Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Downtown, Columbus, OH

Photo of Amber Bentley, Counselor in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Amber Bentley
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
I utilize cognitive behavioral techniques to help clients be in control of their thinking.
I am licensed in the state of Ohio as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Social Work from the University of Rio Grande and a Master’s of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University with a specialization in Crisis and Trauma. I work with adults addressing substance use/addiction issues and mental health concerns. My areas of experience include, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, self-esteem issues, trauma, substance use/addiction concerns and couples/marital counseling.
I utilize cognitive behavioral techniques to help clients be in control of their thinking.
I am licensed in the state of Ohio as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Social Work from the University of Rio Grande and a Master’s of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University with a specialization in Crisis and Trauma. I work with adults addressing substance use/addiction issues and mental health concerns. My areas of experience include, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, self-esteem issues, trauma, substance use/addiction concerns and couples/marital counseling.
(380) 205-3821 View (380) 205-3821
Photo of Courageous Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Courageous Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
Hello! I am so glad you are here! You are courageous for taking the first step on improving your life! My approach to therapy is reflective of a Strengths Based model and is client centered. You know your story best! I develop solution focused goals with my clients and prioritize what they feel is most important in developing a treatment plan. Some therapies I use include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Grief Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and IFS and Christian counseling. My goal is to offer interventions to allow you to be the best version of yourself. You are the author of your story!
Hello! I am so glad you are here! You are courageous for taking the first step on improving your life! My approach to therapy is reflective of a Strengths Based model and is client centered. You know your story best! I develop solution focused goals with my clients and prioritize what they feel is most important in developing a treatment plan. Some therapies I use include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Grief Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and IFS and Christian counseling. My goal is to offer interventions to allow you to be the best version of yourself. You are the author of your story!
(380) 201-9674 View (380) 201-9674
Photo of Rooted & Restored Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Rooted & Restored Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
Our clinicians have experience in implementing a wide variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma and Loss in Children.
We are a group practice with highly trained therapists ready to assist you in meeting your goals. Our goal is to empower individuals, couples, and families to become rooted in their value and worth, while restoring hope and fostering growth. We believe that each client is unique and therefore so must be their treatment. We have clinicians ready to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Our clinicians have experience in implementing a wide variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma and Loss in Children.
We are a group practice with highly trained therapists ready to assist you in meeting your goals. Our goal is to empower individuals, couples, and families to become rooted in their value and worth, while restoring hope and fostering growth. We believe that each client is unique and therefore so must be their treatment. We have clinicians ready to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(380) 204-9673 View (380) 204-9673
Photo of Tammy Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Tammy Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
Tammy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and Minor in Woman Studies from The University of Toledo and a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Bowling Green State University. Tammy is a supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and holds a Social Worker license through the State of Ohio. Ms. Harmon-Rodriguez obtained her Trauma-Focused CBT and Motivational training through the State of Ohio. She started her career as a Social Worker working with dually diagnosed adults, which inspired and sparked her interest in the specialization of dually diagnosed populations.
Tammy received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and Minor in Woman Studies from The University of Toledo and a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Bowling Green State University. Tammy is a supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and holds a Social Worker license through the State of Ohio. Ms. Harmon-Rodriguez obtained her Trauma-Focused CBT and Motivational training through the State of Ohio. She started her career as a Social Worker working with dually diagnosed adults, which inspired and sparked her interest in the specialization of dually diagnosed populations.
(380) 777-5531 View (380) 777-5531
Photo of Anna Lehew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Anna Lehew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
I am trained in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adolescent-Community Reinforcement Approach, Functional Family Therapy and EMDR.
Graduated with a MSW and certification in clinical mental health from the University of Pittsburgh in 2014. I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms, PTSD, addiction, and/ or behavioral issues. I also work with couples and families to help them make changes that allow them to effectively communicate, work through conflicts in a skilled way and be able to be genuinely affectionate with each other.
I am trained in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adolescent-Community Reinforcement Approach, Functional Family Therapy and EMDR.
Graduated with a MSW and certification in clinical mental health from the University of Pittsburgh in 2014. I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms, PTSD, addiction, and/ or behavioral issues. I also work with couples and families to help them make changes that allow them to effectively communicate, work through conflicts in a skilled way and be able to be genuinely affectionate with each other.
(304) 896-0435 View (304) 896-0435
Photo of Kara Haines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Kara Haines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
I focus on using cognitive therapy to help you uncover your underlying thought patterns and how they are effecting your behaviors and emotions.
Making the decision to talk openly about your mental health is not an easy one. I believe we need to look after our mental health the same as we look after our physical health. Taking this first step is a sign of strength and I am here to help you along your journey. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate programs at the Ohio State University and I graduated with my Masters of Social Work in 2019. I completed my undergraduate field placement at an organization that did both Equine Therapy and traditional psychotherapy. I completed my graduate program with a healthcare system doing medical social work.
I focus on using cognitive therapy to help you uncover your underlying thought patterns and how they are effecting your behaviors and emotions.
Making the decision to talk openly about your mental health is not an easy one. I believe we need to look after our mental health the same as we look after our physical health. Taking this first step is a sign of strength and I am here to help you along your journey. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate programs at the Ohio State University and I graduated with my Masters of Social Work in 2019. I completed my undergraduate field placement at an organization that did both Equine Therapy and traditional psychotherapy. I completed my graduate program with a healthcare system doing medical social work.
(614) 769-6793 View (614) 769-6793
Photo of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
She is a trained TF-CBT, CBT, and DBT therapist.
Stephanie K. Starks, LISW-S, is a therapist and owner of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC . She 20 years of experience providing trauma-focused therapy. The goal at Starks Counseling is to provide “hope and healing” in a calm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She and her staff do this by empowering their clients with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be active participants in their own healing, as they believe that they are all simply vessels in which to help facilitate the healing process.
She is a trained TF-CBT, CBT, and DBT therapist.
Stephanie K. Starks, LISW-S, is a therapist and owner of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC . She 20 years of experience providing trauma-focused therapy. The goal at Starks Counseling is to provide “hope and healing” in a calm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She and her staff do this by empowering their clients with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be active participants in their own healing, as they believe that they are all simply vessels in which to help facilitate the healing process.
(614) 831-1396 View (614) 831-1396
Photo of Crystal Russell, Counselor in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Crystal Russell
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
Whether utilizing play therapy with younger clients or engaging in art, relational, and cognitive behavioral techniques with teens and young adults, I specialize in navigating the unknown and often confusing road of complex thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and emotions.
I am passionate about the next generation. Children, adolescents, and young adults have a plethora of information overloading their minds and bodies daily. Often, this information causes sensory overload and produces feelings of distress that manifest as depression, anxiety, social isolation, disconnection, and much more. I believe that by providing a safe space to question, process, and examine the world, children, teens, and young adults can heal from traumatic experiences, grow into their purpose, and become resilient and self-empowered individuals. I enjoy working with youth of all ages.
Whether utilizing play therapy with younger clients or engaging in art, relational, and cognitive behavioral techniques with teens and young adults, I specialize in navigating the unknown and often confusing road of complex thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and emotions.
I am passionate about the next generation. Children, adolescents, and young adults have a plethora of information overloading their minds and bodies daily. Often, this information causes sensory overload and produces feelings of distress that manifest as depression, anxiety, social isolation, disconnection, and much more. I believe that by providing a safe space to question, process, and examine the world, children, teens, and young adults can heal from traumatic experiences, grow into their purpose, and become resilient and self-empowered individuals. I enjoy working with youth of all ages.
(380) 333-6033 View (380) 333-6033
Photo of Anna Lehew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Anna Lehew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
My approach to counseling includes cognitive behavioral, motivational, existential and person-centered therapies to help guide you!
My approach to counseling includes cognitive behavioral, motivational, existential and person-centered therapies to help guide you!
(614) 802-5892 View (614) 802-5892
Photo of Crishna Wilburn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Crishna Wilburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
I have expertise in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) with over 8 years of experience with providing therapy to children, families and adults. I received my Master’s in Social from The Ohio State University. I am passionate about meeting clients right where they are at and coming along side them to support them in reaching their goals.
I have expertise in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) with over 8 years of experience with providing therapy to children, families and adults. I received my Master’s in Social from The Ohio State University. I am passionate about meeting clients right where they are at and coming along side them to support them in reaching their goals.
(614) 924-8125 View (614) 924-8125
Photo of Olive Branch Counseling Center, LLC, Counselor in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Olive Branch Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, MACC, LPCC-S, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
Now accepting NEW Clients for a. limited time.. Olive Branch Counseling Center, LLC offers practical help for anger, anxiety, depression, grief and stress-related relationship problems. Primarily based in CBT intervention with availability for Christian and Pastoral Counseling, I specialize in multiculturally sensitive interventions for all and in particular to African-American and Latino communities. I also offer psychoeducational seminars to churches and community organizations on "Making Healthy Choices." Why not give me a call and permit me to help you "take care of yourself while taking care of others?"
Now accepting NEW Clients for a. limited time.. Olive Branch Counseling Center, LLC offers practical help for anger, anxiety, depression, grief and stress-related relationship problems. Primarily based in CBT intervention with availability for Christian and Pastoral Counseling, I specialize in multiculturally sensitive interventions for all and in particular to African-American and Latino communities. I also offer psychoeducational seminars to churches and community organizations on "Making Healthy Choices." Why not give me a call and permit me to help you "take care of yourself while taking care of others?"
(614) 962-6404 View (614) 962-6404
Photo of Sarina Herman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Sarina Herman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
Sarina utilizes interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior.
Sarina Herman (she/ her) is a licensed social worker with a bachelors and masters degree in social work from The Ohio State University. Sarina has experience working with children, adolescents, and families within community based and school based settings. Sarina has conducted both individual and family therapy in her years of practice. In these settings, Sarina has assisted individuals struggling to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, bullying, the impacts of trauma, family conflict, and adjustment disorders.
Sarina utilizes interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior.
Sarina Herman (she/ her) is a licensed social worker with a bachelors and masters degree in social work from The Ohio State University. Sarina has experience working with children, adolescents, and families within community based and school based settings. Sarina has conducted both individual and family therapy in her years of practice. In these settings, Sarina has assisted individuals struggling to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, bullying, the impacts of trauma, family conflict, and adjustment disorders.
(614) 963-8236 View (614) 963-8236
Photo of Liz Mannon, Counselor in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Liz Mannon
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
Utilizing a person-centered approach with CBT, DBT, and EMDR techniques, I help teens and adults from all walks of life, heal and gain back control over their lives.
Hello! I am a licensed professional clinical counselor who has worked in the mental health field for 10 years. I began my journey working in group homes and doing case management for adults with severe mental illnesses. I have worked in larger community agencies and private practices and have focused my skills on serving those who have experienced trauma, deal with anxiety, depression, and lack of direction in life.
Utilizing a person-centered approach with CBT, DBT, and EMDR techniques, I help teens and adults from all walks of life, heal and gain back control over their lives.
Hello! I am a licensed professional clinical counselor who has worked in the mental health field for 10 years. I began my journey working in group homes and doing case management for adults with severe mental illnesses. I have worked in larger community agencies and private practices and have focused my skills on serving those who have experienced trauma, deal with anxiety, depression, and lack of direction in life.
(614) 908-4651 View (614) 908-4651
Photo of Daniel Held, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Daniel Held
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
Master of Social Work degree from the Ohio State University in 1977, with post-grad studies in Structural/Strategic Family Therapy, Narrative Psychotherapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Addictions, and Gerontology. Forty-one years of generic clinical practice with a diverse mix of clients representing all races, religions, genders, and levels of problem severity. Master of Divinity degree from United Theological Seminary in 2002, with thirteen years of experience in pastoral care ministry. Reviews include: "Rev. Held provides a beautiful balance of encouragement and challenge of growth. He is available and present.
Master of Social Work degree from the Ohio State University in 1977, with post-grad studies in Structural/Strategic Family Therapy, Narrative Psychotherapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Addictions, and Gerontology. Forty-one years of generic clinical practice with a diverse mix of clients representing all races, religions, genders, and levels of problem severity. Master of Divinity degree from United Theological Seminary in 2002, with thirteen years of experience in pastoral care ministry. Reviews include: "Rev. Held provides a beautiful balance of encouragement and challenge of growth. He is available and present.
(380) 207-9863 View (380) 207-9863
Photo of Charity Harrison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Charity Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
Waitlist for new clients
She works from a collaborative, trauma and culture-informed approach, integrating a variety of theories and techniques such as: cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, solution-focused, existential, and interpersonal frameworks.
Charity is passionately committed to assisting individuals, couples, and families on their journey towards greater self-awareness, restorative care, and holistic wellness. Her goal is to help clients better understand their everyday lived experiences, how they have shaped their health, well-being, and relationship with self and others. Additionally, live a life that aligns with their truest self, values, and goals. It is her hope, together with clients, therapy can become a safe space where you can share your story, heal, and feel empowered as you make positive changes.
She works from a collaborative, trauma and culture-informed approach, integrating a variety of theories and techniques such as: cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, solution-focused, existential, and interpersonal frameworks.
Charity is passionately committed to assisting individuals, couples, and families on their journey towards greater self-awareness, restorative care, and holistic wellness. Her goal is to help clients better understand their everyday lived experiences, how they have shaped their health, well-being, and relationship with self and others. Additionally, live a life that aligns with their truest self, values, and goals. It is her hope, together with clients, therapy can become a safe space where you can share your story, heal, and feel empowered as you make positive changes.
(614) 714-1973 View (614) 714-1973
Photo of Matthew V Paris, Psychologist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Matthew V Paris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
Most of our therapists specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Our ideal client is anyone who wants help and has trouble managing symptoms on their own. My wife, who is also a psychotherapist, and I created a private practice that focuses on "helping the helpers" (our staff) and providing more individualized and effective treatment services for our clients. At Guiding House (www.guidinghouse.com), we offer a warm/accepting environment. We help people 12-65 achieve their goals, make better decisions, become better parents/step-parents, and manage blended families. We will help you restructure dysfunctional beliefs, improve stress tolerance, and understand/treat/address problems.
Most of our therapists specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Our ideal client is anyone who wants help and has trouble managing symptoms on their own. My wife, who is also a psychotherapist, and I created a private practice that focuses on "helping the helpers" (our staff) and providing more individualized and effective treatment services for our clients. At Guiding House (www.guidinghouse.com), we offer a warm/accepting environment. We help people 12-65 achieve their goals, make better decisions, become better parents/step-parents, and manage blended families. We will help you restructure dysfunctional beliefs, improve stress tolerance, and understand/treat/address problems.
(614) 660-8296 View (614) 660-8296
Photo of Dr. Michelle Sheets, Clinical Psychologist, PLLC, Psychologist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Dr. Michelle Sheets, Clinical Psychologist, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are the main treatment modalities at my practice.
At my practice, we treat a wide variety of patients. For some, it is his or her first time at therapy and there may be some trepidation about starting the process. For others, we have been one of many therapists in his or her life. Each patient brings a unique and fascinating set of thoughts, feelings and behaviors all of which require a specific method of treatment. It is wonderful work! We hope that everyone can have the chance to explore psychotherapy in his or her life, be it for a single session or many more.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are the main treatment modalities at my practice.
At my practice, we treat a wide variety of patients. For some, it is his or her first time at therapy and there may be some trepidation about starting the process. For others, we have been one of many therapists in his or her life. Each patient brings a unique and fascinating set of thoughts, feelings and behaviors all of which require a specific method of treatment. It is wonderful work! We hope that everyone can have the chance to explore psychotherapy in his or her life, be it for a single session or many more.
(646) 699-3910 View (646) 699-3910
Photo of Olivia Scirocco, Licensed Social Worker in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Olivia Scirocco
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
Olivia utilizes a trauma-informed framework with her clients as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Olivia Scirocco (she/her) is a Licensed Social Worker. She graduated from The Ohio State University with an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work. Olivia has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults in outpatient, inpatient, and community-based settings.
Olivia utilizes a trauma-informed framework with her clients as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Olivia Scirocco (she/her) is a Licensed Social Worker. She graduated from The Ohio State University with an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work. Olivia has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults in outpatient, inpatient, and community-based settings.
(614) 412-1002 View (614) 412-1002
Photo of Amber Furness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Amber Furness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
I tailor my approach for each client and utilize a variety of evidence based practices such as, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and other cognitive strategies.
Do you find yourself constantly thinking about the future or the past, procrastinating issues in the present, and often feel like you're unable to live in the moment? Trauma, anxiety, and depression can be a great burden on our mental and physical well being. Through training and experience, I’ve learned that our brain and body have an innate ability to heal and recover. It is possible to find peace and feel more confident in who you are. I look at therapy as an opportunity for transformation. To improve your understanding and relationship with yourself and others.
I tailor my approach for each client and utilize a variety of evidence based practices such as, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and other cognitive strategies.
Do you find yourself constantly thinking about the future or the past, procrastinating issues in the present, and often feel like you're unable to live in the moment? Trauma, anxiety, and depression can be a great burden on our mental and physical well being. Through training and experience, I’ve learned that our brain and body have an innate ability to heal and recover. It is possible to find peace and feel more confident in who you are. I look at therapy as an opportunity for transformation. To improve your understanding and relationship with yourself and others.
(614) 660-5312 View (614) 660-5312
Photo of Elizabeth Gunther, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Columbus, OH
Elizabeth Gunther
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Columbus, OH 43215
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and other techniques to allow clients to find their own strengths and skills, unlock their full potential, and create positive change in their lives.
I am a Spanish-speaking, geek, LGBTQ+ and Pagan-friendly therapist with experience in community and hospital settings. I enjoy working with clients to help them re-establish balance in their lives and return to their best selves while working through depression, anxiety, anger, grief, and many other challenges.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and other techniques to allow clients to find their own strengths and skills, unlock their full potential, and create positive change in their lives.
I am a Spanish-speaking, geek, LGBTQ+ and Pagan-friendly therapist with experience in community and hospital settings. I enjoy working with clients to help them re-establish balance in their lives and return to their best selves while working through depression, anxiety, anger, grief, and many other challenges.
(614) 953-2759 View (614) 953-2759

See more therapy options for Downtown, Columbus

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.