Photo of Kae Roos, Pre-Licensed Professional in Vernon, BC
Kae Roos
Pre-Licensed Professional, BEd, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T  (Online Only)
I am a nonbinary, neurodivergent practitioner with a passion for helping individuals and families practice more loving ways of relating to themselves and each other. In my practice, I support adults, families, parents, kids and teenagers. Rooted in positive psychology and mindfulness approaches, my counselling sessions integrate several evidence-based therapies including CBT, DBT, EFFT and somatic processing. I practice virtually only and welcome individuals of all backgrounds.
I am a nonbinary, neurodivergent practitioner with a passion for helping individuals and families practice more loving ways of relating to themselves and each other. In my practice, I support adults, families, parents, kids and teenagers. Rooted in positive psychology and mindfulness approaches, my counselling sessions integrate several evidence-based therapies including CBT, DBT, EFFT and somatic processing. I practice virtually only and welcome individuals of all backgrounds.
(647) 931-0815 View (647) 931-0815
Photo of Monica Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vernon, BC
Monica Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
Helping families, individuals and children through difficult experiences has been my career's focus for over 25 years. I utilize child-centered play/art therapy, sand tray work, emotional regulation, cognitive behavioural therapy and rational emotive behavioural therapy. These strategies allow children and adults to reveal their anger, fears sadness or frustrations in order to better understand and express themselves. My holistic and creative approach allows clients to feel comfortable, heal, overcome obstacles and embrace positive changes that can ultimately create a more satisfying quality of life.
Helping families, individuals and children through difficult experiences has been my career's focus for over 25 years. I utilize child-centered play/art therapy, sand tray work, emotional regulation, cognitive behavioural therapy and rational emotive behavioural therapy. These strategies allow children and adults to reveal their anger, fears sadness or frustrations in order to better understand and express themselves. My holistic and creative approach allows clients to feel comfortable, heal, overcome obstacles and embrace positive changes that can ultimately create a more satisfying quality of life.
(250) 540-2410 View (250) 540-2410
Photo of Lisa Webster, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Lisa Webster
Counsellor, BEd, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1H
Lisa uses Cognitive Behavioural Counselling and other traditional counselling techniques.
What makes Lisa stand out is her warm personality and her straight forward approach. With gentleness and humour, she guides clients to find their own insights, while providing tools and teaching techniques clients can use on their own. In a non-judgemental setting, Lisa helps clients to quickly achieve their goals. Lisa Webster's style is perfect for motivated individuals who are ready to make rapid change. Lisa focuses on achieving results. What used to take months or even years can often be resolved in sessions, saving time and money.
Lisa uses Cognitive Behavioural Counselling and other traditional counselling techniques.
What makes Lisa stand out is her warm personality and her straight forward approach. With gentleness and humour, she guides clients to find their own insights, while providing tools and teaching techniques clients can use on their own. In a non-judgemental setting, Lisa helps clients to quickly achieve their goals. Lisa Webster's style is perfect for motivated individuals who are ready to make rapid change. Lisa focuses on achieving results. What used to take months or even years can often be resolved in sessions, saving time and money.
(778) 764-1592 View (778) 764-1592
Photo of Core Perspectives Counselling Services, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Core Perspectives Counselling Services
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
Depression and Anxiety are also areas in which I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Clinical Hypnosis.
Hello, my name is Helen Hofer and I am a Registered Professional Counsellor and am a practicing Psychotherapist in Private Practice. I work with individuals, couples and families. Although I specialize in Grief Recovery, I work with a variety of presenting concerns which include depression, anxiety and relationship issues.Thank you for taking a moment to learn how I can help you make some significant and meaningful changes in your life. It is my privilege to help my clients move from a place of dissatisfaction or unhappiness in their relationships, careers, or self-esteem and arrive at a place of joy and success.
Depression and Anxiety are also areas in which I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Clinical Hypnosis.
Hello, my name is Helen Hofer and I am a Registered Professional Counsellor and am a practicing Psychotherapist in Private Practice. I work with individuals, couples and families. Although I specialize in Grief Recovery, I work with a variety of presenting concerns which include depression, anxiety and relationship issues.Thank you for taking a moment to learn how I can help you make some significant and meaningful changes in your life. It is my privilege to help my clients move from a place of dissatisfaction or unhappiness in their relationships, careers, or self-esteem and arrive at a place of joy and success.
(250) 864-5239 View (250) 864-5239
Photo of Janice Helle Psychological Services, Psychologist in Vernon, BC
Janice Helle Psychological Services
Psychologist, BScPEd, BEd, MA
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T  (Online Only)
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches as fits the client's needs including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Humanistic/Existential Therapy and Mindfulness Techniques.
As a Registered Psychologist I offer the best in emotional, mental, social, physical, and spiritual guidance. I can assess and help you with anxiety, depression and stress. I can also help with life transitions, relationships, conflict resolution, and communication issues. I have experience working with mental health and addiction issues. I can also plan a physical wellness program and help with weight management issues. I also work with students who have academic and learning issues. I do career counselling and can help you find your inner passions to live the life you want.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches as fits the client's needs including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Humanistic/Existential Therapy and Mindfulness Techniques.
As a Registered Psychologist I offer the best in emotional, mental, social, physical, and spiritual guidance. I can assess and help you with anxiety, depression and stress. I can also help with life transitions, relationships, conflict resolution, and communication issues. I have experience working with mental health and addiction issues. I can also plan a physical wellness program and help with weight management issues. I also work with students who have academic and learning issues. I do career counselling and can help you find your inner passions to live the life you want.
(250) 253-0190 View (250) 253-0190
Photo of Tara Irwin, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Tara Irwin
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
I integrate an attachment theory framework with emotion focussed, cognitive/dialectical behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies to provide care that is sensitive, individualized and client-centred.
I have been providing support for individuals struggling with mental health concerns for over a decade. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, self-harm and other emotion regulation difficulties. I hope to make people to feel safe and secure in sharing personal challenges and provide a compassionate, respectful, and non-judgmental perspective on complex struggles and coping difficulties.
I integrate an attachment theory framework with emotion focussed, cognitive/dialectical behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies to provide care that is sensitive, individualized and client-centred.
I have been providing support for individuals struggling with mental health concerns for over a decade. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, self-harm and other emotion regulation difficulties. I hope to make people to feel safe and secure in sharing personal challenges and provide a compassionate, respectful, and non-judgmental perspective on complex struggles and coping difficulties.
(778) 860-7976 View (778) 860-7976
Photo of Tracy Atkins, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Tracy Atkins
Counsellor, BSW, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1H
I have training in and draw from the following counselling modalities: Emotion-Focused Therapy for both Individuals and Couples, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Self- Compassion, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello! My name is Tracy and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor who has been working with youth and adults with various mental health and substance use struggles for over fifteen years. I specialize in substance use, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, grief/loss, and low self-worth. Over the past five years I have also expanded my practice to include couples. Guiding my practice is a belief that behind these struggles are individuals with unique stories and lived experiences that connect to both suffering and strength. I strive to create a compassionate and safe space for exploring together experiences and desired change.
I have training in and draw from the following counselling modalities: Emotion-Focused Therapy for both Individuals and Couples, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Self- Compassion, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello! My name is Tracy and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor who has been working with youth and adults with various mental health and substance use struggles for over fifteen years. I specialize in substance use, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, grief/loss, and low self-worth. Over the past five years I have also expanded my practice to include couples. Guiding my practice is a belief that behind these struggles are individuals with unique stories and lived experiences that connect to both suffering and strength. I strive to create a compassionate and safe space for exploring together experiences and desired change.
(778) 400-1421 View (778) 400-1421
Photo of Keith Balisky, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Keith Balisky
Counsellor, RCC, MCoun, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1H  (Online Only)
I work through a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) lens.
Counselling is an important step and you are taking steps on your journey. I aim to be someone that can be present and walk with you through your challenges. My first step is to understand what is working and where are the challenges. We then work together to find a direction that is going to help you grow.
I work through a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) lens.
Counselling is an important step and you are taking steps on your journey. I aim to be someone that can be present and walk with you through your challenges. My first step is to understand what is working and where are the challenges. We then work together to find a direction that is going to help you grow.
(450) 600-2270 View (450) 600-2270
Photo of Kim Ewing Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Kim Ewing Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, MSc, RMFT, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
I use an integrative approach, combining emotional, cognitive & somatic therapies to treat the whole person.
I've been practicing since 1995 & I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor & Marriage & Family Therapist. However, I am now only accepting individual clients 18+. It's clear to me that we can all struggle, even if we are successful in other areas of our lives. Life can be unpredictable & the stress & demands of everyday life, work & relationships can take its toll. As stressors build, you may find yourself struggling with anxiety, mood, eating, body image issues or turning to addictive behaviours. You may also find that unresolved grief or past trauma keeps seeping into your daily life & especially when you least want or expect it.
I use an integrative approach, combining emotional, cognitive & somatic therapies to treat the whole person.
I've been practicing since 1995 & I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor & Marriage & Family Therapist. However, I am now only accepting individual clients 18+. It's clear to me that we can all struggle, even if we are successful in other areas of our lives. Life can be unpredictable & the stress & demands of everyday life, work & relationships can take its toll. As stressors build, you may find yourself struggling with anxiety, mood, eating, body image issues or turning to addictive behaviours. You may also find that unresolved grief or past trauma keeps seeping into your daily life & especially when you least want or expect it.
(778) 765-3413 View (778) 765-3413
Photo of Lauren Nutbrown, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Lauren Nutbrown
Counsellor, BA, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
I typically use a combination of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural, Dialectical Behavioural, and Attachment-based theories to conceptualize what is happening for you.
Available evenings and weekends: Welcome new faces! My name is Lauren, and I am glad Psychology Today has brought you to my profile. If you are looking at my page today, you are likely ready to find a counsellor who is excited to connect with you, laugh/cry with you, and empathize with the burdens that come with life. You might also be looking for someone who will show up with compassion for your story and is committed to finding solutions for your unique needs. If that is the case, you may have found the right fit with me!
I typically use a combination of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural, Dialectical Behavioural, and Attachment-based theories to conceptualize what is happening for you.
Available evenings and weekends: Welcome new faces! My name is Lauren, and I am glad Psychology Today has brought you to my profile. If you are looking at my page today, you are likely ready to find a counsellor who is excited to connect with you, laugh/cry with you, and empathize with the burdens that come with life. You might also be looking for someone who will show up with compassion for your story and is committed to finding solutions for your unique needs. If that is the case, you may have found the right fit with me!
(343) 305-5429 View (343) 305-5429
Photo of Megan Jamieson, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Megan Jamieson
Counsellor, CD, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
We may pull from approaches such as ACT, CBT, DBT, AEDP, IFS, SE, MBSC, and SFBT.
I believe one of the most courageous things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I remember what it feels like to be on your side of the couch, overwhelmed by the idea of sharing my most vulnerable stories. When we've hit (or passed) the point of burnout, or we have a stressful experience like a loss or traumatic event, it can be hard to imagine finding joy or fulfillment again. You deserve a space to discover your strengths, make sense of your experiences, and find a meaningful path forward.
We may pull from approaches such as ACT, CBT, DBT, AEDP, IFS, SE, MBSC, and SFBT.
I believe one of the most courageous things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I remember what it feels like to be on your side of the couch, overwhelmed by the idea of sharing my most vulnerable stories. When we've hit (or passed) the point of burnout, or we have a stressful experience like a loss or traumatic event, it can be hard to imagine finding joy or fulfillment again. You deserve a space to discover your strengths, make sense of your experiences, and find a meaningful path forward.
(825) 435-1063 View (825) 435-1063
Photo of Brian Howard, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Brian Howard
Counsellor, BA, MAC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
I also use therapies and techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Exposure Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, boundary and assertive training, coping strategies, and self-confidence building.
If you hope to overcome a dreadful anxiety, come out of a hopeless depression, build inner self-confidence, learn how to stand up for yourself, or just try to get a grip on life today; together we can achieve it. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters in Counselling, 7 years experience, and a genuine compassion for people, I sincerely create an encouraging and safe space where we will find what your next step looks like and provide you with the correct tools and techniques to ultimately attain what brought you to seek counselling.
I also use therapies and techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Exposure Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, boundary and assertive training, coping strategies, and self-confidence building.
If you hope to overcome a dreadful anxiety, come out of a hopeless depression, build inner self-confidence, learn how to stand up for yourself, or just try to get a grip on life today; together we can achieve it. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters in Counselling, 7 years experience, and a genuine compassion for people, I sincerely create an encouraging and safe space where we will find what your next step looks like and provide you with the correct tools and techniques to ultimately attain what brought you to seek counselling.
(778) 902-4506 View (778) 902-4506
Photo of Noel Appleton, Registered Social Worker in Vernon, BC
Noel Appleton
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
Now Accepting Clients! I have been working with youth/families for 12 years, and I love it! Curiosity and empathy have served me well. I look forward to hearing your story. I'm ready if you are! More information available at: www.dogwoodvalleycounselling.ca
Now Accepting Clients! I have been working with youth/families for 12 years, and I love it! Curiosity and empathy have served me well. I look forward to hearing your story. I'm ready if you are! More information available at: www.dogwoodvalleycounselling.ca
(365) 800-6815 View (365) 800-6815
Photo of Inner Balance Psychotherapy; Bronwyn von Niessen, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Inner Balance Psychotherapy; Bronwyn von Niessen
Counsellor, MC, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
Hi! I'm Bronwyn. I offer a range of unique therapeutic approaches which can be done online or in person. I have a holistic approach and include services such as Neurofeedback, Walk & Talk Therapy, Nightmare Therapy, and Energy Healing.
Hi! I'm Bronwyn. I offer a range of unique therapeutic approaches which can be done online or in person. I have a holistic approach and include services such as Neurofeedback, Walk & Talk Therapy, Nightmare Therapy, and Energy Healing.
(506) 804-9607 View (506) 804-9607
Photo of Jessa Joles, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Jessa Joles
Counsellor, RTC, CPC, BAPSYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
Jessa’s passion and experience has grown while working with youth as a School-Based Outreach Counsellor and with the LGBTQ2+ community. She will hold safe space for her clients to ensure they become the best version of themselves, through a variety of integrative methods. Clients appreciate Jessa's calm, upbeat approach leaving them feeling hopeful and motivated. She is on a mission to empower young people through individual counselling as well as holding small groups for youth and young adults. Whatever you are battling right now, you do not have to do it alone. I’m here to help.
Jessa’s passion and experience has grown while working with youth as a School-Based Outreach Counsellor and with the LGBTQ2+ community. She will hold safe space for her clients to ensure they become the best version of themselves, through a variety of integrative methods. Clients appreciate Jessa's calm, upbeat approach leaving them feeling hopeful and motivated. She is on a mission to empower young people through individual counselling as well as holding small groups for youth and young adults. Whatever you are battling right now, you do not have to do it alone. I’m here to help.
(778) 860-4464 View (778) 860-4464
Photo of Rebecca Olds, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Rebecca Olds
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
Waitlist for new clients
Children are one third of our population and all of our future. I specialize in children, teens and families. I believe that parents do the best they can with the tools they have been given - tools that can be learned and expanded through counselling. I graduated with my Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University, and am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors I work primarily with individual children (6-12), individual teens (ages 13+) and parents.
Children are one third of our population and all of our future. I specialize in children, teens and families. I believe that parents do the best they can with the tools they have been given - tools that can be learned and expanded through counselling. I graduated with my Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University, and am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors I work primarily with individual children (6-12), individual teens (ages 13+) and parents.
(778) 400-2097 View (778) 400-2097
Photo of Stefanie Yadernuk, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Stefanie Yadernuk
Counsellor, MACP, CCC, BSW
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, my name is Stefanie and I have over 12 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families within the social work field, and currently as a clinical certified counsellor. I am client-focused and collaboratively work together in partnership with you towards alleviating concerns and promoting overall wellness. Counselling and Psychotherapy offers a safe place to examine multiple perspectives and opportunities to edit and re-author your personal stories and outlook on yourself and the world. In addition, your feelings of safety and comfort are of utmost importance when setting up an effective therapeutic relationship.
Hello, my name is Stefanie and I have over 12 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families within the social work field, and currently as a clinical certified counsellor. I am client-focused and collaboratively work together in partnership with you towards alleviating concerns and promoting overall wellness. Counselling and Psychotherapy offers a safe place to examine multiple perspectives and opportunities to edit and re-author your personal stories and outlook on yourself and the world. In addition, your feelings of safety and comfort are of utmost importance when setting up an effective therapeutic relationship.
(807) 790-9881 View (807) 790-9881
Photo of Stacey C Boe, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Stacey C Boe
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m Stacey, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and hold a Master of Art's in Counselling Psychology degree. With 15years of experience in mental health, I combine and integrate various mind-body modalities in order to tailor sessions to your individual needs. My approach is client centred and trauma-informed, with a particular emphasis on Narrative Therapy, Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi, I’m Stacey, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and hold a Master of Art's in Counselling Psychology degree. With 15years of experience in mental health, I combine and integrate various mind-body modalities in order to tailor sessions to your individual needs. My approach is client centred and trauma-informed, with a particular emphasis on Narrative Therapy, Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(855) 982-1267 View (855) 982-1267
Photo of Kelli Hanson Counselling & Hypnotherapy, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Kelli Hanson Counselling & Hypnotherapy
Counsellor, BA, BEd, MACP, RCC, CHyp
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Does it feel like it takes too much energy to just get out of bed? Do you want to feel you have more control of your life? For the past 15 years I have supported Indigenous and non-Indigenous children, youth and adults with issues related to anxiety, depression, substance use, grief and loss, sexuality, social struggles, and trauma related to residential schools. I am passionate about helping you overcome obstacles to the success in life that you want and deserve. I believe that healing is a holistic journey that takes all aspects of your life into account, and doesn't focus on only one part or symptom.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Does it feel like it takes too much energy to just get out of bed? Do you want to feel you have more control of your life? For the past 15 years I have supported Indigenous and non-Indigenous children, youth and adults with issues related to anxiety, depression, substance use, grief and loss, sexuality, social struggles, and trauma related to residential schools. I am passionate about helping you overcome obstacles to the success in life that you want and deserve. I believe that healing is a holistic journey that takes all aspects of your life into account, and doesn't focus on only one part or symptom.
(705) 996-6056 View (705) 996-6056
Photo of Miranda Montgomery, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Miranda Montgomery
Counsellor, BCYC, RPC, MPCC
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1B
Waitlist for new clients
At times, life can be demanding, stressful and overwhelming. We often find ourselves in need of direction, support, and guidance. I have been working in this industry for over 17 years and have walked along side many clients as they face their challenges. My philosophy is; the journey of life is not to be walked alone.
At times, life can be demanding, stressful and overwhelming. We often find ourselves in need of direction, support, and guidance. I have been working in this industry for over 17 years and have walked along side many clients as they face their challenges. My philosophy is; the journey of life is not to be walked alone.
(778) 770-5474 View (778) 770-5474

See more therapy options for Vernon

Cognitive Behavioural (CBT) Counsellors

How does cognitive behavioural therapy work?

Cognitive behavioural 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 catastrophising 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 behavioural therapy?

It’s reasonable to consider cognitive behavioural 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 behavioural therapist for someone else?

To find a cognitive behavioural therapist for someone else, you may want to begin by discussing the person’s problem, researching cognitive behavioural 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.