Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Burgaw, NC

Photo of Nicole Wagoner, MA, LCMHC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Wagoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
The types of counseling theories that I use include Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Play-Therapy.
Hi! My name is Nicole. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor working at Ocean's Crest Counseling Center, PLLC in Burgaw, NC. I am accepting new clients with BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Healthy Blue, Amerihealth, and Wellcare. I am certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I have experience with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with children, young adults, and military with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Some of these diagnoses have included PTSD, anxiety, depression, ODD, ADHD, and Conduct Disorder.
The types of counseling theories that I use include Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Play-Therapy.
Hi! My name is Nicole. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor working at Ocean's Crest Counseling Center, PLLC in Burgaw, NC. I am accepting new clients with BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Healthy Blue, Amerihealth, and Wellcare. I am certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I have experience with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with children, young adults, and military with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Some of these diagnoses have included PTSD, anxiety, depression, ODD, ADHD, and Conduct Disorder.
(252) 765-4397 View (252) 765-4397
Photo of Kasha Sears Howard, LCSW, CAMC, CDBT, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kasha Sears Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMC, CDBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Trauma treatment is near and dear to me, using TF- CBT along with DBT techniques to reduce Trauma regulating emotions.
As a Clinical Trauma therapist, I know the choice to begin treatment takes courage & purpose & I am committed to providing Safety & Stabilization, processing your traumatic memories and making meaning for self. As well as developing sense of personal & relational integrity and well-being. My practice is rooted in genuineness, desire and a core belief that the human life force is resilient and giving. To get the most out of your TX I need you to approach therapy esp. if you're suffering from trauma, as a collective effort being open and honest about your TX plan/goals.
Trauma treatment is near and dear to me, using TF- CBT along with DBT techniques to reduce Trauma regulating emotions.
As a Clinical Trauma therapist, I know the choice to begin treatment takes courage & purpose & I am committed to providing Safety & Stabilization, processing your traumatic memories and making meaning for self. As well as developing sense of personal & relational integrity and well-being. My practice is rooted in genuineness, desire and a core belief that the human life force is resilient and giving. To get the most out of your TX I need you to approach therapy esp. if you're suffering from trauma, as a collective effort being open and honest about your TX plan/goals.
(910) 466-6458 View (910) 466-6458
Photo of Trina Goodwin, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trina Goodwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
I have been formally trained in Neuroscience, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and the Gottman Method, along with Ecotherapy.
Accepting new clients for in person or teletherapy. Evening in person or telehealth appointments available. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. Clients scheduling with me are often coping with past traumatic experiences, grief, parenting, women's concerns, gender identity, couple conflict, or substance use disorder along with many challenging life transitions. Depression, anxiety, and other symptoms that disrupt your life accompany these challenges. I create a space to feel heard, develop skills, access your internal resources, and gain insight to decrease symptoms and improve your quality of life.
I have been formally trained in Neuroscience, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and the Gottman Method, along with Ecotherapy.
Accepting new clients for in person or teletherapy. Evening in person or telehealth appointments available. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. Clients scheduling with me are often coping with past traumatic experiences, grief, parenting, women's concerns, gender identity, couple conflict, or substance use disorder along with many challenging life transitions. Depression, anxiety, and other symptoms that disrupt your life accompany these challenges. I create a space to feel heard, develop skills, access your internal resources, and gain insight to decrease symptoms and improve your quality of life.
(910) 537-3688 View (910) 537-3688
Photo of Carolyn Jackson, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Burgaw, NC 28425
I work with my clients to help them to manage their emotional issues by using a varieties of therapeutic modalities, such as, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focus and Motivational conversation.
I am an experience License Clinical Social Worker and License Clinical Addiction Specialist in private practice. I provide therapy to clients who are experiencing problems with depression, anxiety and substance use, due to their relational problems with self and with others. I will work with you to help you to connect and/or reconnect with loving yourself again, by overcoming guilt and shame. It is easy to lose your way on this journey called life, but with an understanding therapist you do not need to be on this journey alone.
I work with my clients to help them to manage their emotional issues by using a varieties of therapeutic modalities, such as, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focus and Motivational conversation.
I am an experience License Clinical Social Worker and License Clinical Addiction Specialist in private practice. I provide therapy to clients who are experiencing problems with depression, anxiety and substance use, due to their relational problems with self and with others. I will work with you to help you to connect and/or reconnect with loving yourself again, by overcoming guilt and shame. It is easy to lose your way on this journey called life, but with an understanding therapist you do not need to be on this journey alone.
(910) 601-2545 View (910) 601-2545
Photo of Katherine Mullaney, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Mullaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and when possible, Animal Assisted Therapy.
Hi, I'm Kat! It is my honor to walk beside you and tackle the hard things that you may be struggling with while providing a safe space to do so. Together we will explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors you may be experiencing, and gain a deeper understanding of how those elements interact to shape sense of self, make choices, and determine how you engage with the world. I believe that developing such insight can help with healing from past hurts, becoming un-stuck, and moving toward meaningful change. I work with children, teens, adults, and families as they navigate through various circumstances.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and when possible, Animal Assisted Therapy.
Hi, I'm Kat! It is my honor to walk beside you and tackle the hard things that you may be struggling with while providing a safe space to do so. Together we will explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors you may be experiencing, and gain a deeper understanding of how those elements interact to shape sense of self, make choices, and determine how you engage with the world. I believe that developing such insight can help with healing from past hurts, becoming un-stuck, and moving toward meaningful change. I work with children, teens, adults, and families as they navigate through various circumstances.
(910) 356-8023 View (910) 356-8023
Photo of Kate Carleton Washburn - Kate Carleton Washburn, MSW, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Carleton Washburn, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burgaw, NC 28425
I bring over 25 years of clinical experience in both inpatient psychiatric settings and outpatient settings that have included mental health agencies and an expanding private practice. I have a specialty in the spectrum of Addiction, Codependency, and Recovery, as well as Dual Diagnosis clients who struggle with mood disorders, or a traumatic event history while seeking sobriety. I offer treatment using insight enhancing, behavioral and cognitive therapies; as well as spirituality and systems theory approaches to address mood, situational, self-esteem, loss, and relationship problems. I see clients in individual, couple, and family modalties, and am available to faciltate interventions for significant others.
I bring over 25 years of clinical experience in both inpatient psychiatric settings and outpatient settings that have included mental health agencies and an expanding private practice. I have a specialty in the spectrum of Addiction, Codependency, and Recovery, as well as Dual Diagnosis clients who struggle with mood disorders, or a traumatic event history while seeking sobriety. I offer treatment using insight enhancing, behavioral and cognitive therapies; as well as spirituality and systems theory approaches to address mood, situational, self-esteem, loss, and relationship problems. I see clients in individual, couple, and family modalties, and am available to faciltate interventions for significant others.
(910) 665-7684 View (910) 665-7684
Photo of Jennifer G. Walker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer G. Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a rostered clinician with the North Carolina Child Treatment Program since 2013.
Hello! I’m Jennifer Walker, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for guiding individuals and families through life's challenges. I bring 30 years of experience across various settings to my practice. My work in nonprofits, child advocacy, juvenile crime prevention, and social services demonstrate my compassion and commitment to improving the lives of those in our community. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, I offer a safe and compassionate space to explore your goals and work towards growth and healing. I will work in partnership with you to provide the tools and support you need.
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a rostered clinician with the North Carolina Child Treatment Program since 2013.
Hello! I’m Jennifer Walker, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for guiding individuals and families through life's challenges. I bring 30 years of experience across various settings to my practice. My work in nonprofits, child advocacy, juvenile crime prevention, and social services demonstrate my compassion and commitment to improving the lives of those in our community. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, I offer a safe and compassionate space to explore your goals and work towards growth and healing. I will work in partnership with you to provide the tools and support you need.
(910) 469-1645 View (910) 469-1645
Photo of C. Anne Whitfield, MA, LCMHC, NCC
C. Anne Whitfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Anne uses cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapies, solution-focused methods, education, and behavioral techniques to help each of her patients.
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
Anne uses cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapies, solution-focused methods, education, and behavioral techniques to help each of her patients.
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
(910) 335-4253 View (910) 335-4253
Photo of Jennifer Witkowski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Witkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Burgaw, NC 28425  (Online Only)
Real change means real work. You must put forth effort and action to have a deeper understanding of the old patterns that exist. I hope to develop a safe, open relationship in which you feel safe to look at your patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are holding you back from where you want to be, and develop a pattern of self awareness, and explore the possibilities before you. Telling our stories aloud allows us to have the conscious choice to move forward in the direction we want to take it
Real change means real work. You must put forth effort and action to have a deeper understanding of the old patterns that exist. I hope to develop a safe, open relationship in which you feel safe to look at your patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are holding you back from where you want to be, and develop a pattern of self awareness, and explore the possibilities before you. Telling our stories aloud allows us to have the conscious choice to move forward in the direction we want to take it
(910) 390-8127 View (910) 390-8127
Photo of Jennifer Upchurch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Upchurch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Thank you for visiting my profile. In my 23 years as a therapist I have developed a passion in working with adults whom have experienced trauma or attachment wounds & are now struggling with anxiety, depression & repeating unwanted patterns. I have received specialized training in EMDR or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I am an Emdria Certified EMDR clinician and consultant. I also have completed the level 3 AF-EMDR training through the Parnell Institute. This treatment has been enormously effective for individuals whom have experienced traumas or stress in their lives.
Thank you for visiting my profile. In my 23 years as a therapist I have developed a passion in working with adults whom have experienced trauma or attachment wounds & are now struggling with anxiety, depression & repeating unwanted patterns. I have received specialized training in EMDR or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I am an Emdria Certified EMDR clinician and consultant. I also have completed the level 3 AF-EMDR training through the Parnell Institute. This treatment has been enormously effective for individuals whom have experienced traumas or stress in their lives.
(910) 565-4301 View (910) 565-4301
Photo of Hannah Hawksworth, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Hawksworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
I truly believe that every person has the ability within themselves to think and feel positively, overcome their struggles, and be comfortable in their own skin. My role as a therapist is to help an individual deepen their understanding of life experiences that may affect emotions, thought patterns, perceptions, and behaviors.
I truly believe that every person has the ability within themselves to think and feel positively, overcome their struggles, and be comfortable in their own skin. My role as a therapist is to help an individual deepen their understanding of life experiences that may affect emotions, thought patterns, perceptions, and behaviors.
(910) 601-1806 View (910) 601-1806
Photo of Windy Ezzell, MA, LCMHC
Windy Ezzell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Welcome! I'm licensed in the state of N.C. as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 years experience working with children, adults, couples and families. I'm excited you're taking the steps for your wellness and self care! My training, experience, and general counseling practice include working with folks on trauma, depression, anxiety and other life changes, so they may live healthy and productive lives. My practice also includes, grief, all aspects of building your family, TFMR, miscarriage, reproductive health across the lifespan (birth to 100!) pregnancy loss, (In)fertility, and the impact on all parts of SELF.
Welcome! I'm licensed in the state of N.C. as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 years experience working with children, adults, couples and families. I'm excited you're taking the steps for your wellness and self care! My training, experience, and general counseling practice include working with folks on trauma, depression, anxiety and other life changes, so they may live healthy and productive lives. My practice also includes, grief, all aspects of building your family, TFMR, miscarriage, reproductive health across the lifespan (birth to 100!) pregnancy loss, (In)fertility, and the impact on all parts of SELF.
(910) 631-6826 View (910) 631-6826
Photo of Linda Burbank, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Burbank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burgaw, NC 28425  (Online Only)
I have been providing outpatient therapy in Wilmington NC for 20 years. I work with families, children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I am experienced treating people with depression, anxiety, school issues, relationship issues, difficult family dynamics, couples issues, and parenting difficulties. My approach is empowering and non threatening as well as solution focused and goal oriented. I will help people build on their strengths to improve their lives
I have been providing outpatient therapy in Wilmington NC for 20 years. I work with families, children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I am experienced treating people with depression, anxiety, school issues, relationship issues, difficult family dynamics, couples issues, and parenting difficulties. My approach is empowering and non threatening as well as solution focused and goal oriented. I will help people build on their strengths to improve their lives
(910) 292-4208 View (910) 292-4208
Photo of Sarah Christman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Christman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Hi! Raise your hand if life has ever felt too chaotic, stressful, unbearable, lonely, or confusing? (My hand’s raised!) We all experience times when life feels overwhelming and we don’t have to get through it alone. I offer a warm and lighthearted space for you to feel comfortable expressing your truest self, capable of overcoming your biggest struggles and fears, and safe to explore your greatest hopes.
Hi! Raise your hand if life has ever felt too chaotic, stressful, unbearable, lonely, or confusing? (My hand’s raised!) We all experience times when life feels overwhelming and we don’t have to get through it alone. I offer a warm and lighthearted space for you to feel comfortable expressing your truest self, capable of overcoming your biggest struggles and fears, and safe to explore your greatest hopes.
(910) 542-8550 View (910) 542-8550
Photo of Kimberly Horrell, MA, LCMHCA, LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Horrell
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Burgaw, NC 28425
Let's face it, life can be really messy. People fail you, situations don't turn out like you planned, emotions feel overwhelming—all these things come together to create what can feel like an unsurmountable obstacle. What you desire are solutions to the very situations you are facing, a sense of peace regardless of circumstances, and hope for a much better future. This is where I can help. I work alongside my clients to create lives in which they feel fulfilled, confident, and hopeful for the future. I empower my clients with the skills they need to have joy and peace in their lives and relationships.
Let's face it, life can be really messy. People fail you, situations don't turn out like you planned, emotions feel overwhelming—all these things come together to create what can feel like an unsurmountable obstacle. What you desire are solutions to the very situations you are facing, a sense of peace regardless of circumstances, and hope for a much better future. This is where I can help. I work alongside my clients to create lives in which they feel fulfilled, confident, and hopeful for the future. I empower my clients with the skills they need to have joy and peace in their lives and relationships.
(910) 857-5692 View (910) 857-5692
Photo of Michelle Parker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burgaw, NC 28425
Does anxiety, depression, family conflict, and life stressors control your life? Hi! I'm Michelle Parker. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about and have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I assist those experiencing anxiety and depression find inner peace and balance. I also assist those who are struggling with other issues, such as school stress, work stress and burnout, as well as difficult relationships.
Does anxiety, depression, family conflict, and life stressors control your life? Hi! I'm Michelle Parker. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about and have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I assist those experiencing anxiety and depression find inner peace and balance. I also assist those who are struggling with other issues, such as school stress, work stress and burnout, as well as difficult relationships.
(910) 519-8601 View (910) 519-8601
Photo of Joseph Rengifo - Wilmington Mental Health, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP, Counselor
Wilmington Mental Health
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
(910) 909-4408 View (910) 909-4408
Photo of Kimberly M Spader, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly M Spader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Not accepting new clients
I use a variety of modalities, including mindfulness cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and I always practice with trauma informed care.
I am always humbled to be a part of someone's mental health care journey. I enjoy working with folks who are navigating all of life's issues, including recovery from trauma, high anxiety, depression and relationship issues. My practice is goal oriented and intended to support you with making the changes you want to make in order to show up as your most authentic and happy self.
I use a variety of modalities, including mindfulness cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and I always practice with trauma informed care.
I am always humbled to be a part of someone's mental health care journey. I enjoy working with folks who are navigating all of life's issues, including recovery from trauma, high anxiety, depression and relationship issues. My practice is goal oriented and intended to support you with making the changes you want to make in order to show up as your most authentic and happy self.
(910) 518-5045 View (910) 518-5045
Photo of Meghan Blair, LCMHC
Meghan Blair
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I offer cognitive-behavioral therapy, attachment-based work, motivational interviewing, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapy for adults with anxiety and trauma.
Dating, trouble with boundaries, sexual trauma, relationship trauma, codependency, childhood trauma, relationship conflict, and more may lead to feeling as though it is difficult to have fulfilling relationships with ourselves and others. Or, maybe you are experiencing a general sense of anxiety, and it feels difficult to live in the moment. My priority is to offer an empowering, trauma-focused safe space where you can heal and cultivate healthy relationships with yourself and others.
I offer cognitive-behavioral therapy, attachment-based work, motivational interviewing, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapy for adults with anxiety and trauma.
Dating, trouble with boundaries, sexual trauma, relationship trauma, codependency, childhood trauma, relationship conflict, and more may lead to feeling as though it is difficult to have fulfilling relationships with ourselves and others. Or, maybe you are experiencing a general sense of anxiety, and it feels difficult to live in the moment. My priority is to offer an empowering, trauma-focused safe space where you can heal and cultivate healthy relationships with yourself and others.
(910) 387-4317 View (910) 387-4317
Jamie Washington
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Not accepting new clients
(910) 386-0167 View (910) 386-0167

See more therapy options for Burgaw

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.