Photo of Kathy Keith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78259
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
(469) 772-5769 View (469) 772-5769
Photo of David Cortez, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Cortez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78251  (Online Only)
The therapeutic process through the use of CBT is collaborative journey.
Schedule your free consultation & guidance session! Whether it is addiction, codependency, trauma, depression, or anxiety, nothing should get in your way of you living your best life! What has happened before today, what is happening now, and the worries of what may happen tomorrow can be a source of suffering for everyone. Take action and move towards your goals, dreams, passions, and best you. I have nearly a decade of experience helping individuals strive for the life that they know they should have, reach milestones, find their voice, and be the catalyst for change in their own lives. Every person can be the hero of their story!
The therapeutic process through the use of CBT is collaborative journey.
Schedule your free consultation & guidance session! Whether it is addiction, codependency, trauma, depression, or anxiety, nothing should get in your way of you living your best life! What has happened before today, what is happening now, and the worries of what may happen tomorrow can be a source of suffering for everyone. Take action and move towards your goals, dreams, passions, and best you. I have nearly a decade of experience helping individuals strive for the life that they know they should have, reach milestones, find their voice, and be the catalyst for change in their own lives. Every person can be the hero of their story!
(210) 361-0795 View (210) 361-0795
Photo of Allie Hennis, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allie Hennis
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78262  (Online Only)
I will focus on building an authentic and supportive relationship with you and utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Attachment -Base approaches and many others.
My name is Allie and I have been providing counseling since 2002. I believe we all possess the skills to reach our potential and that as a Counselor it is my job to help you find your strengths to be the person you want to be.
I will focus on building an authentic and supportive relationship with you and utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Attachment -Base approaches and many others.
My name is Allie and I have been providing counseling since 2002. I believe we all possess the skills to reach our potential and that as a Counselor it is my job to help you find your strengths to be the person you want to be.
(210) 796-0628 View (210) 796-0628
Photo of Christina Reyes, MA, LPC-A
Christina Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy, to tailor our sessions to your individual needs and goals.
My approach to therapy is tailored to meet your unique needs by using a client-centered approach, meaning our sessions are focused on your experiences and goals. Together, we will work on understanding your thoughts and feelings, developing effective coping strategies, and creating meaningful change in your life. Whether you're dealing with stress, seeking personal growth, or navigating relationship challenges. I understand that life's challenges can profoundly impact how you experience and engage with the world. I am here to support you with compassion and expertise. I am passionate about helping you lead a more fulfilling life.
I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy, to tailor our sessions to your individual needs and goals.
My approach to therapy is tailored to meet your unique needs by using a client-centered approach, meaning our sessions are focused on your experiences and goals. Together, we will work on understanding your thoughts and feelings, developing effective coping strategies, and creating meaningful change in your life. Whether you're dealing with stress, seeking personal growth, or navigating relationship challenges. I understand that life's challenges can profoundly impact how you experience and engage with the world. I am here to support you with compassion and expertise. I am passionate about helping you lead a more fulfilling life.
(726) 232-6162 View (726) 232-6162
Photo of Christina Reyes, MA, LPC-A
Christina Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78244
Therapy isn't easy, you should applaud yourself for taking initiative in seeking help. My part in therapy is to help facilitate your journey to healing and/or path to self-discovery. My specialty is using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients learn coping skills to help overcome current or future obstacles
Therapy isn't easy, you should applaud yourself for taking initiative in seeking help. My part in therapy is to help facilitate your journey to healing and/or path to self-discovery. My specialty is using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients learn coping skills to help overcome current or future obstacles
(726) 238-4164 View (726) 238-4164
Photo of Rosa Ana Espinosa, PsyD, LP, LPC, Psychologist
Rosa Ana Espinosa
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229  (Online Only)
I specialize in brief therapy with a solution-focused approach using my client's strengths to arrive at solutions to their current problem. Oftentimes, these solutions can be practiced and implemented in a relatively short period of time. If necessary, I use additional tools such as cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnosis.
I specialize in brief therapy with a solution-focused approach using my client's strengths to arrive at solutions to their current problem. Oftentimes, these solutions can be practiced and implemented in a relatively short period of time. If necessary, I use additional tools such as cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnosis.
(210) 651-2996 View (210) 651-2996
Photo of Laura Kotlowski, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Kotlowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78259
I am trained in: Rational Emotive Behavioral, Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectal Behavioral, Solution Focused, Reality, Motivational Interviewing, & Strength Based Theories,etc.
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
I am trained in: Rational Emotive Behavioral, Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectal Behavioral, Solution Focused, Reality, Motivational Interviewing, & Strength Based Theories,etc.
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
(210) 791-6972 View (210) 791-6972
Photo of Roy Tegrarian, LPC, MS, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roy Tegrarian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78256
I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy for adults, couples, and adolescents, offering both virtual and in-person sessions.
Your suffering matters. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, depressed, unmotivated, or confused. Maybe you’re having trouble adjusting to a major change, struggling in a relationship, struggling with work, or concerned about unhealthy patterns. Whatever it is, your hardship matters, and skillful therapy can help. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 2,000+ direct client hours, a 5th year Clinical Psychology doctoral candidate, entrepreneur, and former Fortune 100 executive, my experience, education, and training enable me to understand your struggles and collaborate with you to develop effective ways to address your unique needs.
I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy for adults, couples, and adolescents, offering both virtual and in-person sessions.
Your suffering matters. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, depressed, unmotivated, or confused. Maybe you’re having trouble adjusting to a major change, struggling in a relationship, struggling with work, or concerned about unhealthy patterns. Whatever it is, your hardship matters, and skillful therapy can help. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 2,000+ direct client hours, a 5th year Clinical Psychology doctoral candidate, entrepreneur, and former Fortune 100 executive, my experience, education, and training enable me to understand your struggles and collaborate with you to develop effective ways to address your unique needs.
(210) 625-8372 View (210) 625-8372
Photo of Jane L Simmons, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jane L Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
I employ many types of therapy, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
We all get stuck in relationships, issues, and negative thinking, at times. Your situation is unique and so should your therapy. You deserve professional guidance with what you desire to receive help. Please reach out to me and receive that help because you are worth it!
I employ many types of therapy, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
We all get stuck in relationships, issues, and negative thinking, at times. Your situation is unique and so should your therapy. You deserve professional guidance with what you desire to receive help. Please reach out to me and receive that help because you are worth it!
(210) 920-8263 View (210) 920-8263
Photo of Carolyn S. Turner - Turning Point Therapeutic Services, MA, LPC-S, LSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turning Point Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LSOTP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, helpless or is your life out of control in some way? Have you experienced depression, anxiety, addictions, or traumas that affect your ability to sustain relationships? Do you seek a safe, supportive place in which to explore your feelings, thoughts in order to turn your life in a new direction? For 23 years, I have helped people understand and change their behavior and motivations using primarily a cognitive (thinking based) behavior therapy approach which examines harmful thinking that supports negative feelings, and behavior patterns, so that you become equipped to change and grow.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, helpless or is your life out of control in some way? Have you experienced depression, anxiety, addictions, or traumas that affect your ability to sustain relationships? Do you seek a safe, supportive place in which to explore your feelings, thoughts in order to turn your life in a new direction? For 23 years, I have helped people understand and change their behavior and motivations using primarily a cognitive (thinking based) behavior therapy approach which examines harmful thinking that supports negative feelings, and behavior patterns, so that you become equipped to change and grow.
(210) 943-9470 View (210) 943-9470
Photo of Dr. Rosemary Hernandez - Dr Hernandez & Associates, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr Hernandez & Associates, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78205
By applying dynamic cognitive behavioral, interpersonal and insight oriented therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing patterns of thinking and related behaviors that may be hindering you from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Our Practice It is our belief and experience that you will get more out of your life if you are willing to change. Change is spurred by a feeling that something just isn't quite right, that something could be better, that there's an issue you want to resolve. Therapy is an important step in discovering the world around you and finding your place in it. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
By applying dynamic cognitive behavioral, interpersonal and insight oriented therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing patterns of thinking and related behaviors that may be hindering you from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Our Practice It is our belief and experience that you will get more out of your life if you are willing to change. Change is spurred by a feeling that something just isn't quite right, that something could be better, that there's an issue you want to resolve. Therapy is an important step in discovering the world around you and finding your place in it. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
(210) 796-9317 View (210) 796-9317
Photo of Nancy M. Turner, MS Ed, NCC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy M. Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253
I use CBT, mindfulness based techniques and hypnotherapy to promote personal growth and healing.
Each of us has the ability to impact the world in a unique and powerful way and we are all born with the desire to deeply connect with others. Struggles with anxiety, depression, insecurity, burnout and stress can discourage us and keep us from realizing our full potential. Counseling gives you the opportunity to feel seen, heard, understood as well as challenged. It is through therapy that we come to understand ourselves more fully allowing personal growth, self esteem and possibly true satisfaction with the life we are given.
I use CBT, mindfulness based techniques and hypnotherapy to promote personal growth and healing.
Each of us has the ability to impact the world in a unique and powerful way and we are all born with the desire to deeply connect with others. Struggles with anxiety, depression, insecurity, burnout and stress can discourage us and keep us from realizing our full potential. Counseling gives you the opportunity to feel seen, heard, understood as well as challenged. It is through therapy that we come to understand ourselves more fully allowing personal growth, self esteem and possibly true satisfaction with the life we are given.
(806) 203-6316 View (806) 203-6316
Photo of Paul Stephenson - Paul Stephenson with Genesis Counseling Center, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Stephenson with Genesis Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78255
Paul is also Level 1 Certified in TEAM-CBT.
Paul has over 10 years of experience walking with couples and individuals through some of the hardest seasons of life. He has a Bachelor's Degree from Texas A&M University and a Master's Degree from University of Texas at San Antonio. Paul believes that his first priority is to hear his clients. He has a wealth of experience helping people walk through challenging seasons and difficult circumstances, but Paul views each of those people is first and foremost an individual with unique life experiences. Whether it's anxiety or grief/loss, he feels each of us responds differently based on what we've encountered in our own life story.
Paul is also Level 1 Certified in TEAM-CBT.
Paul has over 10 years of experience walking with couples and individuals through some of the hardest seasons of life. He has a Bachelor's Degree from Texas A&M University and a Master's Degree from University of Texas at San Antonio. Paul believes that his first priority is to hear his clients. He has a wealth of experience helping people walk through challenging seasons and difficult circumstances, but Paul views each of those people is first and foremost an individual with unique life experiences. Whether it's anxiety or grief/loss, he feels each of us responds differently based on what we've encountered in our own life story.
(830) 563-4863 View (830) 563-4863
Photo of Antwine D. Charles Sr., LPC, CMHC, LCDC In, EMDR-Tr, Licensed Professional Counselor
Antwine D. Charles Sr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC, LCDC In, EMDR-Tr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201
Intrigued by how people’s cognitions(thoughts) shape their behavior, Antwine subscribes to Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) but does not limit himself to that therapy technique alone.
Antwine D. Charles Sr is a retired veteran who served 24 years as a Navy Corpsman (medic) in the U.S. Navy. Serving in many countries and theatre’s, Antwine encountered many different cultures, in various war-torn, under-developed, and impoverished communities. Earning his Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, his interest include other cultures, customs and traditions. His journey ignited his interest in multi-cultural counseling, community servanthood and an endeavor to bring Mental Healthcare to those who are in need of counseling services wherever he can.
Intrigued by how people’s cognitions(thoughts) shape their behavior, Antwine subscribes to Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) but does not limit himself to that therapy technique alone.
Antwine D. Charles Sr is a retired veteran who served 24 years as a Navy Corpsman (medic) in the U.S. Navy. Serving in many countries and theatre’s, Antwine encountered many different cultures, in various war-torn, under-developed, and impoverished communities. Earning his Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, his interest include other cultures, customs and traditions. His journey ignited his interest in multi-cultural counseling, community servanthood and an endeavor to bring Mental Healthcare to those who are in need of counseling services wherever he can.
(361) 264-7679 View (361) 264-7679
Photo of Laura L Avila, PhD, Psychologist
Laura L Avila
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
My primary therapeutic approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy as there is significant research to support its effectiveness in treating a wide variety of problems.
I am a clinical psychologist with a special interest in health and wellness, both physical and emotional. I have also completed specialized training in evidence-based therapies for treatment of PTSD. I have enjoyed working with medical populations as this has deepened my understanding of the mind-body connection, particularly how health conditions can contribute to emotional problems and vice versa. Although we may not always be able to choose or change our current circumstances, we are able to choose how we think about, manage, and cope with our circumstances which can lead to a change in our overall health.
My primary therapeutic approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy as there is significant research to support its effectiveness in treating a wide variety of problems.
I am a clinical psychologist with a special interest in health and wellness, both physical and emotional. I have also completed specialized training in evidence-based therapies for treatment of PTSD. I have enjoyed working with medical populations as this has deepened my understanding of the mind-body connection, particularly how health conditions can contribute to emotional problems and vice versa. Although we may not always be able to choose or change our current circumstances, we are able to choose how we think about, manage, and cope with our circumstances which can lead to a change in our overall health.
(817) 587-3962 View (817) 587-3962
Photo of Dorothy 'dory' Warren, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dorothy 'dory' Warren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
The connection between client and therapist is the main factor necessary for successful therapeutic change. I will help you clarify essential goals, that once achieved will lead to you firing me. By being "client-centered", our sessions will be led by you and I will walk with you during your journey, adding evidence-based information, posing insight-oriented questions and helping present relative information in a novel context (due to my being unbiased). "Firing" your therapist means you feel confident to utilize new skills to better manage life:)
The connection between client and therapist is the main factor necessary for successful therapeutic change. I will help you clarify essential goals, that once achieved will lead to you firing me. By being "client-centered", our sessions will be led by you and I will walk with you during your journey, adding evidence-based information, posing insight-oriented questions and helping present relative information in a novel context (due to my being unbiased). "Firing" your therapist means you feel confident to utilize new skills to better manage life:)
(210) 794-8171 View (210) 794-8171
Photo of Maricruz A. Valdez - Maricruz Valdez , MA, CSC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maricruz Valdez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CSC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78254
I am a Licensed Professional and Certified Biblical Counselor. I have a strong desire to work with individuals who want to improve their lives and find meaning and purpose in their lives. I provide a holistic counseling service, addressing both the psychological and spiritual components with practical solutions to painful difficulties you are facing, whether spiritual or emotional. I see my clients as unique individuals and tailor my techniques and approach to meet their specific needs. I strive to instill hope, perseverance, and biblical truth to help clients reach their goals and find the root of their problems. I'm bilingual.
I am a Licensed Professional and Certified Biblical Counselor. I have a strong desire to work with individuals who want to improve their lives and find meaning and purpose in their lives. I provide a holistic counseling service, addressing both the psychological and spiritual components with practical solutions to painful difficulties you are facing, whether spiritual or emotional. I see my clients as unique individuals and tailor my techniques and approach to meet their specific needs. I strive to instill hope, perseverance, and biblical truth to help clients reach their goals and find the root of their problems. I'm bilingual.
(210) 791-0354 View (210) 791-0354
Photo of Beatriz Alaniz, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beatriz Alaniz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
Welcome to Resiliency Trauma and Couples Therapy, PLLC. My name is Beatriz Alaniz and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas and also a Texas Board Approved Supervisor. I provide a warm and welcoming environment for clients from all walks of life with a focus on individuals who have experienced trauma and couples wanting to reconnect and heal. The name of my practice is "Resiliency" because I believe in the resiliency of my clients upon meeting them and will work hard to make sure you can see yourselves as the resilient individuals you are.
Welcome to Resiliency Trauma and Couples Therapy, PLLC. My name is Beatriz Alaniz and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas and also a Texas Board Approved Supervisor. I provide a warm and welcoming environment for clients from all walks of life with a focus on individuals who have experienced trauma and couples wanting to reconnect and heal. The name of my practice is "Resiliency" because I believe in the resiliency of my clients upon meeting them and will work hard to make sure you can see yourselves as the resilient individuals you are.
(210) 361-7685 View (210) 361-7685
Photo of Amanda Koplin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Koplin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78248
Many of my clients tried finding help in treatment centers and in the offices of outpatient therapists but they didn't get the results they were looking for in their lives. As someone who struggled with an eating disorder personally, I understand the necessary components it takes to be successful in overcoming obstacles related to addictions, eating disorders, behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, and many other obstacles which prevent you from being happy. If you're ready to try a customized, unique approach which is tailored to your needs, I'm ready to help you!
Many of my clients tried finding help in treatment centers and in the offices of outpatient therapists but they didn't get the results they were looking for in their lives. As someone who struggled with an eating disorder personally, I understand the necessary components it takes to be successful in overcoming obstacles related to addictions, eating disorders, behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, and many other obstacles which prevent you from being happy. If you're ready to try a customized, unique approach which is tailored to your needs, I'm ready to help you!
(210) 960-9232 View (210) 960-9232
Photo of Thomas Efird, LCSW-S, EMDR-AC, Veteran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas Efird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR-AC, Veteran
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
I've worked in the mental health field for over 24 years. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma issues, as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Traumatic issues include childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect), sexual assault (including military), crime/theft, car accidents, grief/loss, combat, first responders/medical professionals, veterans (including moral injury) and poor leadership. My experience has taught me that most of the time depression and anxiety are unresolved emotional wounds that haven't been fully addressed.
I've worked in the mental health field for over 24 years. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma issues, as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Traumatic issues include childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect), sexual assault (including military), crime/theft, car accidents, grief/loss, combat, first responders/medical professionals, veterans (including moral injury) and poor leadership. My experience has taught me that most of the time depression and anxiety are unresolved emotional wounds that haven't been fully addressed.
(210) 806-7819 View (210) 806-7819
1

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists

How does cognitive behavioral therapy work?

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

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

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

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

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

Why is CBT such a popular form of therapy?

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