Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of William Etheridge, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
William Etheridge
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I primarily use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with elements mixed from other modalities like feminism and solution focused brief treatment as I work to aid and support issues related to: depression, anxiety, emotional management, mens issues, queer/lgbtq+ issues, and more.
Hello there! I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) from North Carolina. I received my masters in 2019, and have been working in the field since 2020 professionally. I primarily work with adults 18+ but I do have experience working with teens and couples as well.
I primarily use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with elements mixed from other modalities like feminism and solution focused brief treatment as I work to aid and support issues related to: depression, anxiety, emotional management, mens issues, queer/lgbtq+ issues, and more.
Hello there! I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) from North Carolina. I received my masters in 2019, and have been working in the field since 2020 professionally. I primarily work with adults 18+ but I do have experience working with teens and couples as well.
(980) 372-8781 View (980) 372-8781
Photo of Teisha Fowler, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Charlotte, NC
Teisha Fowler
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207
Depending on the needs of the clients I may utilize Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or Family Systems Therapy to aid the client in reaching their specific therapeutic goals.
I work with individuals and couples from a variety of backgrounds on issues including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, grief/loss, and other mental health and life concerns. I have experience working with adults, families, couples, and groups within urban communities
Depending on the needs of the clients I may utilize Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or Family Systems Therapy to aid the client in reaching their specific therapeutic goals.
I work with individuals and couples from a variety of backgrounds on issues including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, grief/loss, and other mental health and life concerns. I have experience working with adults, families, couples, and groups within urban communities
(704) 610-5043 View (704) 610-5043
Photo of Diana Levitt, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Charlotte, NC
Diana Levitt
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, NCC, LCMHC-S, BC-TMHP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I applaud you for taking the first and most important step in reaching out for help, especially during these difficult times. The major focus of my practice is assisting adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, whether that is a singular episode or prolonged complex trauma. I also work with Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and major life transitions. I meet the client where their current needs are through various treatment modalities and approaches. I have expertise in CBT, DBT, EFT, and TF-CBT. I only provide individual therapy, so please do not contact me for couples/marital counseling.
I applaud you for taking the first and most important step in reaching out for help, especially during these difficult times. The major focus of my practice is assisting adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, whether that is a singular episode or prolonged complex trauma. I also work with Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and major life transitions. I meet the client where their current needs are through various treatment modalities and approaches. I have expertise in CBT, DBT, EFT, and TF-CBT. I only provide individual therapy, so please do not contact me for couples/marital counseling.
(704) 307-4359 View (704) 307-4359
Jeanne Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I have extensive training in working with this population, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Training (TF-CBT), the SELF Trauma Model and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
In my practice, I work to provide a safe, encouraging and supportive environment to help clients effectively manage feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, shame and guilt associated with past trauma and abuse. I will provide tools for coping with overwhelming feelings, and I will help guide my clients on a path of self-reflection and personal growth to help achieve the goals they set for therapy. I offer a non-judgmental environment and I welcome members of the GLBT community.
I have extensive training in working with this population, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Training (TF-CBT), the SELF Trauma Model and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
In my practice, I work to provide a safe, encouraging and supportive environment to help clients effectively manage feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, shame and guilt associated with past trauma and abuse. I will provide tools for coping with overwhelming feelings, and I will help guide my clients on a path of self-reflection and personal growth to help achieve the goals they set for therapy. I offer a non-judgmental environment and I welcome members of the GLBT community.
(980) 404-2870 View (980) 404-2870
Photo of Anne E Wiggins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Anne E Wiggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CTLE, CGP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273
I am a mental health professional with 15 plus years of experience, specializing in working with all ages during stressful times. I assist with bringing oneself back to independence and improving self worth through movement therapy, solution focused CBT, reality based therapy, and structure. When you feel out of control, rejected, or disappointed, I am here to assist you with finding peace of mind. I can provide problem solving, coping, and organizational skills to assist with mental clarity and wellness, as well as instilling hope. I am an empathetic and loving individual who easily understands what you might be going through.
I am a mental health professional with 15 plus years of experience, specializing in working with all ages during stressful times. I assist with bringing oneself back to independence and improving self worth through movement therapy, solution focused CBT, reality based therapy, and structure. When you feel out of control, rejected, or disappointed, I am here to assist you with finding peace of mind. I can provide problem solving, coping, and organizational skills to assist with mental clarity and wellness, as well as instilling hope. I am an empathetic and loving individual who easily understands what you might be going through.
(704) 490-4242 View (704) 490-4242
Photo of Amal Mebrat, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Amal Mebrat
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
My personal counseling framework pulls from a person-centered theoretical approach integrated with CBT/DBT techniques, working with you to tweak things when necessary because you know yourself the best.
Maybe you're questioning yourself, your decisions, or your relationships. Or you're struggling to figure out what's next. You are not alone. I work with teens, adults, and couples from various backgrounds with similar experiences. When working with me, they appreciate someone who's understanding and genuinely supports them through challenging times. My counseling style is holistic, relaxed, and tailored to each person's needs. Through a variety of techniques, I am able to support individuals, couples, and families.
My personal counseling framework pulls from a person-centered theoretical approach integrated with CBT/DBT techniques, working with you to tweak things when necessary because you know yourself the best.
Maybe you're questioning yourself, your decisions, or your relationships. Or you're struggling to figure out what's next. You are not alone. I work with teens, adults, and couples from various backgrounds with similar experiences. When working with me, they appreciate someone who's understanding and genuinely supports them through challenging times. My counseling style is holistic, relaxed, and tailored to each person's needs. Through a variety of techniques, I am able to support individuals, couples, and families.
(704) 742-2748 View (704) 742-2748
Photo of Daniel Gillespie Crow, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Daniel Gillespie Crow
Counselor, PhD, MAC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I combine Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic therapy (PDT).
Therapy is about telling the truth, healing old wounds, and making changes. Most of my clients are smart, sensitive, conscientious types who are vulnerable to overthinking and anxiety because you think and feel so much. Some of your greatest gifts - such as your empathy and intelligence - have a way of turning against you and making your life harder. If this sounds like you, we might be a good fit. I transitioned from being a philosophy professor to a mental health counselor after realizing that I enjoyed counseling my students more than teaching them.
I combine Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic therapy (PDT).
Therapy is about telling the truth, healing old wounds, and making changes. Most of my clients are smart, sensitive, conscientious types who are vulnerable to overthinking and anxiety because you think and feel so much. Some of your greatest gifts - such as your empathy and intelligence - have a way of turning against you and making your life harder. If this sounds like you, we might be a good fit. I transitioned from being a philosophy professor to a mental health counselor after realizing that I enjoyed counseling my students more than teaching them.
(704) 741-4217 View (704) 741-4217
Photo of Olivia Hildreth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Olivia Hildreth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Olivia uses a client-centered approach by using techniques such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Olivia is passionate about working with children and families to better understand family dynamics, and behavioral and emotional issues occurring within the family system. She utilizes play therapy techniques to step into the child’s world and make sense of what your child is feeling. Olivia enjoys working with teens that are finding their path in life by exploring their values, self-worth, and growth. When the path seems winding and unpredictable, she will work with teens to find the coping strategies that work for their journey.
Olivia uses a client-centered approach by using techniques such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Olivia is passionate about working with children and families to better understand family dynamics, and behavioral and emotional issues occurring within the family system. She utilizes play therapy techniques to step into the child’s world and make sense of what your child is feeling. Olivia enjoys working with teens that are finding their path in life by exploring their values, self-worth, and growth. When the path seems winding and unpredictable, she will work with teens to find the coping strategies that work for their journey.
(704) 272-4537 View (704) 272-4537
Photo of Preston Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Preston Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Do you feel sad, anxious, stressed, frustrated or angry? Would you like to think and feel better? Would you like to realize more of your full potential. Speak with a Licensed Counselor with over 28 years experience coaching and helping people learn the tools to succeed in this challenging world! He uses an eclectic approach with an emphasis on CBT/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. He also helps people with substance abuse and addiction problems.
Do you feel sad, anxious, stressed, frustrated or angry? Would you like to think and feel better? Would you like to realize more of your full potential. Speak with a Licensed Counselor with over 28 years experience coaching and helping people learn the tools to succeed in this challenging world! He uses an eclectic approach with an emphasis on CBT/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. He also helps people with substance abuse and addiction problems.
(704) 750-8039 View (704) 750-8039
Photo of Meghann Garrett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Meghann Garrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I have been trained in many approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive arts therapy, play therapy, didactic developmental psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing.
Deciding to start counseling is an important step towards living the life you want. I am dedicated to helping people live healthier and happier lives. In sessions I help people make meaning of and transform overwhelming parts of their lives. This includes healing self-destructive behaviors, trauma, relationship struggles, and difficult life transitions. If we embark on this journey I will assist you in gaining an understanding of how difficult thoughts, feelings, relationships, and behaviors may protect you from things you fear, but hinder your happiness.Through this process you can make connections that foster acceptance, strength, flexibility, and healing.
I have been trained in many approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive arts therapy, play therapy, didactic developmental psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing.
Deciding to start counseling is an important step towards living the life you want. I am dedicated to helping people live healthier and happier lives. In sessions I help people make meaning of and transform overwhelming parts of their lives. This includes healing self-destructive behaviors, trauma, relationship struggles, and difficult life transitions. If we embark on this journey I will assist you in gaining an understanding of how difficult thoughts, feelings, relationships, and behaviors may protect you from things you fear, but hinder your happiness.Through this process you can make connections that foster acceptance, strength, flexibility, and healing.
(803) 349-4163 View (803) 349-4163
Photo of Griffin Moore, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Griffin Moore
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
I am trained in EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectal behavioral therapy and interpersonal process therapy all of which I use in sessions.
It takes extreme strength to admit our need for help. It is my honor and privilege to walk alongside you through your highest and lowest points. I tailor my approach to your unique, individual needs and background. I desire to be a place where you feel nurtured, unconditionally accepted, safe, and supported. I work with clients in the midst of life and family transitions and relationship distress. I also enjoy treating children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, and spirituality issues.
I am trained in EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectal behavioral therapy and interpersonal process therapy all of which I use in sessions.
It takes extreme strength to admit our need for help. It is my honor and privilege to walk alongside you through your highest and lowest points. I tailor my approach to your unique, individual needs and background. I desire to be a place where you feel nurtured, unconditionally accepted, safe, and supported. I work with clients in the midst of life and family transitions and relationship distress. I also enjoy treating children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, and spirituality issues.
(704) 237-6725 View (704) 237-6725
Photo of Wayne Alston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Wayne Alston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
I am a licensed clinical social work (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience working in many therapeutic environments. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety , adjustment disorders, relationship issues, parenting challenges, defiant childhood behaviors, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. My style of therapy is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic, solution based, supportive and Multi-systemic Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social work (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience working in many therapeutic environments. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety , adjustment disorders, relationship issues, parenting challenges, defiant childhood behaviors, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. My style of therapy is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic, solution based, supportive and Multi-systemic Therapy.
(704) 387-3045 View (704) 387-3045
Photo of Christi S Brunson, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Christi S Brunson
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Do you need dedicated time and a healing space to focus on your wellbeing? Are you an expert in taking care of everyone around you, but struggle to prioritize your own needs? Maybe you have been neglecting yourself to the point where your physical and mental health has been impacted. If this resonates with you, trust me, you are not alone, nor should you have to figure this out on your own. Hi, I’m Christi Brunson. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience providing Holistic Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Do you need dedicated time and a healing space to focus on your wellbeing? Are you an expert in taking care of everyone around you, but struggle to prioritize your own needs? Maybe you have been neglecting yourself to the point where your physical and mental health has been impacted. If this resonates with you, trust me, you are not alone, nor should you have to figure this out on your own. Hi, I’m Christi Brunson. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience providing Holistic Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(704) 389-5780 View (704) 389-5780
Photo of Laquetta Evans, LCSW Associate in Charlotte, NC
Laquetta Evans
LCSW Associate , LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
Laquetta Evans is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. Laquetta prides herself in offering a nonjudgmental safe space where clients can be open and honest. She utilizes CBT techniques to guide each individual in seeking practical solutions to daily stressors. She actively seeks to assist each client to become a more stable and fulfilled version of themselves. In her free time, Laquetta enjoys crafting, thrifting, playing rugby, and anything that has to do with water!.
Laquetta Evans is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. Laquetta prides herself in offering a nonjudgmental safe space where clients can be open and honest. She utilizes CBT techniques to guide each individual in seeking practical solutions to daily stressors. She actively seeks to assist each client to become a more stable and fulfilled version of themselves. In her free time, Laquetta enjoys crafting, thrifting, playing rugby, and anything that has to do with water!.
(704) 387-5830 View (704) 387-5830
Photo of Hannah Kessler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Hannah Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), IFS, and several other approaches to help my clients achieve their goals.
I specialize in working with individuals that are wanting to find peace in relationships - both with themselves and with others. After trauma, difficult situations, or toxic relationships, it is easy to shut down and experience loss of purpose, spiritual questioning, isolation, depression, or anxiety. I work with people like you to heal from your past, learn about yourself, and grow towards your future. I don't know what brought you here but everyone has a story and I would love to help you process yours.
I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), IFS, and several other approaches to help my clients achieve their goals.
I specialize in working with individuals that are wanting to find peace in relationships - both with themselves and with others. After trauma, difficult situations, or toxic relationships, it is easy to shut down and experience loss of purpose, spiritual questioning, isolation, depression, or anxiety. I work with people like you to heal from your past, learn about yourself, and grow towards your future. I don't know what brought you here but everyone has a story and I would love to help you process yours.
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Photo of Shawn Trifoso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Shawn Trifoso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
To do this, I utilize evidence-based treatment approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy while integrating compassion and mindfulness-based techniques, depending on each client's preferences and needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and not sure what to do anymore? If you are struggling with anxiety, depressed mood, feelings of hopelessness or uncontrollable intrusive thoughts, you deserve professional and compassionate care. Through extensive therapeutic work, clinical supervision and training in a variety of outpatient mental health settings, I have gained experience treating adults and adolescents (16 years and older) with a range of mental health challenges.
To do this, I utilize evidence-based treatment approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy while integrating compassion and mindfulness-based techniques, depending on each client's preferences and needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and not sure what to do anymore? If you are struggling with anxiety, depressed mood, feelings of hopelessness or uncontrollable intrusive thoughts, you deserve professional and compassionate care. Through extensive therapeutic work, clinical supervision and training in a variety of outpatient mental health settings, I have gained experience treating adults and adolescents (16 years and older) with a range of mental health challenges.
(704) 709-8896 View (704) 709-8896
Photo of Laurie Nappier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Laurie Nappier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
I believe therapy is a place to understand and be understood, to feel empowered, emotionally, spiritually and relationally. I have been in the field since 2007 working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with issues ranging from depression and anxiety to addiction and homelessness. I work with all ages, especially focusing on family groups seen individually and together. Every client creates a goal centered plan that includes a variety of interventions from sand and art therapy to trauma focused CBT. Therapy is a safe place to share your journey, learn from the past and move towards the future.
I believe therapy is a place to understand and be understood, to feel empowered, emotionally, spiritually and relationally. I have been in the field since 2007 working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with issues ranging from depression and anxiety to addiction and homelessness. I work with all ages, especially focusing on family groups seen individually and together. Every client creates a goal centered plan that includes a variety of interventions from sand and art therapy to trauma focused CBT. Therapy is a safe place to share your journey, learn from the past and move towards the future.
(704) 820-6929 View (704) 820-6929
Photo of Agape Christian Counseling Center, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Agape Christian Counseling Center
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
Some have advanced trainings in EMDR for trauma counseling, Gottman Method or Prepare-Enrich for marriage counseling, CBT, DBT.
We are a group of counselors who are dedicated to the well-being of our clients as we practice professional counseling from a Christian perspective. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, losing a loved one, challenges at work, having hard time parenting your children or dissatisfaction in your marriage - we provide a safe place for you to come individually, as a family, or as a couple to explore the issues you might be experiencing, gain new perspective, and work on overcoming your difficulties. While taking an integrative approach to therapy, we welcome all people who seek counseling, regardless of religious background.
Some have advanced trainings in EMDR for trauma counseling, Gottman Method or Prepare-Enrich for marriage counseling, CBT, DBT.
We are a group of counselors who are dedicated to the well-being of our clients as we practice professional counseling from a Christian perspective. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, losing a loved one, challenges at work, having hard time parenting your children or dissatisfaction in your marriage - we provide a safe place for you to come individually, as a family, or as a couple to explore the issues you might be experiencing, gain new perspective, and work on overcoming your difficulties. While taking an integrative approach to therapy, we welcome all people who seek counseling, regardless of religious background.
(704) 448-0762 View (704) 448-0762
Photo of Lindsey Turner, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Lindsey Turner
Counselor, LCMHC, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
I am trained in Art Therapy and utilize a humanistic and cognitive-behavioral approach.
I believe that understanding your own story and experiences can become a powerful tool toward healing and a healthy mindset! It is my goal to walk alongside you on your journey. An ideal client is willing to work toward personal growth and development. I work with clients ages ranging from 4 - 25 years old. My experience lies in adolescent and young adult counseling.
I am trained in Art Therapy and utilize a humanistic and cognitive-behavioral approach.
I believe that understanding your own story and experiences can become a powerful tool toward healing and a healthy mindset! It is my goal to walk alongside you on your journey. An ideal client is willing to work toward personal growth and development. I work with clients ages ranging from 4 - 25 years old. My experience lies in adolescent and young adult counseling.
(980) 217-7102 View (980) 217-7102
Photo of Neisha Pettaway, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Charlotte, NC
Neisha Pettaway
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, BSW, MC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
The methods that primarily inform my work include: Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person Centered Therapy.
I believe that people are resilient and innately possess everything they need to accomplish their goals. Through our counseling relationship I will encourage you to become self aware, take responsibility for current thought processes and behavior patterns that may have a negative effect on your life, and commit to transformation. That may read like a strong statement but know that I will be with you the entirety of the journey. In our work we will uncover past traumas, confront negative thoughts and behavior patterns, and create plans to reach your goals.
The methods that primarily inform my work include: Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person Centered Therapy.
I believe that people are resilient and innately possess everything they need to accomplish their goals. Through our counseling relationship I will encourage you to become self aware, take responsibility for current thought processes and behavior patterns that may have a negative effect on your life, and commit to transformation. That may read like a strong statement but know that I will be with you the entirety of the journey. In our work we will uncover past traumas, confront negative thoughts and behavior patterns, and create plans to reach your goals.
(704) 285-2706 View (704) 285-2706
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.