Photo of Marilyn J Foley, Psychologist in Los Altos, CA
Marilyn J Foley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94023  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My primary theoretical orientation is Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT). This means that I attend to your thoughts and feelings and to how they influence emotion and overall well-being, now and in the future. CBT offers a number of strategies for promoting change in the direction of one's long term goals. For our treatment to be most effective, you will need to be an active participant and collaborator in establishing your goals. I also ask that you work on treatment in between sessions, and I frequently give homework assignments to assist in the process.
My primary theoretical orientation is Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT). This means that I attend to your thoughts and feelings and to how they influence emotion and overall well-being, now and in the future. CBT offers a number of strategies for promoting change in the direction of one's long term goals. For our treatment to be most effective, you will need to be an active participant and collaborator in establishing your goals. I also ask that you work on treatment in between sessions, and I frequently give homework assignments to assist in the process.
(650) 206-5488 View (650) 206-5488
Photo of Laura Hollands-Steck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Altos, CA
Laura Hollands-Steck
Marriage & Family Therapist, L, M, F, T
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
25 years using a variety of methods from talk therapy CBT to hypnosis and EMDR.
I believe everyone deserves some time to sit down with a strong listener and/or problem solver about their life. The feedback that I receive is, that I empathize & mirror the key issues quickly and help you brainstorm. I then help you get at "reframing" the negative situations and help you motivate and prioritize what is needed to do to actually change. I can work well with all mood issues, chaos, panic, addictions affairs and all relationship issues. Every session you should walk away with substantial suggestions to help in different areas. I also work with work ADHD, parenting, and women with breast cancer.
25 years using a variety of methods from talk therapy CBT to hypnosis and EMDR.
I believe everyone deserves some time to sit down with a strong listener and/or problem solver about their life. The feedback that I receive is, that I empathize & mirror the key issues quickly and help you brainstorm. I then help you get at "reframing" the negative situations and help you motivate and prioritize what is needed to do to actually change. I can work well with all mood issues, chaos, panic, addictions affairs and all relationship issues. Every session you should walk away with substantial suggestions to help in different areas. I also work with work ADHD, parenting, and women with breast cancer.
(650) 476-2013 View (650) 476-2013
Photo of Laurel Salmon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Altos, CA
Laurel Salmon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Utilizing CBT, mindfulness, and psychodynamic perspectives, I provide therapy through a holistic lens, aiming to see my clients from a full picture rather than just their symptomatology.
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
Utilizing CBT, mindfulness, and psychodynamic perspectives, I provide therapy through a holistic lens, aiming to see my clients from a full picture rather than just their symptomatology.
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
(650) 977-4305 View (650) 977-4305
Photo of Brittney Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Altos, CA
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
I specialize in IFS, DBT, and CBT to help my clients to identify their internal parts and help these parts to discover healthier skills for coping.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
I specialize in IFS, DBT, and CBT to help my clients to identify their internal parts and help these parts to discover healthier skills for coping.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(650) 563-7293 View (650) 563-7293
Photo of Jose Luna, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Altos, CA
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024  (Online Only)
I am trained in CBT, EMDR, Gottman method, & Attachment Based Therapy.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
I am trained in CBT, EMDR, Gottman method, & Attachment Based Therapy.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(650) 679-7121 View (650) 679-7121
Photo of Melanie Maddox, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Altos, CA
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(650) 955-4377 View (650) 955-4377
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Altos, CA
Kelly Albrecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
(650) 436-4565 View (650) 436-4565
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Altos, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(650) 629-2936 View (650) 629-2936
Photo of Sheron Gershelis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Altos, CA
Sheron Gershelis
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
I use a combination of CBT and solution-focused therapy to address your symptoms and help you achieve your goals.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
I use a combination of CBT and solution-focused therapy to address your symptoms and help you achieve your goals.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
(650) 844-0092 View (650) 844-0092
Photo of Christi Gallon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Altos, CA
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
I utilize CBT, family systems therapy, and trauma processing to help my clients regulate and process unresolved feelings and negative patterns.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
I utilize CBT, family systems therapy, and trauma processing to help my clients regulate and process unresolved feelings and negative patterns.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(650) 789-7684 View (650) 789-7684
Photo of Maryam Ashraf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Altos, CA
Maryam Ashraf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
(650) 643-5603 View (650) 643-5603
Photo of Chantal Daley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Altos, CA
Chantal Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
I also specialize in ACT and CBT.
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
I also specialize in ACT and CBT.
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
(650) 405-0267 View (650) 405-0267
Photo of Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Altos, CA
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
I draw from EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
I draw from EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(650) 881-2722 View (650) 881-2722
Photo of Cathy Trenary, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Altos, CA
Cathy Trenary
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
I draw upon CBT, IFS, somatic therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy to support the processing of trauma, fostering a holistic healing experience that encompasses both mind and body.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
I draw upon CBT, IFS, somatic therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy to support the processing of trauma, fostering a holistic healing experience that encompasses both mind and body.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
(650) 628-6703 View (650) 628-6703
Photo of Alexa Enyart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Altos, CA
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
I utilize CBT to explore and reframe negative thought patterns, DBT to equip you with coping skills for anxiety & depression and psychodynamic therapy to understand your trauma and unconscious desire and promote insight for lasting change.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
I utilize CBT to explore and reframe negative thought patterns, DBT to equip you with coping skills for anxiety & depression and psychodynamic therapy to understand your trauma and unconscious desire and promote insight for lasting change.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
(650) 910-4282 View (650) 910-4282
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Altos, CA
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
In my practice, I utilize CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic theory, and attachment theory to help clients experience healing that involves engaging both the mind and body.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
In my practice, I utilize CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic theory, and attachment theory to help clients experience healing that involves engaging both the mind and body.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(650) 663-3575 View (650) 663-3575
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in Los Altos, CA
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
I utilize versatile interventions such as IFS, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, and Inner Child Work.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
I utilize versatile interventions such as IFS, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, and Inner Child Work.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(650) 910-4414 View (650) 910-4414
Photo of Jiyoung Kim, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Altos, CA
Jiyoung Kim
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
(650) 910-1719 View (650) 910-1719
Photo of Elinor (Ellie) Caustin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Altos, CA
Elinor (Ellie) Caustin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
I tailor my work to each individual client or couple, drawing from many treatment modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, and attachment theory.
Welcome to my practice. I have many years of experience helping individuals and couples successfully deal with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, stress, low self-esteem, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. I enjoy helping people grow in their personal and professional lives.
I tailor my work to each individual client or couple, drawing from many treatment modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, and attachment theory.
Welcome to my practice. I have many years of experience helping individuals and couples successfully deal with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, stress, low self-esteem, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. I enjoy helping people grow in their personal and professional lives.
(650) 374-0045 View (650) 374-0045
Photo of Tara Bass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Altos, CA
Tara Bass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024  (Online Only)
I am IFS trained, I have knowledge and experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic therapies as well as mindfulness meditation instruction and view.
There are many reasons why you might be seeking help at this time, and it is an act of strength and bravery to take this step. Together we can work together to foster healthy coping, connect to your feelings, align the heart with the mind, create vision and clarity, and discover inherent confidence, wisdom and worthiness. If you find yourself struggling with having vision and clarity, grief and loss, have been engaging in unhealthy behaviors and are having difficulty making the changes you desire, or you or a loved one are struggling with a chronic illness, we can work together to address your needs.
I am IFS trained, I have knowledge and experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic therapies as well as mindfulness meditation instruction and view.
There are many reasons why you might be seeking help at this time, and it is an act of strength and bravery to take this step. Together we can work together to foster healthy coping, connect to your feelings, align the heart with the mind, create vision and clarity, and discover inherent confidence, wisdom and worthiness. If you find yourself struggling with having vision and clarity, grief and loss, have been engaging in unhealthy behaviors and are having difficulty making the changes you desire, or you or a loved one are struggling with a chronic illness, we can work together to address your needs.
(415) 886-1211 View (415) 886-1211
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.