Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Ellicott City, MD

Photo of Christopher Define, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Define
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I utilize CBT, psychodynamic, mindfulness, client-centered and strength based paradigms, and believe strongly in the ethical principal of self determination.
Accepting New Clients: It is often a challenge for someone to make the first step and seek out mental health services. I am cognizant of that and provide my clients with a safe, and non judgmental space. I accept adolescent and adult clients, providing individual and family therapy. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, ADHD, relationship issues and personality disorders.
I utilize CBT, psychodynamic, mindfulness, client-centered and strength based paradigms, and believe strongly in the ethical principal of self determination.
Accepting New Clients: It is often a challenge for someone to make the first step and seek out mental health services. I am cognizant of that and provide my clients with a safe, and non judgmental space. I accept adolescent and adult clients, providing individual and family therapy. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, ADHD, relationship issues and personality disorders.
(443) 339-8402 View (443) 339-8402
Photo of Christina Wagoner, MS, LCPC
Christina Wagoner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I am certified in EMDR and have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I work with clients of many needs and backgrounds; however my specialties include trauma, grief, infertility, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem and communication problems. My goal is to help my clients learn to cope with the problems and stress they may be experiencing and to help them identify ways to alleviate these issues, learn more about themselves, achieve their goals, create more more fulfilling personal relationships and improve overall health. While my physical office is located in Ellicott City I offer teletherapy allowing me to be available to clients across Maryland.
I am certified in EMDR and have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I work with clients of many needs and backgrounds; however my specialties include trauma, grief, infertility, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem and communication problems. My goal is to help my clients learn to cope with the problems and stress they may be experiencing and to help them identify ways to alleviate these issues, learn more about themselves, achieve their goals, create more more fulfilling personal relationships and improve overall health. While my physical office is located in Ellicott City I offer teletherapy allowing me to be available to clients across Maryland.
(240) 616-1730 View (240) 616-1730
Photo of Shannon Sammis, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Sammis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
I prefer to take a child-centered approach and utilize developmentally appropriate techniques including play therapy, expressive arts, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
My philosophy when working with children and teens is that they need to feel heard, valued, and supported. I believe that they need to understand that their thoughts and feelings matter. I have spent 15+ years working with children, teens, and their caregivers in schools, the community, and in their homes. I am a certified school social worker and have significant experience working with behaviors, navigating the IEP process, and providing parenting support. I have a special interest in working with children and teens who are neurodivergent or have a developmental disability.
I prefer to take a child-centered approach and utilize developmentally appropriate techniques including play therapy, expressive arts, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
My philosophy when working with children and teens is that they need to feel heard, valued, and supported. I believe that they need to understand that their thoughts and feelings matter. I have spent 15+ years working with children, teens, and their caregivers in schools, the community, and in their homes. I am a certified school social worker and have significant experience working with behaviors, navigating the IEP process, and providing parenting support. I have a special interest in working with children and teens who are neurodivergent or have a developmental disability.
(443) 702-8685 View (443) 702-8685
Photo of Johanna Clay Souder, PsyD, Psychologist
Johanna Clay Souder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
My clinical areas of interest include neurodegenerative disorders (Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer's, Dementias, Traumatic Brain Injury, etc.
I am passionate about assisting individuals and their loved ones through the unique challenges associated with the aging process. I also have extensive experience working with individuals who have alcohol and/or drug abuse concerns. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families from adolescence through the geriatric population. I have over thirty years of experience providing therapy and psychological assessments within a wide variety of clinical settings and diverse populations.
My clinical areas of interest include neurodegenerative disorders (Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer's, Dementias, Traumatic Brain Injury, etc.
I am passionate about assisting individuals and their loved ones through the unique challenges associated with the aging process. I also have extensive experience working with individuals who have alcohol and/or drug abuse concerns. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families from adolescence through the geriatric population. I have over thirty years of experience providing therapy and psychological assessments within a wide variety of clinical settings and diverse populations.
(443) 574-6625 View (443) 574-6625
Photo of Elizabeth H Pilson, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth H Pilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer an eclectic approach that combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems theories.
When certain aspects of your life feel unmanageable, entering therapy can be a rewarding journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. Do challenges arise repeatedly in personal and professional relationships, especially during times of transition? Therapy is one of the most effective ways to improve relationships with others by exploring and strengthening a trusting relationship with Self. Often, my clients experience a significant reduction in anxiety, an improvement in communication, and effective problem resolution.
I offer an eclectic approach that combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems theories.
When certain aspects of your life feel unmanageable, entering therapy can be a rewarding journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. Do challenges arise repeatedly in personal and professional relationships, especially during times of transition? Therapy is one of the most effective ways to improve relationships with others by exploring and strengthening a trusting relationship with Self. Often, my clients experience a significant reduction in anxiety, an improvement in communication, and effective problem resolution.
(410) 394-8482 View (410) 394-8482
Photo of Deborah Gioia Hasick, LCSW-C, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Gioia Hasick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042  (Online Only)
I have been trained in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT), and other evidence-supported behavioral therapies that benefit adults of all ages.
Hi! Have you been struggling with feeling sad, irrititated, hopelessness, worried or anxious? Are things not going well for you recently in your life? You have made the right decision to seek help and also you have come to the right place. When depression, anxiety and other conditions cloud our minds, it will hinder our ability to focus and problem solve, which leaves us stuck in that state of mind. My goals is to help you pull through that state of mind.
I have been trained in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT), and other evidence-supported behavioral therapies that benefit adults of all ages.
Hi! Have you been struggling with feeling sad, irrititated, hopelessness, worried or anxious? Are things not going well for you recently in your life? You have made the right decision to seek help and also you have come to the right place. When depression, anxiety and other conditions cloud our minds, it will hinder our ability to focus and problem solve, which leaves us stuck in that state of mind. My goals is to help you pull through that state of mind.
(410) 824-5011 View (410) 824-5011
Photo of Rebecca Cooney, LCSW-C, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Cooney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach includes aspects of CBT, DBT, IFS & EMDR, mindfulness and meditation, cultivating self-compassion, and the therapeutic use of humor, empathy and human connection.
Seeking therapy requires MOXIE! You sense that a painful experience from your past is affecting your present life. You recognize that you're caught in a cycle, but finding a way out seems impossible. Typically, you're the kind of person who can navigate through any challenge, so it's incredibly frustrating that this time feels different. I specialize in working with adult & adolescents in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, family conflict, self-esteem, trauma, abuse, grief/loss and emotion dysregulation.
My approach includes aspects of CBT, DBT, IFS & EMDR, mindfulness and meditation, cultivating self-compassion, and the therapeutic use of humor, empathy and human connection.
Seeking therapy requires MOXIE! You sense that a painful experience from your past is affecting your present life. You recognize that you're caught in a cycle, but finding a way out seems impossible. Typically, you're the kind of person who can navigate through any challenge, so it's incredibly frustrating that this time feels different. I specialize in working with adult & adolescents in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, family conflict, self-esteem, trauma, abuse, grief/loss and emotion dysregulation.
(443) 917-3770 View (443) 917-3770
Photo of Julia Henry McGovern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Henry McGovern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043  (Online Only)
Practicing clinical social work in a variety of settings since 1999. Enjoys working with young adults, couples and families using multiple theoretical models and activities in order to increase the clients understanding, sense of control and hopefulness in their ability to reach their goals. Practices CBT, DBT, and trauma informed treatment having acquired additional training in these research based modalities. Additional training with the diagnosis of ADHD as well.
Practicing clinical social work in a variety of settings since 1999. Enjoys working with young adults, couples and families using multiple theoretical models and activities in order to increase the clients understanding, sense of control and hopefulness in their ability to reach their goals. Practices CBT, DBT, and trauma informed treatment having acquired additional training in these research based modalities. Additional training with the diagnosis of ADHD as well.
(443) 781-8639 View (443) 781-8639
Photo of Sundus Nada, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sundus Nada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043  (Online Only)
My approach includes aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution focused therapy, play therapy, and complicated grief therapy.
Are you feeling down lately? Are you looking to make a change in your life but don’t have the motivation to? I am here to meet you where you are and work with you to identify what goals and changes you want to make in your life.
My approach includes aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution focused therapy, play therapy, and complicated grief therapy.
Are you feeling down lately? Are you looking to make a change in your life but don’t have the motivation to? I am here to meet you where you are and work with you to identify what goals and changes you want to make in your life.
(443) 665-0265 View (443) 665-0265
Photo of Yael Friedman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yael Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043  (Online Only)
I use a wide-ranging approach to therapy, drawing on aspects of CBT, ACT, IFS, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and more, to best support each of my clients.
I'm guessing that you are going through a difficult time right now, or else you wouldn’t be reading this. The good news is that you have the capacity to help yourself feel better! My role is to help you along your personal journey of healing. My role consists of three parts: creating a safe, non-judgmental space for you to be yourself and to speak whatever is on your mind; helping you learn about yourself and understand your situation from a new perspective; and empowering you to problem solve and turn your goals into your new reality.
I use a wide-ranging approach to therapy, drawing on aspects of CBT, ACT, IFS, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and more, to best support each of my clients.
I'm guessing that you are going through a difficult time right now, or else you wouldn’t be reading this. The good news is that you have the capacity to help yourself feel better! My role is to help you along your personal journey of healing. My role consists of three parts: creating a safe, non-judgmental space for you to be yourself and to speak whatever is on your mind; helping you learn about yourself and understand your situation from a new perspective; and empowering you to problem solve and turn your goals into your new reality.
(443) 781-6861 View (443) 781-6861
Photo of Candice Richardson Dickens, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP, Counselor
Candice Richardson Dickens
Counselor, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Candice R Dickens of CRA Counseling & Consulting Agency specializes in providing play therapy ( 11-16 yrs of age), individual counseling, crises management, employee assistance counseling, critical incident stress management, family /couples counseling, anger management training, cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation training, and SAP evaluations.
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
Candice R Dickens of CRA Counseling & Consulting Agency specializes in providing play therapy ( 11-16 yrs of age), individual counseling, crises management, employee assistance counseling, critical incident stress management, family /couples counseling, anger management training, cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation training, and SAP evaluations.
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
(443) 218-9560 View (443) 218-9560
Photo of Jasmine Templeton, LCPC-S
Jasmine Templeton
LCPC-S
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042  (Online Only)
I specialize in Substance Abuse Treatment, Cognitive Based Therapy ( CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Therapy is a valuable tool that can help you set and achieve the goals you have for yourself. Do you want to become a fantastic parent?, let go and forgive?, become more assertive? How about love yourself?, improve your communication skills? All of these and more are attainable in a safe space. I specialize in listening to YOU. Whether we process a trauma together or work on addiction issues, we can do it together.
I specialize in Substance Abuse Treatment, Cognitive Based Therapy ( CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Therapy is a valuable tool that can help you set and achieve the goals you have for yourself. Do you want to become a fantastic parent?, let go and forgive?, become more assertive? How about love yourself?, improve your communication skills? All of these and more are attainable in a safe space. I specialize in listening to YOU. Whether we process a trauma together or work on addiction issues, we can do it together.
(410) 498-4469 View (410) 498-4469
Photo of LaToya Jayson, LGSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaToya Jayson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043
It is important to have a safe space to express your true feelings and process your experiences in life. Therapy is a perfect space to do that without judgment and at your own pace. There are many different approaches to therapy for each client, and one size does not fit all. I like to use a client-centered approach as I believe in giving the client the agency to feel in control of their therapeutic experience. I use various approaches such as CBT and mindfulness, to create an environment and experience that is individualized and beneficial to the client’s goals and expectations.
It is important to have a safe space to express your true feelings and process your experiences in life. Therapy is a perfect space to do that without judgment and at your own pace. There are many different approaches to therapy for each client, and one size does not fit all. I like to use a client-centered approach as I believe in giving the client the agency to feel in control of their therapeutic experience. I use various approaches such as CBT and mindfulness, to create an environment and experience that is individualized and beneficial to the client’s goals and expectations.
(443) 726-1863 View (443) 726-1863
Photo of Sarah Burke, NCC, LCPC
Sarah Burke
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I also use cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based interventions, along with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes we need support to face our challenges. I believe it is possible to grow from our struggles and learn from the difficult experiences we go through. I work with adolescents and adults ages 18 and up and provide a client-centered approach that meets the unique needs of each person. I support my clients in building self-esteem, resolving core issues causing anxiety and depression, and developing coping skills to reduce stress. I strive to empower my clients to develop self-compassion, acceptance, and insight to improve quality of life and wellbeing.
I also use cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based interventions, along with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes we need support to face our challenges. I believe it is possible to grow from our struggles and learn from the difficult experiences we go through. I work with adolescents and adults ages 18 and up and provide a client-centered approach that meets the unique needs of each person. I support my clients in building self-esteem, resolving core issues causing anxiety and depression, and developing coping skills to reduce stress. I strive to empower my clients to develop self-compassion, acceptance, and insight to improve quality of life and wellbeing.
(443) 730-5612 View (443) 730-5612
Photo of Lauren Berdeguez, LCPC
Lauren Berdeguez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Through client-centered practices such as: Talk Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Creative Therapy (art, music, narrative), and Dialectic Behavioral therapy we can navigate the relationship within yourself and with others.
Seeking out therapeutic services is healthy for our mind/body/soul connection. Just as we go to the gym to keep our bodies healthy, or puzzles to keep our mind sharp, we go to therapy to keep our connection between our mind/body/soul. Further, relationships are the center of connection: how we relate to others (family, friends, coworkers,) and the relationship we have with ourselves. It is my privilege to sit with you (or your family members) while we navigate the roadblocks and successes that make your life experience uniquely yours. It is my hope that in through this exploration and work, we can improve your relationships.
Through client-centered practices such as: Talk Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Creative Therapy (art, music, narrative), and Dialectic Behavioral therapy we can navigate the relationship within yourself and with others.
Seeking out therapeutic services is healthy for our mind/body/soul connection. Just as we go to the gym to keep our bodies healthy, or puzzles to keep our mind sharp, we go to therapy to keep our connection between our mind/body/soul. Further, relationships are the center of connection: how we relate to others (family, friends, coworkers,) and the relationship we have with ourselves. It is my privilege to sit with you (or your family members) while we navigate the roadblocks and successes that make your life experience uniquely yours. It is my hope that in through this exploration and work, we can improve your relationships.
(410) 657-6951 View (410) 657-6951
Photo of Agneta Mitchell, PhD, Psychologist
Agneta Mitchell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042  (Online Only)
My style is eclectic, based on CBT and psychodynamic/insight oriented approaches.
Therapy is for everyone. Whether you’re dealing with a crisis, struggling with longstanding mental health issues, or simply want to work on personal growth, I believe you can benefit from therapy to help understand yourself better as you seek to navigate life’s ups and downs. I have 35 years of experience as a clinical psychologist. I’m the co-founder of Apex Counseling Center, an outpatient mental health clinic in Baltimore City, serving a diverse population since 2004. Over the years, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults, families and couples in different inpatient and outpatient settings.
My style is eclectic, based on CBT and psychodynamic/insight oriented approaches.
Therapy is for everyone. Whether you’re dealing with a crisis, struggling with longstanding mental health issues, or simply want to work on personal growth, I believe you can benefit from therapy to help understand yourself better as you seek to navigate life’s ups and downs. I have 35 years of experience as a clinical psychologist. I’m the co-founder of Apex Counseling Center, an outpatient mental health clinic in Baltimore City, serving a diverse population since 2004. Over the years, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults, families and couples in different inpatient and outpatient settings.
(410) 538-1396 View (410) 538-1396
Photo of Deitra Fant, MA, NCC, LCPC-S
Deitra Fant
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
My approach to therapy uses real-life coping skills & an eclectic mix of modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), solution-focused therapy, and person-centered therapy, among others.
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
My approach to therapy uses real-life coping skills & an eclectic mix of modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), solution-focused therapy, and person-centered therapy, among others.
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
(443) 933-8198 View (443) 933-8198
Photo of Hetal A Patel, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hetal A Patel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042  (Online Only)
I utilize several treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral treatment in treating adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety and various other life's difficulties.
Currently accepting new patients. Please note…offering only telehealth appointments. I enjoy working with individuals and families and find the greatest reward in seeing positive changes with those I work with. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental, and individualized treatment and do not believe in 'one size fits all'. I am a licensed clinical social worker and a graduate of the University of Maryland with more than 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiance, and parenting issues.
I utilize several treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral treatment in treating adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety and various other life's difficulties.
Currently accepting new patients. Please note…offering only telehealth appointments. I enjoy working with individuals and families and find the greatest reward in seeing positive changes with those I work with. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental, and individualized treatment and do not believe in 'one size fits all'. I am a licensed clinical social worker and a graduate of the University of Maryland with more than 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiance, and parenting issues.
(410) 941-4129 View (410) 941-4129
Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
My specialty is cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
My specialty is cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(443) 233-1075 View (443) 233-1075
Photo of Catherine Gragasin, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Gragasin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I also work with children, adolescents, and young adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF- CBT), and mindfulness-based approaches.
I work with children who are having a tough time. Whether that is difficulty adjusting to big changes in the family, making friends, or managing daily meltdowns, therapy can help! My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place for your child to express their most challenging emotions in the language they know best: Play!
I also work with children, adolescents, and young adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF- CBT), and mindfulness-based approaches.
I work with children who are having a tough time. Whether that is difficulty adjusting to big changes in the family, making friends, or managing daily meltdowns, therapy can help! My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place for your child to express their most challenging emotions in the language they know best: Play!
(443) 767-1496 View (443) 767-1496
1
...

See more therapy options for Ellicott City

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.