Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Blanca Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Blanca Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122  (Online Only)
I often use Psychodynamics, CBT, and Mindfulness-Based approaches as they assist me and my client in developing a mutual understanding of their current circumstances.
My approach has been a great fit for adolescents and adults seeking guidance in navigating life challenges. I use evidence-based practices to guide clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life stressors that may cause impairment. I work in collaboration with my clients to build skills that will allow them to gain confidence, autonomy, and the ability to take control of their own life. My role is to support the client in achieving meaningful goals that promote personal growth and well-being. This can be done through the assessment and exploration process, exploring motivation, and celebrating success
I often use Psychodynamics, CBT, and Mindfulness-Based approaches as they assist me and my client in developing a mutual understanding of their current circumstances.
My approach has been a great fit for adolescents and adults seeking guidance in navigating life challenges. I use evidence-based practices to guide clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life stressors that may cause impairment. I work in collaboration with my clients to build skills that will allow them to gain confidence, autonomy, and the ability to take control of their own life. My role is to support the client in achieving meaningful goals that promote personal growth and well-being. This can be done through the assessment and exploration process, exploring motivation, and celebrating success
(858) 213-0409 View (858) 213-0409
Photo of Adam Beer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Adam Beer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
Some of the treatment modalities I practice include: trauma informed, strength based, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused, family systems, positive discipline, narrative, play therapy, attachment based & mindfulness.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, parents, and adult individuals. My goal is to help you, your child, or your family feel better equipped and empowered to cope with life stressors. Many individuals have experienced challenges or traumatic events, you are not alone. Whether you wish to become a happier person, to feel less anxious, more confident, have better relationships, stop an unhealthy habit, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this.
Some of the treatment modalities I practice include: trauma informed, strength based, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused, family systems, positive discipline, narrative, play therapy, attachment based & mindfulness.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, parents, and adult individuals. My goal is to help you, your child, or your family feel better equipped and empowered to cope with life stressors. Many individuals have experienced challenges or traumatic events, you are not alone. Whether you wish to become a happier person, to feel less anxious, more confident, have better relationships, stop an unhealthy habit, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this.
(619) 648-3929 View (619) 648-3929
Photo of Diandra Medina, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Diandra Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Some examples include yoga, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, meditation, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I have had the opportunity to witness the value of incorporating a holistic approach with the traditional evidenced based treatment modalities. I am a firm believer that, to receive optimal health, we must learn to not only listen to our thoughts but also our body. My drive as a psychotherapist is assisting others in accomplishing their mental health goals through increasing self-awareness, creating healthy relationships, and applying self-care. I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationships.
Some examples include yoga, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, meditation, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I have had the opportunity to witness the value of incorporating a holistic approach with the traditional evidenced based treatment modalities. I am a firm believer that, to receive optimal health, we must learn to not only listen to our thoughts but also our body. My drive as a psychotherapist is assisting others in accomplishing their mental health goals through increasing self-awareness, creating healthy relationships, and applying self-care. I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationships.
(619) 940-1715 View (619) 940-1715
Photo of Russell F Fuller, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Russell F Fuller
Psychologist, JD, PsyD, DCEP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
(858) 215-1921 View (858) 215-1921
Photo of Jessica Ulmer, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Jessica Ulmer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I completed my doctoral degree in clinical psychology (PsyD) at La Salle University in Philadelphia and am licensed in CA and WA. I have worked with children, teens, & adults with emotional & behavioral dysregulation, relationship issues, suicidal thinking, substance abuse issues, & difficulty with life transitions. I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness acceptance-based approaches. Specializing further, using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Exposure for treating trauma. I have expertise in treating Eating Disorders, Body image issues, Trauma, Suicidal behaviors, & Borderline Personality disorder.
I completed my doctoral degree in clinical psychology (PsyD) at La Salle University in Philadelphia and am licensed in CA and WA. I have worked with children, teens, & adults with emotional & behavioral dysregulation, relationship issues, suicidal thinking, substance abuse issues, & difficulty with life transitions. I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness acceptance-based approaches. Specializing further, using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Exposure for treating trauma. I have expertise in treating Eating Disorders, Body image issues, Trauma, Suicidal behaviors, & Borderline Personality disorder.
(619) 389-3246 View (619) 389-3246
Photo of Elizabeth Cowell, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Elizabeth Cowell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Do you find youself saying, "No one understands me" or "I feel alone" or "No one loves me". These are negative cognitions that have developed over time either through trauma or attachment injuries. These cognitions hold you back from being the best version of yourself. With patience and persistence, I can help you lessen these negative cognitions and experience a more fulfilling life with your loved ones. I do this by using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy, and EMDR.
Do you find youself saying, "No one understands me" or "I feel alone" or "No one loves me". These are negative cognitions that have developed over time either through trauma or attachment injuries. These cognitions hold you back from being the best version of yourself. With patience and persistence, I can help you lessen these negative cognitions and experience a more fulfilling life with your loved ones. I do this by using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy, and EMDR.
(858) 330-3943 View (858) 330-3943
Photo of Antarpreet Dhariwal, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Antarpreet Dhariwal
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I have received training in CBT, DBT and ACT.
I have a special interest in exploring what balance will be like for you while managing many areas of your life-including but not limited to- your career, mental health, and how you show up to loved ones. My experience includes working with clients who have experienced disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety. My background has involved working with people in BIPOC communities.
I have received training in CBT, DBT and ACT.
I have a special interest in exploring what balance will be like for you while managing many areas of your life-including but not limited to- your career, mental health, and how you show up to loved ones. My experience includes working with clients who have experienced disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety. My background has involved working with people in BIPOC communities.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Dr. Diedra Duchock, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Diedra Duchock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Diedra uses play therapy, parent education, behavior management, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Diedra helps children and adolescents with anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, mood disorders, schizophrenia, trauma, and PTSD. Her treatment philosophy is integrative, process-oriented, and developmentally based.
Diedra uses play therapy, parent education, behavior management, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Diedra helps children and adolescents with anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, mood disorders, schizophrenia, trauma, and PTSD. Her treatment philosophy is integrative, process-oriented, and developmentally based.
(619) 457-4410 View (619) 457-4410
Photo of Anat Mor Betzalel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Anat Mor Betzalel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I incorporate a blend of CBT, PE, EMDR, mindfulness, and self-compassion into my practice.
Life is full of surprises and not all are easy to handle. It's human to feel overwhelmed with work demands, adapting to a new country, navigating postpartum, managing family life, or facing relationship challenges. It's normal to experience self-doubt or pursue unachievable perfection at times. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, trouble sleeping, or impacts of past traumas might arise, making life more difficult. This is where therapy can make a significant difference, offering a space for self-reflection and strengthening your relationship with yourself and others.
I incorporate a blend of CBT, PE, EMDR, mindfulness, and self-compassion into my practice.
Life is full of surprises and not all are easy to handle. It's human to feel overwhelmed with work demands, adapting to a new country, navigating postpartum, managing family life, or facing relationship challenges. It's normal to experience self-doubt or pursue unachievable perfection at times. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, trouble sleeping, or impacts of past traumas might arise, making life more difficult. This is where therapy can make a significant difference, offering a space for self-reflection and strengthening your relationship with yourself and others.
(858) 215-2234 View (858) 215-2234
Photo of Henna Cho, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Henna Cho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Are you feeling alone, unheard, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, fatigue, and excessive worrying that impact your relationships and career? I’m glad you’re taking the time to notice these changes and to invest in yourself to become a better version of yourself. In sessions, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help identify ways to incorporate positive changes for your negative thought patterns. Thus, you will learn to become better equipped in maintaining your personal or professional goals. I am committed to helping my clients decrease anxiety and manage healthy relationships.
Are you feeling alone, unheard, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, fatigue, and excessive worrying that impact your relationships and career? I’m glad you’re taking the time to notice these changes and to invest in yourself to become a better version of yourself. In sessions, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help identify ways to incorporate positive changes for your negative thought patterns. Thus, you will learn to become better equipped in maintaining your personal or professional goals. I am committed to helping my clients decrease anxiety and manage healthy relationships.
(213) 516-6638 View (213) 516-6638
Photo of Stacy Ann C Aquipel, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Stacy Ann C Aquipel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Although I borrow from many therapeutic orientations, including existential/humanistic, ACT, CBT, narrative therapy, and attachment theory, I prefer to tailor treatment to each individual based on their strengths, lived experiences, values, preferences, needs, and growing edges.
Take a breath – go ahead. The process of finding a therapist can feel daunting and overstimulating, much like the world in general. Bear in mind that you don’t have to commit to a particular person right away. What’s most important is that you feel safe, supported, and heard. It might take a bit to find someone with whom you resonate, so I invite you to take the time and space you need. Our society conditions us to feel a sense of urgency, and it’s helpful to remind ourselves that we are more than our productivity, and we are more than our labels. As a person and professional, I celebrate diversity and multiculturalism of all kinds.
Although I borrow from many therapeutic orientations, including existential/humanistic, ACT, CBT, narrative therapy, and attachment theory, I prefer to tailor treatment to each individual based on their strengths, lived experiences, values, preferences, needs, and growing edges.
Take a breath – go ahead. The process of finding a therapist can feel daunting and overstimulating, much like the world in general. Bear in mind that you don’t have to commit to a particular person right away. What’s most important is that you feel safe, supported, and heard. It might take a bit to find someone with whom you resonate, so I invite you to take the time and space you need. Our society conditions us to feel a sense of urgency, and it’s helpful to remind ourselves that we are more than our productivity, and we are more than our labels. As a person and professional, I celebrate diversity and multiculturalism of all kinds.
(858) 293-4344 View (858) 293-4344
Photo of Parwin Wasimi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Parwin Wasimi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
My name is Parwin Wasimi, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Deigo, California. In addition to providing Telehealth services, I am working with adults who experience stress, anxiety, depression and also individuals who are diagnosed with Schizophrenia in an Intensive Outpatient Program. I am passionate about helping clients develop the skills and resources they need to live more fulfilling lives using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My communication style is compassionate, patient, active listener, and nonjudgmental.
My name is Parwin Wasimi, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Deigo, California. In addition to providing Telehealth services, I am working with adults who experience stress, anxiety, depression and also individuals who are diagnosed with Schizophrenia in an Intensive Outpatient Program. I am passionate about helping clients develop the skills and resources they need to live more fulfilling lives using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My communication style is compassionate, patient, active listener, and nonjudgmental.
(619) 824-6248 View (619) 824-6248
Photo of BKO Therapy Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
BKO Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Affordable, Effective, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
"Are you ready for a NEW relationship with your thoughts and feelings?" Creating a new awareness of self in relationship to the world around you increases your ability to maintain focus and direction. Developing new relationships with your thoughts & feelings is what Mindfulness-Based therapy is about. As a licensed therapist, I use Mindfulness-based counseling processes to assist people in coping with the struggles of daily life. I have an integrative approach to counseling, focusing on your needs and concerns. I look forward to assisting you to discover more about you!
Affordable, Effective, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
"Are you ready for a NEW relationship with your thoughts and feelings?" Creating a new awareness of self in relationship to the world around you increases your ability to maintain focus and direction. Developing new relationships with your thoughts & feelings is what Mindfulness-Based therapy is about. As a licensed therapist, I use Mindfulness-based counseling processes to assist people in coping with the struggles of daily life. I have an integrative approach to counseling, focusing on your needs and concerns. I look forward to assisting you to discover more about you!
(619) 377-8869 View (619) 377-8869
Photo of Carson Jaffrey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Carson Jaffrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
According to your specific needs, we will embark on a journey for as long as you require, using common-sense solutions and evidence-based treatment modalities including CBT, MI, ACT, DBT, Mindfulness-based interventions, Solutions-focused therapy, and inner child work.
Feeling lost, overwhelmed, afraid, or alone? Are the waves of life crashing around you? If you or your loved ones are drowning in the suffering caused by relationship conflict, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, problem gambling, or substance use, look no further. You are not alone and there is hope! Desperation and suffering brought me to the point of reaching out for help many years ago and soon the seas began to calm. As life came into balance and my spirit healed, guiding others out of the storm into peaceful waters became my mission.
According to your specific needs, we will embark on a journey for as long as you require, using common-sense solutions and evidence-based treatment modalities including CBT, MI, ACT, DBT, Mindfulness-based interventions, Solutions-focused therapy, and inner child work.
Feeling lost, overwhelmed, afraid, or alone? Are the waves of life crashing around you? If you or your loved ones are drowning in the suffering caused by relationship conflict, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, problem gambling, or substance use, look no further. You are not alone and there is hope! Desperation and suffering brought me to the point of reaching out for help many years ago and soon the seas began to calm. As life came into balance and my spirit healed, guiding others out of the storm into peaceful waters became my mission.
(858) 500-1830 View (858) 500-1830
Photo of Shirley Babior, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Shirley Babior
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
My specialty-working with you to finally overcome your anxiety problems, OCD, or relationship issues benefits from my 30+ years of helping others. I review all new research. I have written self-help books on anxiety disorders and research papers with UCSD on social anxiety. Compassion, warmth, and skill in individualizing therapy aid in recovery. You can also visit my platform using stressreleasesd.com. My approach to helping you is based on current evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and exposure-response prevention for OCD.
My specialty-working with you to finally overcome your anxiety problems, OCD, or relationship issues benefits from my 30+ years of helping others. I review all new research. I have written self-help books on anxiety disorders and research papers with UCSD on social anxiety. Compassion, warmth, and skill in individualizing therapy aid in recovery. You can also visit my platform using stressreleasesd.com. My approach to helping you is based on current evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and exposure-response prevention for OCD.
(707) 985-3467 View (707) 985-3467
Photo of Janet Stevens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Janet Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92113
My therapy toolbox includes positive, strengths-based strategies grounded in mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavior therapy.
I am a clinical social worker (LCSW) with ten years of experience helping individuals and families cope with life stressors and sometimes navigate more complicated problems. I frequently work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, intense emotions, or overwhelming stress and those who have issues related to substance use, legal, or other behavioral problems. I firmly believe that you are the expert in your own life, whatever the situation.
My therapy toolbox includes positive, strengths-based strategies grounded in mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavior therapy.
I am a clinical social worker (LCSW) with ten years of experience helping individuals and families cope with life stressors and sometimes navigate more complicated problems. I frequently work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, intense emotions, or overwhelming stress and those who have issues related to substance use, legal, or other behavioral problems. I firmly believe that you are the expert in your own life, whatever the situation.
(619) 815-8187 View (619) 815-8187
Photo of Shawntae Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Shawntae Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105
I most often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and DBT skills in practice.
Hello. My name is Shawntae Wright, LCSW. I use an integrative approach to therapy utilizing CBT, Psychodynamic Therapy and DBT skills to create a customized treatment plan that is tailored to the individual, couple, or family's goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. It's a privilege to support individuals in treating their depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship challenges.
I most often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and DBT skills in practice.
Hello. My name is Shawntae Wright, LCSW. I use an integrative approach to therapy utilizing CBT, Psychodynamic Therapy and DBT skills to create a customized treatment plan that is tailored to the individual, couple, or family's goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. It's a privilege to support individuals in treating their depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship challenges.
(858) 943-6953 View (858) 943-6953
Photo of Shari L Turner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Shari L Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
I utilize my specialized training in DBT, CBT, Mindful Self-Compassion, Somatic Therapy, EMDR, Inner Child work and other Trauma-informed practices to guide your therapeutic journey.
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged and feel better able to cope. I'm passionate about helping people struggling due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & complex PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD & Autism Neurodivergence, Relationship concerns, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality traits, Alcohol & Drug problems, and LGBTQ / Diversity issues.
I utilize my specialized training in DBT, CBT, Mindful Self-Compassion, Somatic Therapy, EMDR, Inner Child work and other Trauma-informed practices to guide your therapeutic journey.
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged and feel better able to cope. I'm passionate about helping people struggling due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & complex PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD & Autism Neurodivergence, Relationship concerns, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality traits, Alcohol & Drug problems, and LGBTQ / Diversity issues.
(858) 251-6552 View (858) 251-6552
Photo of George Kim Sutterfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
George Kim Sutterfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110
I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 30 years and have a wealth of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have been trained in psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dilaectial behavior therapy. I believe that people have the innate ability to improve their lives when given focused therapeutic attention. My goal as a therapist is to help people develop skills to manage whatever life may bring them. I use emperically based treatment methods, a belief in the strength of the human spirit and a sense of humor to work with clients.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 30 years and have a wealth of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have been trained in psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dilaectial behavior therapy. I believe that people have the innate ability to improve their lives when given focused therapeutic attention. My goal as a therapist is to help people develop skills to manage whatever life may bring them. I use emperically based treatment methods, a belief in the strength of the human spirit and a sense of humor to work with clients.
(209) 392-5173 View (209) 392-5173
Photo of Melody Hovsepian, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Melody Hovsepian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
Hi there! My name is Melody Hovsepian. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Glendale, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adult individuals, adolescents and couples and specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment and relational issues, using Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help my clients reach their inner strengths, gain control over their struggles and live their lives to the fullest.
Hi there! My name is Melody Hovsepian. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Glendale, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adult individuals, adolescents and couples and specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment and relational issues, using Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help my clients reach their inner strengths, gain control over their struggles and live their lives to the fullest.
(858) 786-0504 View (858) 786-0504
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.