Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Knoxville, TN

Photo of Gregory Douglas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gregory Douglas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
G. Lamont Douglas is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Service Provider who has been been practicing since 1997. Graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a Masters degree in Community Agency Counseling. Lamont believes in Adapting his treatment style to the individuals and families that he works with. He uses mostly person centered and CBT approaches.
G. Lamont Douglas is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Service Provider who has been been practicing since 1997. Graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a Masters degree in Community Agency Counseling. Lamont believes in Adapting his treatment style to the individuals and families that he works with. He uses mostly person centered and CBT approaches.
(865) 262-8210 View (865) 262-8210
Photo of Benjamin Henckel, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Benjamin Henckel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I draw from several therapeutic techniques, most notably cognitive-behavioral, reality, and brainspotting.
Life is filled with ups and downs, which can be extremely difficult to navigate. I believe that my clients have the ability to persevere through even the toughest of obstacles, despite feeling like doing so is impossible. It is my hope that, through working collaboratively with one another, my clients are able to more effectively navigate the tough and seemingly unbearable parts of life.
I draw from several therapeutic techniques, most notably cognitive-behavioral, reality, and brainspotting.
Life is filled with ups and downs, which can be extremely difficult to navigate. I believe that my clients have the ability to persevere through even the toughest of obstacles, despite feeling like doing so is impossible. It is my hope that, through working collaboratively with one another, my clients are able to more effectively navigate the tough and seemingly unbearable parts of life.
(865) 484-3893 View (865) 484-3893
Photo of Pisey Sok, LMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pisey Sok
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37931  (Online Only)
I currently provide telehealth counseling for individuals, couples, and families with a variety of presenting problems to improve their interpersonal relationships. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Restoration Therapy to diagnose and treat generalize anxiety, clinical depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, family problems, relational problems, and other adjustment disorders. I hope to help you regain greater self-control, inner peace, and power over anxiety, depression, and trauma to increase your emotional intelligence and self-regulation skills to improve your quality of life and relationships.
I currently provide telehealth counseling for individuals, couples, and families with a variety of presenting problems to improve their interpersonal relationships. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Restoration Therapy to diagnose and treat generalize anxiety, clinical depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, family problems, relational problems, and other adjustment disorders. I hope to help you regain greater self-control, inner peace, and power over anxiety, depression, and trauma to increase your emotional intelligence and self-regulation skills to improve your quality of life and relationships.
(626) 606-2491 View (626) 606-2491
Photo of Kristina L Hall, MS, CTRS
Kristina L Hall
MS, CTRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Hello, Welcome! I am accepting new clients seeking to cope with anxiety, addiction, and depression. I also offer parenting and family counseling.You or your child may need help processing overwhelming core beliefs that bind you to unhealthy behavior or negative thought patterns. I utilize a CBT based program that allows you to rediscover joy, balance and peace. I believe the most important thing I offer is my experience, strength and hope, my humanness. With over 25 years of experience as a therapist, I can help you work through life’s challenges. You are not alone. Please take the next step and schedule an appointment today.
Hello, Welcome! I am accepting new clients seeking to cope with anxiety, addiction, and depression. I also offer parenting and family counseling.You or your child may need help processing overwhelming core beliefs that bind you to unhealthy behavior or negative thought patterns. I utilize a CBT based program that allows you to rediscover joy, balance and peace. I believe the most important thing I offer is my experience, strength and hope, my humanness. With over 25 years of experience as a therapist, I can help you work through life’s challenges. You are not alone. Please take the next step and schedule an appointment today.
(865) 375-8718 View (865) 375-8718
Photo of Sarah Williamson, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I use dialectical behavior therapy, CBT, client centered therapy, and SFBT.
I hope to work with you to make the next steps on the road to improving yourself. We can work together on recognizing unhelpful thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and discover new ways to overcome them. Ultimately, the therapeutic relationship is based on trust, honesty, and a mutual interest in the betterment of your life.
I use dialectical behavior therapy, CBT, client centered therapy, and SFBT.
I hope to work with you to make the next steps on the road to improving yourself. We can work together on recognizing unhelpful thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and discover new ways to overcome them. Ultimately, the therapeutic relationship is based on trust, honesty, and a mutual interest in the betterment of your life.
(865) 535-7838 View (865) 535-7838
Photo of Danielle Drew, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Drew
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
Danielle utilizes an integrative treatment approach to match her client's needs, but she mostly uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and attachment-based (AT) theories to guide her sessions.
Danielle Drew is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Mental Health Service Provider designation (LPC-MHSP) in the state of Tennessee. She has years of experience working with clients as young as 4 and as old as 65. Danielle specializes in treating anxiety, depression, adjustment-related issues, PTSD, personality disorders, relationships and marital issues, gender dysphoria- or identity-related issues, grief, and more.
Danielle utilizes an integrative treatment approach to match her client's needs, but she mostly uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and attachment-based (AT) theories to guide her sessions.
Danielle Drew is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Mental Health Service Provider designation (LPC-MHSP) in the state of Tennessee. She has years of experience working with clients as young as 4 and as old as 65. Danielle specializes in treating anxiety, depression, adjustment-related issues, PTSD, personality disorders, relationships and marital issues, gender dysphoria- or identity-related issues, grief, and more.
(865) 270-5559 View (865) 270-5559
Photo of Regina Reed-Davis - Regina Reed-Davis Counseling Services , LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina Reed-Davis Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
FOCUS: Trauma Recovery, Divorce Recovery, Relationship Counseling, Emotionally Focused Counseling. I am trained in The Gottman Method for Relationship therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for trauma, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, Christian counseling, and Prepare & Enrich Premarital Counseling.
FOCUS: Trauma Recovery, Divorce Recovery, Relationship Counseling, Emotionally Focused Counseling. I am trained in The Gottman Method for Relationship therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for trauma, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, Christian counseling, and Prepare & Enrich Premarital Counseling.
(865) 309-5044 View (865) 309-5044
Photo of Amanda Surdock, PhD, Psychologist
Amanda Surdock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic approaches include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, social skills training, and biofeedback.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in assessment and evaluation across the lifespan. I enjoy working with people of all ages, and I specialize in diagnosis and treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety and depression.
My therapeutic approaches include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, social skills training, and biofeedback.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in assessment and evaluation across the lifespan. I enjoy working with people of all ages, and I specialize in diagnosis and treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety and depression.
(865) 321-1076 View (865) 321-1076
Photo of Carol Lucas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Primary modalities utilized include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Carol Lucas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. She graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Master's in Social Work in 1999. She has worked with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in a variety of settings such as inpatient, intensive outpatient, residential, school based, and community mental health. Carol uses a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to empower clients to deal with whatever they are facing, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, substance abuse, life changes, grief, loss, or executive skills deficits.
Primary modalities utilized include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Carol Lucas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. She graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Master's in Social Work in 1999. She has worked with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in a variety of settings such as inpatient, intensive outpatient, residential, school based, and community mental health. Carol uses a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to empower clients to deal with whatever they are facing, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, substance abuse, life changes, grief, loss, or executive skills deficits.
(865) 685-8834 View (865) 685-8834
Photo of Jessica Kyle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Kyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Jessica utilizes multiple treatment approaches based on the client's individual needs, including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Jessica Kyle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider qualification (LPC-MHSP) with 5 years of experience. Jessica is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address challenges to live a better and more meaningful life. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, behavioral issues in children, and major life changes. Jessica completed her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Milligan University. Her personal mental health experiences coupled with her education and professional experience enable her to give clients the support they seek.
Jessica utilizes multiple treatment approaches based on the client's individual needs, including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Jessica Kyle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider qualification (LPC-MHSP) with 5 years of experience. Jessica is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address challenges to live a better and more meaningful life. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, behavioral issues in children, and major life changes. Jessica completed her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Milligan University. Her personal mental health experiences coupled with her education and professional experience enable her to give clients the support they seek.
(865) 518-4165 View (865) 518-4165
Photo of Michael J Greenberg - OCD Associates, PhD, Psychologist
OCD Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37902  (Online Only)
To learn more about RF-ERP and integrating CBT with psychodynamic therapy, please visit www.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
To learn more about RF-ERP and integrating CBT with psychodynamic therapy, please visit www.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(865) 745-8633 View (865) 745-8633
Photo of Elizabeth Sinclair, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Sinclair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
I specialize in CBT, IFS and DBT, and incorporate mindfulness, meditation, and soothing exercises in session when appropriate.
I attended the University of Tennessee Social Work graduate program and am working as a LMSW therapist and pursuing clinical licensure. I believe in our innate capacity to grow and heal ourselves. It is my honor as a therapist to accompany my clients on their healing journey and support them along the way. I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients and am open to working with all populations. My therapeutic approach is to work with the client to build skills to address everyday issues and experience and improvement in daily life, while at the same time working to understand and heal the origin of limiting beliefs and trauma.
I specialize in CBT, IFS and DBT, and incorporate mindfulness, meditation, and soothing exercises in session when appropriate.
I attended the University of Tennessee Social Work graduate program and am working as a LMSW therapist and pursuing clinical licensure. I believe in our innate capacity to grow and heal ourselves. It is my honor as a therapist to accompany my clients on their healing journey and support them along the way. I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients and am open to working with all populations. My therapeutic approach is to work with the client to build skills to address everyday issues and experience and improvement in daily life, while at the same time working to understand and heal the origin of limiting beliefs and trauma.
(865) 830-1746 View (865) 830-1746
Photo of Allison Lowe, LPC, MHSP, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Lowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CEDS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Does it feel impossible to love, accept, or even just tolerate your body, weight, and/or shape in a world that is always telling you to be something other than what you are? Diet culture is everywhere, and it can be so confusing to know what, when, and how much to eat and how often and in what ways to move your body. Perhaps you are struggling with guilt and shame related to things you've heard or been taught about your body and food. If you want to move toward peace and freedom with food and to have a more neutral view of your body, please reach out!
I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Does it feel impossible to love, accept, or even just tolerate your body, weight, and/or shape in a world that is always telling you to be something other than what you are? Diet culture is everywhere, and it can be so confusing to know what, when, and how much to eat and how often and in what ways to move your body. Perhaps you are struggling with guilt and shame related to things you've heard or been taught about your body and food. If you want to move toward peace and freedom with food and to have a more neutral view of your body, please reach out!
(865) 412-4742 View (865) 412-4742
Photo of Heather Willard, MA, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Heather Willard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37912
I use a variety of evidence-based therapies, including traditional therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and person-centered approaches.
Hello! My name is Heather Willard and I am a professional counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, and other challenges. I partner with individuals and families to identify goals and develop a process that is complementary to each person’s needs and strengths. I love joining with individuals through counseling so they can be in a stronger place to grow, heal, and move toward wholeness. Therapy can be hard work, but it can also be fun and lead to strength and a deeper sense of joy.
I use a variety of evidence-based therapies, including traditional therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and person-centered approaches.
Hello! My name is Heather Willard and I am a professional counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, and other challenges. I partner with individuals and families to identify goals and develop a process that is complementary to each person’s needs and strengths. I love joining with individuals through counseling so they can be in a stronger place to grow, heal, and move toward wholeness. Therapy can be hard work, but it can also be fun and lead to strength and a deeper sense of joy.
(865) 674-9596 View (865) 674-9596
Photo of Shelby Harris, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelby Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and rooted in evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Owning our story and re-writing our narrative can be incredibly empowering. You are allowed and encouraged to be human with all its complexities in my office. Whether you find growth in verbal processing, journaling, or would like to use art as a therapeutic tool, I enjoy using my skills as an abstract thinker and creative clinician to empower you to reach your goals. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where you can tell your story and find healing. We will work collaboratively, building a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication.
My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and rooted in evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Owning our story and re-writing our narrative can be incredibly empowering. You are allowed and encouraged to be human with all its complexities in my office. Whether you find growth in verbal processing, journaling, or would like to use art as a therapeutic tool, I enjoy using my skills as an abstract thinker and creative clinician to empower you to reach your goals. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where you can tell your story and find healing. We will work collaboratively, building a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication.
(865) 830-6336 View (865) 830-6336
Photo of Jennifer Schariter, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Schariter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I have worked successfully with children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, and family systems. I am skilled in working with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, adoptions, foster care, trauma, and abuse. I will help you regain a sense of hope, help create manageable solutions, and aid you in processing trauma, with the goal of achieving a better quality of life. I am person-centered, skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I do not take insurance; however, eligible individuals may qualify for a financial assistance program for access to treatment.
I have worked successfully with children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, and family systems. I am skilled in working with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, adoptions, foster care, trauma, and abuse. I will help you regain a sense of hope, help create manageable solutions, and aid you in processing trauma, with the goal of achieving a better quality of life. I am person-centered, skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I do not take insurance; however, eligible individuals may qualify for a financial assistance program for access to treatment.
(865) 658-8973 View (865) 658-8973
Photo of Brandon Banks, LPC,  MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon Banks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Brandon uses strategies such as solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Brandon Banks is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee. He has a BS and MSC from Milligan College. Brandon has worked both in inpatient and outpatient settings, working with a wide range of concerns such as suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, addiction, alcohol and drug use issues, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and communication problems. His therapeutic approach is inclusive and focused on building a relationship with each client. Brandon believes this process allows both he and the client to develop a plan for them to see change in a timely manner!
Brandon uses strategies such as solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Brandon Banks is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee. He has a BS and MSC from Milligan College. Brandon has worked both in inpatient and outpatient settings, working with a wide range of concerns such as suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, addiction, alcohol and drug use issues, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and communication problems. His therapeutic approach is inclusive and focused on building a relationship with each client. Brandon believes this process allows both he and the client to develop a plan for them to see change in a timely manner!
(865) 465-5240 View (865) 465-5240
Photo of Ashley Williams, LPC-MHS, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS, MEd
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37918
With a focus in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, together we can set up a treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.
Coming to counseling can be a scary hurdle to cross. Here you are! I'm so proud of you already. Together, we can work on healing from trauma, processing grief and loss, building your relationship with your partner, or learning how to respond to others better. Compassion, patience, and kindness will always be present when you walk into my office. You will put in the work both at office and at home to continue to strive to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
With a focus in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, together we can set up a treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.
Coming to counseling can be a scary hurdle to cross. Here you are! I'm so proud of you already. Together, we can work on healing from trauma, processing grief and loss, building your relationship with your partner, or learning how to respond to others better. Compassion, patience, and kindness will always be present when you walk into my office. You will put in the work both at office and at home to continue to strive to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
(865) 830-3317 View (865) 830-3317
Photo of E Grinn, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
E Grinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
E is passionate about helping adults ages 18+ using Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help people regulate their emotions, learn to walk with trauma, and cope with depression.
E is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and provides individual therapy to adults. She is originally from Florida and received her master’s degree in social work from Florida Atlantic University. She has training and expertise in a variety of mental and behavioral health areas, including addiction treatment, geriatric care, child therapy and individual therapy with adults. Prior to receiving her master’s degree, E was a Certified Addiction Specialist in Florida. She spent time counseling in treatment centers but wanted additional education and training to be able to practice more diverse treatment approaches.
E is passionate about helping adults ages 18+ using Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help people regulate their emotions, learn to walk with trauma, and cope with depression.
E is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and provides individual therapy to adults. She is originally from Florida and received her master’s degree in social work from Florida Atlantic University. She has training and expertise in a variety of mental and behavioral health areas, including addiction treatment, geriatric care, child therapy and individual therapy with adults. Prior to receiving her master’s degree, E was a Certified Addiction Specialist in Florida. She spent time counseling in treatment centers but wanted additional education and training to be able to practice more diverse treatment approaches.
(865) 507-1446 View (865) 507-1446
Photo of Joelle Burkett, LSPE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joelle Burkett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSPE
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Joelle Burkett, LSPE Joelle Burkett is a Licensed Senior Psychological Examiner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 1998. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Tennessee and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Austin Peay State University. Joelle received her license as a Psychological Examiner and her Senior Psychological Examiner license from the State of Tennessee. Joelle has been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy.
Joelle Burkett, LSPE Joelle Burkett is a Licensed Senior Psychological Examiner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 1998. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Tennessee and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Austin Peay State University. Joelle received her license as a Psychological Examiner and her Senior Psychological Examiner license from the State of Tennessee. Joelle has been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy.
(865) 500-6807 View (865) 500-6807
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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.