Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in River Edge, NJ

Photo of Jose Luis Posos, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jose Luis Posos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
My foundation in client-centered therapy, combined with cognitive behavioral techniques, informs my practice, ensuring that every session is tailored to meet your specific needs.
My journey as mental health counselor has led me to work closely with survivors of intimate partner violence, providing a compassionate space for healing and growth. Currently, I oversee all of children's behavioral health services at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, I advocate for the mental well-being of our younger population, ensuring they receive the care and support they need. I'm a dedicated mental health counselor with over a decade of experience specializing in aiding couples, individuals grappling with depression or ADHD, and guiding adolescents through their unique struggles.
My foundation in client-centered therapy, combined with cognitive behavioral techniques, informs my practice, ensuring that every session is tailored to meet your specific needs.
My journey as mental health counselor has led me to work closely with survivors of intimate partner violence, providing a compassionate space for healing and growth. Currently, I oversee all of children's behavioral health services at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, I advocate for the mental well-being of our younger population, ensuring they receive the care and support they need. I'm a dedicated mental health counselor with over a decade of experience specializing in aiding couples, individuals grappling with depression or ADHD, and guiding adolescents through their unique struggles.
(201) 733-2632 View (201) 733-2632
Photo of Tali Wigod, PsyD, Psychologist
Tali Wigod
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
Dr. Tali Wigod is a New York and New Jersey licensed clinical psychologist specializing in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for children, adolescents, young adults, parents, families, and couples. She takes a compassionate and collaborative approach in helping clients identify and achieve their emotional and behavioral goals.
Dr. Tali Wigod is a New York and New Jersey licensed clinical psychologist specializing in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for children, adolescents, young adults, parents, families, and couples. She takes a compassionate and collaborative approach in helping clients identify and achieve their emotional and behavioral goals.
(201) 948-0523 View (201) 948-0523
Photo of Dr. Julie Fleischmann, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Julie Fleischmann
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661
I am a licensed psychologist in NJ and NY and intensively trained in CBT and DBT.
Psychologists provide a unique perspective when assisting clients in doing the often difficult work of facing their own emotions and the situation that led them to seek help. The goal is for clients to process their emotions, learn skills, and practice change-oriented strategies to help them overcome the hurdles they are facing. This often results in clients who feel more balanced, resilient, and confident in handling unexpected situations as they arise.
I am a licensed psychologist in NJ and NY and intensively trained in CBT and DBT.
Psychologists provide a unique perspective when assisting clients in doing the often difficult work of facing their own emotions and the situation that led them to seek help. The goal is for clients to process their emotions, learn skills, and practice change-oriented strategies to help them overcome the hurdles they are facing. This often results in clients who feel more balanced, resilient, and confident in handling unexpected situations as they arise.
(201) 596-8700 View (201) 596-8700
Photo of Steven Santangelo, MSW, LCADC, LSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Steven Santangelo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCADC, LSW
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
I utilize evidence-based practices like CBT and DBT as well as mindfulness techniques.
Has opening up about things in your life you are struggling with been difficult? Have drugs or alcohol become more and more of a problem than a solution? Perhaps you have felt there is no way out, or maybe you’ve done the hard work to make it this far but are looking for that final push to really begin living your life to its fullest again. Addiction is complicated, much bigger than substance alone, and therapy is a major component to addressing addictions from all sides, assisting you in taking back control of your life once and for all.
I utilize evidence-based practices like CBT and DBT as well as mindfulness techniques.
Has opening up about things in your life you are struggling with been difficult? Have drugs or alcohol become more and more of a problem than a solution? Perhaps you have felt there is no way out, or maybe you’ve done the hard work to make it this far but are looking for that final push to really begin living your life to its fullest again. Addiction is complicated, much bigger than substance alone, and therapy is a major component to addressing addictions from all sides, assisting you in taking back control of your life once and for all.
(201) 904-0178 View (201) 904-0178
Photo of Michael Mariano - Grounding Root Therapy, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grounding Root Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
They are derived from evidence based techniques that include but are not limited to Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness Based Skills.
Hello! Finding a provider that you connect with is not an easy task. Here at Grounding Root Therapy, we want those who work with us to feel comfortable and excited to be engaged in treatment, yes, excited about being in treatment! We offer a more hands-on, holistic, multi-faceted approach to therapy – teaching practical, mindfulness based coping skills to decrease anxiety and aid in overwellness.
They are derived from evidence based techniques that include but are not limited to Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness Based Skills.
Hello! Finding a provider that you connect with is not an easy task. Here at Grounding Root Therapy, we want those who work with us to feel comfortable and excited to be engaged in treatment, yes, excited about being in treatment! We offer a more hands-on, holistic, multi-faceted approach to therapy – teaching practical, mindfulness based coping skills to decrease anxiety and aid in overwellness.
(551) 282-9737 View (551) 282-9737
Photo of Olivia Kanestrin, Pre-Licensed Professional
Olivia Kanestrin
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661  (Online Only)
Our sessions together will be created to address your individual needs, whether it is using a strengths based approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, learning emotional regulation techniques, or incorporating healthy coping mechanisms.
I partner with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life changes/transitions, self-esteem, anger/behavioral issues, and stress. In our time together, I am committed to creating a safe and comfortable space where you can express yourself, emotions, and thoughts. We will work together to achieve your therapeutic goals and overall personal growth!
Our sessions together will be created to address your individual needs, whether it is using a strengths based approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, learning emotional regulation techniques, or incorporating healthy coping mechanisms.
I partner with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life changes/transitions, self-esteem, anger/behavioral issues, and stress. In our time together, I am committed to creating a safe and comfortable space where you can express yourself, emotions, and thoughts. We will work together to achieve your therapeutic goals and overall personal growth!
(551) 316-6954 View (551) 316-6954
Photo of Tom Gambino, PsyD, Psychologist
Tom Gambino
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
As a licensed psychologist, I am well-versed in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in treating anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, and in improving social and conversational skills. I also provide consultation with parent(s)/guardian(s) in improving their child’s behavior at home. My experiences also include working with students that have been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Tourette Syndrome, Tic Disorders, Trichotillomania, and other concerns.
As a licensed psychologist, I am well-versed in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in treating anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, and in improving social and conversational skills. I also provide consultation with parent(s)/guardian(s) in improving their child’s behavior at home. My experiences also include working with students that have been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Tourette Syndrome, Tic Disorders, Trichotillomania, and other concerns.
(862) 500-3459 View (862) 500-3459
Photo of Amy Consovoy, LPC, LCADC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Consovoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661  (Online Only)
I enjoy using person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, harm reduction, dialectical behavior therapy, and sensorimotor therapy.
Ever wonder if drinking, substance use, or disordered eating are starting to become a problem? Look no further. People come to me to figure out how to heal their relationship with food and their bodies - to overcome perfectionism and people pleasing - to stop relying on alcohol and drugs to make the pain stop. Taking the first step towards asking for help is hard, but know that I will welcome you without judgement. I know that you’re here because you want the cycle to stop. I want to help you develop the skills to stop obsessing, to stop beating yourself up, and to remove the things that get in the way of you living your life.
I enjoy using person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, harm reduction, dialectical behavior therapy, and sensorimotor therapy.
Ever wonder if drinking, substance use, or disordered eating are starting to become a problem? Look no further. People come to me to figure out how to heal their relationship with food and their bodies - to overcome perfectionism and people pleasing - to stop relying on alcohol and drugs to make the pain stop. Taking the first step towards asking for help is hard, but know that I will welcome you without judgement. I know that you’re here because you want the cycle to stop. I want to help you develop the skills to stop obsessing, to stop beating yourself up, and to remove the things that get in the way of you living your life.
(551) 244-6277 View (551) 244-6277
Photo of Barry Eichenbaum, PsyD, Psychologist
Barry Eichenbaum
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661
I have extensive training in CBT for anxiety and mood disorders, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
We all have potential to be great friends, romantic partners, family members, or workers. But we all encounter roadblocks such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and other stressors that impact our mental health, which can make it more difficult to engage these roles in the way we'd want. Sometimes we feel lost as to how to maneuver around these roadblocks. I want you to know that you don't have to walk this path alone. In working together, we will focus on developing the skills to help you overcome these roadblocks, so that you can be the person you truly want to be.
I have extensive training in CBT for anxiety and mood disorders, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
We all have potential to be great friends, romantic partners, family members, or workers. But we all encounter roadblocks such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and other stressors that impact our mental health, which can make it more difficult to engage these roles in the way we'd want. Sometimes we feel lost as to how to maneuver around these roadblocks. I want you to know that you don't have to walk this path alone. In working together, we will focus on developing the skills to help you overcome these roadblocks, so that you can be the person you truly want to be.
(332) 334-7485 View (332) 334-7485
Photo of Shy Krug, PhD, CST, Psychologist
Shy Krug
Psychologist, PhD, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661
I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness to help you navigate your pain.
Pain is an unfortunate reality of the human experience. Sometimes, our attempts to control or avoid pain, whether it's physical, psychological, or otherwise, also pulls us away from other things in our lives that are important to us, resulting in a less fulfilling life. Your decision to pursue therapy is a significant step towards finding a more workable way to manage the things in your life that cause pain. My therapeutic approach is focused on learning to step out of the struggle against your pain and use the strengths you already possess to put you in the driver's seat of your life and be your best and most genuine self.
I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness to help you navigate your pain.
Pain is an unfortunate reality of the human experience. Sometimes, our attempts to control or avoid pain, whether it's physical, psychological, or otherwise, also pulls us away from other things in our lives that are important to us, resulting in a less fulfilling life. Your decision to pursue therapy is a significant step towards finding a more workable way to manage the things in your life that cause pain. My therapeutic approach is focused on learning to step out of the struggle against your pain and use the strengths you already possess to put you in the driver's seat of your life and be your best and most genuine self.
(646) 762-7982 View (646) 762-7982
Photo of Steven Myers, PhD, Psychologist
Steven Myers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
My approach to therapy includes aspects of Humanism, as well as, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
In my practice I work with adults coping with depression, anxiety, parenting issues, relationship struggles, substance abuse and other problems of adjustment. My work with children and adolescents include: learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression, and family conflict. I believe that a collaborative alliance based on mutual respect and understanding is the cornerstone of therapeutic change. I encourage client's to take an active role in the therapeutic process, while I aspire to remain as transparent as possible in this collaborative partnership.
My approach to therapy includes aspects of Humanism, as well as, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
In my practice I work with adults coping with depression, anxiety, parenting issues, relationship struggles, substance abuse and other problems of adjustment. My work with children and adolescents include: learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression, and family conflict. I believe that a collaborative alliance based on mutual respect and understanding is the cornerstone of therapeutic change. I encourage client's to take an active role in the therapeutic process, while I aspire to remain as transparent as possible in this collaborative partnership.
(201) 499-7550 View (201) 499-7550
Photo of Cory Birch, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cory Birch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
He utilizes a mix of treatment approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and client-centered, to best work with each client's unique needs.
Cory Birch is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) with 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Cory is passionate about working with adolescents and adults to address their own unique challenges. He specializes in anxiety, depression, men's issues, work-related stressors, and life transitions.
He utilizes a mix of treatment approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and client-centered, to best work with each client's unique needs.
Cory Birch is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) with 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Cory is passionate about working with adolescents and adults to address their own unique challenges. He specializes in anxiety, depression, men's issues, work-related stressors, and life transitions.
(551) 266-5979 View (551) 266-5979
Photo of Stephanie Knight, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
She offers a comprehensive and compassionate approach to mental health counseling, utilizing CBT, DBT and EMDR techniques and interventions.
Stephanie Knight is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Northeastern University and a Master of Social Work Degree from Simmons University. Stephanie's goal is to assist you in unlocking your true potential and helping you to live your best life. In examining and exploring your strengths and stressors, your past achievements, and future goals, she can work together with you to create a future that is healthy and well balanced.
She offers a comprehensive and compassionate approach to mental health counseling, utilizing CBT, DBT and EMDR techniques and interventions.
Stephanie Knight is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Northeastern University and a Master of Social Work Degree from Simmons University. Stephanie's goal is to assist you in unlocking your true potential and helping you to live your best life. In examining and exploring your strengths and stressors, your past achievements, and future goals, she can work together with you to create a future that is healthy and well balanced.
(973) 218-4937 View (973) 218-4937
Photo of Marxlenin Burgos, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marxlenin Burgos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
Marxlenin Burgos is a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSW from Rutgers University. Marxlenin provides cultural understanding and adaptation to immigrant experiences, single motherhood, DCPP experience, pre-post adoption, foster care, TF-CBT, and others. Outside of work, Marxlenin is a mother of three girls and two dogs. She loves to travel and learn new cultures. Korean food is her favorite and she loves K-dramas. She is a Zumba lover and enjoys spending time with her children, friends, and family.
Marxlenin Burgos is a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSW from Rutgers University. Marxlenin provides cultural understanding and adaptation to immigrant experiences, single motherhood, DCPP experience, pre-post adoption, foster care, TF-CBT, and others. Outside of work, Marxlenin is a mother of three girls and two dogs. She loves to travel and learn new cultures. Korean food is her favorite and she loves K-dramas. She is a Zumba lover and enjoys spending time with her children, friends, and family.
(973) 587-2796 View (973) 587-2796
Photo of Jerome Scaturro, LPC, LCADC, CCS, ACS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jerome Scaturro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, CCS, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661  (Online Only)
Jerome utilizes identifiable, collaborative, compassion and empathy based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, solution focused approaches to therapy continually searching and seeking for the individual awareness of the issues to best address the needs for each individual and couple to grow and ultimately heal.
Jerome Scaturro is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor in the state of New Jersey who has 8 year’s experience with adults, couples, teenagers (15 to 19) seeking help with addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, men’s and women’s issues as well as relationship issues. He completed his Master's in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and currently working towards his Doctorate in Professional Counseling.
Jerome utilizes identifiable, collaborative, compassion and empathy based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, solution focused approaches to therapy continually searching and seeking for the individual awareness of the issues to best address the needs for each individual and couple to grow and ultimately heal.
Jerome Scaturro is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor in the state of New Jersey who has 8 year’s experience with adults, couples, teenagers (15 to 19) seeking help with addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, men’s and women’s issues as well as relationship issues. He completed his Master's in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and currently working towards his Doctorate in Professional Counseling.
(551) 237-8607 View (551) 237-8607
Photo of Gabriella Nissan, PsyD
Gabriella Nissan
PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
There are many components to a fulfilling and meaningful life, all of which need care and attention. Much like going to the gym to take care of your physical health and having a job to ensure financial health, I believe it is important to take care of your psychological well-being. Ultimately, addressing challenges in therapy can enhance your well-being across the many domains of your life. We will work together through the challenges you face, whether they be work-related stressors, familial or relationship challenges, or something you can’t quite put your finger on.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
There are many components to a fulfilling and meaningful life, all of which need care and attention. Much like going to the gym to take care of your physical health and having a job to ensure financial health, I believe it is important to take care of your psychological well-being. Ultimately, addressing challenges in therapy can enhance your well-being across the many domains of your life. We will work together through the challenges you face, whether they be work-related stressors, familial or relationship challenges, or something you can’t quite put your finger on.
(332) 900-2897 View (332) 900-2897
Photo of Lindsey Mattsson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey Mattsson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661  (Online Only)
Lindsey utilizes active listening and clinical approaches such as solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or, if necessary, psychodynamic techniques to help the client identify past traumas.
Lindsey Mattsson is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in both private practice and in the community with children, adolescents, and adults. She specializes in depression, personality disorders, social anxiety, women's issues, behavioral and intellectual/developmental disabilities in children and adolescents, disordered eating, trauma, and online addictions. Lindsey earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Indiana University Bloomington and her master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Monmouth University.
Lindsey utilizes active listening and clinical approaches such as solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or, if necessary, psychodynamic techniques to help the client identify past traumas.
Lindsey Mattsson is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in both private practice and in the community with children, adolescents, and adults. She specializes in depression, personality disorders, social anxiety, women's issues, behavioral and intellectual/developmental disabilities in children and adolescents, disordered eating, trauma, and online addictions. Lindsey earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Indiana University Bloomington and her master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Monmouth University.
(201) 977-6794 View (201) 977-6794
Photo of Craig Cutler - Equality Mental Health, LLC, LCSW, NCPsyA
Equality Mental Health, LLC
LCSW, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661
Equality Mental Health directly helps with issues specific to the LGBTQ+ community: Questioning/Negotiating/Understanding Sexual Identity and Gender Identity. Navigating the Coming Out Process. Dating and Relationship Challenges. Family, Work and School Difficulties. Sex & Porn Addictions. Parenting Skills and Support. Parents of Children who are Coming Out. Same-Sex Parents Raising Children. Preparing for and Navigating the Journey of Transition. Coping with and Addressing Societal Discrimination and Prejudice. We welcome people of all races, cultures, ethnicities, religions, abilities, sexual orientations and gender identities.
Equality Mental Health directly helps with issues specific to the LGBTQ+ community: Questioning/Negotiating/Understanding Sexual Identity and Gender Identity. Navigating the Coming Out Process. Dating and Relationship Challenges. Family, Work and School Difficulties. Sex & Porn Addictions. Parenting Skills and Support. Parents of Children who are Coming Out. Same-Sex Parents Raising Children. Preparing for and Navigating the Journey of Transition. Coping with and Addressing Societal Discrimination and Prejudice. We welcome people of all races, cultures, ethnicities, religions, abilities, sexual orientations and gender identities.
(201) 399-3868 View (201) 399-3868
Photo of Dr. Ayden Ferstenberg, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Ayden Ferstenberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who struggle connecting with themselves or each other. Many of my clients have difficulty navigating life transitions, perfectionism, people-pleasing, harsh self-criticisms, fears of failure or losing control, or feeling empty or broken inside. You might be great at intellectualizing, have wonderful insights about yourself, but still feel stuck or powerless in making change. You might struggle to connect with your feelings and needs, walking through life feeling like something is missing, or feeling resentful of how others take up more space in the world than you do.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who struggle connecting with themselves or each other. Many of my clients have difficulty navigating life transitions, perfectionism, people-pleasing, harsh self-criticisms, fears of failure or losing control, or feeling empty or broken inside. You might be great at intellectualizing, have wonderful insights about yourself, but still feel stuck or powerless in making change. You might struggle to connect with your feelings and needs, walking through life feeling like something is missing, or feeling resentful of how others take up more space in the world than you do.
(646) 846-2038 View (646) 846-2038
Photo of Dr. Penina Bukiet, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Penina Bukiet
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661
Are you tired of dealing with tantrum after tantrum? Does your child seem anxious or moody? Are those dreaded phone calls from your child’s school arriving more frequently? Have you tried just about everything you can think of to help your child, but nothing seems to be working? You’re not alone. Childhood and adolescence are more complicated than ever, and helping our children navigate their experiences, regulate their emotions, and manage their behaviors is no easy feat.
Are you tired of dealing with tantrum after tantrum? Does your child seem anxious or moody? Are those dreaded phone calls from your child’s school arriving more frequently? Have you tried just about everything you can think of to help your child, but nothing seems to be working? You’re not alone. Childhood and adolescence are more complicated than ever, and helping our children navigate their experiences, regulate their emotions, and manage their behaviors is no easy feat.
(201) 374-0399 View (201) 374-0399
1
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists

How does cognitive behavioral therapy work?

Cognitive behavioral therapy works by exploring how your thoughts affect your emotions and experiences. CBT helps you identify distortions in your thinking. For example, you may tend to jump to the worst case scenario catastrophizing or think in extremes (all-or-nothing thinking). A therapist can teach you how to push back against those thoughts to ultimately change your feelings and behavior for the better. They can also provide coping skills to better deal with stressors and challenges.

When do I know to seek treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy?

It’s reasonable to consider cognitive behavioral therapy if you struggle to manage difficult emotions or behaviors to such an extent that you are not getting the most out of life on a day-to-day basis. If you want a shorter term, concrete, skills-based approach, CBT is a great option. (By contrast, other types of therapy may devote more time to exploring your past and its effects.) The decision to seek CBT also depends on the condition you’re treating; CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other disorders.

How can I find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else?

To find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else, you may want to begin by discussing the person’s problem, researching cognitive behavioral therapy, and assessing whether the approach is the right fit. You could then reach out to a few cognitive behavioral therapists in this directory, explain the scenario, have a consultation with those available, and determine who could be a good match.

Why is CBT such a popular form of therapy?

CBT has become a popular form of therapy because it is effective and accessible. Robust research has demonstrated that CBT is an effective treatment for many mental health conditions. And CBT can be learned in relatively few sessions, which means that many people can engage in the process, afford it, and see results quickly. It involves learning concrete skills such as disputing unhelpful thoughts; these skills can also be taught and spread widely.