you might be accidentally putting there yourself), so you can overcome them. Therapy can be long-term, but it doesn't have to be. Part of my job is to help you become your own therapist, so you don't need me as much (or at all!)
I also trained at Sharp Mesa Vista, where I used CBT and DBT interventions to address self-harm, suicidal ideation, and intense anger.
People often think therapy is a place to vent; it definitely CAN be that - validation is important. Therapy is also a place where you are challenged to see things differently, face your fears and take steps toward creating the life you deserve. It can be scary, which is why having a therapist is so helpful. I'm not here to tell you what to do, but I will point out the barriers in your way (even the ones you might be accidentally putting there yourself), so you can overcome them. Therapy can be long-term, but it doesn't have to be. Part of my job is to help you become your own therapist, so you don't need me as much (or at all!)
(619) 391-2794 View (619) 391-2794
Photo of Guadalupe Gallegos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Guadalupe Gallegos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I have training and experience in evidenced based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Functional Family Therapy, Trauma informed therapy practices such as Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and other evidenced based practices and work to provide client specific services that best fit the individuals needs.
My name is Guadalupe Gallegos and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who has experience in working with children, teens, families, and adults for individual and family therapy. It is my goal to provide a safe, judgment free environment for my clients to help support and nurture growth, healing, and change.
I have training and experience in evidenced based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Functional Family Therapy, Trauma informed therapy practices such as Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and other evidenced based practices and work to provide client specific services that best fit the individuals needs.
My name is Guadalupe Gallegos and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who has experience in working with children, teens, families, and adults for individual and family therapy. It is my goal to provide a safe, judgment free environment for my clients to help support and nurture growth, healing, and change.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Dr. Tri Nguyen, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Tri Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Waitlist for new clients
I use a combination of Gottman Method, EFT, solution-focused and CBT models.
People go to therapy for various reasons and there may be no "right time" to start. I realized the first step of reaching out for help can be intimidating and I strive to make that process as simple and transparent as possible. My practice is centered on the idea that behavioral change is possible and constant. With a combination of social support, personal agency and opportunities, people can flourish to their full potential. It would be my honor to be a part of your journey toward healing and growth.
I use a combination of Gottman Method, EFT, solution-focused and CBT models.
People go to therapy for various reasons and there may be no "right time" to start. I realized the first step of reaching out for help can be intimidating and I strive to make that process as simple and transparent as possible. My practice is centered on the idea that behavioral change is possible and constant. With a combination of social support, personal agency and opportunities, people can flourish to their full potential. It would be my honor to be a part of your journey toward healing and growth.
(619) 292-0435 View (619) 292-0435
Photo of George Kim Sutterfield, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
George Kim Sutterfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110
I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 30 years and have a wealth of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have been trained in psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dilaectial behavior therapy. I believe that people have the innate ability to improve their lives when given focused therapeutic attention. My goal as a therapist is to help people develop skills to manage whatever life may bring them. I use emperically based treatment methods, a belief in the strength of the human spirit and a sense of humor to work with clients.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 30 years and have a wealth of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have been trained in psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dilaectial behavior therapy. I believe that people have the innate ability to improve their lives when given focused therapeutic attention. My goal as a therapist is to help people develop skills to manage whatever life may bring them. I use emperically based treatment methods, a belief in the strength of the human spirit and a sense of humor to work with clients.
(209) 392-5173 View (209) 392-5173
Photo of Marc Sherman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marc Sherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
In addition, Marc has also received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Do you want someone to hear you...really listen to you? Someone who meets you on your life journey and provides an empathetic environment with understanding and free from judgement?
In addition, Marc has also received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Do you want someone to hear you...really listen to you? Someone who meets you on your life journey and provides an empathetic environment with understanding and free from judgement?
(619) 452-1898 View (619) 452-1898
Photo of Danette L. Montoya, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danette L. Montoya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including eclectic, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, person-centered, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
I am interested in learning about you, your struggles and strengths. I can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings in order to explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter. As we build our therapeutic relationship, I will deliver honest, direct therapy to you. Ideally reducing defensiveness and allowing you to hear what you need to hear. Together, we will help you recognize your strengths, identify new perspectives, and develop healthy coping skills so that you can maximize your personal potential.
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including eclectic, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, person-centered, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
I am interested in learning about you, your struggles and strengths. I can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings in order to explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter. As we build our therapeutic relationship, I will deliver honest, direct therapy to you. Ideally reducing defensiveness and allowing you to hear what you need to hear. Together, we will help you recognize your strengths, identify new perspectives, and develop healthy coping skills so that you can maximize your personal potential.
(619) 639-9657 View (619) 639-9657
Photo of Dr. Edward L. De La Loza - Mental Health 365, Inc., EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mental Health 365, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Edward L. De La Loza, EdD, LCSW: Are you prepared to explore a revitalized sense of self-control through a compassionate and methodical approach to therapy? Can your life be enhanced by acquiring knowledge about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and the unique Seven Dimensions of Transformational Living (7-DTL) that are specific to you? Do you take pleasure in feeling empowered and are you receptive to learning? If you respond affirmatively to these inquiries, you can acquire the capability to be healthy, thrive, strive, and surpass your current limitation.
Edward L. De La Loza, EdD, LCSW: Are you prepared to explore a revitalized sense of self-control through a compassionate and methodical approach to therapy? Can your life be enhanced by acquiring knowledge about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and the unique Seven Dimensions of Transformational Living (7-DTL) that are specific to you? Do you take pleasure in feeling empowered and are you receptive to learning? If you respond affirmatively to these inquiries, you can acquire the capability to be healthy, thrive, strive, and surpass your current limitation.
(858) 682-0183 View (858) 682-0183
Photo of Heline Mirzakhanian, PhD, Psychologist
Heline Mirzakhanian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
I integrate several modes of treatment in my work, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapies.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in private practice. I primarily work with adolescents and adults who experience recurring and distressing symptoms of depression, anxiety and psychosis-like symptoms. I also work with individuals coping with life transitions and illness. I trained at University of California San Diego (UCSD), Yale University as well as at the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute. In addition to private practice, I am a scientist and Clinical Associate Professor at UCSD. There, I conduct assessments in adolescents with early symptoms of psychosis at Cognitive and Risk Assessment Evaluation Program (CARE) .
I integrate several modes of treatment in my work, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapies.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in private practice. I primarily work with adolescents and adults who experience recurring and distressing symptoms of depression, anxiety and psychosis-like symptoms. I also work with individuals coping with life transitions and illness. I trained at University of California San Diego (UCSD), Yale University as well as at the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute. In addition to private practice, I am a scientist and Clinical Associate Professor at UCSD. There, I conduct assessments in adolescents with early symptoms of psychosis at Cognitive and Risk Assessment Evaluation Program (CARE) .
(858) 434-7089 View (858) 434-7089
Photo of Ana Maldonado, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ana Maldonado
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Strength Based Therapy, as both modalities help me and the client build a shared understanding of their reality, and allow us to work together to chart a path forward.
My name is Ana Maldonado and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Ventura, California. I am currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, and families, and specialize in anxiety, stress, and family conflict. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Strength Based Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Strength Based Therapy, as both modalities help me and the client build a shared understanding of their reality, and allow us to work together to chart a path forward.
My name is Ana Maldonado and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Ventura, California. I am currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, and families, and specialize in anxiety, stress, and family conflict. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Strength Based Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(858) 544-5515 View (858) 544-5515
Photo of Gregory Bendau, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gregory Bendau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, or low self-esteem? Do you find yourself avoiding social engagements or so preoccupied with excessive worrying? Finding ways to navigate these difficult feelings can help you get back on track. I use a psychodynamic approach and CBT that focuses on uncovering patterns of behavior and ways of relating to ourselves and others that are often outside of our awareness. I also consider how our past impacts who we are today. Through acceptance and empathy, we will establish a trusting therapeutic relationship and work together toward your personal growth and self-discovery.
Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, or low self-esteem? Do you find yourself avoiding social engagements or so preoccupied with excessive worrying? Finding ways to navigate these difficult feelings can help you get back on track. I use a psychodynamic approach and CBT that focuses on uncovering patterns of behavior and ways of relating to ourselves and others that are often outside of our awareness. I also consider how our past impacts who we are today. Through acceptance and empathy, we will establish a trusting therapeutic relationship and work together toward your personal growth and self-discovery.
(760) 263-6885 View (760) 263-6885
Photo of Dr. Lynn Northrop, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Lynn Northrop
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104
Licensed for 22 years, I am expert in CBT, especially Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
The world is a hard place. Anxiety, grief, illness, depression, trauma, injustice & change can narrow our lives. They can cause us to lose joy, purpose & meaning. I help people grow, rebuild, & find their best life, even in the midst of difficult experiences & emotions. I am committed to evidence-based treatment guided by values of authenticity, kindness, social justice, creativity, curiosity, collaboration, flexibility, & patience. I have a special love for working with creatives – musicians, artists, actors. I am a staunch ally of the LGBTQI+ community. I have a passion for being a therapist for other therapists.
Licensed for 22 years, I am expert in CBT, especially Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
The world is a hard place. Anxiety, grief, illness, depression, trauma, injustice & change can narrow our lives. They can cause us to lose joy, purpose & meaning. I help people grow, rebuild, & find their best life, even in the midst of difficult experiences & emotions. I am committed to evidence-based treatment guided by values of authenticity, kindness, social justice, creativity, curiosity, collaboration, flexibility, & patience. I have a special love for working with creatives – musicians, artists, actors. I am a staunch ally of the LGBTQI+ community. I have a passion for being a therapist for other therapists.
(619) 404-1958 View (619) 404-1958
Photo of Stephen M White, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephen M White
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing in Rancho Bernardo. I am currently working through telehealth only, and I generally work with clients shorter term (3-6 months). I primarily work in the morning and early afternoon. I have been trained in the following approaches: *Cognitive Therapy, which helps people improve their mood and functioning by increasing awareness of the thoughts they have associated with different kinds of distress. *Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT helps individuals stop avoiding and struggling with unwanted thoughts, feelings, and memories, and improve ability to pursue valued goals.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing in Rancho Bernardo. I am currently working through telehealth only, and I generally work with clients shorter term (3-6 months). I primarily work in the morning and early afternoon. I have been trained in the following approaches: *Cognitive Therapy, which helps people improve their mood and functioning by increasing awareness of the thoughts they have associated with different kinds of distress. *Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT helps individuals stop avoiding and struggling with unwanted thoughts, feelings, and memories, and improve ability to pursue valued goals.
(619) 566-7035 View (619) 566-7035
Photo of Kurt Helfrich, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kurt Helfrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, & trauma-focused approaches, together we can develop strategies to manage anxiety & depression, navigate your grief, process your trauma, & celebrate your authentic self.
Navigating the challenges of gender identity, sexual orientation, grief, trauma, anxiety & depression can feel overwhelming & isolating. You might feel lost, misunderstood, or even burdened by the weight of your experiences. Yet, there's hope. In our journey together, we'll explore your unique story with compassion & understanding, creating a safe space where you can heal & thrive. I am here to support and help you embrace your true self & find solace.
Trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, & trauma-focused approaches, together we can develop strategies to manage anxiety & depression, navigate your grief, process your trauma, & celebrate your authentic self.
Navigating the challenges of gender identity, sexual orientation, grief, trauma, anxiety & depression can feel overwhelming & isolating. You might feel lost, misunderstood, or even burdened by the weight of your experiences. Yet, there's hope. In our journey together, we'll explore your unique story with compassion & understanding, creating a safe space where you can heal & thrive. I am here to support and help you embrace your true self & find solace.
(619) 664-4667 View (619) 664-4667
Photo of Benjamin Ballou, LPCC, LAADC, Counselor
Benjamin Ballou
Counselor, LPCC, LAADC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
I am formally trained in a variety of modalities, including CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy.
It may feel like many people in your life have an agenda. Whether that’s related to what you do, how you dress, how you act, the relationships you choose- it is easy to feel judged in our lives by the people that surround us. It may be difficult to seek support from a therapist when this has been your experience. I’m here to show you that my only agenda is supporting you in your journey to reach your goals. Through a nonjudgmental and empathic approach, I will offer you guidance and perspective in how you see your life moving forward. I utilize a holistic perspective, engaging in the therapeutic relationship to help you reach goals.
I am formally trained in a variety of modalities, including CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy.
It may feel like many people in your life have an agenda. Whether that’s related to what you do, how you dress, how you act, the relationships you choose- it is easy to feel judged in our lives by the people that surround us. It may be difficult to seek support from a therapist when this has been your experience. I’m here to show you that my only agenda is supporting you in your journey to reach your goals. Through a nonjudgmental and empathic approach, I will offer you guidance and perspective in how you see your life moving forward. I utilize a holistic perspective, engaging in the therapeutic relationship to help you reach goals.
(619) 567-1340 View (619) 567-1340
Photo of Chelsea Dahlen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chelsea Dahlen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
The therapeutic modalities I utilize are Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Hello! I'm Chelsea! As your therapist, I will provide a warm and safe place for you to address the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are affecting your daily life. I will be alongside you as you challenge and modify those thoughts and behaviors to improve your mood and reach your goals.
The therapeutic modalities I utilize are Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Hello! I'm Chelsea! As your therapist, I will provide a warm and safe place for you to address the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are affecting your daily life. I will be alongside you as you challenge and modify those thoughts and behaviors to improve your mood and reach your goals.
(619) 728-2516 View (619) 728-2516
Photo of Sandra Block, CP, Psychologist
Sandra Block
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92124
In my practice, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Therapeutic Writing, couples therapy, family therapy, and hypnosis.
My name is Sandra Block, Ph.D. and I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Southern California providing in-office and online psychotherapy for children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals (18-99 years of age) for over 30 years. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues at home and at work, gambling addiction, parenting issues, family/generational conflicts, grief, aging issues, and ongoing stresses of chronic illness.
In my practice, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Therapeutic Writing, couples therapy, family therapy, and hypnosis.
My name is Sandra Block, Ph.D. and I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Southern California providing in-office and online psychotherapy for children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals (18-99 years of age) for over 30 years. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues at home and at work, gambling addiction, parenting issues, family/generational conflicts, grief, aging issues, and ongoing stresses of chronic illness.
(619) 759-6737 View (619) 759-6737
Photo of Ashley (Allie) King, PhD, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ashley (Allie) King
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
I use an emotional-focused approach and cognitive-behavioral therapies(e.
I am an associate Marriage and Family Therapist (License 107188) who is passionate about helping individuals improve their relationship with themselves, food, and their bodies. I also have expertise in working with individuals who struggle with depression and in strengthening parent-adolescent relationships. Regardless of your source of distress, I believe that having strong relationships can be transformative when we are struggling. We are not meant to face life challenges on our own. I can help you feel more connected with yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
I use an emotional-focused approach and cognitive-behavioral therapies(e.
I am an associate Marriage and Family Therapist (License 107188) who is passionate about helping individuals improve their relationship with themselves, food, and their bodies. I also have expertise in working with individuals who struggle with depression and in strengthening parent-adolescent relationships. Regardless of your source of distress, I believe that having strong relationships can be transformative when we are struggling. We are not meant to face life challenges on our own. I can help you feel more connected with yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
(619) 404-6521 x6 View (619) 404-6521 x6
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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.