Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Newton Centre, MA

Photo of Aila Jesse McCutchen, PsyD, Psychologist
Aila Jesse McCutchen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Work History: Founding Fellow in the Academy of Cognitive Therapy.
Cognitive Therapy is a model of psychotherapy whose objective is to help people identify inaccurate thought patterns and assumptions that cause anxiety or depression, and that may even affect functioning. It can be challenging to pinpoint and correct these thoughts. Nonetheless, the process of acquiring healthier, reality-based ways of perceiving and actually trying out new solutions to old problems can improve symptoms and mood considerably. In cognitive therapy, I work collaboratively with patients to help them identify and understand how perceptions can interfere with their mood and decision-making, and we work together on a plan to achieve better balance for their life.
Work History: Founding Fellow in the Academy of Cognitive Therapy.
Cognitive Therapy is a model of psychotherapy whose objective is to help people identify inaccurate thought patterns and assumptions that cause anxiety or depression, and that may even affect functioning. It can be challenging to pinpoint and correct these thoughts. Nonetheless, the process of acquiring healthier, reality-based ways of perceiving and actually trying out new solutions to old problems can improve symptoms and mood considerably. In cognitive therapy, I work collaboratively with patients to help them identify and understand how perceptions can interfere with their mood and decision-making, and we work together on a plan to achieve better balance for their life.
(617) 229-5982 View (617) 229-5982
Photo of Joanna Ravina, PhD, Psychologist
Joanna Ravina
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
I help people who are having a hard time, often because of anxiety, relationships, work, and life transitions. I have extensive experience with a number of approaches that alleviate anxiety and depression and help you feel more in control. I will listen closely to your story, attending to what is most bothersome right now and what your goals are. We'll discuss possible approaches to help you feel better. Then, together we will make a plan. I have extensive experience offering coping strategies and problem-solving skills, as well as CBT, IPT, and other relationship-focused psychodynamic therapy.
I help people who are having a hard time, often because of anxiety, relationships, work, and life transitions. I have extensive experience with a number of approaches that alleviate anxiety and depression and help you feel more in control. I will listen closely to your story, attending to what is most bothersome right now and what your goals are. We'll discuss possible approaches to help you feel better. Then, together we will make a plan. I have extensive experience offering coping strategies and problem-solving skills, as well as CBT, IPT, and other relationship-focused psychodynamic therapy.
(617) 420-7904 View (617) 420-7904
Photo of Melissa M Amick, PhD, Psychologist
Melissa M Amick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who helps adults cope with mental health concerns and achieve their personal goals. I use cognitive-behavioral therapies that have been shown to improve emotional health. I specialize in treating anxiety, living with chronic illness, caregiver stress, and depression, as well as, developing coping strategies for more general life complexities and stress. I view therapy as a collaborative process and tailor interventions to the client’s needs. Often I expand my approach to integrate mindfulness and acceptance-based techniques.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who helps adults cope with mental health concerns and achieve their personal goals. I use cognitive-behavioral therapies that have been shown to improve emotional health. I specialize in treating anxiety, living with chronic illness, caregiver stress, and depression, as well as, developing coping strategies for more general life complexities and stress. I view therapy as a collaborative process and tailor interventions to the client’s needs. Often I expand my approach to integrate mindfulness and acceptance-based techniques.
(617) 612-4366 View (617) 612-4366
Photo of David Michael Poles, LADC, LMHC, Counselor
David Michael Poles
Counselor, LADC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
My approach to working with clients includes using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology techniques, Relational Life Therapy along with coaching techniques.
I am now accepting new clients as of 7/1/24! I enjoy working with both individuals, mostly men and couples, teaching them how to be more resilient, deal better with life changes, be more relational, have healthier boundaries improve self esteem, while helping them build their character. I also have several years of experience, teaching couples therapy how to be more relational. I also have thoughts and resources for men regarding masculinity and how to use that as a strength both personally and professionally.
My approach to working with clients includes using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology techniques, Relational Life Therapy along with coaching techniques.
I am now accepting new clients as of 7/1/24! I enjoy working with both individuals, mostly men and couples, teaching them how to be more resilient, deal better with life changes, be more relational, have healthier boundaries improve self esteem, while helping them build their character. I also have several years of experience, teaching couples therapy how to be more relational. I also have thoughts and resources for men regarding masculinity and how to use that as a strength both personally and professionally.
(617) 934-4119 View (617) 934-4119
Photo of Suhrida Yadavalli, LMHC, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suhrida Yadavalli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
I offer a combination of psychoanalytic and CBT/DBT informed approaches while being mindful of both the universality and cultural individuality of our experiences.
Deciding to see a therapist requires awareness and regard for oneself. I have deep respect for what has brought you here, and this will form the foundation of our work together. Perhaps you seek therapy now because of a crisis that is presenting new challenges or bringing up old, unresolved problems. Or you now feel ready to address a long-standing pattern that has caused much difficulty and pain over time. These burdens may be affecting not only your relationships with others but also how you relate to yourself. My job is to help you expand your capacity for what you can do alone.
I offer a combination of psychoanalytic and CBT/DBT informed approaches while being mindful of both the universality and cultural individuality of our experiences.
Deciding to see a therapist requires awareness and regard for oneself. I have deep respect for what has brought you here, and this will form the foundation of our work together. Perhaps you seek therapy now because of a crisis that is presenting new challenges or bringing up old, unresolved problems. Or you now feel ready to address a long-standing pattern that has caused much difficulty and pain over time. These burdens may be affecting not only your relationships with others but also how you relate to yourself. My job is to help you expand your capacity for what you can do alone.
(857) 203-8372 View (857) 203-8372
Photo of Leslie Penni, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Penni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
My therapeutic approach is a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, attachment-focused, psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness Therapy.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you struggling feelings of sadness all the time? You may be struggling with a major life stressor or perhaps you are feeling you are not where you want to be in your life or how you got there. I am passionate about working with clients to help them heal from the past, cope with the present and repair and grow healthy relationships. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I specialize in perinatal mental health, anxiety and depression, OCD, alcohol and substance abuse disorders, ADHD, life transitions, parenting and attachment, and relationship issues.
My therapeutic approach is a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, attachment-focused, psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness Therapy.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you struggling feelings of sadness all the time? You may be struggling with a major life stressor or perhaps you are feeling you are not where you want to be in your life or how you got there. I am passionate about working with clients to help them heal from the past, cope with the present and repair and grow healthy relationships. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I specialize in perinatal mental health, anxiety and depression, OCD, alcohol and substance abuse disorders, ADHD, life transitions, parenting and attachment, and relationship issues.
(617) 766-0319 View (617) 766-0319
Photo of Susan E Norman, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan E Norman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
(617) 446-3125 View (617) 446-3125
Photo of Gabriella Arrien, LMHC, Counselor
Gabriella Arrien
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
I draw upon evidence-based practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), mindfulness techniques, and somatic frameworks.
Life is full of challenges and hardships that can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed and burned out. I firmly believe that every person possesses unique strengths and abilities that can be harnessed to navigate the difficulties they face. By adopting a strengths-based approach, I strive to help individuals identify and leverage their inner resources to develop resilience and achieve their therapeutic goals. I view therapy as a collaborative process, where my clients and I work together as equal partners in exploring their concerns and co-creating personalized strategies for positive change.
I draw upon evidence-based practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), mindfulness techniques, and somatic frameworks.
Life is full of challenges and hardships that can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed and burned out. I firmly believe that every person possesses unique strengths and abilities that can be harnessed to navigate the difficulties they face. By adopting a strengths-based approach, I strive to help individuals identify and leverage their inner resources to develop resilience and achieve their therapeutic goals. I view therapy as a collaborative process, where my clients and I work together as equal partners in exploring their concerns and co-creating personalized strategies for positive change.
(339) 240-6826 View (339) 240-6826
Photo of Peggy Kriss, PhD, Psychologist
Peggy Kriss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'd like you to know that you can feel better, whether you're troubled by difficult feelings, thoughts, behaviors or situations. I work in a highly collaborative way, using empathy, education, humor, patience and lots of practice to help you reach your mental health and wellness goals. I'll introduce you to CBT, mindfulness, and acceptance based skills to build your resilience, confidence, and ability to manage uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, and to promote healthy relationships. I work with adults from college age and on. .
I'd like you to know that you can feel better, whether you're troubled by difficult feelings, thoughts, behaviors or situations. I work in a highly collaborative way, using empathy, education, humor, patience and lots of practice to help you reach your mental health and wellness goals. I'll introduce you to CBT, mindfulness, and acceptance based skills to build your resilience, confidence, and ability to manage uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, and to promote healthy relationships. I work with adults from college age and on. .
(617) 934-4525 View (617) 934-4525
Photo of Aliza Phillips-Stoll, PhD, Psychologist
Aliza Phillips-Stoll
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
A licensed psychologist practicing in Newton, Mass., I have 15+ years of experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, eating disorders and relationship challenges. With adolescents, adults, and couples, I use an integrative therapeutic approach, drawing on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and dialectical behavioral techniques. Life can be full of rough patches. Therefore my clients and I work together to shift the ways in which they relate to themselves and others, in order to lead more meaningful, productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
A licensed psychologist practicing in Newton, Mass., I have 15+ years of experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, eating disorders and relationship challenges. With adolescents, adults, and couples, I use an integrative therapeutic approach, drawing on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and dialectical behavioral techniques. Life can be full of rough patches. Therefore my clients and I work together to shift the ways in which they relate to themselves and others, in order to lead more meaningful, productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
(508) 348-7274 View (508) 348-7274
Photo of Doris Forteith, PsyD, Psychologist
Doris Forteith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I believe that individuals can improve their relationships and lives through insight and acceptance, and by changing problematic behaviors. I offer support and guidance by creating a collaborative, welcoming, and empathic therapy environment. The relationship between client and therapist is an important part of the work, and I pay close attention to this dynamic as therapy progresses. My clients are typically college students, adults, and parents looking for guidance. My approach is informed by Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) therapies, I also draw from other modalities to customize treatment to each individual's therapy goals.
I believe that individuals can improve their relationships and lives through insight and acceptance, and by changing problematic behaviors. I offer support and guidance by creating a collaborative, welcoming, and empathic therapy environment. The relationship between client and therapist is an important part of the work, and I pay close attention to this dynamic as therapy progresses. My clients are typically college students, adults, and parents looking for guidance. My approach is informed by Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) therapies, I also draw from other modalities to customize treatment to each individual's therapy goals.
(617) 860-3451 View (617) 860-3451
Photo of Fran Kuehn, LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fran Kuehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
CBT really works! Especially when you are working with a trained and experienced therapist. I hold advanced certification in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and use this approach exclusively. Together we will work to improve your insight, mood and motivation. You will learn what influences your mood and decision-making, and how ways of thinking and doing can lead to feeling stuck and hopeless. In addition to CBT, I can teach you powerful skills to improve distress tolerance and emotional regulation. These are skills you will learn to use now, and can rely on in the future.
CBT really works! Especially when you are working with a trained and experienced therapist. I hold advanced certification in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and use this approach exclusively. Together we will work to improve your insight, mood and motivation. You will learn what influences your mood and decision-making, and how ways of thinking and doing can lead to feeling stuck and hopeless. In addition to CBT, I can teach you powerful skills to improve distress tolerance and emotional regulation. These are skills you will learn to use now, and can rely on in the future.
(617) 702-2038 View (617) 702-2038
Photo of Cathryn M Freid, PhD, Psychologist
Cathryn M Freid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
(617) 553-9222 View (617) 553-9222
Photo of Richard L Phillipps, LICSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard L Phillipps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic approaches are the most powerful tools I use.
For over 30 years I've been helping people overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable. I have special expertise in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, and emotional issues related to physical illness. My dual background in Public Health and Social Work enables me to help people who have both psychological and health issues. I'm a strong advocate for family, peer and community support when acceptable to my clients.
Mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic approaches are the most powerful tools I use.
For over 30 years I've been helping people overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable. I have special expertise in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, and emotional issues related to physical illness. My dual background in Public Health and Social Work enables me to help people who have both psychological and health issues. I'm a strong advocate for family, peer and community support when acceptable to my clients.
(617) 440-7138 View (617) 440-7138
Photo of Kara R Harrington, PhD, Psychologist
Kara R Harrington
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Theoretical approaches that I draw upon are acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and relational psychotherapy.
These are stressful, uncertain times and many of us are coping with extraordinary circumstances while juggling multiple demands and roles. It can be easy to get overwhelmed. I can provide a space (virtually) that is completely yours to talk about what this experience has been like for you. I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have a background in mindfulness training, We can work together to alleviate your anxiety and create focus so that you can gain perspective and handle these challenging circumstances to the best of your ability.
Theoretical approaches that I draw upon are acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and relational psychotherapy.
These are stressful, uncertain times and many of us are coping with extraordinary circumstances while juggling multiple demands and roles. It can be easy to get overwhelmed. I can provide a space (virtually) that is completely yours to talk about what this experience has been like for you. I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have a background in mindfulness training, We can work together to alleviate your anxiety and create focus so that you can gain perspective and handle these challenging circumstances to the best of your ability.
(978) 675-3120 View (978) 675-3120
Photo of Brayden Kendziora, LMHC, REAT, Counselor
Brayden Kendziora
Counselor, LMHC, REAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Currently accepting new clients. I hope to foster an environment that facilitates growth and healing for clients and their loved ones. Together, we create a trusting relationship to spark self-discovery and enduring change for clients of all identities, bodies, and abilities. I tailor my psychotherapeutic approach to each person as an individual. Together, my clients and I create the opportunity to learn about themselves and their interpersonal world in a safe environment by incorporating evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions (e.g. ARC, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, expressive arts, family systems, etc.)
Currently accepting new clients. I hope to foster an environment that facilitates growth and healing for clients and their loved ones. Together, we create a trusting relationship to spark self-discovery and enduring change for clients of all identities, bodies, and abilities. I tailor my psychotherapeutic approach to each person as an individual. Together, my clients and I create the opportunity to learn about themselves and their interpersonal world in a safe environment by incorporating evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions (e.g. ARC, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, expressive arts, family systems, etc.)
(857) 349-5543 View (857) 349-5543
Photo of Taylor Lombard, LMHC, R-DMT, CIEC, Counselor
Taylor Lombard
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT, CIEC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
I utilize approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed care to meet my clients where they are at.
Spring 2024 - Accepting New Clients! Throughout life, we experience many transitions and challenges that are difficult to navigate. Sometimes, we need support in identifying and removing the barriers that can hold us back. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between therapist and client and that we work together as a team to meet your goals. I utilize a strength-based, multicultural-informed and feminist lens to empower my clients to develop insight and bring out their inner resiliencies.
I utilize approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed care to meet my clients where they are at.
Spring 2024 - Accepting New Clients! Throughout life, we experience many transitions and challenges that are difficult to navigate. Sometimes, we need support in identifying and removing the barriers that can hold us back. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between therapist and client and that we work together as a team to meet your goals. I utilize a strength-based, multicultural-informed and feminist lens to empower my clients to develop insight and bring out their inner resiliencies.
(617) 398-4217 View (617) 398-4217
Photo of Mark Joyce, LMHC, Counselor
Mark Joyce
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
My background is in cognitive behavioral therapy, with training in dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
As a licensed mental health clinician, my goal is to help guide you to a place of well-being and fulfillment. I have experience working with teenagers and adults of all ages in addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, addiction, grief & loss, life transitions, and trauma. I am also interested in the role technology plays in one’s experience of mental health symptoms and have completed research on the impact of smartphone addiction in college age students.
My background is in cognitive behavioral therapy, with training in dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
As a licensed mental health clinician, my goal is to help guide you to a place of well-being and fulfillment. I have experience working with teenagers and adults of all ages in addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, addiction, grief & loss, life transitions, and trauma. I am also interested in the role technology plays in one’s experience of mental health symptoms and have completed research on the impact of smartphone addiction in college age students.
(617) 272-7416 View (617) 272-7416
Photo of Dr. Madeleine Gordon, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Madeleine Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
My work is informed by relational, psychodynamic, family systems, and cognitive and dialectical behavioral theory.
Often, we find ourselves stuck. We repeat ineffective and painful patterns of behavior, and think worrisome and self-critical thoughts. Our past creeps in and impacts our present functioning. We struggle with conflict and communication in our most important relationships. It takes courage to tell your story, whether it is your first time or you have previously engaged in therapy. It is a privilege for me to learn about, and partner with you in pursuit of your goals. I see therapy as a safe and collaborative space to explore yourself, your areas of strength and of growth, and your relationships, without judgement.
My work is informed by relational, psychodynamic, family systems, and cognitive and dialectical behavioral theory.
Often, we find ourselves stuck. We repeat ineffective and painful patterns of behavior, and think worrisome and self-critical thoughts. Our past creeps in and impacts our present functioning. We struggle with conflict and communication in our most important relationships. It takes courage to tell your story, whether it is your first time or you have previously engaged in therapy. It is a privilege for me to learn about, and partner with you in pursuit of your goals. I see therapy as a safe and collaborative space to explore yourself, your areas of strength and of growth, and your relationships, without judgement.
(617) 545-0882 View (617) 545-0882
Photo of David Patrick Klapatch, LMHC, Counselor
David Patrick Klapatch
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I have worked in the mental health field for 19 years and understand how personal struggles can impact our lives. I have a passion for helping others and enjoy working collaboratively to help people overcome life's may challenges. I work with individuals 16 + and specialize in treating anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Panic Disorder. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I look forward to working with you and am confident that my approach will help you begin the healing process.
I have worked in the mental health field for 19 years and understand how personal struggles can impact our lives. I have a passion for helping others and enjoy working collaboratively to help people overcome life's may challenges. I work with individuals 16 + and specialize in treating anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Panic Disorder. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I look forward to working with you and am confident that my approach will help you begin the healing process.
(401) 566-8269 View (401) 566-8269

See more therapy options for Newton Centre

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.