Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in York, PA

Photo of Dr. Vanay Frederick-Ellis, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Vanay Frederick-Ellis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17408
My approach includes the use of CBT, mindfulness, and a client-centered approach in sessions.
Hi there! If you need to be heard, want to find your voice again, or find your voice for the first time then let's talk. What goals do you have for yourself? And, what's getting in the way of you achieving those goals? Whatever your struggle is I want to help you connect with yourself and gain the confidence to do whatever it is to be successful. I want you to be the best version of yourself for yourself. I know there are important people in your life and we can talk about them too, but just know I want to make you the focus. It starts and ends with you!
My approach includes the use of CBT, mindfulness, and a client-centered approach in sessions.
Hi there! If you need to be heard, want to find your voice again, or find your voice for the first time then let's talk. What goals do you have for yourself? And, what's getting in the way of you achieving those goals? Whatever your struggle is I want to help you connect with yourself and gain the confidence to do whatever it is to be successful. I want you to be the best version of yourself for yourself. I know there are important people in your life and we can talk about them too, but just know I want to make you the focus. It starts and ends with you!
(717) 387-7705 View (717) 387-7705
Photo of Carla Arrow - Arrow Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arrow Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
I received my Masters Degree and Advanced Graduate Degree in Clinical Community Counseling from The John Hopkins University where I specialized in Cognitive-Behavioral and Reality Therapy.
There are many complicated issues and painful situations in today's world . . . Whether reconciling relationships, working through a difficult experience or managing personal issues, my passion is to help families, individuals, couples, adolescents and children find direction and healing that will last a lifetime.
I received my Masters Degree and Advanced Graduate Degree in Clinical Community Counseling from The John Hopkins University where I specialized in Cognitive-Behavioral and Reality Therapy.
There are many complicated issues and painful situations in today's world . . . Whether reconciling relationships, working through a difficult experience or managing personal issues, my passion is to help families, individuals, couples, adolescents and children find direction and healing that will last a lifetime.
(717) 850-9370 View (717) 850-9370
Photo of Stephanie Lynn - Yorktowne Counseling LLC, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yorktowne Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17401  (Online Only)
Not feeling like yourself? Struggling with life's ups and downs, relationships, or significant life changes? Your experiences and emotions are important and I want to help you make sense of them. I offer a warm, accepting, professional environment and work to develop a strong therapeutic relationship. I know that if we build trust and a positive relationship your success therapeutically increases significantly. I emphasize evidence-based therapy techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), which has been clinically proven to be effective, and I see the positive effects of therapy in my clients.
Not feeling like yourself? Struggling with life's ups and downs, relationships, or significant life changes? Your experiences and emotions are important and I want to help you make sense of them. I offer a warm, accepting, professional environment and work to develop a strong therapeutic relationship. I know that if we build trust and a positive relationship your success therapeutically increases significantly. I emphasize evidence-based therapy techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), which has been clinically proven to be effective, and I see the positive effects of therapy in my clients.
(717) 524-1008 View (717) 524-1008
Photo of Patrick James Schuler, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick James Schuler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17402  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Family Systems/Attachment Theory.
My counseling experiences over the years have been incredibly enriching and meaningful. I am continually moved by the varying degrees of challenging life experiences that we are all tasked with navigating and the ways we attempt to cope, gain insight from, and hopefully transform our adverse circumstances. I’ve had the opportunity to assist a diverse range of clients in both inpatient treatment and outpatient therapy settings. Within these programs I’ve helped clients address anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, academic challenges, relationships, identity changes, sexuality, and general life stressors.
My areas of specialty are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Family Systems/Attachment Theory.
My counseling experiences over the years have been incredibly enriching and meaningful. I am continually moved by the varying degrees of challenging life experiences that we are all tasked with navigating and the ways we attempt to cope, gain insight from, and hopefully transform our adverse circumstances. I’ve had the opportunity to assist a diverse range of clients in both inpatient treatment and outpatient therapy settings. Within these programs I’ve helped clients address anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, academic challenges, relationships, identity changes, sexuality, and general life stressors.
(717) 400-6294 View (717) 400-6294
Photo of George Kocman, MS, Psychologist
George Kocman
Psychologist, MS
Verified Verified
York, PA 17404  (Online Only)
I offer cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT) which works by recognizing errors in thinking, correcting those errors, and ultimately fostering more adaptive feelings and behaviors.
Anxiety, stress, depression, and other difficulties of life can be opportunities for growth. Counseling can help you manage or overcome those obstacles by understanding how your thoughts influence your emotions and behaviors. As an experienced psychologist, I will work with you towards your goals, helping you achieve what you set out to do in your therapy sessions. Together we will address your mental health concerns through counseling and psychotherapy.
I offer cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT) which works by recognizing errors in thinking, correcting those errors, and ultimately fostering more adaptive feelings and behaviors.
Anxiety, stress, depression, and other difficulties of life can be opportunities for growth. Counseling can help you manage or overcome those obstacles by understanding how your thoughts influence your emotions and behaviors. As an experienced psychologist, I will work with you towards your goals, helping you achieve what you set out to do in your therapy sessions. Together we will address your mental health concerns through counseling and psychotherapy.
(717) 500-3635 View (717) 500-3635
Photo of Megan R Sparks, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan R Sparks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
York, PA 17402
I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal lens, Expressive therapies, nondirective play therapy, as well as Strength based and Client centered approaches.
Life can be overwhelming. It throws you curve balls, and sometimes it just feels hard to navigate. Maybe it’s a divorce, job change, becoming a parent, death in the family, or any other life transition. Life can bring us baggage and even though we think we have it contained, it can seep into other areas of our life that we are trying to navigate through. I work with people who want to understand themselves better so they can continue to thrive in life. I want to help empower you to find balance within yourself and learn to fine tune your ability to respond to situation in which you feel in control with better balance and regulation.
I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal lens, Expressive therapies, nondirective play therapy, as well as Strength based and Client centered approaches.
Life can be overwhelming. It throws you curve balls, and sometimes it just feels hard to navigate. Maybe it’s a divorce, job change, becoming a parent, death in the family, or any other life transition. Life can bring us baggage and even though we think we have it contained, it can seep into other areas of our life that we are trying to navigate through. I work with people who want to understand themselves better so they can continue to thrive in life. I want to help empower you to find balance within yourself and learn to fine tune your ability to respond to situation in which you feel in control with better balance and regulation.
(717) 963-2072 View (717) 963-2072
Photo of Amy M Swope - Psychological Services of York, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Psychological Services of York, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
York, PA 17408
Psychological Services of York performs assessment through a systematic evaluation of higher cognitive abilities such as intelligence, academic ability, memory, language, attention, problem-solving ability, executive function, visual and sensory motor skills, and personality and mood adjustment.
Our team at Psychological Services of York, LLC has a diverse background of expertise. Our highly trained experts perform neuropsychological evaluations, psycho-educational assessments, forensic evaluations, Autism assessment, and child custody evaluations. We also provide a variety of treatment modalities including but not limited to biofeedback, mindfulness strategies, family and individual psychotherapy, and executive functioning coaching. We provide guidance for parents, and consult with educators and schools regarding how to best facilitate the development of children.
Psychological Services of York performs assessment through a systematic evaluation of higher cognitive abilities such as intelligence, academic ability, memory, language, attention, problem-solving ability, executive function, visual and sensory motor skills, and personality and mood adjustment.
Our team at Psychological Services of York, LLC has a diverse background of expertise. Our highly trained experts perform neuropsychological evaluations, psycho-educational assessments, forensic evaluations, Autism assessment, and child custody evaluations. We also provide a variety of treatment modalities including but not limited to biofeedback, mindfulness strategies, family and individual psychotherapy, and executive functioning coaching. We provide guidance for parents, and consult with educators and schools regarding how to best facilitate the development of children.
(717) 297-0893 View (717) 297-0893
Photo of Britney Walker, Pre-Licensed Professional
Britney Walker
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403  (Online Only)
Imagine a space where your voice is heard, your struggles are understood, and your potential is unleashed. I believe that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and together, we can turn your pain into power. Whether you’re a teen trying to navigate the world around you, a couple yearning to reconnect, or a woman seeking to reclaim your narrative, I am here to help. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral techniques to challenge negative thought patterns, Solution-Focused approaches to focus on goals and solutions, and Humanistic principles to foster self-awareness and growth.
Imagine a space where your voice is heard, your struggles are understood, and your potential is unleashed. I believe that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and together, we can turn your pain into power. Whether you’re a teen trying to navigate the world around you, a couple yearning to reconnect, or a woman seeking to reclaim your narrative, I am here to help. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral techniques to challenge negative thought patterns, Solution-Focused approaches to focus on goals and solutions, and Humanistic principles to foster self-awareness and growth.
(717) 699-8674 View (717) 699-8674
Photo of Katie Weber, LPC, NCC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Weber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17402
Finding a therapist that is a good fit is an important part of the therapeutic process. I take a creative and supportive perspective when developing treatments with my clients. By using a verity of techniques from art therapy to cognitive behavioral therapy I am able to support my clients in their personal growth and mental health goals.
Finding a therapist that is a good fit is an important part of the therapeutic process. I take a creative and supportive perspective when developing treatments with my clients. By using a verity of techniques from art therapy to cognitive behavioral therapy I am able to support my clients in their personal growth and mental health goals.
(717) 876-6774 View (717) 876-6774
Photo of Danielle Heist, LPC, CAADC, SAP, CT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Heist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, SAP, CT
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
I offer personalized counseling using CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and eclectic modalities to build coping skills, set boundaries, and foster emotional resilience.
Most clients I work with are navigating life transitions, such as divorce, job changes, or recovering from addiction, and facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or grief. They seek support to regain control, improve coping skills, and set healthy boundaries. Their goals are to find balance, reduce stress, rebuild self-esteem, and feel more empowered in their relationships. They want a non-judgmental space where they can be heard and supported while learning practical tools to integrate positive changes into their daily lives for lasting emotional resilience.
I offer personalized counseling using CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and eclectic modalities to build coping skills, set boundaries, and foster emotional resilience.
Most clients I work with are navigating life transitions, such as divorce, job changes, or recovering from addiction, and facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or grief. They seek support to regain control, improve coping skills, and set healthy boundaries. Their goals are to find balance, reduce stress, rebuild self-esteem, and feel more empowered in their relationships. They want a non-judgmental space where they can be heard and supported while learning practical tools to integrate positive changes into their daily lives for lasting emotional resilience.
(717) 864-5127 View (717) 864-5127
Photo of Chelsey Klein, NCC, LPCC, LCPC, CADC-In, LPC, Counselor
Chelsey Klein
Counselor, NCC, LPCC, LCPC, CADC-In, LPC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17404  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Trained in several complementary approaches to treating anxiety, depression, trauma, I utilize evidenced based therapeutic methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and parts work.
Does each day seem to be a challenge and you feel you are just surviving? Maybe you are carrying the weight of the past or others expectations. I can offer a safe space to process and internally resolve the heaviness of everyday life with unconditional positive regard as well as tools to manage daily stressors using a bottom up approach that will include coping skills and trauma processing to help resolve the internal processes that cause difficulty in every day life.
Trained in several complementary approaches to treating anxiety, depression, trauma, I utilize evidenced based therapeutic methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and parts work.
Does each day seem to be a challenge and you feel you are just surviving? Maybe you are carrying the weight of the past or others expectations. I can offer a safe space to process and internally resolve the heaviness of everyday life with unconditional positive regard as well as tools to manage daily stressors using a bottom up approach that will include coping skills and trauma processing to help resolve the internal processes that cause difficulty in every day life.
(575) 825-7206 View (575) 825-7206
Photo of Sabra Madsen, PsyD, Psychologist
Sabra Madsen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402
I am a doctorate level, licensed psychologist trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) with over thirty years of experience. Services include outpatient therapy, psychological/ neuropsychological testing, and concussion management. I am most comfortable working with ages 18 and up, but will work with older teens who are motivated and children 6 and up for testing. My approach is genuine, goal-directed and warm. If you are looking for a psychologist who is energetic, warm, and structured, we would most likely work well together. Feel free to call if you have any questions before setting up an appointment.
I am a doctorate level, licensed psychologist trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) with over thirty years of experience. Services include outpatient therapy, psychological/ neuropsychological testing, and concussion management. I am most comfortable working with ages 18 and up, but will work with older teens who are motivated and children 6 and up for testing. My approach is genuine, goal-directed and warm. If you are looking for a psychologist who is energetic, warm, and structured, we would most likely work well together. Feel free to call if you have any questions before setting up an appointment.
(717) 589-4304 View (717) 589-4304
Photo of Margaret Swartz, PsyD, Psychologist
Margaret Swartz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402  (Online Only)
Dr. Swartz is a licensed psychologist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She began her education at Alfred University's New York State College of Ceramics where she earned a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts in Ceramic Art. She continued her education with a Masters in Creative Arts in Therapy from Hahnemann Hospital Creative Arts program. She completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2008. Dr. Swartz provides therapy to patients with depression, anxiety and PTSD.
Dr. Swartz is a licensed psychologist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She began her education at Alfred University's New York State College of Ceramics where she earned a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts in Ceramic Art. She continued her education with a Masters in Creative Arts in Therapy from Hahnemann Hospital Creative Arts program. She completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2008. Dr. Swartz provides therapy to patients with depression, anxiety and PTSD.
(717) 977-3969 View (717) 977-3969
Photo of Chelsea Goody, BS, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Chelsea Goody
Counselor, BS, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17404  (Online Only)
Chelsea specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), specifically, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), an evidence-based approach to treating Anxiety Spectrum Disorders.
Chelsea specializes in working with individuals with Anxiety Spectrum Disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Hoarding Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in addition to many other diagnoses. Chelsea has extensive experience working with young children, adolescents, and adults and works to individualize treatment to fit the needs of each unique client.
Chelsea specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), specifically, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), an evidence-based approach to treating Anxiety Spectrum Disorders.
Chelsea specializes in working with individuals with Anxiety Spectrum Disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Hoarding Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in addition to many other diagnoses. Chelsea has extensive experience working with young children, adolescents, and adults and works to individualize treatment to fit the needs of each unique client.
(410) 348-7232 View (410) 348-7232
Photo of J V Enderle, LCSW, C-DBT, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J V Enderle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT, MPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17402
I use Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR with aspects of mindfulness to help you regulate emotions and process trauma.
Everyone deserves to slow down, connect, and grow. I believe therapy helps us do that. If you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety, depression or intense emotions, change is possible. I specialize in working with Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, and impulse control disorders including the overuse of technology when it interferes with your daily life. My goal is to help you gain insights into patterns and behaviors you want to change, live a life in line with your values, and be present for what matters most.
I use Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR with aspects of mindfulness to help you regulate emotions and process trauma.
Everyone deserves to slow down, connect, and grow. I believe therapy helps us do that. If you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety, depression or intense emotions, change is possible. I specialize in working with Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, and impulse control disorders including the overuse of technology when it interferes with your daily life. My goal is to help you gain insights into patterns and behaviors you want to change, live a life in line with your values, and be present for what matters most.
(610) 632-5352 View (610) 632-5352
Photo of Karla Santos, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Karla Santos
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17403
She mostly uses a CBT, DBT, and Psychoanalysis approach.
Karla graduated from New York University with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. She has experience working with adolescents and adults of all ages and individuals who are BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+. Also, she is a strong advocate for domestic violence awareness and working with survivors. Karla has clinical knowledge/experience treating a wide range of mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, and BPD.
She mostly uses a CBT, DBT, and Psychoanalysis approach.
Karla graduated from New York University with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. She has experience working with adolescents and adults of all ages and individuals who are BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+. Also, she is a strong advocate for domestic violence awareness and working with survivors. Karla has clinical knowledge/experience treating a wide range of mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, and BPD.
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Photo of Crystal Porto, MS, CAADC, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Crystal Porto
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
York, PA 17408
Through somatics and TF- CBT, we can help you find the strength to heal and thrive once again.
You’re trapped in a never-ending nightmare while living through narcissistic abuse. At first, it was subtle–they showered you with affection, painting a picture-perfect image of love and adoration. Then, slowly, insidiously, the mask began to slip. Their affection turned into manipulation. They gaslit you and chipped away at your self-esteem. Now, you find yourself walking on eggshells, tiptoeing around their ever-changing moods. Even as you suffocate under the weight of their control, you can't bring yourself to leave. Fear holds you captive. Fear of what they'll do if you try to escape, fear of being alone, fear of the unknown.
Through somatics and TF- CBT, we can help you find the strength to heal and thrive once again.
You’re trapped in a never-ending nightmare while living through narcissistic abuse. At first, it was subtle–they showered you with affection, painting a picture-perfect image of love and adoration. Then, slowly, insidiously, the mask began to slip. Their affection turned into manipulation. They gaslit you and chipped away at your self-esteem. Now, you find yourself walking on eggshells, tiptoeing around their ever-changing moods. Even as you suffocate under the weight of their control, you can't bring yourself to leave. Fear holds you captive. Fear of what they'll do if you try to escape, fear of being alone, fear of the unknown.
(717) 987-6743 View (717) 987-6743
Photo of Karen Robinson, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Karen Robinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17402  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I take an integrative approach to therapy, drawing on a range of therapeutic modalities to address the unique needs of each individual. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) is a primary modality I utilize to help individuals address and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. I often use CBT to help individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mood-related disorders. Person-centered and humanistic approaches are grounded in empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard.
As a therapist, I take an integrative approach to therapy, drawing on a range of therapeutic modalities to address the unique needs of each individual. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) is a primary modality I utilize to help individuals address and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. I often use CBT to help individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mood-related disorders. Person-centered and humanistic approaches are grounded in empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard.
(717) 928-8443 View (717) 928-8443
Photo of Amanda Kessler, LCSW, LBS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LBS
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402
I have experience providing CBT and related behavioral techniques .
I am currently accepting new clients (adults only) for virtual appointments! I look forward to supporting adults who are tired of feeling stressed out, stuck in a rut, or want to work through any symptoms/complaints that have become barriers to their own personal fulfillment. At my office I provide in person appointments & specialize in treating children/teens. Our youth are our future, it is important they receive the support and skills necessary to maintain their mental health.
I have experience providing CBT and related behavioral techniques .
I am currently accepting new clients (adults only) for virtual appointments! I look forward to supporting adults who are tired of feeling stressed out, stuck in a rut, or want to work through any symptoms/complaints that have become barriers to their own personal fulfillment. At my office I provide in person appointments & specialize in treating children/teens. Our youth are our future, it is important they receive the support and skills necessary to maintain their mental health.
(717) 584-9503 View (717) 584-9503
Photo of Allison Manning, LPC, CCTP-II, CCATP, CDBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Manning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II, CCATP, CDBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17404  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Allie. If you’re looking for therapy that’s meaningful and as unique as you are, you’ve come to the right place. My approach is warm, collaborative, and infused with a bit of humor - because sometimes, a light-hearted moment can make all the difference in healing. I’m certified in trauma treatment, anxiety treatment, CBT, and DBT. Whether you’re coping with past wounds, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or trying to find some balance in your day-to-day life, we'll create an individualized plan that's right for you. I believe that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process and I’m committed to finding what works best for you.
Hi! I'm Allie. If you’re looking for therapy that’s meaningful and as unique as you are, you’ve come to the right place. My approach is warm, collaborative, and infused with a bit of humor - because sometimes, a light-hearted moment can make all the difference in healing. I’m certified in trauma treatment, anxiety treatment, CBT, and DBT. Whether you’re coping with past wounds, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or trying to find some balance in your day-to-day life, we'll create an individualized plan that's right for you. I believe that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process and I’m committed to finding what works best for you.
(610) 580-0431 View (610) 580-0431
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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.