Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Knoxville, TN

Photo of Hannah Karras, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Karras
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
I work under the theoretical framework of DBT and CBT.
Life is an evolving journey that we are navigating. It can be challenging to navigate intense emotions, stress, relationships, anxiety, and so much more. As a therapist, I create a safe and judgement free place for people to explore these challenges. A place to talk with no judgment and create a toolbox of coping skills that you can use to help navigate this journey called life. This is a courageous step towards creating a life worth living. Every human is different, so my approach is tailored to meet your specific therapeutic needs. You are not alone as you now have a professional helping you navigate your healing journey.
I work under the theoretical framework of DBT and CBT.
Life is an evolving journey that we are navigating. It can be challenging to navigate intense emotions, stress, relationships, anxiety, and so much more. As a therapist, I create a safe and judgement free place for people to explore these challenges. A place to talk with no judgment and create a toolbox of coping skills that you can use to help navigate this journey called life. This is a courageous step towards creating a life worth living. Every human is different, so my approach is tailored to meet your specific therapeutic needs. You are not alone as you now have a professional helping you navigate your healing journey.
(865) 459-2893 View (865) 459-2893
Photo of Richard Todd Johnston, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Richard Todd Johnston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37931
I integrate cognitive-behavioral therapy ( CBT), mindfulness techniques, and trauma-informed care in my sessions.
As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, I understand the challenges that arise when dealing with mental health struggles such as anger, depression, ADHD, PTSD, ODD, and anxiety. I have spent the last 14 years working with adolescents in a residential setting, My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself, explore your emotions, and develop effective coping strategies. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I integrate cognitive-behavioral therapy ( CBT), mindfulness techniques, and trauma-informed care in my sessions.
As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, I understand the challenges that arise when dealing with mental health struggles such as anger, depression, ADHD, PTSD, ODD, and anxiety. I have spent the last 14 years working with adolescents in a residential setting, My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself, explore your emotions, and develop effective coping strategies. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(865) 737-2963 View (865) 737-2963
Photo of Dr. Amy L. Skinner, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, ACS, KAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Amy L. Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, ACS, KAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I offer traditional therapies that are considered best practices for many common mental health needs, including Cognitive-Behavioral therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Behavior therapies.
My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. My therapeutic approach changes with your individual needs to promote your uniqueness as a person and your capabilities to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. In addition to traditional therapies, I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to eligible clients. I am happy to partner with you on your wellness journey.
I offer traditional therapies that are considered best practices for many common mental health needs, including Cognitive-Behavioral therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Behavior therapies.
My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. My therapeutic approach changes with your individual needs to promote your uniqueness as a person and your capabilities to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. In addition to traditional therapies, I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to eligible clients. I am happy to partner with you on your wellness journey.
(865) 258-8297 View (865) 258-8297
Photo of Dottie Cornett, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dottie Cornett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Dottie's approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and mindfulness theories.
Dottie Cornett, LPC-MHSP Dottie Cornett is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2004. Dottie has worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including addiction depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. She has also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Dottie's counseling style is warm and interactive. She believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. She does not believe in stigmatizing labels.
Dottie's approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and mindfulness theories.
Dottie Cornett, LPC-MHSP Dottie Cornett is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2004. Dottie has worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including addiction depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. She has also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Dottie's counseling style is warm and interactive. She believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. She does not believe in stigmatizing labels.
(865) 328-4012 View (865) 328-4012
Photo of Down To Earth Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Down To Earth Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Our clinicians provide services using EMDR, TF- CBT, CBT, DBT, PCIT, CPP, AAIT and EFT modalities.
Immediate Openings for children and teens! Down To Earth Services is actively accepting new clients for medication management and counseling services! Sometimes, no matter how independent we are, we need help. We have a passion for supporting people who are seeking help managing high stress, life changes, anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms. We have a "down to earth" group of people who you will find to be genuine and transparent. We currently offer individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and medication management.
Our clinicians provide services using EMDR, TF- CBT, CBT, DBT, PCIT, CPP, AAIT and EFT modalities.
Immediate Openings for children and teens! Down To Earth Services is actively accepting new clients for medication management and counseling services! Sometimes, no matter how independent we are, we need help. We have a passion for supporting people who are seeking help managing high stress, life changes, anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms. We have a "down to earth" group of people who you will find to be genuine and transparent. We currently offer individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and medication management.
(865) 375-0786 View (865) 375-0786
Photo of Tamara Diaz-Hart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tamara Diaz-Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
She generally operates from therapy models of CBT, psycho-education, solution-focused, and Internal Family Systems therapy.
Tammy has been practicing as a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist in Tennessee since 1999. She believes life is a journey and we all need supportive people. She strives to offer a non-judgmental and empathetic environment while teaching practical coping skills. Tammy counsels' individuals, families, parents, youth, and group therapy. Tammy provides therapy for depression and anxiety, addictions, chronic mental illness, anger management, ADHD, cultural and ethnic issues, parenting, spirituality, and grief. She offers individual therapy for thirteen and up, and family therapy for all ages.
She generally operates from therapy models of CBT, psycho-education, solution-focused, and Internal Family Systems therapy.
Tammy has been practicing as a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist in Tennessee since 1999. She believes life is a journey and we all need supportive people. She strives to offer a non-judgmental and empathetic environment while teaching practical coping skills. Tammy counsels' individuals, families, parents, youth, and group therapy. Tammy provides therapy for depression and anxiety, addictions, chronic mental illness, anger management, ADHD, cultural and ethnic issues, parenting, spirituality, and grief. She offers individual therapy for thirteen and up, and family therapy for all ages.
(865) 205-6482 View (865) 205-6482
Photo of Gregory Douglas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gregory Douglas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
G. Lamont Douglas is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Service Provider who has been been practicing since 1997. Graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a Masters degree in Community Agency Counseling. Lamont believes in Adapting his treatment style to the individuals and families that he works with. He uses mostly person centered and CBT approaches.
G. Lamont Douglas is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Service Provider who has been been practicing since 1997. Graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a Masters degree in Community Agency Counseling. Lamont believes in Adapting his treatment style to the individuals and families that he works with. He uses mostly person centered and CBT approaches.
(865) 262-8210 View (865) 262-8210
Photo of Joelle Burkett, LSPE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joelle Burkett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSPE
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Joelle Burkett, LSPE Joelle Burkett is a Licensed Senior Psychological Examiner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 1998. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Tennessee and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Austin Peay State University. Joelle received her license as a Psychological Examiner and her Senior Psychological Examiner license from the State of Tennessee. Joelle has been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy.
Joelle Burkett, LSPE Joelle Burkett is a Licensed Senior Psychological Examiner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 1998. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Tennessee and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Austin Peay State University. Joelle received her license as a Psychological Examiner and her Senior Psychological Examiner license from the State of Tennessee. Joelle has been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy.
(865) 500-6807 View (865) 500-6807
Photo of Mark A LeMay, PhD, Psychologist
Mark A LeMay
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
I believe everyone has the ability to live a meaningful and deeply satisfying life. I combine over 30 years experience as a clinical psychologist with Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT), Positive Psychology, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) to help others achieve optimal well-being.
I believe everyone has the ability to live a meaningful and deeply satisfying life. I combine over 30 years experience as a clinical psychologist with Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT), Positive Psychology, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) to help others achieve optimal well-being.
(865) 368-9445 View (865) 368-9445
Photo of Angela Marie Fuss - All Ages Counseling, PhD, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
All Ages Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
Waitlist for new clients
Though CCPT is my specialty, when working with adolescents and adults I focus on applying Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Gestalt approaches, as well as EMDR.
I have been working in the mental health field for several decades in a variety of positions and areas around the United States. While children are my passion, I work with all ages of clients to collaboratively identify what might be interfering with becoming the best version of themselves. With that in mind, I put forth all of my energy to partner with my clients in finding what works best for them in order to provide relief and satisfaction with life in general, as well as an overall sense of happiness.
Though CCPT is my specialty, when working with adolescents and adults I focus on applying Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Gestalt approaches, as well as EMDR.
I have been working in the mental health field for several decades in a variety of positions and areas around the United States. While children are my passion, I work with all ages of clients to collaboratively identify what might be interfering with becoming the best version of themselves. With that in mind, I put forth all of my energy to partner with my clients in finding what works best for them in order to provide relief and satisfaction with life in general, as well as an overall sense of happiness.
(865) 280-1896 View (865) 280-1896
Photo of Robin Kennen, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robin Kennen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, Neuropsychology, Mindfulness and Trauma-Focused interventions.
Being human is hard! I believe most of people are doing the best we can with the awareness that they currently have, and also know that things can be easier and you can feel better. We must learn to attend to our own internal experiences so we may safely connect with ourselves, others and build a healthy support system from the inside out. I’m passionate about providing a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore dysfunctional patterns that are causing pain, increasing stress, and taking away from true happiness. You must be and create the change you want to see, and I am here to help you, your family, and your child reach their goals.
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, Neuropsychology, Mindfulness and Trauma-Focused interventions.
Being human is hard! I believe most of people are doing the best we can with the awareness that they currently have, and also know that things can be easier and you can feel better. We must learn to attend to our own internal experiences so we may safely connect with ourselves, others and build a healthy support system from the inside out. I’m passionate about providing a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore dysfunctional patterns that are causing pain, increasing stress, and taking away from true happiness. You must be and create the change you want to see, and I am here to help you, your family, and your child reach their goals.
(865) 484-3152 View (865) 484-3152
Photo of Joel Bain, MEd, LMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joel Bain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical approach is strongly rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with elements integrated from Solution Focused, Choice, Family Systems, and Narrative Therapy.
Many individuals are confronted at certain times in their life with a set of challenges and difficulties that seem insurmountable or overwhelming. Others are seeking guidance or insight in how to rediscover a sense of direction or purpose in their lives. Seeking out help is an act of courage and self-validation. Stop putting it off.
My clinical approach is strongly rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with elements integrated from Solution Focused, Choice, Family Systems, and Narrative Therapy.
Many individuals are confronted at certain times in their life with a set of challenges and difficulties that seem insurmountable or overwhelming. Others are seeking guidance or insight in how to rediscover a sense of direction or purpose in their lives. Seeking out help is an act of courage and self-validation. Stop putting it off.
(865) 205-6067 View (865) 205-6067
Photo of Hannah Wood, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Wood
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
I am person-centered & eclectic, pulling from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment, Cognitive Behavioral, and Dialectical Behavior Therapies.
The world has never been easy for kids and teens. Growing up while trying to figure out who they are and what they value in the midst of seeking approval from friends and family. This has been compounded in the past years by a global pandemic, halting or slowing social-emotional growth. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and other mental health concerns are emerging from people of all ages. Counseling can help. Knowing there is someone to come alongside as your child or teen wrestles with the normal changes of life and any extra challenges that appear can bring hope to everyone.
I am person-centered & eclectic, pulling from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment, Cognitive Behavioral, and Dialectical Behavior Therapies.
The world has never been easy for kids and teens. Growing up while trying to figure out who they are and what they value in the midst of seeking approval from friends and family. This has been compounded in the past years by a global pandemic, halting or slowing social-emotional growth. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and other mental health concerns are emerging from people of all ages. Counseling can help. Knowing there is someone to come alongside as your child or teen wrestles with the normal changes of life and any extra challenges that appear can bring hope to everyone.
(865) 830-1309 View (865) 830-1309
Photo of Kristen Jalovecky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Jalovecky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Kristen is person-centered and integrates a variety of techniques such as insight-oriented, solution-focused, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral methods.
Kristen Jalovecky, LCSW Kristen Jalovecky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2018. Kristen has experience working directly with clients in many different settings including outpatient private practice, home-based psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and hospice/palliative care. Also, she was blessed with the opportunity to work with an equine-assisted psychotherapy organization called Traverse, inc. which is an amazing program helping children and families who have experienced trauma.
Kristen is person-centered and integrates a variety of techniques such as insight-oriented, solution-focused, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral methods.
Kristen Jalovecky, LCSW Kristen Jalovecky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2018. Kristen has experience working directly with clients in many different settings including outpatient private practice, home-based psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and hospice/palliative care. Also, she was blessed with the opportunity to work with an equine-assisted psychotherapy organization called Traverse, inc. which is an amazing program helping children and families who have experienced trauma.
(865) 761-8557 View (865) 761-8557
Photo of Shelby Harris, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelby Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and rooted in evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Owning our story and re-writing our narrative can be incredibly empowering. You are allowed and encouraged to be human with all its complexities in my office. Whether you find growth in verbal processing, journaling, or would like to use art as a therapeutic tool, I enjoy using my skills as an abstract thinker and creative clinician to empower you to reach your goals. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where you can tell your story and find healing. We will work collaboratively, building a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication.
My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and rooted in evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Owning our story and re-writing our narrative can be incredibly empowering. You are allowed and encouraged to be human with all its complexities in my office. Whether you find growth in verbal processing, journaling, or would like to use art as a therapeutic tool, I enjoy using my skills as an abstract thinker and creative clinician to empower you to reach your goals. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where you can tell your story and find healing. We will work collaboratively, building a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication.
(865) 830-6336 View (865) 830-6336
Photo of Regina Reed-Davis - Regina Reed-Davis Counseling Services , LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina Reed-Davis Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
FOCUS: Trauma Recovery, Divorce Recovery, Relationship Counseling, Emotionally Focused Counseling. I am trained in The Gottman Method for Relationship therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for trauma, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, Christian counseling, and Prepare & Enrich Premarital Counseling.
FOCUS: Trauma Recovery, Divorce Recovery, Relationship Counseling, Emotionally Focused Counseling. I am trained in The Gottman Method for Relationship therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for trauma, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, Christian counseling, and Prepare & Enrich Premarital Counseling.
(865) 375-8903 View (865) 375-8903
Photo of Lori Ramsey, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Ramsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Lori works to assess each client individually to determine the best mode of therapy which could include CBT, DBT, IFS, and EMDR with an ultimate goal of fostering positive life changes.
Lori Ramsey has 20 years of therapeutic experience specializing in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and chronic life stress. Lori's work is built on her philosophical foundation that all people can feel better. Lori uses this belief along with the client's own strengths, to help clients improve relationships, extinguish negative behaviors, and establish healing so they may live more fulfilled and productive lives.
Lori works to assess each client individually to determine the best mode of therapy which could include CBT, DBT, IFS, and EMDR with an ultimate goal of fostering positive life changes.
Lori Ramsey has 20 years of therapeutic experience specializing in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and chronic life stress. Lori's work is built on her philosophical foundation that all people can feel better. Lori uses this belief along with the client's own strengths, to help clients improve relationships, extinguish negative behaviors, and establish healing so they may live more fulfilled and productive lives.
(865) 351-3905 View (865) 351-3905
Photo of Jenni Freemyer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenni Freemyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Jenni loves working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She sees clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relational-stress, and other mental health issues. Jenni has extensive experience working with clients affected by emotional trauma. She is trained in EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing and Brainspotting, which she uses to help clients process through trauma. She has a certificate in Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. She also has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
Jenni loves working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She sees clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relational-stress, and other mental health issues. Jenni has extensive experience working with clients affected by emotional trauma. She is trained in EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing and Brainspotting, which she uses to help clients process through trauma. She has a certificate in Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. She also has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
(865) 217-2792 View (865) 217-2792
Photo of Hannah Keefer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Keefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37920  (Online Only)
I offer a collaborative, strengths-based approach that involves elements of CBT, MI, and DBT to assist you on your journey of recovery.
I enjoy working with a wide range of individuals and have a special interest in working with adults struggling with big changes in their lives or learning how to start and maintain healthy relationships. I love working with people who want to learn new ways of managing their emotions instead of relying on numbing or avoidance. Life is hard, and it's even more difficult when you don't allow yourself to feel the full range of your emotions or express them in a healthy way.
I offer a collaborative, strengths-based approach that involves elements of CBT, MI, and DBT to assist you on your journey of recovery.
I enjoy working with a wide range of individuals and have a special interest in working with adults struggling with big changes in their lives or learning how to start and maintain healthy relationships. I love working with people who want to learn new ways of managing their emotions instead of relying on numbing or avoidance. Life is hard, and it's even more difficult when you don't allow yourself to feel the full range of your emotions or express them in a healthy way.
(865) 213-2069 View (865) 213-2069
Photo of Nancy C. Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy C. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
I have training in family systems, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma informed care, and mindfulness.
Life can sometimes be filled with unexpected ups and downs or twists and turns that catch us off guard. We may feel overwhelmed or unprepared to handle these changes. Everyone needs a little help now and then. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with substance abuse/addiction, eating disorders, trauma and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar) along with issues related to grief and mild cognitive impairment and caregiving issues. I work with adults and families.
I have training in family systems, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma informed care, and mindfulness.
Life can sometimes be filled with unexpected ups and downs or twists and turns that catch us off guard. We may feel overwhelmed or unprepared to handle these changes. Everyone needs a little help now and then. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with substance abuse/addiction, eating disorders, trauma and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar) along with issues related to grief and mild cognitive impairment and caregiving issues. I work with adults and families.
(865) 205-0502 x134 View (865) 205-0502 x134
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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.