Photo of Mira Farrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Mira Farrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
As a therapist I use evidence-based practices that utilize elements of Narrative therapy, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and other modalities depending on the situation and your needs.
Life can be complicated and stressful at times and change can include triggers making the journey complicated. During these times it is human to reach out for empathy, support, and safety. My therapy approach is guided by the needs of each individual I work with. We will collaboratively create affirming, safe space to share and address your needs and concerns, explore potential solutions, and honor growth, no matter what stage your are at along your journey to a more fulfilled life. I employ a psychodynamic approach to therapy for healing of trauma and identity exploration. I treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
As a therapist I use evidence-based practices that utilize elements of Narrative therapy, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and other modalities depending on the situation and your needs.
Life can be complicated and stressful at times and change can include triggers making the journey complicated. During these times it is human to reach out for empathy, support, and safety. My therapy approach is guided by the needs of each individual I work with. We will collaboratively create affirming, safe space to share and address your needs and concerns, explore potential solutions, and honor growth, no matter what stage your are at along your journey to a more fulfilled life. I employ a psychodynamic approach to therapy for healing of trauma and identity exploration. I treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
(206) 203-7335 View (206) 203-7335
Photo of Cheyenne McGuire, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Cheyenne McGuire
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
My practice is based in Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy practices (TF-CBT).
As a sex, marriage, and family therapist, I am happy to work with individuals and any relational constellation that fits you. I strive to enhance safety from an anti-oppressive and inclusive framework. A passion of mine is working with those looking to reclaim their sexual selves. My areas of focus is working with those who have experienced sexual trauma, particularly those impacted by purity culture, and pelvic pain disorders. I enjoy working with those who are looking to reclaim their pleasure and desire. Other specialties of mine are helping folks navigate gender and explore sexual identity and orientation.
My practice is based in Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy practices (TF-CBT).
As a sex, marriage, and family therapist, I am happy to work with individuals and any relational constellation that fits you. I strive to enhance safety from an anti-oppressive and inclusive framework. A passion of mine is working with those looking to reclaim their sexual selves. My areas of focus is working with those who have experienced sexual trauma, particularly those impacted by purity culture, and pelvic pain disorders. I enjoy working with those who are looking to reclaim their pleasure and desire. Other specialties of mine are helping folks navigate gender and explore sexual identity and orientation.
(425) 407-5989 View (425) 407-5989
Photo of Marcy Reynolds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Marcy Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with acceptance practice and skill building for coping with stressors best describe my clinical approach.
Welcome. Seeking a change in your life? Imagine working together to map your path; exploring options and moving forward from the place you are in now to where you'd like to be. I am committed to finding an approach suited to your strengths and needs without judgement. Over the past 16 years, I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings as a mental health professional and social worker.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with acceptance practice and skill building for coping with stressors best describe my clinical approach.
Welcome. Seeking a change in your life? Imagine working together to map your path; exploring options and moving forward from the place you are in now to where you'd like to be. I am committed to finding an approach suited to your strengths and needs without judgement. Over the past 16 years, I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings as a mental health professional and social worker.
(206) 761-0916 View (206) 761-0916
Photo of Jixia Ao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Jixia Ao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I combine a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques, including psychodynamic, interpersonal, narrative, CBT, and DBT.
I work with teens and adults who are navigating life transitions, searching for direction, or who are struggling with the effects of depression, anxiety, or trauma. As a queer and genderqueer second-generation Chinese American, I offer an affirming environment for LGBTQ, BIPOC, and QTPOC folks, and people with other marginalized identities.
I combine a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques, including psychodynamic, interpersonal, narrative, CBT, and DBT.
I work with teens and adults who are navigating life transitions, searching for direction, or who are struggling with the effects of depression, anxiety, or trauma. As a queer and genderqueer second-generation Chinese American, I offer an affirming environment for LGBTQ, BIPOC, and QTPOC folks, and people with other marginalized identities.
(206) 539-1881 View (206) 539-1881
Photo of Alex Holt (Blitzer), Counselor in Seattle, WA
Alex Holt (Blitzer)
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
Alexandra has specialized training in Cognitive Processing Therapy, a short-term and highly-effective form of trauma treatment.
Alexandra Blitzer is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. She earned both her undergraduate degree in Sociology and her master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from the University of New Orleans. Alexandra provides therapy from the comfort of your home via teletherapy.
Alexandra has specialized training in Cognitive Processing Therapy, a short-term and highly-effective form of trauma treatment.
Alexandra Blitzer is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. She earned both her undergraduate degree in Sociology and her master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from the University of New Orleans. Alexandra provides therapy from the comfort of your home via teletherapy.
(206) 589-1263 View (206) 589-1263
Photo of Columbia City MIndfulness and DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Columbia City MIndfulness and DBT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is rooted in the wisdom teachings of Buddhist Psychology and Western Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy.
I welcome people who are facing any number of challenges including life transitions such as divorce, job loss, illness, death of a loved one; all shifting the ground beneath us in dramatic ways. What worked no longer works. My trMy training as a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher complements training and practice in psychotherapy addressing a dysregulated emotion system resulting in various symptoms such as anxiety, panic, depression, and identity disturbance and sometimes even a desire to die or hurt oneself. There can be a painful sense of isolation and feeling unmoored. There is a way out; first understanding, then tools to heal.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is rooted in the wisdom teachings of Buddhist Psychology and Western Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy.
I welcome people who are facing any number of challenges including life transitions such as divorce, job loss, illness, death of a loved one; all shifting the ground beneath us in dramatic ways. What worked no longer works. My trMy training as a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher complements training and practice in psychotherapy addressing a dysregulated emotion system resulting in various symptoms such as anxiety, panic, depression, and identity disturbance and sometimes even a desire to die or hurt oneself. There can be a painful sense of isolation and feeling unmoored. There is a way out; first understanding, then tools to heal.
(206) 752-6263 View (206) 752-6263
Photo of Elliot Wallace, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Elliot Wallace
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I approach therapy through an integrative lens, combining feminist theory, social justice, cultural humility, and evidenced-based practices including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and exposure therapy.
I am welcoming of all clients from all different backgrounds and experience with therapy. I am open to all issues, needs, and goals. I am confident together we can work towards developing coping skills, enhancing healthy patterns, and increasing overall well-being.
I approach therapy through an integrative lens, combining feminist theory, social justice, cultural humility, and evidenced-based practices including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and exposure therapy.
I am welcoming of all clients from all different backgrounds and experience with therapy. I am open to all issues, needs, and goals. I am confident together we can work towards developing coping skills, enhancing healthy patterns, and increasing overall well-being.
(206) 222-8734 View (206) 222-8734
Photo of Lambert S Rochfort, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Lambert S Rochfort
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
My approach is primarily cognitive/behavioral and most of my training is in CBT, DBT and ACT but I also draw on other modalities including IFS, art therapy, ecological, and humanistic approaches.
I assist clients in building skills and acquiring tools to align their life with their values and vision. I help clients identify their own strengths and wisdom to effectively face life's challenges, achieve goals and create lasting changes. I consider the social and cultural factors that impact each person's ways of being, how they are treated in this world, and how they adapt to difficult experiences. I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental, creative and hopeful space that is conducive to self-exploration and transformation.
My approach is primarily cognitive/behavioral and most of my training is in CBT, DBT and ACT but I also draw on other modalities including IFS, art therapy, ecological, and humanistic approaches.
I assist clients in building skills and acquiring tools to align their life with their values and vision. I help clients identify their own strengths and wisdom to effectively face life's challenges, achieve goals and create lasting changes. I consider the social and cultural factors that impact each person's ways of being, how they are treated in this world, and how they adapt to difficult experiences. I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental, creative and hopeful space that is conducive to self-exploration and transformation.
(206) 207-0654 View (206) 207-0654
Photo of Jeff Wagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Jeff Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I provide in-person individual and couples therapy, as well as individual telehealth therapy! I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other issues with training in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, CPT, Dialectical Behavorial Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy, and more!
I provide in-person individual and couples therapy, as well as individual telehealth therapy! I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other issues with training in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, CPT, Dialectical Behavorial Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy, and more!
(206) 984-3598 View (206) 984-3598
Photo of Simone Bullinger, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Simone Bullinger
Counselor, MACP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
The theories that guide my approach to counseling include Liberation Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Therapy, among others.
I am a mixed-race, queer womxn of Nigerian and German heritage residing upon unceded Coast Salish and Duwamish lands. I am a person-centered and holistically focused therapist who is committed to centering the experiences of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Queer Folk, although I serve individuals, couples, and youth from all walks of life. I embrace a holistic view of well-being. I believe that connection to self, others, nature, and the transcendent can contribute to a healthy state of being. I utilize the application of Liberation, and social justice frameworks while adapting and incorporating new techniques as needed.
The theories that guide my approach to counseling include Liberation Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Therapy, among others.
I am a mixed-race, queer womxn of Nigerian and German heritage residing upon unceded Coast Salish and Duwamish lands. I am a person-centered and holistically focused therapist who is committed to centering the experiences of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Queer Folk, although I serve individuals, couples, and youth from all walks of life. I embrace a holistic view of well-being. I believe that connection to self, others, nature, and the transcendent can contribute to a healthy state of being. I utilize the application of Liberation, and social justice frameworks while adapting and incorporating new techniques as needed.
(206) 456-6145 View (206) 456-6145
Photo of Svetlana Shjerven, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Svetlana Shjerven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
Waitlist for new clients
I also draw from CBT, MI, Narrative, strengths-based, somatic and mindfulness approaches.
I believe in the importance of feeling connected in relationships, to our environment, and to ourselves. Addressing the “here and now” that arises during therapy allows our sessions to adapt and work with the difficult emotions or thoughts that come up, in an environment that is judgment free and safe. I specialize in working with those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, agoraphobia, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, grief and chronic pain, among other issues. I am LGBTQIA+, gender-affirming, and enjoy working with clients along the spectrum of neurodiversity and disability.
I also draw from CBT, MI, Narrative, strengths-based, somatic and mindfulness approaches.
I believe in the importance of feeling connected in relationships, to our environment, and to ourselves. Addressing the “here and now” that arises during therapy allows our sessions to adapt and work with the difficult emotions or thoughts that come up, in an environment that is judgment free and safe. I specialize in working with those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, agoraphobia, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, grief and chronic pain, among other issues. I am LGBTQIA+, gender-affirming, and enjoy working with clients along the spectrum of neurodiversity and disability.
(206) 347-8488 View (206) 347-8488
Photo of Katie Roskilly, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Katie Roskilly
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I utilize skills and techniques from CBT and Narrative Therapy, alongside Gottman-style work in relationship sessions.
Life can be isolating at times. This is especially true when you add in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, chronic illness, and Queerness, cultural, and relationship issues. We hold so many identities and struggles that influence who we are and how we move through our place in the world. It is essential to find yourself among those identities and move into the whole version of yourself that finds comfort in the here and now. This includes finding your community and support through all that life throws at us. As a therapist, I move through sessions with a person-centered, feminist, and multicultural lens.
I utilize skills and techniques from CBT and Narrative Therapy, alongside Gottman-style work in relationship sessions.
Life can be isolating at times. This is especially true when you add in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, chronic illness, and Queerness, cultural, and relationship issues. We hold so many identities and struggles that influence who we are and how we move through our place in the world. It is essential to find yourself among those identities and move into the whole version of yourself that finds comfort in the here and now. This includes finding your community and support through all that life throws at us. As a therapist, I move through sessions with a person-centered, feminist, and multicultural lens.
(425) 521-6691 View (425) 521-6691
Photo of Tilda Cvrkel, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Tilda Cvrkel
Counselor, PhD, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe the best therapy is grounded in up-to-date science, and I use research-backed interventions, including CBT and DBT.
**Not currently accepting new clients. Please contact me if you'd like to be added to my waitlist.* Some of my clients find me after a lifetime of perfectionism and self-judgement, working (too) hard to make everything seem okay from the outside and paying (too) high a price for doing it. Some find me because they have experienced, or witnessed, something horrific or traumatic. Some find me because intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors are starting to take over their lives. Some find me because the stress of their job is becoming too much. And some find me because they feel shame and anguish around sex or their bodies.
I believe the best therapy is grounded in up-to-date science, and I use research-backed interventions, including CBT and DBT.
**Not currently accepting new clients. Please contact me if you'd like to be added to my waitlist.* Some of my clients find me after a lifetime of perfectionism and self-judgement, working (too) hard to make everything seem okay from the outside and paying (too) high a price for doing it. Some find me because they have experienced, or witnessed, something horrific or traumatic. Some find me because intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors are starting to take over their lives. Some find me because the stress of their job is becoming too much. And some find me because they feel shame and anguish around sex or their bodies.
(206) 222-3283 View (206) 222-3283
Photo of Blair Morgan-Livingston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Blair Morgan-Livingston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I believe in the importance of helping individuals seeking to show up authentically in all parts of their lives. Through compassion, non-judgmental guidance, and by challenging patterns where you find yourself stuck, we are able to promote personal growth and change. I work with individuals and couples to better understand their boundaries and how to strengthen their ability to communicate them. My approach to counseling is informed by CBT, ACT, Psychodynamic, and EMDR. EMDR therapy is an effective therapy method that supports healing from trauma, ingrained negative core beliefs, and other distressing life experiences.
I believe in the importance of helping individuals seeking to show up authentically in all parts of their lives. Through compassion, non-judgmental guidance, and by challenging patterns where you find yourself stuck, we are able to promote personal growth and change. I work with individuals and couples to better understand their boundaries and how to strengthen their ability to communicate them. My approach to counseling is informed by CBT, ACT, Psychodynamic, and EMDR. EMDR therapy is an effective therapy method that supports healing from trauma, ingrained negative core beliefs, and other distressing life experiences.
(206) 823-3277 View (206) 823-3277
Photo of Arren Lenau, Social Worker Associate in Seattle, WA
Arren Lenau
Social Worker Associate, LSWAIC, MSW, MHP, MFA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I draw from motivational interviewing, ACT, CBT, DBT and clinical hypnosis.
My interests are in working with adults that have experienced trauma, grief and loss, religious trauma, family of origin issues, people diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, and Depression, as well as LGBTQIA+ people and people experiencing gender dysphoria and/or seeking gender affirming surgery. As a social worker, I believe it is important to name systemic oppressions, such as racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, classism, capitalism and the ways they intersect in order to acknowledge the harm we continue to experience on a daily basis.
I draw from motivational interviewing, ACT, CBT, DBT and clinical hypnosis.
My interests are in working with adults that have experienced trauma, grief and loss, religious trauma, family of origin issues, people diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, and Depression, as well as LGBTQIA+ people and people experiencing gender dysphoria and/or seeking gender affirming surgery. As a social worker, I believe it is important to name systemic oppressions, such as racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, classism, capitalism and the ways they intersect in order to acknowledge the harm we continue to experience on a daily basis.
(206) 895-7326 View (206) 895-7326
Photo of Maria Costello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Maria Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98155  (Online Only)
I utilize therapeutic interventions drawn from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Somatic Experiencing.
I specialize in treating trauma-related disorders, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety, using a compassionate and client-centered approach. Over the years, I've had the privilege of guiding many individuals through the complexities of trauma, addiction, and codependency. I am dedicated to working with clients who are struggling to cope with the aftermath of trauma in their daily lives. Whether you're facing challenges in managing emotions, maintaining relationships, or simply navigating daily stressors, my comprehensive and skilled approach will help you find healing, hope, and stability.
I utilize therapeutic interventions drawn from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Somatic Experiencing.
I specialize in treating trauma-related disorders, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety, using a compassionate and client-centered approach. Over the years, I've had the privilege of guiding many individuals through the complexities of trauma, addiction, and codependency. I am dedicated to working with clients who are struggling to cope with the aftermath of trauma in their daily lives. Whether you're facing challenges in managing emotions, maintaining relationships, or simply navigating daily stressors, my comprehensive and skilled approach will help you find healing, hope, and stability.
(206) 594-5154 View (206) 594-5154
Photo of Niki Oliphant, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Niki Oliphant
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
I utilize tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
My aim in counseling is to create a judgment free space where clients can feel comfortable being their authentic selves in all of their identities. I believe it’s important to meet clients exactly where they are, allowing them to feel heard and supported throughout life's challenges. I work with a wide variety of mental health concerns including chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I strive to create a safe space for emotional expression with clients as well as creating meaningful change in their lives.
I utilize tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
My aim in counseling is to create a judgment free space where clients can feel comfortable being their authentic selves in all of their identities. I believe it’s important to meet clients exactly where they are, allowing them to feel heard and supported throughout life's challenges. I work with a wide variety of mental health concerns including chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I strive to create a safe space for emotional expression with clients as well as creating meaningful change in their lives.
(509) 749-8796 View (509) 749-8796
Photo of Carlos del Rio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Carlos del Rio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, LSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and trauma survivors with an approach rooted in the sincere belief that you are the expert on your own life. I use both somatic and cognitive therapies, to assist you in connecting with why and how you react to the world around you.
I'm passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and trauma survivors with an approach rooted in the sincere belief that you are the expert on your own life. I use both somatic and cognitive therapies, to assist you in connecting with why and how you react to the world around you.
(206) 672-6915 View (206) 672-6915
Photo of Dr. Julie Kinn, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Julie Kinn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Dr. Julie Kinn, a licensed clinical and research psychologist who specializes in treatment of anxiety, OCD, intimacy, and sleep disorders using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure & response prevention (ERP), and motivational interviewing. I serve individuals age 13 and up in: Washington, Texas, Maine, and Utah. I am known for my sense of humor and my research on health technology. I have worked with adults, children, teens, and their families since 2000. I am sex-positive, encouraging, and warm in every interaction.
I'm Dr. Julie Kinn, a licensed clinical and research psychologist who specializes in treatment of anxiety, OCD, intimacy, and sleep disorders using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure & response prevention (ERP), and motivational interviewing. I serve individuals age 13 and up in: Washington, Texas, Maine, and Utah. I am known for my sense of humor and my research on health technology. I have worked with adults, children, teens, and their families since 2000. I am sex-positive, encouraging, and warm in every interaction.
(360) 641-7681 View (360) 641-7681
Photo of Mallory Lowell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Mallory Lowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Welcome to a safe space for healing and empowerment. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist who combines theraputic techniques, including CBT, EMDR and IFS, with knowledge gained from 10 years of non-profit work supporting survivors of violence on their journeys. My approach is rooted in a strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed philosophy, fostering a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship.
Welcome to a safe space for healing and empowerment. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist who combines theraputic techniques, including CBT, EMDR and IFS, with knowledge gained from 10 years of non-profit work supporting survivors of violence on their journeys. My approach is rooted in a strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed philosophy, fostering a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship.
(206) 649-5666 View (206) 649-5666
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.