Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Erica Stephens Phd, PhD, Psychologist
Erica Stephens Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
Dr. Erica Stephens is a licensed clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, specializing in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and interpersonal and family dynamics. With over 10 years of experience, Dr. Erica has helped numerous clients achieve personal growth and overcome a range of mental health challenges. Dr. Erica's approach to therapy is grounded in a warm, empathetic, and collaborative style, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. Dr. Erica also specializes in working with adopted clients and clients with challenging familial relationships.
Dr. Erica Stephens is a licensed clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, specializing in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and interpersonal and family dynamics. With over 10 years of experience, Dr. Erica has helped numerous clients achieve personal growth and overcome a range of mental health challenges. Dr. Erica's approach to therapy is grounded in a warm, empathetic, and collaborative style, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. Dr. Erica also specializes in working with adopted clients and clients with challenging familial relationships.
(720) 902-9382 View (720) 902-9382
Photo of Tarah Waters - Mountain Thrive Counseling, LPCC
Tarah Waters - Mountain Thrive Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I operate using an integrative approach to counseling, meaning I utilize different techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, multi-systemic therapy, feminist theories, mindfulness, motivational and other interventions.
As a therapist, my focus is on empowering children and adults, and helping them achieve long-lasting change. I have worked with people from various communities and populations, and I understand that each individual has their own unique set of challenges and goals. I believe that everyone has the ability to thrive, and I am committed to helping my clients tap into their strengths. A strength-based approach can allow for the opportunity to identify successes, reestablish healthy patterns and learn new ways to deal with everyday life. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for clients to share.
I operate using an integrative approach to counseling, meaning I utilize different techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, multi-systemic therapy, feminist theories, mindfulness, motivational and other interventions.
As a therapist, my focus is on empowering children and adults, and helping them achieve long-lasting change. I have worked with people from various communities and populations, and I understand that each individual has their own unique set of challenges and goals. I believe that everyone has the ability to thrive, and I am committed to helping my clients tap into their strengths. A strength-based approach can allow for the opportunity to identify successes, reestablish healthy patterns and learn new ways to deal with everyday life. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for clients to share.
(720) 675-8259 View (720) 675-8259
Photo of Noah Reaven, PhD, Psychologist
Noah Reaven
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
My primary therapy methods derive from Cognitive Behavior principles, especially changing that pesky negative self-talk and altering behavior patterns that impede our progress, confidence, etc.
I approach a client's concerns from a here and now, rapid change perspective. I believe that when we take action to improve ourselves or our circumstances, our attitude and feelings follow suit. I have been in clinical practice for 20 years, and have worked with many types of people and almost every kind of problem. I strive to balance empathy and sensitivity with helping people to move forward in the change process.
My primary therapy methods derive from Cognitive Behavior principles, especially changing that pesky negative self-talk and altering behavior patterns that impede our progress, confidence, etc.
I approach a client's concerns from a here and now, rapid change perspective. I believe that when we take action to improve ourselves or our circumstances, our attitude and feelings follow suit. I have been in clinical practice for 20 years, and have worked with many types of people and almost every kind of problem. I strive to balance empathy and sensitivity with helping people to move forward in the change process.
(720) 509-9503 View (720) 509-9503
Photo of Hannah Hemming, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Hemming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
Hannah Hemming is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Colorado. Hannah has been practicing evidenced-based individual, group, and family therapy, as well as diagnostic assessment since 2016. Ms. Hemming is trained in and utilizes a variety of interventions to include, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Exposure-Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family Systems, Behavior Management, Parent Management Training and Strengths-based approaches to treat an array of mental health conditions.
Hannah Hemming is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Colorado. Hannah has been practicing evidenced-based individual, group, and family therapy, as well as diagnostic assessment since 2016. Ms. Hemming is trained in and utilizes a variety of interventions to include, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Exposure-Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family Systems, Behavior Management, Parent Management Training and Strengths-based approaches to treat an array of mental health conditions.
(970) 470-8977 View (970) 470-8977
Photo of Meg'n E Deaner, MA, LPC, Coach, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meg'n E Deaner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, Coach
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) - Emotional distress is often accompanied by maladaptive thoughts and patterns of thinking.
Mantis Counseling and Coaching Services, LLC is committed to serving adults, adolescents, families, couples, and children by providing psychotherapy and coaching sessions to fit your personal goals. We believe you are the expert regarding your own path to growth and success. We create collaborative treatment plans for mind, body, and spirit to allow you to access your innate potential.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) - Emotional distress is often accompanied by maladaptive thoughts and patterns of thinking.
Mantis Counseling and Coaching Services, LLC is committed to serving adults, adolescents, families, couples, and children by providing psychotherapy and coaching sessions to fit your personal goals. We believe you are the expert regarding your own path to growth and success. We create collaborative treatment plans for mind, body, and spirit to allow you to access your innate potential.
(303) 500-3887 View (303) 500-3887
Photo of Sarah Stormont - Empowered Hearts Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Empowered Hearts Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80212  (Online Only)
I draw from evidence based practices in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Trauma Informed practices all while using a strength based approach.
Has your life not been as fulfilling lately or have you been struggling with making healthy changes? I am on your team to support and guide you so that you can finally be living the life you have always wanted. I value relationships and meeting individuals where they are. My focus is on using your strengths and working together to identify healthy coping mechanisms and creating a strong support system in order to help you feel empowered to live your best life. I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults. My approach to therapy is to tailor and personalize treatment depending on your own goals and needs.
I draw from evidence based practices in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Trauma Informed practices all while using a strength based approach.
Has your life not been as fulfilling lately or have you been struggling with making healthy changes? I am on your team to support and guide you so that you can finally be living the life you have always wanted. I value relationships and meeting individuals where they are. My focus is on using your strengths and working together to identify healthy coping mechanisms and creating a strong support system in order to help you feel empowered to live your best life. I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults. My approach to therapy is to tailor and personalize treatment depending on your own goals and needs.
(720) 386-8174 View (720) 386-8174
Photo of Laura Panczak, LPC, LAC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Panczak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203  (Online Only)
I use an eclectic therapy approach, however, veer towards CBT ( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ERP (Exposure Response Prevention), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), narrative, somatic, person-centered, trauma-informed, intuitive based approaches.
Are feelings of worry, dread, panic, and unwanted intrusive thoughts making living an enjoyable life more difficult? Change and transformation are difficult; it takes courage, work, and patience to heal- but there is hope! I specialize in Obsession Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Anxiety, Panic, and assisting clients with processing and rewiring unhelpful habits. Unwanted intrusive thoughts (Obsessions) can be scary at times. Compulsions and avoidance behaviors can also have a devastating effect both emotionally, interpersonally, and physically,
I use an eclectic therapy approach, however, veer towards CBT ( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ERP (Exposure Response Prevention), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), narrative, somatic, person-centered, trauma-informed, intuitive based approaches.
Are feelings of worry, dread, panic, and unwanted intrusive thoughts making living an enjoyable life more difficult? Change and transformation are difficult; it takes courage, work, and patience to heal- but there is hope! I specialize in Obsession Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Anxiety, Panic, and assisting clients with processing and rewiring unhelpful habits. Unwanted intrusive thoughts (Obsessions) can be scary at times. Compulsions and avoidance behaviors can also have a devastating effect both emotionally, interpersonally, and physically,
(720) 730-3891 View (720) 730-3891
Photo of Renee Shurilla, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renee Shurilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205
Using a holistic approach that brings in elements of ACT, CBT, and other mindfulness and body based work, and trauma informed care, I will work with you to help you on your journey to become the kind of person you want to be in the world.
I have have a lot of experience with anxiety, depression and OCD, as well as helping people with big life changes, self esteem, and relationship issues. Everybody is different, so in working together I will listen to you and what you need from me to help you the best. A big reason I decided to become a therapist due to the belief that if people are more connected and insightful about themselves—and how they impact the world—the world itself will become a better place.
Using a holistic approach that brings in elements of ACT, CBT, and other mindfulness and body based work, and trauma informed care, I will work with you to help you on your journey to become the kind of person you want to be in the world.
I have have a lot of experience with anxiety, depression and OCD, as well as helping people with big life changes, self esteem, and relationship issues. Everybody is different, so in working together I will listen to you and what you need from me to help you the best. A big reason I decided to become a therapist due to the belief that if people are more connected and insightful about themselves—and how they impact the world—the world itself will become a better place.
(720) 790-3663 View (720) 790-3663
Photo of Shawna Fishman, LMFT, LAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shawna Fishman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231  (Online Only)
I weave modern mental health techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), EMDR, etc.
I am committed to working with those who suffer with deep emotional traumas, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, life transitions, and grief in ways that bring about relief and lasting change. I meet you where you are with no judgement or expectation. I believe that no one is an expert on your life except you. I take a collaborative approach to create goals and act as a resource, rather than an expert. I work from the perspective that we all have what we need inside of us to become who we want. I believe in your ability to heal and grow into the person you desire to be.
I weave modern mental health techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), EMDR, etc.
I am committed to working with those who suffer with deep emotional traumas, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, life transitions, and grief in ways that bring about relief and lasting change. I meet you where you are with no judgement or expectation. I believe that no one is an expert on your life except you. I take a collaborative approach to create goals and act as a resource, rather than an expert. I work from the perspective that we all have what we need inside of us to become who we want. I believe in your ability to heal and grow into the person you desire to be.
(720) 707-0336 View (720) 707-0336
Photo of Rebecca I Howard, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca I Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
Hello, I have been a Licensed Psychologist for over 10 years. I specialize in assessments to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disorder, Cognitive and/or Adaptive Testing, and Personality and Mood evaluations. I use an integrative and strengths based approach to therapy and assessment, where personal values, beliefs, and strengths are utilized in our work together in therapy. Email or call me today with questions or to schedule an appointment. Please note I currently do not have availability for new therapy clients. I only have availability for assessments.
Hello, I have been a Licensed Psychologist for over 10 years. I specialize in assessments to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disorder, Cognitive and/or Adaptive Testing, and Personality and Mood evaluations. I use an integrative and strengths based approach to therapy and assessment, where personal values, beliefs, and strengths are utilized in our work together in therapy. Email or call me today with questions or to schedule an appointment. Please note I currently do not have availability for new therapy clients. I only have availability for assessments.
(303) 900-7012 View (303) 900-7012
Photo of Candice Rodriguez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candice Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
Candice Rodriguez is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is skilled in providing trauma-focused, solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy. However, if you prefer traditional talk therapy, that is quite alright, she can do that too. She have over 11 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. Her areas of interest include but are not limited to anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, child and adult ADHD, LGBTQ issues, physical and sexual abuse, and other traumas. She is trained in TF- CBT and EMDR.
Candice Rodriguez is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is skilled in providing trauma-focused, solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy. However, if you prefer traditional talk therapy, that is quite alright, she can do that too. She have over 11 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. Her areas of interest include but are not limited to anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, child and adult ADHD, LGBTQ issues, physical and sexual abuse, and other traumas. She is trained in TF- CBT and EMDR.
(720) 821-1983 View (720) 821-1983
Photo of Shannon Barfield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Barfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80249  (Online Only)
Everyone has those periods in life where a little help is needed. I am here to get you back on track Psych Today. I like to use a dynamic approach in therapy and will often use a variety of evidenced based modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, EMDR, and Solution focused therapy. Psych Today
Everyone has those periods in life where a little help is needed. I am here to get you back on track Psych Today. I like to use a dynamic approach in therapy and will often use a variety of evidenced based modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, EMDR, and Solution focused therapy. Psych Today
(720) 797-7463 View (720) 797-7463
Photo of Nancy H Nedland, MA, Psychologist
Nancy H Nedland
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203  (Online Only)
She’s had training in ACT, TF- CBT, and EMDR and is always interested in learning.
Nancy Nedland is a master’s level therapist with decades of experience. Her warmth and humor help her to develop trusting relationships with her clients and her strength-based approach allows growth and change to occur in a natural way. Nancy is also a registered yoga teacher and practitioner and incorporates opportunities for mindfulness, body awareness and breathing techniques into her therapy. She believes that everyone has the ability to find balance through practice and holds space for client’s to work through life experiences, challenges and traumas in order to connect to their own inner wisdom.
She’s had training in ACT, TF- CBT, and EMDR and is always interested in learning.
Nancy Nedland is a master’s level therapist with decades of experience. Her warmth and humor help her to develop trusting relationships with her clients and her strength-based approach allows growth and change to occur in a natural way. Nancy is also a registered yoga teacher and practitioner and incorporates opportunities for mindfulness, body awareness and breathing techniques into her therapy. She believes that everyone has the ability to find balance through practice and holds space for client’s to work through life experiences, challenges and traumas in order to connect to their own inner wisdom.
(720) 817-6159 View (720) 817-6159
Photo of Elissa Berlinger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elissa Berlinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I received my Master of Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work. I completed a two year post-graduate training program in psychodynamic psychotherapy and in the treatment of eating disorders and substance abuse at Wardenbrug Health Center at CU-Boulder. I have additional specialized training in the treatment of chronic neurological illnesses-MS in particular-through my work with the Rocky Mountain MS Center. I coordinated the eating disorder program at CU-Boulder and I have undergone additional trainings in DBT, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic therapy.
I received my Master of Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work. I completed a two year post-graduate training program in psychodynamic psychotherapy and in the treatment of eating disorders and substance abuse at Wardenbrug Health Center at CU-Boulder. I have additional specialized training in the treatment of chronic neurological illnesses-MS in particular-through my work with the Rocky Mountain MS Center. I coordinated the eating disorder program at CU-Boulder and I have undergone additional trainings in DBT, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic therapy.
(720) 309-7779 View (720) 309-7779
Photo of Alaina Whitney, MA, MFTC
Alaina Whitney
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
I use a mixture of child-centered and synergetic play therapies as well as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF- CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and expressive arts therapy.
I work with children, couples, and families struggling with PTSD/C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, communication issues, maladaptive coping, and interpersonal conflict. If you're a caregiver and you need help understanding your child or are stumped as to how to intervene or discipline in a more effective way, I can help teach parenting skills that strengthen the parent-child relationship. If you're in a partnership and are struggling with communication, intimacy, and connection or curious about exploring other relationship structures, I can help you navigate those dynamics as well.
I use a mixture of child-centered and synergetic play therapies as well as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF- CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and expressive arts therapy.
I work with children, couples, and families struggling with PTSD/C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, communication issues, maladaptive coping, and interpersonal conflict. If you're a caregiver and you need help understanding your child or are stumped as to how to intervene or discipline in a more effective way, I can help teach parenting skills that strengthen the parent-child relationship. If you're in a partnership and are struggling with communication, intimacy, and connection or curious about exploring other relationship structures, I can help you navigate those dynamics as well.
(844) 387-9713 View (844) 387-9713
Photo of Eve A Rabinovitz - CoreVita Counseling, BS, MS, EMDR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
CoreVita Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MS, EMDR, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80224  (Online Only)
I employ a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing(EMDR), Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado, I specialize in helping adults facing challenges such as Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, and navigating Life Transitions. My approach is compassionate and tailored to your unique needs, focusing on uncovering and addressing the root causes of your difficulties. Together, we will develop effective strategies to manage symptoms, build resilience, and foster personal growth. My goal is to support you in overcoming obstacles, enhancing your well-being, and achieving a more fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to transform your life!
I employ a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing(EMDR), Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado, I specialize in helping adults facing challenges such as Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, and navigating Life Transitions. My approach is compassionate and tailored to your unique needs, focusing on uncovering and addressing the root causes of your difficulties. Together, we will develop effective strategies to manage symptoms, build resilience, and foster personal growth. My goal is to support you in overcoming obstacles, enhancing your well-being, and achieving a more fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to transform your life!
(720) 573-0954 View (720) 573-0954
Photo of Victoria Bailey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
I enjoy working with adults and older adults. I look forward to working with people in all stages and ages of life as there are transitions and changes happening for most of us all of the time and coping with those can be challenging. My approach is often times a combination of talk therapy, ACT, CBT, solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, and person in environment centered focus.
I enjoy working with adults and older adults. I look forward to working with people in all stages and ages of life as there are transitions and changes happening for most of us all of the time and coping with those can be challenging. My approach is often times a combination of talk therapy, ACT, CBT, solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, and person in environment centered focus.
(720) 927-8934 View (720) 927-8934
Photo of Sonia Rippe - Healing Together Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Healing Together Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
I work from a variety of treatment modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brainspotting, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Hello, and welcome! I am dedicated to partnering with you to create a life worth living in the midst of challenges and painful experiences. I provide a warm and nonjudgmental space to tap into your strengths, develop new insights and skills, understand and express your emotions, and truly love yourself. I believe we are designed to experience a range of emotions that provide information about our needs and values. We tend to feel stuck when we attempt to avoid our emotional experiences, leaving us depleted, hopeless, invalidated, and confused. I hope to meet you where you are as you heal and develop greater self-compassion.
I work from a variety of treatment modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brainspotting, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Hello, and welcome! I am dedicated to partnering with you to create a life worth living in the midst of challenges and painful experiences. I provide a warm and nonjudgmental space to tap into your strengths, develop new insights and skills, understand and express your emotions, and truly love yourself. I believe we are designed to experience a range of emotions that provide information about our needs and values. We tend to feel stuck when we attempt to avoid our emotional experiences, leaving us depleted, hopeless, invalidated, and confused. I hope to meet you where you are as you heal and develop greater self-compassion.
(720) 513-4371 View (720) 513-4371
Photo of Alexis Kaiser, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexis Kaiser
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), ACT, and Person-Centered.
I believe in living a mindful and intentional life, making choices that are meaningful and healthy, while maintaining awareness of our own thoughts, feelings, and how we interact with others. We can sometimes experience difficulties in life when our physical state, thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and social factors all intersect in a way that negatively impacts our well-being. My goal is to help clients by understanding how certain factors may play a role in their development, health, processing, and conflict. Therapy can be most effective and beneficial when there is an approach that considers the whole person.
I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), ACT, and Person-Centered.
I believe in living a mindful and intentional life, making choices that are meaningful and healthy, while maintaining awareness of our own thoughts, feelings, and how we interact with others. We can sometimes experience difficulties in life when our physical state, thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and social factors all intersect in a way that negatively impacts our well-being. My goal is to help clients by understanding how certain factors may play a role in their development, health, processing, and conflict. Therapy can be most effective and beneficial when there is an approach that considers the whole person.
(720) 679-7037 View (720) 679-7037
Photo of Alexander Thomas, MA, LAC, MAC, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Alexander Thomas
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LAC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
I work with young adults and seniors offering treatment groups as well as individual and family counseling for offenders and non-offender. My treatment approach is both from a cognitive-behavioral and multi-modal context taking into account the biological , psychological, social, emotional and spiritual needs of the whole person. I have extensive experience working with court-ordered as well as voluntary clients.
I work with young adults and seniors offering treatment groups as well as individual and family counseling for offenders and non-offender. My treatment approach is both from a cognitive-behavioral and multi-modal context taking into account the biological , psychological, social, emotional and spiritual needs of the whole person. I have extensive experience working with court-ordered as well as voluntary clients.
(720) 789-8320 View (720) 789-8320
1
...
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.