Photo of Nicole Sult, Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Nicole Sult
Counselor, LPCMH, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19804
Nicole is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Delaware native who specializes in individual, couples, and family therapy. Nicole believes in a multi disciplinary approach to clinical counseling to optimize positive outcomes, guiding her clients to explore their mental, physical, and spiritual needs. Nicole is classically trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and combines this with a client centered approach. Nicole quickly identifies your goals and collaboratively works with you to figure out how to get you there. A key component to this is to build an authentic and compassionate relationship with her clients.
Nicole is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Delaware native who specializes in individual, couples, and family therapy. Nicole believes in a multi disciplinary approach to clinical counseling to optimize positive outcomes, guiding her clients to explore their mental, physical, and spiritual needs. Nicole is classically trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and combines this with a client centered approach. Nicole quickly identifies your goals and collaboratively works with you to figure out how to get you there. A key component to this is to build an authentic and compassionate relationship with her clients.
(302) 865-7285 View (302) 865-7285
Photo of Tianna Wagner, Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Tianna Wagner
Counselor, MS, LPCMH, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19803
Waitlist for new clients
Tianna is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and utilizes numerous modalities personalized to the client including CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), REBT (rational emotive behavior therapy), MI (motivational interviewing), and Solutions-Focused Therapy, while maintaining a person-centered, strengths-based approach.
Tianna has experience working with teens and adults living with serious persistent mental illness. She works with individuals of various demographics and backgrounds who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, relationships, self-esteem, and life transitions.
Tianna is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and utilizes numerous modalities personalized to the client including CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), REBT (rational emotive behavior therapy), MI (motivational interviewing), and Solutions-Focused Therapy, while maintaining a person-centered, strengths-based approach.
Tianna has experience working with teens and adults living with serious persistent mental illness. She works with individuals of various demographics and backgrounds who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, relationships, self-esteem, and life transitions.
(302) 663-8036 View (302) 663-8036
Sandra L. Duemmler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810  (Online Only)
In addition, I work extensively with people with mood and anxiety disorders, such as OCD, social anxiety, PTSD, and generalized anxiety/worry using a combination of techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy.
When you decide to start therapy, one of the most important keys to success is the relationship you form with the therapist. A therapeutic relationship should feel safe and supportive, and you should feel your therapist has empathy and respect. I believe my strengths as a therapist are my ability to quickly form strong, empathic, collaborative relationships and develop an understanding of your unique situation as well as how you view and interact with the world. Most clients find me down-to-earth and very easy to talk with and relate to.
In addition, I work extensively with people with mood and anxiety disorders, such as OCD, social anxiety, PTSD, and generalized anxiety/worry using a combination of techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy.
When you decide to start therapy, one of the most important keys to success is the relationship you form with the therapist. A therapeutic relationship should feel safe and supportive, and you should feel your therapist has empathy and respect. I believe my strengths as a therapist are my ability to quickly form strong, empathic, collaborative relationships and develop an understanding of your unique situation as well as how you view and interact with the world. Most clients find me down-to-earth and very easy to talk with and relate to.
(302) 524-0835 View (302) 524-0835
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Higgins, Psychologist in Wilmington, DE
Dr. Stephanie Higgins
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I tailor therapy to the individual by utilizing integrative, evidenced-based techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), and humanistic, mindfulness, and family systems interventions.
I am a psychologist and the founder of Evolution Psychology, LLC and am happy to welcome you to the start or continuation of your mental health journey! I know that reaching out for support can be challenging, and I aim to be responsive and supportive as you take a step towards wellness. I work from an inclusive, culturally-sensitive, Health At Every Size (HAES) framework and strive to create a space where individuals can be seen and accepted as they are.
I tailor therapy to the individual by utilizing integrative, evidenced-based techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), and humanistic, mindfulness, and family systems interventions.
I am a psychologist and the founder of Evolution Psychology, LLC and am happy to welcome you to the start or continuation of your mental health journey! I know that reaching out for support can be challenging, and I aim to be responsive and supportive as you take a step towards wellness. I work from an inclusive, culturally-sensitive, Health At Every Size (HAES) framework and strive to create a space where individuals can be seen and accepted as they are.
(302) 572-2631 View (302) 572-2631
Photo of Jennifer Lyons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Jennifer Lyons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19810
I specialize in empowering people who are wanting to be free of painful emotional and cognitive disruptions so they may uncover, discover and practice being the amazing person they came to this life to be. With over 28 years of experience; including on-going training in well-established evidence-based practices; combined with my genuinely compassionate, curious and deeply respectful approach; I emphasize the uniqueness of every person, focus on their inherent strengths and assist them in creating greater satisfaction in their lives by tapping into their own innate inner wisdom, that's often blocked by past pain & trauma.
I specialize in empowering people who are wanting to be free of painful emotional and cognitive disruptions so they may uncover, discover and practice being the amazing person they came to this life to be. With over 28 years of experience; including on-going training in well-established evidence-based practices; combined with my genuinely compassionate, curious and deeply respectful approach; I emphasize the uniqueness of every person, focus on their inherent strengths and assist them in creating greater satisfaction in their lives by tapping into their own innate inner wisdom, that's often blocked by past pain & trauma.
(302) 865-7196 View (302) 865-7196
Photo of Diane Necastro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Diane Necastro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19806
I use emotion-focused, attachment-based and mindfulness interventions as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
As a licensed clinical social worker, I work with individuals and families about personal life challenges they are facing. Besides addressing concerns that the pandemic brought with it, there are the usual issues regarding relationships, work, school, health, loss and grief. My approach is to work collaboratively with a client, focusing on strengths and the person’s natural inclination to move toward health and balance. Therapy is an opportunity to address and support change and growth.
I use emotion-focused, attachment-based and mindfulness interventions as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
As a licensed clinical social worker, I work with individuals and families about personal life challenges they are facing. Besides addressing concerns that the pandemic brought with it, there are the usual issues regarding relationships, work, school, health, loss and grief. My approach is to work collaboratively with a client, focusing on strengths and the person’s natural inclination to move toward health and balance. Therapy is an opportunity to address and support change and growth.
(302) 246-7497 View (302) 246-7497
Photo of Dr. Margo Lewis-Jah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Dr. Margo Lewis-Jah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MEd, MOML
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19804
I integrate cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamics, solution-focused approaches into my practice.
Congratulations on exploring the option of psychotherapy. My treatment approach is strengths based, respecting each person's self-determination for achieving a state of emotional health. Strong therapeutic relationships can create healing and generate the ability to change. By applying various therapeutic techniques tailored to your individual needs, you will gain an understanding of behavior patterns or skewed cognitions that may be limiting you from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful relationship with self or others.
I integrate cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamics, solution-focused approaches into my practice.
Congratulations on exploring the option of psychotherapy. My treatment approach is strengths based, respecting each person's self-determination for achieving a state of emotional health. Strong therapeutic relationships can create healing and generate the ability to change. By applying various therapeutic techniques tailored to your individual needs, you will gain an understanding of behavior patterns or skewed cognitions that may be limiting you from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful relationship with self or others.
(302) 407-0662 View (302) 407-0662
Photo of Brent Wedman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Wilmington, DE
Brent Wedman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19809
I empathize with my clients, and during our sessions, I will utilize: Intersectional-Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, the Gottman Method, Humanistic Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Trauma-Focused Therapy, as well as alternative methods that will suit my clients.
I specialize in working with individuals who: are a part of the LGBTQ+ community, are recovering from Trauma Related to Religion, have ADHD, suffer from depression, are having relationship issues, suffer from Trauma and PTSD, suffering from addiction, and experience debilitating anxiety. As someone who is also a part of the LGBTQ+ community, I can empathize with many stressors that you may have that relate to that topic. I also work with individuals who identify as straight, as well. If you are looking for someone to join you on your journey of healing and growing, don't be scared to take that first step; I am only one call away.
I empathize with my clients, and during our sessions, I will utilize: Intersectional-Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, the Gottman Method, Humanistic Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Trauma-Focused Therapy, as well as alternative methods that will suit my clients.
I specialize in working with individuals who: are a part of the LGBTQ+ community, are recovering from Trauma Related to Religion, have ADHD, suffer from depression, are having relationship issues, suffer from Trauma and PTSD, suffering from addiction, and experience debilitating anxiety. As someone who is also a part of the LGBTQ+ community, I can empathize with many stressors that you may have that relate to that topic. I also work with individuals who identify as straight, as well. If you are looking for someone to join you on your journey of healing and growing, don't be scared to take that first step; I am only one call away.
(302) 231-0369 View (302) 231-0369
Photo of Valerie Feeley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Valerie Feeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19803  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist, I have over 14 years of experience with the VA treating Veterans for trauma, anxiety, phobias, attachment wounds, depression and navigating life and career changes. I use proven strategies of EMDR, CBT/CPT, and mindfulness-based interventions through Tele-health. I keep studying and learning best practices so I am able to offer the most current paths to healing trauma and difficult childhoods. I see my role as your coach, guiding you to make the change you want in your life.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist, I have over 14 years of experience with the VA treating Veterans for trauma, anxiety, phobias, attachment wounds, depression and navigating life and career changes. I use proven strategies of EMDR, CBT/CPT, and mindfulness-based interventions through Tele-health. I keep studying and learning best practices so I am able to offer the most current paths to healing trauma and difficult childhoods. I see my role as your coach, guiding you to make the change you want in your life.
(302) 202-0397 View (302) 202-0397
Photo of Chelsey M Bayles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Chelsey M Bayles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMH, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19808  (Online Only)
Through CBT and other therapeutic approaches, I assist clients in learning the tools to restructuring their thought life, and finding joy, grace, and freedom in the process of healing.
Accepting clients for Telehealth services only at this time with day and evening availability. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware and Pennsylvania, my hope is to help each person learn the tools of healing and recovery on their personal journey of wellness. Although it can be anxiety producing to give therapy a try, my goal is to create a safe and positive environment where clients can thrive, grow, and build their toolkit for effective and healthy coping. My hope is that we can work collaboratively to highlight your strengths, and equip you to move forward towards your goals.
Through CBT and other therapeutic approaches, I assist clients in learning the tools to restructuring their thought life, and finding joy, grace, and freedom in the process of healing.
Accepting clients for Telehealth services only at this time with day and evening availability. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware and Pennsylvania, my hope is to help each person learn the tools of healing and recovery on their personal journey of wellness. Although it can be anxiety producing to give therapy a try, my goal is to create a safe and positive environment where clients can thrive, grow, and build their toolkit for effective and healthy coping. My hope is that we can work collaboratively to highlight your strengths, and equip you to move forward towards your goals.
(302) 865-7369 View (302) 865-7369
Photo of Ilene Weintel, Psychologist in Wilmington, DE
Ilene Weintel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
Dr. Weintel earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Widener University. She has had a variety of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, in inpatient as well as outpatient settings. Currently, Dr. Weintel sees adults (18+) and couples. Her practice focuses on working with difficulties related to depression, anxiety, women's issues, work-life balance, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, loss, aging, and relationships, among others. Her style combines a mix of psychodynamic and humanistic theories, and incorporates CBT interventions.
Dr. Weintel earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Widener University. She has had a variety of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, in inpatient as well as outpatient settings. Currently, Dr. Weintel sees adults (18+) and couples. Her practice focuses on working with difficulties related to depression, anxiety, women's issues, work-life balance, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, loss, aging, and relationships, among others. Her style combines a mix of psychodynamic and humanistic theories, and incorporates CBT interventions.
(302) 587-8697 View (302) 587-8697
Photo of Amy Lake, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Amy Lake
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19801
Amy's training includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), among other techniques.
Amy Lake is a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH) in the state of Delaware as well as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland. Amy has 12 years of experience providing individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship conflicts, and substance abuse. She has experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
Amy's training includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), among other techniques.
Amy Lake is a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH) in the state of Delaware as well as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland. Amy has 12 years of experience providing individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship conflicts, and substance abuse. She has experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(302) 587-8879 View (302) 587-8879
Photo of Living Water Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Living Water Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
I use proven, evidence based techniques to create solutions for clients' needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Welcome. You have taken your first step towards healing and wellness by searching for a therapist. I have been working in mental health for many years and I am pleased to offer my experience and expertise to help you on your way towards health.
I use proven, evidence based techniques to create solutions for clients' needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Welcome. You have taken your first step towards healing and wellness by searching for a therapist. I have been working in mental health for many years and I am pleased to offer my experience and expertise to help you on your way towards health.
(302) 343-1757 x706 View (302) 343-1757 x706
Photo of Katie Pierce, Psychologist in Wilmington, DE
Katie Pierce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
Dr. Katie Pierce is a licensed Psychologist in Delaware. Current areas of clinical work primarily involve psychological assessment for children and adults as well as therapeutic treatment for adults. As the training director, Dr. Pierce also participates in the supervision of doctoral students, doctoral interns, and post-doctoral residents. Dr. Pierce takes an integrated approach to her therapy utilizing psychodynamic, interpersonal, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) methods. Overall, Dr. Pierce likes to tailor her therapeutic approach to the individual needs of the patient.
Dr. Katie Pierce is a licensed Psychologist in Delaware. Current areas of clinical work primarily involve psychological assessment for children and adults as well as therapeutic treatment for adults. As the training director, Dr. Pierce also participates in the supervision of doctoral students, doctoral interns, and post-doctoral residents. Dr. Pierce takes an integrated approach to her therapy utilizing psychodynamic, interpersonal, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) methods. Overall, Dr. Pierce likes to tailor her therapeutic approach to the individual needs of the patient.
(302) 205-1269 View (302) 205-1269
Photo of Marcia Rene Winter, Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Marcia Rene Winter
Counselor, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19809
Waitlist for new clients
I use many modalities such as EMDR, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, healing the child within, and NLP .
My philosophy of therapy is: meet the client where they are at. I have been a trauma therapist for over 22 years with experience in the field. I work with PTSD and dissociative disorders. I also treat mood disorders and autism spectrum disorders. A professor once told me "if you do not love your clients, get out of the business". I believe that and I hold true to that statement.
I use many modalities such as EMDR, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, healing the child within, and NLP .
My philosophy of therapy is: meet the client where they are at. I have been a trauma therapist for over 22 years with experience in the field. I work with PTSD and dissociative disorders. I also treat mood disorders and autism spectrum disorders. A professor once told me "if you do not love your clients, get out of the business". I believe that and I hold true to that statement.
(302) 798-4400 View (302) 798-4400
Photo of Stephen Moores LPC-MH, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Stephen Moores LPC-MH
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH, LLC, NBCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19803  (Online Only)
As a biology major and a candidate for a Ph.D. in neuroscience I became interested in helping people with emotional, cognitive, or behavioral problems. In 1974 I studied at the Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy in New York City and was trained by Dr. Albert Ellis, PhD. I love working with children, adolescents, and adults using cognitive behavioral therapy to help people live more satisfying lives. I had also started the first partial hospital program in Delaware and worked ten years running an inpatient program. I work in a private practice and work closely with schools agencies and employers to ensure continuity of care.
As a biology major and a candidate for a Ph.D. in neuroscience I became interested in helping people with emotional, cognitive, or behavioral problems. In 1974 I studied at the Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy in New York City and was trained by Dr. Albert Ellis, PhD. I love working with children, adolescents, and adults using cognitive behavioral therapy to help people live more satisfying lives. I had also started the first partial hospital program in Delaware and worked ten years running an inpatient program. I work in a private practice and work closely with schools agencies and employers to ensure continuity of care.
(302) 257-2030 x3 View (302) 257-2030 x3
Photo of Laurie Sansom, Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Laurie Sansom
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19801  (Online Only)
I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy quite useful and effective, so I tend to use that whenever it seems fitting.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Missouri, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the State of Kansas, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota, and a Professional Counselor of Mental Health for the State of Delaware. I am a National Certified Counselor with the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc.
I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy quite useful and effective, so I tend to use that whenever it seems fitting.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Missouri, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the State of Kansas, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota, and a Professional Counselor of Mental Health for the State of Delaware. I am a National Certified Counselor with the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc.
(763) 363-3224 View (763) 363-3224
Photo of Regina Vontelaray Ames in Wilmington, DE
Regina Vontelaray Ames
LPCMH, MS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19805
Though my primary approach to counseling is cognitive Behavioral therapy, I have experience in various therapeutic approaches such as Gestalt therapy, Trauma Focused CBT.
I am a LPCMH dedicated to helping people become empowered to make positive change in their lives. Though life can be challenging and overwhelming at times, I believe that change, healing and growth is possible for anyone who is open to exploring their capacity to change from within. As a Licensed counselor, I believe my part is to be present , empathetic , authentic and supportive as you break through the barriers to success and healing. As a potential client, I believe your part is to be willing to put in the work that is necessary to re-write the story of your life and experience the healing and wellness you are seeking.
Though my primary approach to counseling is cognitive Behavioral therapy, I have experience in various therapeutic approaches such as Gestalt therapy, Trauma Focused CBT.
I am a LPCMH dedicated to helping people become empowered to make positive change in their lives. Though life can be challenging and overwhelming at times, I believe that change, healing and growth is possible for anyone who is open to exploring their capacity to change from within. As a Licensed counselor, I believe my part is to be present , empathetic , authentic and supportive as you break through the barriers to success and healing. As a potential client, I believe your part is to be willing to put in the work that is necessary to re-write the story of your life and experience the healing and wellness you are seeking.
(302) 483-7808 View (302) 483-7808
Photo of Chelsea S Andrews, Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Chelsea S Andrews
Counselor, LPCMH, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19809  (Online Only)
I use a combination of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, like EMDR.
Does managing and working through life’s challenges feel impossible at times? Is it a challenge believing you're worthy? Maybe you are feeling stuck or stagnant and sense that you need a change, however are unsure just what that is. Past and current life experiences can shape thoughts and feeling about the self, impacts relationships with others, and influences future events in sometimes unhelpful, or even harmful ways. It is my commitment to ‘meet you where you are’ when you come into my office, and build a trusting therapeutic relationship together.
I use a combination of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, like EMDR.
Does managing and working through life’s challenges feel impossible at times? Is it a challenge believing you're worthy? Maybe you are feeling stuck or stagnant and sense that you need a change, however are unsure just what that is. Past and current life experiences can shape thoughts and feeling about the self, impacts relationships with others, and influences future events in sometimes unhelpful, or even harmful ways. It is my commitment to ‘meet you where you are’ when you come into my office, and build a trusting therapeutic relationship together.
(302) 316-3346 View (302) 316-3346
Photo of Kirsten Teklits, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Kirsten Teklits
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19806
My training in EMDR can treat trauma symptoms and my training in CBT can help you identify your personal goals and learn the skills you need to live your best life.
Does fear or worry consume your time, keep you awake at night and prevent you from living the life you desire? Are you feeling tired, sad and hopeless about the future? Are you having distressing feelings such as guilt, anger or shame? If this describes you, I can help. I provide research-based treatment that teaches you the skills needed to solve your problems and feel better. It is my privilege to help people overcome obstacles, alleviate their pain and find joy and peace in their life.
My training in EMDR can treat trauma symptoms and my training in CBT can help you identify your personal goals and learn the skills you need to live your best life.
Does fear or worry consume your time, keep you awake at night and prevent you from living the life you desire? Are you feeling tired, sad and hopeless about the future? Are you having distressing feelings such as guilt, anger or shame? If this describes you, I can help. I provide research-based treatment that teaches you the skills needed to solve your problems and feel better. It is my privilege to help people overcome obstacles, alleviate their pain and find joy and peace in their life.
(302) 527-6117 View (302) 527-6117

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.