Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in U Street Corridor, Washington, DC

Photo of Taylor V Pinckney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Taylor V Pinckney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
U Street Corridor, Washington, DC 20009
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy, an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers.
I believes that everyone needs a safe space to process and develop key skills to manage daily life. My goal is to not only provide a safe therapeutic space for individuals to be their full authentic self; but to cultivate a positive space for personal growth.
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy, an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers.
I believes that everyone needs a safe space to process and develop key skills to manage daily life. My goal is to not only provide a safe therapeutic space for individuals to be their full authentic self; but to cultivate a positive space for personal growth.
(202) 760-4896 View (202) 760-4896
Photo of Dr. Royyanna Young, Psychologist, PhD, NCC
Dr. Royyanna Young
Psychologist, PhD, NCC
1 Endorsed
U Street Corridor, Washington, DC 20001
In our work together, we’ll use CBT as the foundation, along with other evidence-based tools that support your goals.
You’re not “too much.” You’re not “behind.” You’re not "broken." You’re a human trying to figure life out and you don’t have to do it alone. Hey! I am Dr. Young, a licensed clinical psychologist, that specializes in navigating ADHD, autism, identity development, and transition-related concerns. Especially for those who are tired of masking, overthinking, or trying to keep up with expectations that never really fit. My role is to meet you exactly where you are, help you make sense of what feels tangled, and support you as you build a life that feels grounded, manageable, and authentically your own.
In our work together, we’ll use CBT as the foundation, along with other evidence-based tools that support your goals.
You’re not “too much.” You’re not “behind.” You’re not "broken." You’re a human trying to figure life out and you don’t have to do it alone. Hey! I am Dr. Young, a licensed clinical psychologist, that specializes in navigating ADHD, autism, identity development, and transition-related concerns. Especially for those who are tired of masking, overthinking, or trying to keep up with expectations that never really fit. My role is to meet you exactly where you are, help you make sense of what feels tangled, and support you as you build a life that feels grounded, manageable, and authentically your own.
(202) 972-4002 View (202) 972-4002
Photo of Gregory Michael Jones - Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness, Psychologist, PsyD, Sex, Therapi
Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, Sex, Therapi
2 Endorsed
U Street Corridor, Washington, DC 20009
I’m an eclectic psychologist trained in CBT, incorporating psychoanalytic, feminist, humanistic, LGBTQ+ affirming, and psychedelic-assisted approaches.
I’m the owner and CEO of the Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness (CCPW), where we offer a wide range of holistic services including therapy (individual, couples, group, sex), psychiatry, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, acupuncture, massage, nutrition, fitness, and more. I’m a clinical psychologist, certified sex therapist, PhD candidate in Sexology, and psychedelic therapist. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex and relationships, trauma, body image, mood and eating disorders, and social justice-informed care.
I’m an eclectic psychologist trained in CBT, incorporating psychoanalytic, feminist, humanistic, LGBTQ+ affirming, and psychedelic-assisted approaches.
I’m the owner and CEO of the Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness (CCPW), where we offer a wide range of holistic services including therapy (individual, couples, group, sex), psychiatry, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, acupuncture, massage, nutrition, fitness, and more. I’m a clinical psychologist, certified sex therapist, PhD candidate in Sexology, and psychedelic therapist. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex and relationships, trauma, body image, mood and eating disorders, and social justice-informed care.
(202) 759-6364 View (202) 759-6364
Photo of Dr. Shy Porter, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Dr. Shy Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
U Street Corridor, Washington, DC 20009
I specialize in working with women who are struggling with infertility, pregnancy, or postpartum challenges; adult individuals trying to cope with daily life challenges; couples who are dating, engaged, married, or contemplating the decision to stay or leave; and adolescents and young adults navigating life transitions. Through a collaborative and engaged process, we will work together to help you gain insight and self-awareness, find inner peace, achieve your goals, and/or, in the context of couples therapy, navigate the challenges of your relationship in order to regain stability, trust, and emotional safety.
I specialize in working with women who are struggling with infertility, pregnancy, or postpartum challenges; adult individuals trying to cope with daily life challenges; couples who are dating, engaged, married, or contemplating the decision to stay or leave; and adolescents and young adults navigating life transitions. Through a collaborative and engaged process, we will work together to help you gain insight and self-awareness, find inner peace, achieve your goals, and/or, in the context of couples therapy, navigate the challenges of your relationship in order to regain stability, trust, and emotional safety.
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Photo of Luis Ocampo, Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Luis Ocampo
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
U Street Corridor, Washington, DC 20009
In our work, we will use an integrative framework from evidence-based theories, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-based Theory, and Psychodynamic and Mindfulness practices.
I’m Luis Ocampo, a third-year doctoral student at The Chicago School, and I’m also a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) in Washington, D.C. My passion for helping others grew through volunteer work in churches, supporting underserved communities, low-income families, and individuals battling addiction. Today, I work with people facing challenges like PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, social anxiety, attachment issues, and relationship concerns.
In our work, we will use an integrative framework from evidence-based theories, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-based Theory, and Psychodynamic and Mindfulness practices.
I’m Luis Ocampo, a third-year doctoral student at The Chicago School, and I’m also a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) in Washington, D.C. My passion for helping others grew through volunteer work in churches, supporting underserved communities, low-income families, and individuals battling addiction. Today, I work with people facing challenges like PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, social anxiety, attachment issues, and relationship concerns.
(202) 952-5550 View (202) 952-5550
Photo of Dr. Cayla Leung, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Cayla Leung
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
U Street Corridor, Washington, DC 20009
Feeling stuck in relationship patterns that keep repeating? Struggling with overwhelming emotions that seem impossible to manage? Whether you're navigating family tensions, workplace stress, or major life transitions, you don't have to face it alone. You may be balancing multiple cultural identities, wrestling with family expectations versus your own path, or seeking identity-affirming care. Perhaps you're a college student overwhelmed by pressure, or someone wanting to understand why painful dynamics keep surfacing. You're ready to heal from trauma, manage intense feelings, and exist authentically without constant self-criticism.
Feeling stuck in relationship patterns that keep repeating? Struggling with overwhelming emotions that seem impossible to manage? Whether you're navigating family tensions, workplace stress, or major life transitions, you don't have to face it alone. You may be balancing multiple cultural identities, wrestling with family expectations versus your own path, or seeking identity-affirming care. Perhaps you're a college student overwhelmed by pressure, or someone wanting to understand why painful dynamics keep surfacing. You're ready to heal from trauma, manage intense feelings, and exist authentically without constant self-criticism.
(470) 928-4257 View (470) 928-4257
Photo of Joshua Kline, Psychologist, PsyD
Joshua Kline
Psychologist, PsyD
U Street Corridor, Washington, DC 20009
From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties.
I provide individual therapy for a range of presentations, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, gender/sexuality, identity development, relationship & interpersonal issues, ADHD, life transitions, and stress. I work with adults, with a special interest in working with anxiety disorders, those with ADHD, and with LGBTQIA+ individuals.
From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties.
I provide individual therapy for a range of presentations, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, gender/sexuality, identity development, relationship & interpersonal issues, ADHD, life transitions, and stress. I work with adults, with a special interest in working with anxiety disorders, those with ADHD, and with LGBTQIA+ individuals.
(202) 816-7916 View (202) 816-7916
Photo of Aisha Marie Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MSW
Aisha Marie Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am also trained in DBT, CBT, Grief and Trauma Interventions and Solution Focused Therapies.
I believe everyone has the ability to learn new ways to cope and view their personal situation differently. Therapy is a place where you can access your most authentic self and allow the therapeutic process to guide healing. Through creating a safe, comfortable and trusting environment clients will be able to share honestly and receive genuine feedback. My approach is supportive and client centered. You are the expert of your past and together we will explore patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors to establish improved ways of being and building relationships with others to help shape your future.
I am also trained in DBT, CBT, Grief and Trauma Interventions and Solution Focused Therapies.
I believe everyone has the ability to learn new ways to cope and view their personal situation differently. Therapy is a place where you can access your most authentic self and allow the therapeutic process to guide healing. Through creating a safe, comfortable and trusting environment clients will be able to share honestly and receive genuine feedback. My approach is supportive and client centered. You are the expert of your past and together we will explore patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors to establish improved ways of being and building relationships with others to help shape your future.
(301) 298-2537 View (301) 298-2537
Photo of Emily Star, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Emily Star
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
U Street Corridor, Washington, DC 20001
Waitlist for new clients
In much of my work, I use cognitive and exposure-based therapies (such as ERP, I- CBT, ACT and DBT) to help people with anxiety, panic and OCD.
It's normal to be going through a hard time. But if you haven’t yet discovered what helps you manage your unique stressors, relationships, and boundaries, then life likely feels so much harder than it needs to. If you're feeling stuck, having an outside perspective can help you see different paths through a difficult terrain. Whether your troubles stem from internal or external issues, I know that by creating a warm and reflective space where we explore your worries, challenges, and motivations, you can find places of relief and even joy.
In much of my work, I use cognitive and exposure-based therapies (such as ERP, I- CBT, ACT and DBT) to help people with anxiety, panic and OCD.
It's normal to be going through a hard time. But if you haven’t yet discovered what helps you manage your unique stressors, relationships, and boundaries, then life likely feels so much harder than it needs to. If you're feeling stuck, having an outside perspective can help you see different paths through a difficult terrain. Whether your troubles stem from internal or external issues, I know that by creating a warm and reflective space where we explore your worries, challenges, and motivations, you can find places of relief and even joy.
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Photo of Dr. W. Max Hurley-Welljams-Dorof, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. W. Max Hurley-Welljams-Dorof
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I also provide psychological assessment, including both cognitive and emotional-social functioning.
I approach the therapeutic relationship from an open, honest and nonjudgmental perspective. I provide individual, relationship, group, and family therapy to folks with a vast range of struggles, including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, trauma, gender/sexuality, identity development, relationship issues, social adversity, and grief & loss. While I work with all individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+, college-aged, and Veteran populations.
I also provide psychological assessment, including both cognitive and emotional-social functioning.
I approach the therapeutic relationship from an open, honest and nonjudgmental perspective. I provide individual, relationship, group, and family therapy to folks with a vast range of struggles, including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, trauma, gender/sexuality, identity development, relationship issues, social adversity, and grief & loss. While I work with all individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+, college-aged, and Veteran populations.
(202) 831-1752 View (202) 831-1752
Photo of Lauren Rothstein, Psychologist, PhD
Lauren Rothstein
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Cognitive Behavioral psychologist who values eclecticism and integrating different therapeutic approaches to best meet each individual’s current perceived needs and goals.
I believe that the individual brings the expertise of their experiences to the table while I bring my clinical expertise, lending to a true partnership in the therapy relationship. In my clinical work, I value using a collaborative and evidence-based approach to treatment.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral psychologist who values eclecticism and integrating different therapeutic approaches to best meet each individual’s current perceived needs and goals.
I believe that the individual brings the expertise of their experiences to the table while I bring my clinical expertise, lending to a true partnership in the therapy relationship. In my clinical work, I value using a collaborative and evidence-based approach to treatment.
(202) 804-3217 View (202) 804-3217
Photo of Gabrielle V Swisher, Psychological Associate, PhD
Gabrielle V Swisher
Psychological Associate, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. My name is Dr. Swisher, and I hold a doctorate in clinical psychology. Currently, I practice as a psychological associate. I have received extensive post-doctoral training from MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and the Integrated Behavioral Health Team at the University of New Mexico Hospital. My expertise focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and older adults, as well as family-based care. In our therapy sessions, you can expect a collaborative approach grounded in scientifically supported, evidence-based practices, with an emphasis on mindfulness and relationality.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. My name is Dr. Swisher, and I hold a doctorate in clinical psychology. Currently, I practice as a psychological associate. I have received extensive post-doctoral training from MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and the Integrated Behavioral Health Team at the University of New Mexico Hospital. My expertise focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and older adults, as well as family-based care. In our therapy sessions, you can expect a collaborative approach grounded in scientifically supported, evidence-based practices, with an emphasis on mindfulness and relationality.
(202) 868-8794 View (202) 868-8794
Photo of Katherine Maestre Caro, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Katherine Maestre Caro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Estoy especializada en Terapia de Pareja Focalizada en las Emociones (EFT), con más de 20 años de experiencia en psicoterapia CBT.
I didn't want to hurt you and never stopped loving you; isn't that enough?.../ Continuing the relationship is overwhelming, but I can't abandon my children.../ It's a relief not to have to keep lying. Can we keep going?.../ The money from our future disappeared, and you invested without my approval and betrayed me.../ My mother passed, and you were not there for me; your work was more important.../ These are the conflicts you are probably facing struggling. Now, I would like to help you whether to leave or stay. Part of you wants to trust again, but another is afraid that your partner's change will be temporary and you will be hurt.
Estoy especializada en Terapia de Pareja Focalizada en las Emociones (EFT), con más de 20 años de experiencia en psicoterapia CBT.
I didn't want to hurt you and never stopped loving you; isn't that enough?.../ Continuing the relationship is overwhelming, but I can't abandon my children.../ It's a relief not to have to keep lying. Can we keep going?.../ The money from our future disappeared, and you invested without my approval and betrayed me.../ My mother passed, and you were not there for me; your work was more important.../ These are the conflicts you are probably facing struggling. Now, I would like to help you whether to leave or stay. Part of you wants to trust again, but another is afraid that your partner's change will be temporary and you will be hurt.
(202) 866-4039 View (202) 866-4039
Photo of Sheila Rae Strain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Sheila Rae Strain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Online Only
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused strategies, and mindfulness-based techniques.
I specialize in helping adults navigate stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. Many clients come to therapy wanting space to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and feel more grounded. My style is warm, collaborative, and supportive. I use evidence-based therapy, mindfulness, and coaching-informed strategies to help you strengthen coping skills, build confidence, and move forward with a greater sense of balance and direction.
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused strategies, and mindfulness-based techniques.
I specialize in helping adults navigate stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. Many clients come to therapy wanting space to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and feel more grounded. My style is warm, collaborative, and supportive. I use evidence-based therapy, mindfulness, and coaching-informed strategies to help you strengthen coping skills, build confidence, and move forward with a greater sense of balance and direction.
(202) 798-3911 View (202) 798-3911
Photo of Paul El-Meouchy, Counselor, MA, LPA, LGPC
Paul El-Meouchy
Counselor, MA, LPA, LGPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I was trained both psychodynamically and in the use of cognitive behavioral therapy.
Sometimes, we feel sad, angry, frustrated, disappointed, hurt, or find ourselves repeating patterns, but we are not sure why. Whether it's relationship or work issues, life can throw us curveballs. I look forward to working with those who need guidance, regardless of whether you have been in therapy before or just trying it out; together, we can uncover new pathways to your well-being.
I was trained both psychodynamically and in the use of cognitive behavioral therapy.
Sometimes, we feel sad, angry, frustrated, disappointed, hurt, or find ourselves repeating patterns, but we are not sure why. Whether it's relationship or work issues, life can throw us curveballs. I look forward to working with those who need guidance, regardless of whether you have been in therapy before or just trying it out; together, we can uncover new pathways to your well-being.
(844) 987-4171 View (844) 987-4171
Photo of Adina Tabor - Adina Tabor LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Adina Tabor LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is client-centered, trauma-informed, and individual value-based that integrates: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Problem-Solving Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy.
Licensed Clinical Therapist — Serving Residents of NY, DC, VA. Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, stuck in unhelpful patterns or having difficulty navigating a major life transition? I’m here to help. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-NY, LICSW-DC) offering psychotherapy to adults seeking meaningful and lasting change. My style is warm, empowering, and solution-focused—and I meet you where you are, with compassion and collaboration. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, burnout, life transitions/relationship issues, my goal is to help you uncover your resilience and move forward with clarity and confidence.
My practice is client-centered, trauma-informed, and individual value-based that integrates: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Problem-Solving Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy.
Licensed Clinical Therapist — Serving Residents of NY, DC, VA. Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, stuck in unhelpful patterns or having difficulty navigating a major life transition? I’m here to help. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-NY, LICSW-DC) offering psychotherapy to adults seeking meaningful and lasting change. My style is warm, empowering, and solution-focused—and I meet you where you are, with compassion and collaboration. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, burnout, life transitions/relationship issues, my goal is to help you uncover your resilience and move forward with clarity and confidence.
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Photo of Abigail Heit, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Abigail Heit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Online Only
Are you navigating the mental load of motherhood while feeling like no one sees the depth of what you’re carrying? You're not alone, and you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in perinatal mental health and hold a PMH-C certification (Perinatal Mental Health–Certified), which means I have advanced training to support clients through pregnancy, postpartum, and the complex transition into parenthood.
Are you navigating the mental load of motherhood while feeling like no one sees the depth of what you’re carrying? You're not alone, and you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in perinatal mental health and hold a PMH-C certification (Perinatal Mental Health–Certified), which means I have advanced training to support clients through pregnancy, postpartum, and the complex transition into parenthood.
(703) 782-5584 View (703) 782-5584
Photo of Jessica Goodman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Jessica Goodman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
My training (Gottman Method, CBT, CPT, pursuing Sex Therapy certification) allows me to understand a broad experience of humanity and adapt to client needs, from being a patient listener, "tough-love" challenger, or co-conspirator, figuring it out together.
You want a better version of yourself, your relationships and your life. Sometimes it's easier to think than feel–maybe even overthink–about how to live, be, and relate to others well, but you may have had some experiences that make this feel almost impossible. You want more authenticity in relationships with others, yourself, and even in your sex life. We will fit well together if you thrive on exploration, encouragement, challenging questions, and occasional redirection toward larger goals. We will be talking about relationships, intimacy, families of origin, career, or general stress of life that leads to feelings of discomfort.
My training (Gottman Method, CBT, CPT, pursuing Sex Therapy certification) allows me to understand a broad experience of humanity and adapt to client needs, from being a patient listener, "tough-love" challenger, or co-conspirator, figuring it out together.
You want a better version of yourself, your relationships and your life. Sometimes it's easier to think than feel–maybe even overthink–about how to live, be, and relate to others well, but you may have had some experiences that make this feel almost impossible. You want more authenticity in relationships with others, yourself, and even in your sex life. We will fit well together if you thrive on exploration, encouragement, challenging questions, and occasional redirection toward larger goals. We will be talking about relationships, intimacy, families of origin, career, or general stress of life that leads to feelings of discomfort.
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Photo of Dr. Nyasha Chikowore, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Nyasha Chikowore
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
U Street Corridor, Washington, DC 20009
Not accepting new clients
My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and tailored to your needs, drawing from CBT and other evidence-based interventions.
I work with adolescents and adults navigating concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, relationship challenges, work or academic stress, family conflict, identity exploration (including gender and sexual identity), and the impacts of racism and marginalization. Some of my clients are coming to therapy for the first time, while others are returning because they’re ready for something different or deeper. What they tend to share is a readiness to engage honestly in the process and a desire for meaningful change, even if they’re unsure where to start.
My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and tailored to your needs, drawing from CBT and other evidence-based interventions.
I work with adolescents and adults navigating concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, relationship challenges, work or academic stress, family conflict, identity exploration (including gender and sexual identity), and the impacts of racism and marginalization. Some of my clients are coming to therapy for the first time, while others are returning because they’re ready for something different or deeper. What they tend to share is a readiness to engage honestly in the process and a desire for meaningful change, even if they’re unsure where to start.
(202) 559-7339 View (202) 559-7339

Online Therapists

Photo of LaRita Mullins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaRita Mullins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Washington, DC 20018
Hello, I'm LaRita, a licensed clinical social worker with over 24 years of experience working with adults and couples. My goal is to help you identify and understand the underlying factors contributing to your challenges. Together, we can develop personalized strategies and coping mechanisms to overcome obstacles, manage stress, and improve your overall well-being. By offering different viewpoints, I can help you gain new insights and perspectives on your challenges, leading to increased self-awareness, personal growth, and the ability to make healthier choices. I provide relevant information and resources to enhance your knowledge
Hello, I'm LaRita, a licensed clinical social worker with over 24 years of experience working with adults and couples. My goal is to help you identify and understand the underlying factors contributing to your challenges. Together, we can develop personalized strategies and coping mechanisms to overcome obstacles, manage stress, and improve your overall well-being. By offering different viewpoints, I can help you gain new insights and perspectives on your challenges, leading to increased self-awareness, personal growth, and the ability to make healthier choices. I provide relevant information and resources to enhance your knowledge
(202) 914-5229 View (202) 914-5229
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.