Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Westlake Village, CA

Photo of Chelsie Silveira, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsie Silveira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362
My clients typically come to me because they are struggling with anxiety or depression and they want to work on their ability to interact with others or improve relationships, complete tasks, sleep better or feel better about themselves. I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions, Exposure Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions, Brainspotting and when indicated Behavioral Interventions. I work from a strengths-based perspective to find the best parts of you and/or your family and I work to build your strengths so you can grow and thrive on your own again.
My clients typically come to me because they are struggling with anxiety or depression and they want to work on their ability to interact with others or improve relationships, complete tasks, sleep better or feel better about themselves. I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions, Exposure Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions, Brainspotting and when indicated Behavioral Interventions. I work from a strengths-based perspective to find the best parts of you and/or your family and I work to build your strengths so you can grow and thrive on your own again.
(805) 926-6995 View (805) 926-6995
Photo of Breanne Sangalang, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Breanne Sangalang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
I take a Person-Centered approach with my clients, and I incorporate elements from Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Interpersonal & Social Rhythm Therapy to address the needs of my clients.
If you are feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, diagnosed with bipolar disorder, are having trouble with relationships in your life, or are struggling to deal with a life transition, I am here to help. I offer individual therapy services to adults (18+) who have a desire to take steps to improve their lives in meaningful, long-lasting ways.
I take a Person-Centered approach with my clients, and I incorporate elements from Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Interpersonal & Social Rhythm Therapy to address the needs of my clients.
If you are feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, diagnosed with bipolar disorder, are having trouble with relationships in your life, or are struggling to deal with a life transition, I am here to help. I offer individual therapy services to adults (18+) who have a desire to take steps to improve their lives in meaningful, long-lasting ways.
(805) 390-4386 View (805) 390-4386
Photo of Chen Z Oren, PhD, Psychologist
Chen Z Oren
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I use interpersonal, psychodynamic, cognitive and strength base therapy as I believe that the relationship tends to be more important than "technique" and focus on where you are and what you need.
I understand the challenges, hopes, and fears you face in the process of seeking therapy. Our goal is to create together a safe atmosphere that will enable you to explore. At the same time, I look at underlying issues you may have and confront them in an empathic manner. In addition to private practice, I teach, write, and present locally and nationally. While I work with both women and men from many walks of life, my specialties include men's issues, fatherhood, sports psychology, working with executives, and diversity training.
I use interpersonal, psychodynamic, cognitive and strength base therapy as I believe that the relationship tends to be more important than "technique" and focus on where you are and what you need.
I understand the challenges, hopes, and fears you face in the process of seeking therapy. Our goal is to create together a safe atmosphere that will enable you to explore. At the same time, I look at underlying issues you may have and confront them in an empathic manner. In addition to private practice, I teach, write, and present locally and nationally. While I work with both women and men from many walks of life, my specialties include men's issues, fatherhood, sports psychology, working with executives, and diversity training.
(818) 292-5216 View (818) 292-5216
Photo of Jack Vincenty, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jack Vincenty
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I utilize an integrated approach emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Humanistic Therapy.
I specialize in addressing concerns related to OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and life adjustment issues. I aim to work collaboratively with my clients to empower them to find the solutions that work best for them. Before beginning my career as a therapist, I spent several years working in various sectors of the entertainment industry. This experience gave me a keen understanding of the many issues individuals in the field face. I seek to use my experience to help other professionals navigate the complexities and common issues seen within the business.
I utilize an integrated approach emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Humanistic Therapy.
I specialize in addressing concerns related to OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and life adjustment issues. I aim to work collaboratively with my clients to empower them to find the solutions that work best for them. Before beginning my career as a therapist, I spent several years working in various sectors of the entertainment industry. This experience gave me a keen understanding of the many issues individuals in the field face. I seek to use my experience to help other professionals navigate the complexities and common issues seen within the business.
(805) 723-2774 View (805) 723-2774
Photo of Dr. Nelly Nassar, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Nelly Nassar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
I appreciate the courage it takes for someone to seek therapy and ask for help. Even though it can be an uncomfortable process at the beginning, psychotherapy can be an extremely rewarding experience. I try my best to provide you with a very safe and supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you on raising your awareness about your process and helping you improve your quality of life. I am certified in Gestalt Therapy by the Gestalt Associates Training Los Angeles (GATLA) so I integrate gestalt therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy ( CBT) in my work with you.
I appreciate the courage it takes for someone to seek therapy and ask for help. Even though it can be an uncomfortable process at the beginning, psychotherapy can be an extremely rewarding experience. I try my best to provide you with a very safe and supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you on raising your awareness about your process and helping you improve your quality of life. I am certified in Gestalt Therapy by the Gestalt Associates Training Los Angeles (GATLA) so I integrate gestalt therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy ( CBT) in my work with you.
(626) 784-4612 View (626) 784-4612
Photo of Melissa Chisari-Noori, PsyD, Psychologist
Melissa Chisari-Noori
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I utilize and implement an integrative approach; EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment Based Therapy to meet your specific needs.
Please send an email to set up initial phone consult or appointment. Do you find yourself struggling in relationships? Do you find yourself repeating patterns? Are you unsure of how to manage and cope with discomfort? Are you ready to make a change? Seeking help and acknowledging your difficulties is the first step in healing. Therapy is a valuable space to begin the self-exploration process as well as to learn ways to create a healthy more meaningful life. I take an action oriented interactive approach to identify goals and implement change.
I utilize and implement an integrative approach; EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment Based Therapy to meet your specific needs.
Please send an email to set up initial phone consult or appointment. Do you find yourself struggling in relationships? Do you find yourself repeating patterns? Are you unsure of how to manage and cope with discomfort? Are you ready to make a change? Seeking help and acknowledging your difficulties is the first step in healing. Therapy is a valuable space to begin the self-exploration process as well as to learn ways to create a healthy more meaningful life. I take an action oriented interactive approach to identify goals and implement change.
(805) 793-0894 View (805) 793-0894
Photo of Elan Litenatsky, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Elan Litenatsky
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Group Therapy, Family Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, Flash and Emotional Intelligence.
My ideal client is someone ready to tackle challenges like OCD, addiction, trauma, anxiety, or relationship issues. They need a caring, evidence-based approach to feel better and improve their lives. Their goals include finding healthy ways to cope, communicating better, and becoming more resilient. They come to therapy to understand themselves, heal from the past, and create a happier, more fulfilling life. They value working together with a therapist to make lasting, positive changes and grow as individuals.
Skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Group Therapy, Family Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, Flash and Emotional Intelligence.
My ideal client is someone ready to tackle challenges like OCD, addiction, trauma, anxiety, or relationship issues. They need a caring, evidence-based approach to feel better and improve their lives. Their goals include finding healthy ways to cope, communicating better, and becoming more resilient. They come to therapy to understand themselves, heal from the past, and create a happier, more fulfilling life. They value working together with a therapist to make lasting, positive changes and grow as individuals.
(805) 837-1758 View (805) 837-1758
Photo of Leesa Varela, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leesa Varela
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Compassionate, open-minded, strength-based care is Leesa’s goal for every client, in the environment that best meets your needs - In-office, Remote, or a combination of both. Leesa will support you to navigate difficult life stressors and address trauma wounds that can cause symptoms of anxiety, depression, acute or post-traumatic stress, addiction, relational conflict, employment/academic impairment, etc. She uses EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral ( CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT) and Family Systems interventions to create an individualized treatment plan that's ideal for you!
Compassionate, open-minded, strength-based care is Leesa’s goal for every client, in the environment that best meets your needs - In-office, Remote, or a combination of both. Leesa will support you to navigate difficult life stressors and address trauma wounds that can cause symptoms of anxiety, depression, acute or post-traumatic stress, addiction, relational conflict, employment/academic impairment, etc. She uses EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral ( CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT) and Family Systems interventions to create an individualized treatment plan that's ideal for you!
(805) 491-9256 View (805) 491-9256
Photo of Barbara Porush, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Porush
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Treatment modalities include Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and Comprehensive Energy therapies.
One thing we're guaranteed of in life is CHANGE. And quite often, change can be intensely emotional and very stressful. I am passionate about assisting people through transitions. Common transitions include marriage, divorce and other relationship endings, births and deaths, health issues, mid-life adjustments, career changes, parenting at different stages, even identity and self-esteem struggles. While transition has the ability to turn people's lives upside down, it needn't be that way. This is where therapy can be extremely helpful.
Treatment modalities include Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and Comprehensive Energy therapies.
One thing we're guaranteed of in life is CHANGE. And quite often, change can be intensely emotional and very stressful. I am passionate about assisting people through transitions. Common transitions include marriage, divorce and other relationship endings, births and deaths, health issues, mid-life adjustments, career changes, parenting at different stages, even identity and self-esteem struggles. While transition has the ability to turn people's lives upside down, it needn't be that way. This is where therapy can be extremely helpful.
(805) 852-1569 View (805) 852-1569
Photo of Michael L Morrow, PsyD, Psychologist
Michael L Morrow
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Waitlist for new clients
Morrow is a Diplomat of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy.
Hello, welcome to my site! I know that these are challenging times. Consequently, you may be experiencing anxiety, stress, or worry? Maybe you feel discouraged and depressed, or are having difficulty managing relationships with people close to you? If you are ready to make positive, healthy changes in your life, I can help. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to change. Concerns I most often work with are anxiety (general worries, fears, and panic), depression, low self-esteem, coping skills, and communication struggles.
Morrow is a Diplomat of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy.
Hello, welcome to my site! I know that these are challenging times. Consequently, you may be experiencing anxiety, stress, or worry? Maybe you feel discouraged and depressed, or are having difficulty managing relationships with people close to you? If you are ready to make positive, healthy changes in your life, I can help. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to change. Concerns I most often work with are anxiety (general worries, fears, and panic), depression, low self-esteem, coping skills, and communication struggles.
(805) 301-6459 View (805) 301-6459
Photo of Stacy Udolph, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy Udolph
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
With over 25 years of experience, I have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), grief counseling and mindfulness.
My name is Stacy Udolph, LCSW and I specialize in helping people manage stress, build healthier relationships, address grief and, most importantly, tackle the fears that often interfere with our success and happiness. If you'd like to discuss specific strategies, techniques, or insights to help you manage whatever is causing you distress, then you've come to the right place.
With over 25 years of experience, I have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), grief counseling and mindfulness.
My name is Stacy Udolph, LCSW and I specialize in helping people manage stress, build healthier relationships, address grief and, most importantly, tackle the fears that often interfere with our success and happiness. If you'd like to discuss specific strategies, techniques, or insights to help you manage whatever is causing you distress, then you've come to the right place.
(818) 272-8406 View (818) 272-8406
Photo of Jennifer Kashou, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Kashou
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
I utilize Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( CBT/DBT) and Brainspotting to address various emotional challenges.
Anxiety expert here to help! Anxiety is an overwhelming dread that can consume many areas of life and even lead to depression. I specialize in guiding clients through these complexities, helping them understand how it affects relationships, work, and overall well-being. My approach integrates evidence-based techniques with a compassionate understanding of your unique experiences. We’ll work together to explore how these issues manifest and develop practical strategies to address all of your areas of concern. From improving coping mechanisms to fostering greater self-awareness, my goal is to support you in reclaiming control.
I utilize Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( CBT/DBT) and Brainspotting to address various emotional challenges.
Anxiety expert here to help! Anxiety is an overwhelming dread that can consume many areas of life and even lead to depression. I specialize in guiding clients through these complexities, helping them understand how it affects relationships, work, and overall well-being. My approach integrates evidence-based techniques with a compassionate understanding of your unique experiences. We’ll work together to explore how these issues manifest and develop practical strategies to address all of your areas of concern. From improving coping mechanisms to fostering greater self-awareness, my goal is to support you in reclaiming control.
(818) 722-8045 View (818) 722-8045
Photo of Marina Edelman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marina Edelman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I have helped numerous couples, individuals & families find happiness, harmony, and coping strategies to life challenges. I use John Gottman's (research based) approach and EFT to help couples understand their strengths & areas that need improvement. By taking an online assessment couples save time & money & I can quickly assess areas of focus & recomend interventions. To help clients with anxiety/depression I challenge distorted beliefs and maladaptive behaviors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This approach along with other interventions encourages clients to go out of their comfort zone & reduce problamatic symptoms.
I have helped numerous couples, individuals & families find happiness, harmony, and coping strategies to life challenges. I use John Gottman's (research based) approach and EFT to help couples understand their strengths & areas that need improvement. By taking an online assessment couples save time & money & I can quickly assess areas of focus & recomend interventions. To help clients with anxiety/depression I challenge distorted beliefs and maladaptive behaviors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This approach along with other interventions encourages clients to go out of their comfort zone & reduce problamatic symptoms.
(818) 253-9910 View (818) 253-9910
Photo of Danielle Selvin Harris, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Danielle Selvin Harris
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Solution Focused Therapist who utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family System modalities.
Is your teenager feeling anxious or sad, grieving a loss, having problems in school or using drugs? Are you having trouble talking to your child about the changes they are going through? Your teenager experiences many stressors which can lead to various issues that impact your entire family and these stressors can be explored in therapy to give your family the relief you are searching for. Your teenager needs a safe place to express his/her feelings and learn healthier ways to cope with struggles to help him/her go on to lead a healthy life.
I am a Solution Focused Therapist who utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family System modalities.
Is your teenager feeling anxious or sad, grieving a loss, having problems in school or using drugs? Are you having trouble talking to your child about the changes they are going through? Your teenager experiences many stressors which can lead to various issues that impact your entire family and these stressors can be explored in therapy to give your family the relief you are searching for. Your teenager needs a safe place to express his/her feelings and learn healthier ways to cope with struggles to help him/her go on to lead a healthy life.
(310) 494-2778 View (310) 494-2778
Photo of Kate Bradley, AMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kate Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
I am a psychotherapist working with Westlake Counseling Center. As a systems therapist, I utilize the principles of psychodynamic and relational therapy along with incorporating interventions and skills used in cognitive behavioral therapy. Relationally, I seek to build trust and connection with my clients, providing a unique and contained space to heal. I work with individuals, couples, and families with a broad spectrum of diagnoses and treatment issues, with experience and specialization with children, adolescents, and young adults.
I am a psychotherapist working with Westlake Counseling Center. As a systems therapist, I utilize the principles of psychodynamic and relational therapy along with incorporating interventions and skills used in cognitive behavioral therapy. Relationally, I seek to build trust and connection with my clients, providing a unique and contained space to heal. I work with individuals, couples, and families with a broad spectrum of diagnoses and treatment issues, with experience and specialization with children, adolescents, and young adults.
(747) 298-8697 View (747) 298-8697
Photo of Karina Santillo, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karina Santillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-based Stress reduction therapy and Systems Theories.
It is important to feel comfortable and connected with your therapist in order to work through difficult and challenging issues in your life. I believe that within that connection, healing can occur. A willingness to participate and engage in the work is important for both the client and therapist in order for progress to be made. I help individuals who feel stuck and unfulfilled and are at a crossroads in their life. I work from a holistic perspective taking into consideration relationships, environmental stressors and overall health.
Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-based Stress reduction therapy and Systems Theories.
It is important to feel comfortable and connected with your therapist in order to work through difficult and challenging issues in your life. I believe that within that connection, healing can occur. A willingness to participate and engage in the work is important for both the client and therapist in order for progress to be made. I help individuals who feel stuck and unfulfilled and are at a crossroads in their life. I work from a holistic perspective taking into consideration relationships, environmental stressors and overall health.
(805) 954-9955 View (805) 954-9955
Photo of Courtney Whittington, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Whittington
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
When working with clients I like to meet the client where they are in their journey to healing. I am passionate about giving my clients the tools to support healthy coping skills and helping clients gain agency of their lives. The types of modalities that I like to use during my sessions are CBT, aspects of DBT, strength based, Incredible Years, art/ music interventions, play therapy, and strengthen based therapy. I have worked with various types of clients, from children and their families to adulthood. There are many settings I have worked in such as Medi-Cal, homeless shelter, school based, a crisis stabilization unit, and more.
When working with clients I like to meet the client where they are in their journey to healing. I am passionate about giving my clients the tools to support healthy coping skills and helping clients gain agency of their lives. The types of modalities that I like to use during my sessions are CBT, aspects of DBT, strength based, Incredible Years, art/ music interventions, play therapy, and strengthen based therapy. I have worked with various types of clients, from children and their families to adulthood. There are many settings I have worked in such as Medi-Cal, homeless shelter, school based, a crisis stabilization unit, and more.
(805) 265-5486 View (805) 265-5486
Photo of Sousan B Amiri, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sousan B Amiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Additionally, I am Certified in EMDR therapy and heavily trained in CBT and DBT evidence-based Modalities to help with trauma as well as symptoms of PTSD.
Over the past two decades, my main objective has been to provide my clients with a sense of visibility, acknowledgment, and understanding. Drawing upon my extensive experience, I am here to help guide you through life's challenges, particularly in navigating trauma, which may be intertwined with feelings of anxiety and depression.
Additionally, I am Certified in EMDR therapy and heavily trained in CBT and DBT evidence-based Modalities to help with trauma as well as symptoms of PTSD.
Over the past two decades, my main objective has been to provide my clients with a sense of visibility, acknowledgment, and understanding. Drawing upon my extensive experience, I am here to help guide you through life's challenges, particularly in navigating trauma, which may be intertwined with feelings of anxiety and depression.
(805) 468-4566 View (805) 468-4566
Photo of Dr. Nicole Moshfegh - Dr. Nicole Moshfegh, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nicole Moshfegh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I offer Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia ( CBT-I), which is considered the “gold standard” and first line of treatment for insomnia, as it provides natural relief of insomnia symptoms.
Sleeplessness can be incredibly stressful and isolating. You have probably tried every remedy you can think of to no avail and are starting to lose hope. I understand how difficult and frustrating this can be and I am here to help. I have over a decade of experience treating people who are experiencing insomnia or sleep issues as well as anxiety and stress-related conditions. By utilizing the most well-researched and time-tested strategies, I can help you to overcome your challenges so you can get back to your normal self.
I offer Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia ( CBT-I), which is considered the “gold standard” and first line of treatment for insomnia, as it provides natural relief of insomnia symptoms.
Sleeplessness can be incredibly stressful and isolating. You have probably tried every remedy you can think of to no avail and are starting to lose hope. I understand how difficult and frustrating this can be and I am here to help. I have over a decade of experience treating people who are experiencing insomnia or sleep issues as well as anxiety and stress-related conditions. By utilizing the most well-researched and time-tested strategies, I can help you to overcome your challenges so you can get back to your normal self.
(424) 295-8660 View (424) 295-8660
Photo of Matt McNutt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matt McNutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
Using an eclectic, holistic, and personalized therapeutic approach, I integrate evidence-based techniques like CBT, Solution-Focused therapy, mindfulness interventions, and EMDR.
I recognize how profoundly past traumas can impact one's life, leading to negative beliefs, anxiety, and depression, as well as making it difficult to face challenges. Healing and personal growth require a commitment to oneself. Whether you’re dealing with current struggles or lingering wounds, the crucial first step toward healing is cultivating self-awareness, engaging in introspection, and taking action.
Using an eclectic, holistic, and personalized therapeutic approach, I integrate evidence-based techniques like CBT, Solution-Focused therapy, mindfulness interventions, and EMDR.
I recognize how profoundly past traumas can impact one's life, leading to negative beliefs, anxiety, and depression, as well as making it difficult to face challenges. Healing and personal growth require a commitment to oneself. Whether you’re dealing with current struggles or lingering wounds, the crucial first step toward healing is cultivating self-awareness, engaging in introspection, and taking action.
(805) 716-6079 View (805) 716-6079
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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.