Photo of Dr. Donald M. Kaesser, Psychologist in Des Moines, IA
Dr. Donald M. Kaesser
Psychologist, PC, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m APA certified in Drug/Alcohol/addictions with training AND experience in Gestalt, CBT & informed in Brain/Body clinical approaches for our work together.
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
I’m APA certified in Drug/Alcohol/addictions with training AND experience in Gestalt, CBT & informed in Brain/Body clinical approaches for our work together.
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
(515) 981-6980 View (515) 981-6980
Photo of Devin Waterhouse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Devin Waterhouse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
My therapeutic style is a person-centered approach utilizing cognitive reflection and philosophical contemplation to help you to learn about yourself and your place in this complex world.
Something feels off. Sometimes it’s obvious what is affecting you, but often you’re less certain. Perhaps you have some ideas about what’s wrong, but you aren’t sure how to feel better. Maybe you are experiencing relationship issues, or just feel like you are alone even when you know you have people who care about you. It may even be possible that you are uncertain there is anything wrong at all because you’ve always felt this way - but is it really this hard for everyone? There are many people just like you that could be living happier and healthier lives - they just don’t know how to get there.
My therapeutic style is a person-centered approach utilizing cognitive reflection and philosophical contemplation to help you to learn about yourself and your place in this complex world.
Something feels off. Sometimes it’s obvious what is affecting you, but often you’re less certain. Perhaps you have some ideas about what’s wrong, but you aren’t sure how to feel better. Maybe you are experiencing relationship issues, or just feel like you are alone even when you know you have people who care about you. It may even be possible that you are uncertain there is anything wrong at all because you’ve always felt this way - but is it really this hard for everyone? There are many people just like you that could be living happier and healthier lives - they just don’t know how to get there.
(515) 219-4620 View (515) 219-4620
Photo of Heather Monaghan, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Heather Monaghan
Counselor, MS, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but, importantly, you are not the rain. - Matt Haig. As a clinician, I aim to promote the overall being of my clients by establishing a therapeutic environment that is free from judgment. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in addition to other mindfulness practices. I also incorporate other approaches and techniques to tailor the therapeutic experience to the individual needs of those I work with.
Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but, importantly, you are not the rain. - Matt Haig. As a clinician, I aim to promote the overall being of my clients by establishing a therapeutic environment that is free from judgment. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in addition to other mindfulness practices. I also incorporate other approaches and techniques to tailor the therapeutic experience to the individual needs of those I work with.
(515) 523-6413 View (515) 523-6413
Photo of Hollie Schechinger, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Hollie Schechinger
Counselor, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50303  (Online Only)
Life can be hard sometimes. Even when things are difficult, I can assist you in learning new skills to help you grow into the individual you aspire to be. I provide a variety of therapy interventions such as CBT, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and many others. I have experience in seeing people of all ages, couples, and individuals.
Life can be hard sometimes. Even when things are difficult, I can assist you in learning new skills to help you grow into the individual you aspire to be. I provide a variety of therapy interventions such as CBT, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and many others. I have experience in seeing people of all ages, couples, and individuals.
(515) 851-4712 View (515) 851-4712
Photo of Sara Gamblin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Sara Gamblin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
  I utilize, FT-CBT, CBT, SFBT methods as well as person- strengths-based approaches and motivational interviewing techniques.
My name is Sara Gamblin, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe everyone deserves to feel heard, safe and supported. My goal is to help you discover more about yourself, your strengths, better understand your relationships and build tools as well as strategies to help you navigate the challenges in your life. I strongly support meeting a client where he or she is at and giving them autonomy to work at the pace the client is comfortable. I look forward to working with you to help you find the person you want to be and the life you want to live! I
  I utilize, FT-CBT, CBT, SFBT methods as well as person- strengths-based approaches and motivational interviewing techniques.
My name is Sara Gamblin, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe everyone deserves to feel heard, safe and supported. My goal is to help you discover more about yourself, your strengths, better understand your relationships and build tools as well as strategies to help you navigate the challenges in your life. I strongly support meeting a client where he or she is at and giving them autonomy to work at the pace the client is comfortable. I look forward to working with you to help you find the person you want to be and the life you want to live! I
(515) 303-2966 View (515) 303-2966
Photo of Janet Rieckhoff, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Janet Rieckhoff
Counselor, LMHC, MA, M DIV
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50314
), cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies.
Taking new clients. I offer telehealth and in person sessions. Feeling stuck in same unhealthy situations and relationships which produce anxiety, anger, depression and broken trust? We can explore communication patterns, attachment styles, and past traumas affecting relationships. I provide a nonjudgmental environment to work on your issues. I am experienced in areas of anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, spirituality, and family issues of parenting, caretaking, LGBTQA issues, adoption, infertility. First I listen to your life situation, then give homework, and then build on your strengths so you can reach your life goals.
), cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies.
Taking new clients. I offer telehealth and in person sessions. Feeling stuck in same unhealthy situations and relationships which produce anxiety, anger, depression and broken trust? We can explore communication patterns, attachment styles, and past traumas affecting relationships. I provide a nonjudgmental environment to work on your issues. I am experienced in areas of anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, spirituality, and family issues of parenting, caretaking, LGBTQA issues, adoption, infertility. First I listen to your life situation, then give homework, and then build on your strengths so you can reach your life goals.
(515) 517-2953 View (515) 517-2953
Photo of Jennifer L Harrington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Jennifer L Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315  (Online Only)
I take a cognitive behavioral approach, and also use dialectical behavioral and mindfulness-based techniques.
***Teletherapy***Phone/Video Sessions and Messaging Plans Available*** I am currently accepting new clients across the state of Iowa for teletherapy. As a therapist my goal is to join you on your journey, provide support, offer tools, and empower you to meet your goals. My style is non-judgmental and exploratory. I will be direct and honest with you, challenge you when necessary, and always strive to bring out your greatest potential.
I take a cognitive behavioral approach, and also use dialectical behavioral and mindfulness-based techniques.
***Teletherapy***Phone/Video Sessions and Messaging Plans Available*** I am currently accepting new clients across the state of Iowa for teletherapy. As a therapist my goal is to join you on your journey, provide support, offer tools, and empower you to meet your goals. My style is non-judgmental and exploratory. I will be direct and honest with you, challenge you when necessary, and always strive to bring out your greatest potential.
(469) 551-4208 View (469) 551-4208
Photo of Christa Eribal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Christa Eribal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
No matter where you are on your journey to a brighter future, I’m ready to walk alongside you. I have been trained in providing trauma-focused therapy, and I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I pull from many other practices as well, so we can work together to find what works best for you.
No matter where you are on your journey to a brighter future, I’m ready to walk alongside you. I have been trained in providing trauma-focused therapy, and I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I pull from many other practices as well, so we can work together to find what works best for you.
(515) 209-3206 View (515) 209-3206
Photo of Alicia Peña, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Alicia Peña
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
(515) 608-8892 View (515) 608-8892
Photo of Kristy Lynn Brown, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Kristy Lynn Brown
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), AMHCA Diplomate and Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Trauma (DCMHS-T), Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT), EMDR Trained Therapist, Trained in Discovery Work & as a Disaster Mental Health Volunteer.
I currently have openings for new clients! Immediate on line registration and appointment scheduling available. Accepting clients 18 + if you have Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance or private pay. Trying to find a therapist that is a good fit can be overwhelming. With over 20 years of clinical experience working in the mental health profession, I specialize in working with individuals struggling with emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, substances, stress management, communication, overall relationship dynamics, family conflict, school issues, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), AMHCA Diplomate and Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Trauma (DCMHS-T), Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT), EMDR Trained Therapist, Trained in Discovery Work & as a Disaster Mental Health Volunteer.
I currently have openings for new clients! Immediate on line registration and appointment scheduling available. Accepting clients 18 + if you have Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance or private pay. Trying to find a therapist that is a good fit can be overwhelming. With over 20 years of clinical experience working in the mental health profession, I specialize in working with individuals struggling with emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, substances, stress management, communication, overall relationship dynamics, family conflict, school issues, and trauma.
(515) 975-9915 View (515) 975-9915
Photo of Jami L Lacona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Jami L Lacona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
I specialize in treating adults who are struggling with symptoms related to untreated trauma and may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also have clinical expertise in treating those who may be experiencing or recovering from narcissistic abuse. I utilize a blending of spirituality and psychology as well as cognitive behavioral therapy as treatment modalities.
I specialize in treating adults who are struggling with symptoms related to untreated trauma and may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also have clinical expertise in treating those who may be experiencing or recovering from narcissistic abuse. I utilize a blending of spirituality and psychology as well as cognitive behavioral therapy as treatment modalities.
(515) 855-6641 View (515) 855-6641
Photo of Johanna R Guerdet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Johanna R Guerdet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Therapy models I use include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Mindfulness Based Therapy, CBT, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Functional Family Therapy.
Welcome to the beginning of your therapy journey! As a client centered therapist, my focus is on you and your needs as a client. No problem is too big or too small for therapy, and it's never too early or too late to seek help. We will work together to make your life goals and changes.
Therapy models I use include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Mindfulness Based Therapy, CBT, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Functional Family Therapy.
Welcome to the beginning of your therapy journey! As a client centered therapist, my focus is on you and your needs as a client. No problem is too big or too small for therapy, and it's never too early or too late to seek help. We will work together to make your life goals and changes.
View
Photo of Ann Latham, Psychologist in Des Moines, IA
Ann Latham
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315
Specialty areas include conducting psychological assessment to investigate client concerns such as concentration/focus, developmental delays, panic attacks, challenging behaviors, social skills, learning difficulties, cognitive functioning, and personality traits.
I feel it is a privilege to meet with people of all ages and backgrounds who are willing to seek professional input regarding their personal situations. I work with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults to address a variety of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, stress, family issues, learning difficulties, life transitions, and parenting.
Specialty areas include conducting psychological assessment to investigate client concerns such as concentration/focus, developmental delays, panic attacks, challenging behaviors, social skills, learning difficulties, cognitive functioning, and personality traits.
I feel it is a privilege to meet with people of all ages and backgrounds who are willing to seek professional input regarding their personal situations. I work with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults to address a variety of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, stress, family issues, learning difficulties, life transitions, and parenting.
(515) 497-2119 View (515) 497-2119
Photo of Brian L Bentley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Brian L Bentley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
I am an emotion focused and cognitive behavioral therapist that incorporates a systemic, relational perspective to my work. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples create the relationship they desire, providing families with the tools necessary to create meaningful relationships, and assisting those in need of support and counsel with a variety of mental health issues. I use 28 years of marital and family counseling experience to provide therapy in the areas of marital therapy, affair reconciliation, divorce adjustment, sexual & drug addictions, depression, and anxiety.
I am an emotion focused and cognitive behavioral therapist that incorporates a systemic, relational perspective to my work. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples create the relationship they desire, providing families with the tools necessary to create meaningful relationships, and assisting those in need of support and counsel with a variety of mental health issues. I use 28 years of marital and family counseling experience to provide therapy in the areas of marital therapy, affair reconciliation, divorce adjustment, sexual & drug addictions, depression, and anxiety.
(515) 393-2774 View (515) 393-2774
Photo of Kate McVey, Psychologist in Des Moines, IA
Kate McVey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50325  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating psychological symptoms associated with traumatic events, anxiety disorders (including OCD), and using cognitive behavioral approaches to couples and family therapy.
Are you ready to make a positive change? Are you looking to address your personal challenges in a constructive, collaborative therapeutic environment? I am a licensed clinical psychologist experienced working with individuals, their partners, and family members, to help them achieve their therapeutic goals. I strive to help challenge you discover insights and make progress at a pace that suits your needs. I may be the clinician, but I know you are the true expert in your own experiences. By working together, we can identify a course of treatment and therapy goals that best fit your needs.
I specialize in treating psychological symptoms associated with traumatic events, anxiety disorders (including OCD), and using cognitive behavioral approaches to couples and family therapy.
Are you ready to make a positive change? Are you looking to address your personal challenges in a constructive, collaborative therapeutic environment? I am a licensed clinical psychologist experienced working with individuals, their partners, and family members, to help them achieve their therapeutic goals. I strive to help challenge you discover insights and make progress at a pace that suits your needs. I may be the clinician, but I know you are the true expert in your own experiences. By working together, we can identify a course of treatment and therapy goals that best fit your needs.
(515) 972-5058 View (515) 972-5058
Photo of Peyton Milstead, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Peyton Milstead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50325
Through approaches rooted in IFS, DBT, and CBT I aim to help clients, understand their feelings, build self-confidence, learn essential coping skills, effective communication, a strong sense of identity.
Hello! I am Peyton Milstead, a dedicated therapist specializing in providing support and empowerment to children, adolescents, and families on their unique journeys of growth and healing. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and families can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate healthier relationships. My passion lies in utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients navigate life's challenges with grace and strength
Through approaches rooted in IFS, DBT, and CBT I aim to help clients, understand their feelings, build self-confidence, learn essential coping skills, effective communication, a strong sense of identity.
Hello! I am Peyton Milstead, a dedicated therapist specializing in providing support and empowerment to children, adolescents, and families on their unique journeys of growth and healing. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and families can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate healthier relationships. My passion lies in utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients navigate life's challenges with grace and strength
(515) 316-2083 View (515) 316-2083
Photo of Heather Muntz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Heather Muntz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50303  (Online Only)
I utilize the evidence-based model of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and integrate CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) techniques to guide you in developing healthy behaviors and acquiring new coping skills.
I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where we are able to identify problems that are interfering with your ability to live your best life and work towards change that is important to you and in line with what you value. My approach is built on compassion, care and respect for the experiences and identities that make you who you are. I bring humor, warmth, sincerity, and a calm presence to the therapeutic environment.
I utilize the evidence-based model of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and integrate CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) techniques to guide you in developing healthy behaviors and acquiring new coping skills.
I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where we are able to identify problems that are interfering with your ability to live your best life and work towards change that is important to you and in line with what you value. My approach is built on compassion, care and respect for the experiences and identities that make you who you are. I bring humor, warmth, sincerity, and a calm presence to the therapeutic environment.
(563) 204-8893 View (563) 204-8893
Photo of Hannah Martens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Hannah Martens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50320
I am trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems Therapy.
Do you feel as if you or your loved one has lost their way, like connections that were once there have somehow been severed? Have you wondered how to regain or re-kindle those relationships with others? Sometimes on the journey through life, your ability to navigate can become overwhelming and confusing. It is during these times that having someone to help find new ways to mend relationships or make new connections can be useful.
I am trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems Therapy.
Do you feel as if you or your loved one has lost their way, like connections that were once there have somehow been severed? Have you wondered how to regain or re-kindle those relationships with others? Sometimes on the journey through life, your ability to navigate can become overwhelming and confusing. It is during these times that having someone to help find new ways to mend relationships or make new connections can be useful.
(515) 400-3913 View (515) 400-3913
Photo of Anna Zuidema, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Anna Zuidema
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
I incorporate CBT, ACT, & Mindfulness approaches tailored to your treatment goals and values.
The decision to come to therapy is personal and takes both vulnerability and courage. As we work to create a life of meaning and purpose, we face anxiety, uncertainty, and other life stressors along our way. Therapy can be a turning point to help redirect you down a path of your choosing and help you gain a sense of control over your life and emotional well being. As a therapist I work to provide a safe, supportive, and judgment free space for client’s to begin their journey to healing and self-exploration. Specialties include mood disorders, trauma, and chronic pain.
I incorporate CBT, ACT, & Mindfulness approaches tailored to your treatment goals and values.
The decision to come to therapy is personal and takes both vulnerability and courage. As we work to create a life of meaning and purpose, we face anxiety, uncertainty, and other life stressors along our way. Therapy can be a turning point to help redirect you down a path of your choosing and help you gain a sense of control over your life and emotional well being. As a therapist I work to provide a safe, supportive, and judgment free space for client’s to begin their journey to healing and self-exploration. Specialties include mood disorders, trauma, and chronic pain.
(515) 220-2855 View (515) 220-2855
Photo of Eric Eittreim, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Eric Eittreim
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50322  (Online Only)
I utilize techniques mainly from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), but also use existential, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused techniques to accommodate differing needs of clients.
You have taken a courageous step on the path to healing by seeking out help, whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one. As a therapist, I am here to walk alongside you on that journey. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other concerns, together we can find ways to help you heal and grow! My therapeutic approach is client centered and aims to provide a safe environment in which clients feel accepted, supported, and encouraged. We will work collaboratively to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and work towards making progress on those goals in and outside of therapy sessions.
I utilize techniques mainly from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), but also use existential, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused techniques to accommodate differing needs of clients.
You have taken a courageous step on the path to healing by seeking out help, whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one. As a therapist, I am here to walk alongside you on that journey. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other concerns, together we can find ways to help you heal and grow! My therapeutic approach is client centered and aims to provide a safe environment in which clients feel accepted, supported, and encouraged. We will work collaboratively to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and work towards making progress on those goals in and outside of therapy sessions.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
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.