Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Strongsville, OH

Photo of Crystal Ann Valentine, MSW, LISW, SAP, ADHD-SP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Ann Valentine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, SAP, ADHD-SP
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
I am a dedicated MH therapist with extensive experience providing compassionate and effective care to individuals facing various MH challenges. My strong background in trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, couples and family therapy, and Christian-based counseling is a testament to my commitment to this field. I am known for my empathetic nature, strong listening skills, and ability to build meaningful, nonjudgmental therapeutic relationships in a safe environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I am a dedicated MH therapist with extensive experience providing compassionate and effective care to individuals facing various MH challenges. My strong background in trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, couples and family therapy, and Christian-based counseling is a testament to my commitment to this field. I am known for my empathetic nature, strong listening skills, and ability to build meaningful, nonjudgmental therapeutic relationships in a safe environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(440) 305-0584 View (440) 305-0584
Karen M Tomoff
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44149  (Online Only)
With over 25 years of clinical experience, I specialize in couples therapy as well as individual treatment for adults. My eclectic style includes Gestalt, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), EFT (Tapping), Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I specialize in working with couples, families, parenting skills, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain, PTSD, Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorders.
With over 25 years of clinical experience, I specialize in couples therapy as well as individual treatment for adults. My eclectic style includes Gestalt, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), EFT (Tapping), Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I specialize in working with couples, families, parenting skills, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain, PTSD, Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorders.
(440) 544-6988 View (440) 544-6988
Photo of Alison Brammer, LPCC
Alison Brammer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
Therapy is not a one size fits all, however, my therapeutic approaches consist of Person-Centered Counseling, Art Therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Starting therapy can be a scary process. Knowing this, I strive to create a safe and healing environment. I believe we all have the ability to move through/grow through difficult life experiences if provided the right tools. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, a traumatic event, or life transition, I will help guide you through your journey of self-awareness and positive change.
Therapy is not a one size fits all, however, my therapeutic approaches consist of Person-Centered Counseling, Art Therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Starting therapy can be a scary process. Knowing this, I strive to create a safe and healing environment. I believe we all have the ability to move through/grow through difficult life experiences if provided the right tools. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, a traumatic event, or life transition, I will help guide you through your journey of self-awareness and positive change.
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Photo of Sam Smartnick, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sam Smartnick
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136  (Online Only)
Sam Smartnick, LPC, helps individuals aged 15 and older overcome a range of mental health challenges and life issues, promoting growth, self-understanding, enhanced well-being. Through personalized treatment plans and evidence-based therapies, Sam supports clients in achieving their goals for a healthier, more fulfilling life. With a focus on anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Sam is passionate about guiding clients through these conditions. He uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) as a foundational approach, helping clients recognize and modify negative thought patterns to improve their emotional and psychological well being.
Sam Smartnick, LPC, helps individuals aged 15 and older overcome a range of mental health challenges and life issues, promoting growth, self-understanding, enhanced well-being. Through personalized treatment plans and evidence-based therapies, Sam supports clients in achieving their goals for a healthier, more fulfilling life. With a focus on anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Sam is passionate about guiding clients through these conditions. He uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) as a foundational approach, helping clients recognize and modify negative thought patterns to improve their emotional and psychological well being.
(614) 819-3127 View (614) 819-3127
Photo of Zach Dispirito, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zach Dispirito
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (great for challenging those unhelpful thoughts), Narrative Therapy (making you the author of your own story and learning about yourself), and Feminist/Person-Centered Theories (putting YOU at the forefront of YOUR counseling), in addition to others as well.
Hello! I hope you’re doing well. I typically work with those of us that experience/have experienced self-esteem issues, anxious thoughts, difficulty with change, relationship concerns, depression, challenges with attention, and/or traumatic events in life. As an LGBTQ+ ally, it is paramount to me to empower you to thrive in your best way, regardless of what may bring you into counseling. My purpose is to guide you in achieving your goals & support you in feeling fulfilled, hopeful, and capable in the long-term.
I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (great for challenging those unhelpful thoughts), Narrative Therapy (making you the author of your own story and learning about yourself), and Feminist/Person-Centered Theories (putting YOU at the forefront of YOUR counseling), in addition to others as well.
Hello! I hope you’re doing well. I typically work with those of us that experience/have experienced self-esteem issues, anxious thoughts, difficulty with change, relationship concerns, depression, challenges with attention, and/or traumatic events in life. As an LGBTQ+ ally, it is paramount to me to empower you to thrive in your best way, regardless of what may bring you into counseling. My purpose is to guide you in achieving your goals & support you in feeling fulfilled, hopeful, and capable in the long-term.
(440) 644-3985 View (440) 644-3985
Photo of Janet Asche, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Asche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
I have been trained in trauma focused therapy, intensive home based treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, crisis response, emotional regulation, depression and anxiety.
Making the choice to engage in therapy is a brave and meaningful step. I provide an affirming, strength based practice that strives to create a safe space. I believe the therapeutic relationship is important for growth and personal development to occur. I pride myself on being honest and respectful while empowering and motivating individuals to be their best.
I have been trained in trauma focused therapy, intensive home based treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, crisis response, emotional regulation, depression and anxiety.
Making the choice to engage in therapy is a brave and meaningful step. I provide an affirming, strength based practice that strives to create a safe space. I believe the therapeutic relationship is important for growth and personal development to occur. I pride myself on being honest and respectful while empowering and motivating individuals to be their best.
(440) 276-4379 View (440) 276-4379
Photo of Maureen Rizzo, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maureen Rizzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
I bring a wealth of experience in treament of mental health, including implementiing CBT, DBT, and individual treatment modalities.
I bring over 20 years of healthcare experience, providing mental health and clinical social work services in hospitals, private practice, and post-acute settings. I am passionate about fair and equal access to mental health and advocate for those in need, supporting access to mental health and healthy aging. I am your advocate in person centered care, in collaboration with all your health care providers.
I bring a wealth of experience in treament of mental health, including implementiing CBT, DBT, and individual treatment modalities.
I bring over 20 years of healthcare experience, providing mental health and clinical social work services in hospitals, private practice, and post-acute settings. I am passionate about fair and equal access to mental health and advocate for those in need, supporting access to mental health and healthy aging. I am your advocate in person centered care, in collaboration with all your health care providers.
(440) 762-7720 View (440) 762-7720
Photo of Jeanette Miller, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanette Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Jeannie Miller has over 20 years experience in multiple settings including residential, community, Outpatient counseling and in the private practice settings. She has advanced training in Trauma Informed Care, Nurturing Parenting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Jeannie achieved a BA in Psychology and a Master's in Social work. She is independently licensed through the Marriage and Family and Social Worker Board.
Jeannie Miller has over 20 years experience in multiple settings including residential, community, Outpatient counseling and in the private practice settings. She has advanced training in Trauma Informed Care, Nurturing Parenting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Jeannie achieved a BA in Psychology and a Master's in Social work. She is independently licensed through the Marriage and Family and Social Worker Board.
(440) 762-6309 View (440) 762-6309
Photo of Moriah Montalvo, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moriah Montalvo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
My approach as your therapist would incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness and grounding techniques, and attachment theory, among other modalities.
Hello, my name is Moriah, and I am a Licensed Social Worker in Ohio. I received a master’s in social work from Cleveland State University. I began my career working with children, adolescents, and their families with varying diagnoses and issues in an outpatient mental health agency. My passion has been, and continues to be, providing an empathetic and compassion-filled space for people who are experiencing concerns related to PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-harm, self-esteem issues, family concerns, and exploring who they are and who they want to be.
My approach as your therapist would incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness and grounding techniques, and attachment theory, among other modalities.
Hello, my name is Moriah, and I am a Licensed Social Worker in Ohio. I received a master’s in social work from Cleveland State University. I began my career working with children, adolescents, and their families with varying diagnoses and issues in an outpatient mental health agency. My passion has been, and continues to be, providing an empathetic and compassion-filled space for people who are experiencing concerns related to PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-harm, self-esteem issues, family concerns, and exploring who they are and who they want to be.
(440) 737-2728 View (440) 737-2728
Photo of Kristen Stirling, LPCC-S
Kristen Stirling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Through evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP),.
My ideal clients are children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and OCD. They often feel overwhelmed and need a safe space to express their feelings and explore their experiences. Their goal is to gain coping skills and emotional resilience to manage life's challenges effectively. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to navigate their mental health journey. By addressing their unique needs and fostering personal growth, I aim to help them reshape their narratives and build a brighter future, ultimately leading to improved well-being and confidence.
Through evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP),.
My ideal clients are children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and OCD. They often feel overwhelmed and need a safe space to express their feelings and explore their experiences. Their goal is to gain coping skills and emotional resilience to manage life's challenges effectively. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to navigate their mental health journey. By addressing their unique needs and fostering personal growth, I aim to help them reshape their narratives and build a brighter future, ultimately leading to improved well-being and confidence.
(440) 577-6948 View (440) 577-6948
Photo of Claudia Taylor, LPCC-S, Counselor
Claudia Taylor
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
Waitlist for new clients
I'm glad you are taking the first step towards change! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Supervisor. My areas of specialization include: trauma related disorders, anxiety and depressive disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, women's issues, and relationship distress. I am a sex-positive therapist and strive to create a safe space for all. I typically draw from CBT and DBT modalities for the majority of treatment but will tailor each experience to fit your needs. I am passionate about helping those from diverse populations and will work with you to establish goals that are unique to your experience.
I'm glad you are taking the first step towards change! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Supervisor. My areas of specialization include: trauma related disorders, anxiety and depressive disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, women's issues, and relationship distress. I am a sex-positive therapist and strive to create a safe space for all. I typically draw from CBT and DBT modalities for the majority of treatment but will tailor each experience to fit your needs. I am passionate about helping those from diverse populations and will work with you to establish goals that are unique to your experience.
(440) 482-8614 View (440) 482-8614
Photo of Leneigh White, NCC, LPCC-S, Counselor
Leneigh White
Counselor, NCC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136  (Online Only)
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and other techniques tailored to your needs and preferences.
Have you become a stranger to yourself and to those around you? Do you see your behavior becoming our of control, but feel helpless to stop it? You are not alone. Millions of people suffer from ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other feelings that can make them act out. Whether you feel that your thoughts and actions are driving others away, or if you are part of a family where one of the member’s behavior is hurting the relationships around them, getting the appropriate guidance and counseling can help you to live normally again.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and other techniques tailored to your needs and preferences.
Have you become a stranger to yourself and to those around you? Do you see your behavior becoming our of control, but feel helpless to stop it? You are not alone. Millions of people suffer from ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other feelings that can make them act out. Whether you feel that your thoughts and actions are driving others away, or if you are part of a family where one of the member’s behavior is hurting the relationships around them, getting the appropriate guidance and counseling can help you to live normally again.
(857) 371-5535 View (857) 371-5535
Photo of Joshua Adkins, LISW-S, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Adkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44149
I’m certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Anger Management, and Cognitive Behavioral strategies.
Life is complex, and therapy should help you move forward. My approach is direct, goal-focused, and tailored to what you want to get out of treatment. We’ll address what’s holding you back, even if it means having uncomfortable conversations, to make real progress. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, relationships, or feeling stuck, I’m here to help you find solutions and build resilience. Together, we’ll use your strengths to face challenges and create lasting change. Let’s make your next step forward a powerful one.
I’m certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Anger Management, and Cognitive Behavioral strategies.
Life is complex, and therapy should help you move forward. My approach is direct, goal-focused, and tailored to what you want to get out of treatment. We’ll address what’s holding you back, even if it means having uncomfortable conversations, to make real progress. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, relationships, or feeling stuck, I’m here to help you find solutions and build resilience. Together, we’ll use your strengths to face challenges and create lasting change. Let’s make your next step forward a powerful one.
(740) 631-6473 View (740) 631-6473
Photo of Nicole Byrum, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Byrum
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44149
My name is Nicole Byrum, and I am an independently licensed marriage and family therapist with 16 years of clinical experience. I have worked with a variety of clientele, and much of my work has been with those facing Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Relationship Issues, and Substance Use. I often use a mix of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Dialectical (DBT), and many more. I believe it is the client's job to determine the goals for therapy, but I will come alongside them to help determine the objectives connected to that goal.
My name is Nicole Byrum, and I am an independently licensed marriage and family therapist with 16 years of clinical experience. I have worked with a variety of clientele, and much of my work has been with those facing Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Relationship Issues, and Substance Use. I often use a mix of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Dialectical (DBT), and many more. I believe it is the client's job to determine the goals for therapy, but I will come alongside them to help determine the objectives connected to that goal.
(513) 613-7206 View (513) 613-7206
Photo of Tricia Fritz, MA, LPCC-S, Counselor
Tricia Fritz
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
I am a licensed clinical counselor, with certification trauma focused CBT.
The choice to engage in counseling may be difficult, but the benefits can be life-changing. Loyal to the belief that a "journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step". I seek to join you on this journey, value each individual's story, and while understanding the need for a strong therapeutic relationship. Whether you are negotiating life losses, feelings of anxiety and depression or adjustment to life challenges, I see my role as compassionate listener and guide.
I am a licensed clinical counselor, with certification trauma focused CBT.
The choice to engage in counseling may be difficult, but the benefits can be life-changing. Loyal to the belief that a "journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step". I seek to join you on this journey, value each individual's story, and while understanding the need for a strong therapeutic relationship. Whether you are negotiating life losses, feelings of anxiety and depression or adjustment to life challenges, I see my role as compassionate listener and guide.
(216) 208-4975 View (216) 208-4975
Photo of Catherine E Foytik - The Ctr for Conscious Community, LISW-S, ACHT, CPTL, CRMP, ORDM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Ctr for Conscious Community
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, ACHT, CPTL, CRMP, ORDM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
I specialize in transpersonal psych, hypnotherapy, spiritual, DBT, Trauma Focused- CBT & Strength based modalities to name a few.
Sick of suffering? Sick of feeling like you've tried everything & no one seems to understand, no one seems to be able to help? Feeling like there is no purpose to keep moving forward in life? Feeling low, anxious & alone! You don't have to be alone. I can help guide you down a path of healing, a path of awakening to the true you! Together, we can find that light within & bring it back to life. Let me teach you how to be free from suffering. Let me teach you how to access your highest potential. I specialize in trauma and addictions (for those actively in recovery.)
I specialize in transpersonal psych, hypnotherapy, spiritual, DBT, Trauma Focused- CBT & Strength based modalities to name a few.
Sick of suffering? Sick of feeling like you've tried everything & no one seems to understand, no one seems to be able to help? Feeling like there is no purpose to keep moving forward in life? Feeling low, anxious & alone! You don't have to be alone. I can help guide you down a path of healing, a path of awakening to the true you! Together, we can find that light within & bring it back to life. Let me teach you how to be free from suffering. Let me teach you how to access your highest potential. I specialize in trauma and addictions (for those actively in recovery.)
(440) 482-8684 View (440) 482-8684
Photo of Cindy Kaufman, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
I believe that each person has the ability to make positive changes by learning and practicing new skills and strategies to apply in whatever areas of their life they want to improve. I enjoy partnering with individuals, couples, and families to find their inner strength and move forward in the process of achieving their goals. I often blend elements from different evidence based approaches and tailor treatment according to your unique needs. I have expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy
I believe that each person has the ability to make positive changes by learning and practicing new skills and strategies to apply in whatever areas of their life they want to improve. I enjoy partnering with individuals, couples, and families to find their inner strength and move forward in the process of achieving their goals. I often blend elements from different evidence based approaches and tailor treatment according to your unique needs. I have expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy
(440) 530-9191 View (440) 530-9191
Photo of Bridget Richard - Lamplight Counseling Services, LLC, LISW-S, LPCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lamplight Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LPCC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Our therapists are trained in evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Changes can be startling or even scary. One minute, you are confident in your abilities and trajectory, and next, the wind is knocked out of you. Anxiety, depression, work stressors, trauma, grief, and substance abuse difficulties are some of the challenges we help with every day. Our clients are treated with kindness and compassion by licensed clinicians with a wealth of experience in each treatment area. We desire to see each person achieve their goals in a way that will help them reach their highest potential.
Our therapists are trained in evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Changes can be startling or even scary. One minute, you are confident in your abilities and trajectory, and next, the wind is knocked out of you. Anxiety, depression, work stressors, trauma, grief, and substance abuse difficulties are some of the challenges we help with every day. Our clients are treated with kindness and compassion by licensed clinicians with a wealth of experience in each treatment area. We desire to see each person achieve their goals in a way that will help them reach their highest potential.
(440) 616-6889 View (440) 616-6889
Photo of Andre Ross, LPC, Counselor
Andre Ross
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44149
I balance cognitive, somatic, and expressive approaches to offer insight and calm the nervous system – as working with both body and mind has proven to create sustainable change.
Through life’s messiness, it can be easy to lose track of who we are and where we want to go. Therapy can help remind us that our past traumas and current stressors shape us, but need not define us. As a therapist, it’s with compassion, understanding, and humor that I offer a space for self-discovery and self-actualization. Whatever brought you here, I strive to connect not just as therapist-and-client, but as people. My areas of focus include trauma, grief, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, and navigating life transitions.
I balance cognitive, somatic, and expressive approaches to offer insight and calm the nervous system – as working with both body and mind has proven to create sustainable change.
Through life’s messiness, it can be easy to lose track of who we are and where we want to go. Therapy can help remind us that our past traumas and current stressors shape us, but need not define us. As a therapist, it’s with compassion, understanding, and humor that I offer a space for self-discovery and self-actualization. Whatever brought you here, I strive to connect not just as therapist-and-client, but as people. My areas of focus include trauma, grief, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, and navigating life transitions.
(216) 750-3230 View (216) 750-3230
Photo of Dawn Swartz, LPCC-S, LSW, LICDC, Counselor
Dawn Swartz
Counselor, LPCC-S, LSW, LICDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
I am trained in both Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR to treat those suffering from various forms of trauma and have completed training to better address the needs of military service members, first responders and their families.
TELEHEALTH NOW AVAILABLE! As the owner and one of 7 therapists at Aaron's Hope, I am passionate about addressing the holistic needs of the individual. I want to collaborate with each person to develop a plan rooted in evidenced-based treatment and tailored to their unique needs. I feel strongly that therapy is not something that is done to you, but with you. I feel you are the expert on yourself, knowing intimately what you have been through, how you have tried to change in the past, and where you want to be in the future. Both my associates and I are ready to help you get there.
I am trained in both Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR to treat those suffering from various forms of trauma and have completed training to better address the needs of military service members, first responders and their families.
TELEHEALTH NOW AVAILABLE! As the owner and one of 7 therapists at Aaron's Hope, I am passionate about addressing the holistic needs of the individual. I want to collaborate with each person to develop a plan rooted in evidenced-based treatment and tailored to their unique needs. I feel strongly that therapy is not something that is done to you, but with you. I feel you are the expert on yourself, knowing intimately what you have been through, how you have tried to change in the past, and where you want to be in the future. Both my associates and I are ready to help you get there.
(440) 703-6531 View (440) 703-6531
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Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists

How does cognitive behavioral therapy work?

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

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

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

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

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

Why is CBT such a popular form of therapy?

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