Photo of Rex Dayola, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Rex Dayola
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
We employ an integrative approach to therapy, utilizing insight-oriented, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness strategies.
It would be ideal for us to be motivated to improve our lives when things are going well. More often than not, we only make changes to our lives during times of darkness. In our work together, we can focus on finding the beauty, joy, and peace in your life. We can step into the darkness together with curiosity.
We employ an integrative approach to therapy, utilizing insight-oriented, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness strategies.
It would be ideal for us to be motivated to improve our lives when things are going well. More often than not, we only make changes to our lives during times of darkness. In our work together, we can focus on finding the beauty, joy, and peace in your life. We can step into the darkness together with curiosity.
(872) 204-1992 View (872) 204-1992
Photo of Elizabeth Diaz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Elizabeth Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I incorporate mindfulness-based therapy techniques including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MSBR), Acceptance Commitment Therapy, meditation, and body work into individual and small group sessions as well as provides clients with concrete and practical tools they can use in everyday life.
Currently have a waitlist of 2-3 months. I specialize in treating individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety (including performance anxiety), depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). I have experience working with individuals who have experienced or been witness to severe trauma including sexual abuse, childhood abuse, traumatic loss, birth trauma, loss of a parent, etc. Additionally, I am trained in working with individuals who have adjustment disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and developmental disabilities and disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia.
I incorporate mindfulness-based therapy techniques including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MSBR), Acceptance Commitment Therapy, meditation, and body work into individual and small group sessions as well as provides clients with concrete and practical tools they can use in everyday life.
Currently have a waitlist of 2-3 months. I specialize in treating individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety (including performance anxiety), depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). I have experience working with individuals who have experienced or been witness to severe trauma including sexual abuse, childhood abuse, traumatic loss, birth trauma, loss of a parent, etc. Additionally, I am trained in working with individuals who have adjustment disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and developmental disabilities and disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia.
(312) 635-4278 View (312) 635-4278
Photo of Lisa Whittingham, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Lisa Whittingham
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
My specialty is infusing cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR (for trauma) with Mindfulness (Breathwork/Yoga/Meditation) & Music and Sound therapy.
Our world is changing at such a rapid pace. You may feel it's difficult to cope with all these shifts in your life, and to keep up with daily routines. We have all been through a huge upheaval the past several years. Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental place to process some of these challenges? Or maybe you need some tools and resources to help you (or a loved one) manage anxiety, stress or trauma. Maybe your child/tween/teen/20 yr old has become surprisingly disagreeable, spending less time with family, pushing you away. You may notice changes in appearance, or name. Whether sudden or gradual, you may not know how to cope.
My specialty is infusing cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR (for trauma) with Mindfulness (Breathwork/Yoga/Meditation) & Music and Sound therapy.
Our world is changing at such a rapid pace. You may feel it's difficult to cope with all these shifts in your life, and to keep up with daily routines. We have all been through a huge upheaval the past several years. Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental place to process some of these challenges? Or maybe you need some tools and resources to help you (or a loved one) manage anxiety, stress or trauma. Maybe your child/tween/teen/20 yr old has become surprisingly disagreeable, spending less time with family, pushing you away. You may notice changes in appearance, or name. Whether sudden or gradual, you may not know how to cope.
(312) 584-8715 View (312) 584-8715
Photo of Laura Nalin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Laura Nalin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
I will help you reconnect with yourself and discover your inner power(s) by applying a trauma-informed and collaborative approach while integrating skills and tools from Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Solutions-Focused modalities as well as sound healing and HeartMath techniques.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed or stuck lately? If disruptions like depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship challenges, or work burnout are causing you stress, I would love to walk alongside you while helping navigate your path toward a more mindful and purposeful life. My focus is helping my clients recognize and identify their inner strengths, and communicate effectively and openly, while also cultivating a nurturing and accepting therapeutic environment in the process with a bit of comedic humor sprinkled in.
I will help you reconnect with yourself and discover your inner power(s) by applying a trauma-informed and collaborative approach while integrating skills and tools from Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Solutions-Focused modalities as well as sound healing and HeartMath techniques.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed or stuck lately? If disruptions like depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship challenges, or work burnout are causing you stress, I would love to walk alongside you while helping navigate your path toward a more mindful and purposeful life. My focus is helping my clients recognize and identify their inner strengths, and communicate effectively and openly, while also cultivating a nurturing and accepting therapeutic environment in the process with a bit of comedic humor sprinkled in.
(331) 225-1138 View (331) 225-1138
Photo of Deanna Marie Dotson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Deanna Marie Dotson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I am trained professionally in CBT/DBT and specialize in assisting adults, adolescents, and children with depression.
Life can be difficult, but I believe that we were built to do and overcome difficult things, even when the task of healing seems impossible. Your feelings are important, and you have the power to transform and heal within a safe space.
I am trained professionally in CBT/DBT and specialize in assisting adults, adolescents, and children with depression.
Life can be difficult, but I believe that we were built to do and overcome difficult things, even when the task of healing seems impossible. Your feelings are important, and you have the power to transform and heal within a safe space.
(312) 386-5128 View (312) 386-5128
Photo of Phil Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Phil Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Specializing in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Mindfulness practices, and coping skills, Phil focuses on evidence-based practices that challenge problematic thoughts and beliefs in order to create new emotional and behavioral responses, while also identifying and building on the child's natural strengths.
Phillip (Phil) Garcia is a Licensed Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with kids. He has experience working with children in crisis, with trauma-informed practice as well as young people with depression, anxiety and panic, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD (including Asperger's), Attention deficit/hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD), and a wide range of social-emotional and developmental challenges. Phil aims to deliver evidenced-based interventions that the family can maintain and generalize to all areas of the child’s life. (Video or Lakeview/Lincoln Park)
Specializing in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Mindfulness practices, and coping skills, Phil focuses on evidence-based practices that challenge problematic thoughts and beliefs in order to create new emotional and behavioral responses, while also identifying and building on the child's natural strengths.
Phillip (Phil) Garcia is a Licensed Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with kids. He has experience working with children in crisis, with trauma-informed practice as well as young people with depression, anxiety and panic, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD (including Asperger's), Attention deficit/hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD), and a wide range of social-emotional and developmental challenges. Phil aims to deliver evidenced-based interventions that the family can maintain and generalize to all areas of the child’s life. (Video or Lakeview/Lincoln Park)
(872) 713-5897 View (872) 713-5897
Photo of Ciera Shimkus, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ciera Shimkus
Counselor, MA, LCPC, REAT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641
We will often use Expressive Arts Therapy, mindfulness, and CBT in our colaboration.
As a biracial human, I understand the juggling process between developing identity while also finding a sense of belonging within communities. Doing this on top of just simply learning how to be an adult and manage emotions can be a difficult juggling process! I prioritize the awareness of various factors like multiculturalism, oppression, trauma, and neurodiversity when working on deepening your understanding of yourself and reintegrating the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Due to these factors, I bring my genuine personality to help build trust in the therapeutic relationship.
We will often use Expressive Arts Therapy, mindfulness, and CBT in our colaboration.
As a biracial human, I understand the juggling process between developing identity while also finding a sense of belonging within communities. Doing this on top of just simply learning how to be an adult and manage emotions can be a difficult juggling process! I prioritize the awareness of various factors like multiculturalism, oppression, trauma, and neurodiversity when working on deepening your understanding of yourself and reintegrating the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Due to these factors, I bring my genuine personality to help build trust in the therapeutic relationship.
(773) 900-6353 x521 View (773) 900-6353 x521
Photo of Alexander Bauman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Alexander Bauman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Alexander Bauman is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) based in Illinois. Holding an MSW from the University of Kentucky and a BSW from Northeastern Illinois University, Alexander has amassed experience working with dual diagnosis substance abuse mental health clients in inpatient settings. His diverse therapeutic expertise includes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and more.
Alexander Bauman is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) based in Illinois. Holding an MSW from the University of Kentucky and a BSW from Northeastern Illinois University, Alexander has amassed experience working with dual diagnosis substance abuse mental health clients in inpatient settings. His diverse therapeutic expertise includes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and more.
(773) 692-8589 View (773) 692-8589
Photo of Erich H. Heintzen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Erich H. Heintzen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
We utilize an integrative approach to therapy, combining cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness strategies with interpersonal theories.
I believe that as we evolve and grow, our connections with ourselves, others and the world around us can become deeper and more fulfilling. However, when we are under stress, in a relationship crisis, or feel anxious or depressed, our connections to our loved ones and to ourselves are limited. We may be unable to communicate, feel angry, lack energy and feel overwhelmed. In order to relieve life's pressures, it is important to slow down, and become more self-aware--reconnecting with ourselves once again. Counseling fosters trust, and is a process that promotes growth and change.
We utilize an integrative approach to therapy, combining cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness strategies with interpersonal theories.
I believe that as we evolve and grow, our connections with ourselves, others and the world around us can become deeper and more fulfilling. However, when we are under stress, in a relationship crisis, or feel anxious or depressed, our connections to our loved ones and to ourselves are limited. We may be unable to communicate, feel angry, lack energy and feel overwhelmed. In order to relieve life's pressures, it is important to slow down, and become more self-aware--reconnecting with ourselves once again. Counseling fosters trust, and is a process that promotes growth and change.
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Photo of Amber Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Amber Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, RYT-200, CODP I, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
The treatment modalities she most often uses includes Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Amber Reed is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Aurora University. Those who know Amber best would describe her as outgoing, funny, empathetic, authentic, and direct. Amber believes that therapy can provide individuals opportunity for growth, guidance through uncomfortable emotions, and a space to reflect and find a deeper connection with the self. Ultimately, she wants to use empathy and motivation to inspire and guide those who have been struggling or feel alone with their thoughts or emotions.
The treatment modalities she most often uses includes Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Amber Reed is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Aurora University. Those who know Amber best would describe her as outgoing, funny, empathetic, authentic, and direct. Amber believes that therapy can provide individuals opportunity for growth, guidance through uncomfortable emotions, and a space to reflect and find a deeper connection with the self. Ultimately, she wants to use empathy and motivation to inspire and guide those who have been struggling or feel alone with their thoughts or emotions.
(773) 906-4647 View (773) 906-4647
Photo of Darrick J Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Darrick J Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, NCC, CMHC, BSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I've been privileged to serve individuals and the community for over 10 years through case management, advocacy, and clinical mental health counseling. The opportunity to learn through education, professional development and supervision has provided me with a foundation of measurable, ethical and holistic frameworks to serve. My framework starts with my ability to provide therapeutic interventions such as Client-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and more!
I've been privileged to serve individuals and the community for over 10 years through case management, advocacy, and clinical mental health counseling. The opportunity to learn through education, professional development and supervision has provided me with a foundation of measurable, ethical and holistic frameworks to serve. My framework starts with my ability to provide therapeutic interventions such as Client-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and more!
(708) 729-5510 View (708) 729-5510
Photo of Michelle Ahmed, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Michelle Ahmed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
I am trauma-informed and integrate different models of therapy, such as mindfulness, DBT, and CBT.
Your voice is stronger and louder than you believe, and I believe that every being has an untold story waiting to be heard, understood, and held with honor. We are often given the systemic message that our voices do not matter, that our stories will be outlived, or that our mental health (a.k.a. our feels) are not as important as our physical health. That is not your truth, or mine. Therapy can help you find your voice (or whatever medium works for you) so that you may continue to grow stronger, louder, and be more unapologetically YOU.
I am trauma-informed and integrate different models of therapy, such as mindfulness, DBT, and CBT.
Your voice is stronger and louder than you believe, and I believe that every being has an untold story waiting to be heard, understood, and held with honor. We are often given the systemic message that our voices do not matter, that our stories will be outlived, or that our mental health (a.k.a. our feels) are not as important as our physical health. That is not your truth, or mine. Therapy can help you find your voice (or whatever medium works for you) so that you may continue to grow stronger, louder, and be more unapologetically YOU.
(630) 349-4846 View (630) 349-4846
Photo of Annie Murphy, LPC Intern in Chicago, IL
Annie Murphy
LPC Intern, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Theoretically, I pull from CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and ACT, among others.
I have a passion for helping people discover their true selves and implement positive changes in their lives. I have always been interested in humans and their unique experiences, leading me to pursue a career in the counseling space. I work to create a collaborative, empathetic space for clients to learn more about themselves and challenge themselves to grow. I enjoy working with people of all ages.
Theoretically, I pull from CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and ACT, among others.
I have a passion for helping people discover their true selves and implement positive changes in their lives. I have always been interested in humans and their unique experiences, leading me to pursue a career in the counseling space. I work to create a collaborative, empathetic space for clients to learn more about themselves and challenge themselves to grow. I enjoy working with people of all ages.
(708) 854-5826 View (708) 854-5826
Photo of Christina Matthews LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Christina Matthews LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCH/I
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Waitlist for new clients
I've benefitted from every technique I use! You will experience amazing growth from using the cutting- edge methods in each session! Learn from Traditional Counseling such as CBT, DBT and Clinical Hypnotherapy/(Mindfulness), or from Esoteric, (research-based) methods like: Esogetic Colorpuncture Light Therapy, NLP/Neuro Linguistic Programming, and more.
Are you an adult/young adult with ADHD? I can help you! A teacher or parent dealing with a child or teen who struggles with symptoms of ADHD? I can help you help them too! Need to learn assertive communication with a boss, coworker, spouse? I offer traditional, scientific therapies like Clinical Hypnotherapy and NLP and creative science-based approaches. Trying to find your voice? Habits to break? Learn to express yourself with art, creative writing & meditative therapies. Try out the Amethyst Biomat or Esogetic Colorpuncture infrared, ultraviolet, and spectral light therapies for health, emotions, pain relief and sugar cravings.
I've benefitted from every technique I use! You will experience amazing growth from using the cutting- edge methods in each session! Learn from Traditional Counseling such as CBT, DBT and Clinical Hypnotherapy/(Mindfulness), or from Esoteric, (research-based) methods like: Esogetic Colorpuncture Light Therapy, NLP/Neuro Linguistic Programming, and more.
Are you an adult/young adult with ADHD? I can help you! A teacher or parent dealing with a child or teen who struggles with symptoms of ADHD? I can help you help them too! Need to learn assertive communication with a boss, coworker, spouse? I offer traditional, scientific therapies like Clinical Hypnotherapy and NLP and creative science-based approaches. Trying to find your voice? Habits to break? Learn to express yourself with art, creative writing & meditative therapies. Try out the Amethyst Biomat or Esogetic Colorpuncture infrared, ultraviolet, and spectral light therapies for health, emotions, pain relief and sugar cravings.
(708) 314-7491 View (708) 314-7491
Photo of Chayil Biblical Counseling Services PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Chayil Biblical Counseling Services PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
Cecily uses a variety of approaches to address clients unique needs. Cecily also integrates prayer, scriptures and biblical teachings into her therapeutic interventions for those clients seeking spiritual integration. Chayil Biblical Counseling Services, combines your faith with the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to improve your mental health and relationships.
Cecily uses a variety of approaches to address clients unique needs. Cecily also integrates prayer, scriptures and biblical teachings into her therapeutic interventions for those clients seeking spiritual integration. Chayil Biblical Counseling Services, combines your faith with the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to improve your mental health and relationships.
(708) 419-3718 View (708) 419-3718
Photo of Leah Rybakowski, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Leah Rybakowski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I use a CBT-approach paired with DBT, specifically focusing on mindfulness.
Reaching out for therapy can be scary, especially talking to a complete stranger about what you are going through. I focus on building rapport with my clients and helping them create a safe space to be able to break down their walls and share freely and openly. We will focus on building your confidence and finding your inner shine. Hopefully leading to taking charge of your life and making your own path.
I use a CBT-approach paired with DBT, specifically focusing on mindfulness.
Reaching out for therapy can be scary, especially talking to a complete stranger about what you are going through. I focus on building rapport with my clients and helping them create a safe space to be able to break down their walls and share freely and openly. We will focus on building your confidence and finding your inner shine. Hopefully leading to taking charge of your life and making your own path.
(309) 761-5742 View (309) 761-5742
Photo of John Abad, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
John Abad
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60644
Hello, my name is John Abad, LCPC, and I have worked for over six years as a therapist. I work with ages 5+, adolescents, and adults. My focus areas are Anxiety, Coping Skills, Emotional Disturbance, Parenting, and Stress. I use a mix of Clinical Supervision and Licensed, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Transpersonal, and Schema Therapy. I believe in utilizing my preference in guided modalities and focusing on developing talents and interests.
Hello, my name is John Abad, LCPC, and I have worked for over six years as a therapist. I work with ages 5+, adolescents, and adults. My focus areas are Anxiety, Coping Skills, Emotional Disturbance, Parenting, and Stress. I use a mix of Clinical Supervision and Licensed, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Transpersonal, and Schema Therapy. I believe in utilizing my preference in guided modalities and focusing on developing talents and interests.
(331) 259-8722 View (331) 259-8722
Photo of Inspirations of Courage, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Inspirations of Courage, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60652  (Online Only)
Engaging in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with me, you can learn tools that would allow you to change how you view and respond to stressors and problems.
Charisma S. Pryor, LCSW of Inspirations of Courage, PLLC, specializes in counseling individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, marital/partner problems, and more. Her treatment focuses on identifying tools to address the problem(s), improve coping skills, and positively recognize the client’s accomplishments! She brings over 21 years of experience as a Black female therapist, social worker, and counselor treating children, women, and men. Sessions are conducted virtually. I'm available to support you through your journey. Let's work together!
Engaging in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with me, you can learn tools that would allow you to change how you view and respond to stressors and problems.
Charisma S. Pryor, LCSW of Inspirations of Courage, PLLC, specializes in counseling individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, marital/partner problems, and more. Her treatment focuses on identifying tools to address the problem(s), improve coping skills, and positively recognize the client’s accomplishments! She brings over 21 years of experience as a Black female therapist, social worker, and counselor treating children, women, and men. Sessions are conducted virtually. I'm available to support you through your journey. Let's work together!
(331) 999-6118 View (331) 999-6118
Photo of Community Wellness Group, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Community Wellness Group
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
This a group practice that employs clinicans of various ethnicities and backgrounds. People come to therapy due to feeling excessive stress at work, at home, or in their relationships. They find the pressures of everyday life have exceeded their abilities, overwhelmed their senses, and left them with an inability to cope. They are often having problems with school, completing tasks, getting along with others at work, and finding activities enjoyable. We believe in the resiliency of the human spirit, and that therapy is a process of exploring and getting to know oneself.
This a group practice that employs clinicans of various ethnicities and backgrounds. People come to therapy due to feeling excessive stress at work, at home, or in their relationships. They find the pressures of everyday life have exceeded their abilities, overwhelmed their senses, and left them with an inability to cope. They are often having problems with school, completing tasks, getting along with others at work, and finding activities enjoyable. We believe in the resiliency of the human spirit, and that therapy is a process of exploring and getting to know oneself.
(872) 278-6233 View (872) 278-6233
Photo of Susan Pagels, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Susan Pagels
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
We all struggle with obstacles that seem insurmountable but I believe everyone has the power within themselves to reach for the stars. Sometimes it takes baby steps and often we need someone we can trust to lend a helping hand.
We all struggle with obstacles that seem insurmountable but I believe everyone has the power within themselves to reach for the stars. Sometimes it takes baby steps and often we need someone we can trust to lend a helping hand.
(224) 229-0642 View (224) 229-0642
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.