Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Miami, FL

Photo of Natalie Davidow, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Natalie Davidow
Counselor, MS, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients! Have you ever felt like you were struggling to work through some of life's challenges but thought it wasn't serious enough to get help? I believe that therapy is helpful not only to work through difficult times but also to gain a new perspective and identify our strengths and give us the tools to maintain a healthy mind. We often face the uneasiness of new experiences and life transitions that can be hard to manage, especially on our own. If you have ever felt like this, you may have felt overwhelmed, frustrated, and emotionally stuck.
Accepting new clients! Have you ever felt like you were struggling to work through some of life's challenges but thought it wasn't serious enough to get help? I believe that therapy is helpful not only to work through difficult times but also to gain a new perspective and identify our strengths and give us the tools to maintain a healthy mind. We often face the uneasiness of new experiences and life transitions that can be hard to manage, especially on our own. If you have ever felt like this, you may have felt overwhelmed, frustrated, and emotionally stuck.
(786) 558-1736 View (786) 558-1736
Photo of Nathaly Dorvil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, QS
Nathaly Dorvil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, QS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may be juggling work, relationships, and responsibilities while silently feeling anxious, drained, or stuck. On the outside, everything may look “fine,” but internally you’re overwhelmed, overthinking, or struggling to keep it all together. Seeking therapy can be intimidating, but you're making the right decision. Having personally navigated the challenges of mental health stigma, I'm acutely attuned to the diverse cultural backgrounds that shape individuals' experiences.
You may be juggling work, relationships, and responsibilities while silently feeling anxious, drained, or stuck. On the outside, everything may look “fine,” but internally you’re overwhelmed, overthinking, or struggling to keep it all together. Seeking therapy can be intimidating, but you're making the right decision. Having personally navigated the challenges of mental health stigma, I'm acutely attuned to the diverse cultural backgrounds that shape individuals' experiences.
(786) 882-1398 View (786) 882-1398
Photo of Vivian Moore-Gaudette, Counselor, LMHC
Vivian Moore-Gaudette
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
My name is Vivian Yvette Moore-Gaudette. My license is in mental health counseling. My approach to therapy is very eclectic. Clients should not be treated as a one-size-fits-all approach. I am well-versed in numerous techniques to match my clients' needs as they evolve. I have a diverse background in working with a variety of mental health approaches and concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorder, behavioral issues, racial trauma and stressors, and family issues to name a few.
My name is Vivian Yvette Moore-Gaudette. My license is in mental health counseling. My approach to therapy is very eclectic. Clients should not be treated as a one-size-fits-all approach. I am well-versed in numerous techniques to match my clients' needs as they evolve. I have a diverse background in working with a variety of mental health approaches and concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorder, behavioral issues, racial trauma and stressors, and family issues to name a few.
(954) 768-6766 View (954) 768-6766
Photo of Melissa Frieder, Counselor, LMHC, QS
Melissa Frieder
Counselor, LMHC, QS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I successfully work with teenagers, young adults, individuals, couples and families, using cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, person-centered strategies.
I offer convenient telehealth sessions that allow us to connect no matter where you are in the state of Florida. I specialize in providing guidance and support to young adults and adults who are experiencing a difficult time in their life such as navigating a big change or finding the strength to make a big change. I am also a Qualified Supervisor.
I successfully work with teenagers, young adults, individuals, couples and families, using cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, person-centered strategies.
I offer convenient telehealth sessions that allow us to connect no matter where you are in the state of Florida. I specialize in providing guidance and support to young adults and adults who are experiencing a difficult time in their life such as navigating a big change or finding the strength to make a big change. I am also a Qualified Supervisor.
(305) 712-6138 View (305) 712-6138
Photo of Gustavo Alberto Benejam, Psychologist, PsyD
Gustavo Alberto Benejam
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33129
Guided by my client’s unique needs and circumstances, I combine powerful treatment approaches that include insight-oriented therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), EMDR, and cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT).
I am a licensed psychologist practicing in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami FL. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I work with clients to enrich their lives while resolving issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life events, relationship challenges, and self-development. My approach always involves developing a deep understanding of you and your unique experience with warmth, non-judgment, and respect. Beyond improving symptoms and providing effective coping skills, our work will focus on enriching your life in a holistic way—increasing awareness, improving relationships, and connecting with purpose and meaning.
Guided by my client’s unique needs and circumstances, I combine powerful treatment approaches that include insight-oriented therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), EMDR, and cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT).
I am a licensed psychologist practicing in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami FL. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I work with clients to enrich their lives while resolving issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life events, relationship challenges, and self-development. My approach always involves developing a deep understanding of you and your unique experience with warmth, non-judgment, and respect. Beyond improving symptoms and providing effective coping skills, our work will focus on enriching your life in a holistic way—increasing awareness, improving relationships, and connecting with purpose and meaning.
(786) 705-4613 View (786) 705-4613
Photo of Naomi Papirno, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Naomi Papirno
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi. I have been a licensed therapist for over 25 years and have lived in Miami for 45 years. During this time I have worked with children and families in an office setting as well as individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, anger management and many other issues and just generally coping with all that life has thrown at them. My methods vary and my preference is for short term solution oriented therapy.
Hi. I have been a licensed therapist for over 25 years and have lived in Miami for 45 years. During this time I have worked with children and families in an office setting as well as individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, anger management and many other issues and just generally coping with all that life has thrown at them. My methods vary and my preference is for short term solution oriented therapy.
(954) 852-0496 View (954) 852-0496
Photo of Claudia M Camerota - Claudia Molina Camerota, MS, Bilingual Therapist., Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, MS
Claudia Molina Camerota, MS, Bilingual Therapist.
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, MS
Online Only
If you have ADHD and/or autism and have been dealing with anxiety, depression, executive dysfunction, low self-esteem, or burnout, know that you are not alone. As a neurodivergent myself, I understand firsthand what it's like to navigate a world that wasn't designed for brains like ours. Perhaps you got diagnosed as an adult, and while part of you feels relief, there's also confusion, as you begin to understand how years of masking and coping have shaped your experiences and relationships.
If you have ADHD and/or autism and have been dealing with anxiety, depression, executive dysfunction, low self-esteem, or burnout, know that you are not alone. As a neurodivergent myself, I understand firsthand what it's like to navigate a world that wasn't designed for brains like ours. Perhaps you got diagnosed as an adult, and while part of you feels relief, there's also confusion, as you begin to understand how years of masking and coping have shaped your experiences and relationships.
(786) 882-8917 View (786) 882-8917
Photo of Dagmar Mirabal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dagmar Mirabal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF- CBT) and in Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Hi! I’m Dagmar Mirabal, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with over a decade of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. My career spans both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, where I’ve had the privilege of supporting people from diverse backgrounds on their journey toward healing and growth. I employ a trauma-informed approach in my practice.
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF- CBT) and in Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Hi! I’m Dagmar Mirabal, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with over a decade of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. My career spans both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, where I’ve had the privilege of supporting people from diverse backgrounds on their journey toward healing and growth. I employ a trauma-informed approach in my practice.
(786) 841-8460 View (786) 841-8460
Photo of Lulu Skafi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lulu Skafi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
You already checked to make sure your front door was locked, and now you’re going to check again. It’s always the same struggle; an intrusive idea takes root and refuses to let go. From there, it spirals out of control, multiplying into countless variations and scenarios. You know that logically it doesn’t make any sense, but you can’t help yourself. "What's wrong with me?" you keep wondering. You’re constantly trapped in a cycle of distressing thoughts, compelled to engage in repetitive behaviors or safety measures. It's a constant battle, and you long for a life free from the grip of these obsessions and compulsions.
You already checked to make sure your front door was locked, and now you’re going to check again. It’s always the same struggle; an intrusive idea takes root and refuses to let go. From there, it spirals out of control, multiplying into countless variations and scenarios. You know that logically it doesn’t make any sense, but you can’t help yourself. "What's wrong with me?" you keep wondering. You’re constantly trapped in a cycle of distressing thoughts, compelled to engage in repetitive behaviors or safety measures. It's a constant battle, and you long for a life free from the grip of these obsessions and compulsions.
(305) 851-3096 View (305) 851-3096
Photo of Mary Marks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Marks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My approach is through a good therapeutic relationship and a supportive space with CBT and ACT modalities ( Cognitive Restructuring and Acceptance Commitment Therapy).
I treat people from all walks of life and I typically see Depression, Anxiety, and relationship issues in my practice. Also, financial stressors and more serious psychiatric issues such as Bipolar, OCD, and BPD. I am comfortable treating non-suicidal clients and older adults who are ready to help themselves in the process of self-development.
My approach is through a good therapeutic relationship and a supportive space with CBT and ACT modalities ( Cognitive Restructuring and Acceptance Commitment Therapy).
I treat people from all walks of life and I typically see Depression, Anxiety, and relationship issues in my practice. Also, financial stressors and more serious psychiatric issues such as Bipolar, OCD, and BPD. I am comfortable treating non-suicidal clients and older adults who are ready to help themselves in the process of self-development.
(754) 297-0007 View (754) 297-0007
Photo of Katherine L Aparicio, Counselor, LMHC
Katherine L Aparicio
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
My approach is integrative and tailored to your needs, drawing primarily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help you heal from both present-day stressors and past experiences.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? You may be navigating life transitions, relationship stress, cultural or identity challenges, or the lingering impact of past experiences—and doing so can feel exhausting and isolating. You do not have to go through it alone. I am a bilingual therapist dedicated to supporting young adults and adults who want meaningful change and emotional relief. I work collaboratively with clients to build insight, develop practical coping skills, and foster lasting growth—at a pace that feels safe and empowering for you.
My approach is integrative and tailored to your needs, drawing primarily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help you heal from both present-day stressors and past experiences.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? You may be navigating life transitions, relationship stress, cultural or identity challenges, or the lingering impact of past experiences—and doing so can feel exhausting and isolating. You do not have to go through it alone. I am a bilingual therapist dedicated to supporting young adults and adults who want meaningful change and emotional relief. I work collaboratively with clients to build insight, develop practical coping skills, and foster lasting growth—at a pace that feels safe and empowering for you.
(305) 563-2069 View (305) 563-2069
Photo of Carolina Montalvo, Psychologist, PsyD
Carolina Montalvo
Psychologist, PsyD
Miami, FL 33141
I offer individual therapy, EMDR, Ketamine-Assisted EMDR, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), integrating evidence-based approaches including CBT, mindfulness, ACT, and compassion-focused therapy.
You may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled, even if you've tried therapy before. Perhaps you're navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, burnout, or a major life transition and are looking for a thoughtful, attuned clinician who can truly meet you where you are. Or maybe you're curious about EMDR or ketamine-assisted psychotherapy as a new path forward. My clients are seeking clarity, relief, and lasting change. They want to feel more grounded, connected to themselves and others, and empowered to live with greater intention. They're ready for meaningful, compassionate support.
I offer individual therapy, EMDR, Ketamine-Assisted EMDR, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), integrating evidence-based approaches including CBT, mindfulness, ACT, and compassion-focused therapy.
You may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled, even if you've tried therapy before. Perhaps you're navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, burnout, or a major life transition and are looking for a thoughtful, attuned clinician who can truly meet you where you are. Or maybe you're curious about EMDR or ketamine-assisted psychotherapy as a new path forward. My clients are seeking clarity, relief, and lasting change. They want to feel more grounded, connected to themselves and others, and empowered to live with greater intention. They're ready for meaningful, compassionate support.
(786) 833-8475 View (786) 833-8475
Photo of Alecia Rodriguez - Unique Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMFT
Unique Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We provide individual therapy, couples/marriage therapy, healthy sexuality counseling, and juvenile/adult SO treatment. We have extensive experience working with justice involved families and provide comprehensive psychological evaluations.
We provide individual therapy, couples/marriage therapy, healthy sexuality counseling, and juvenile/adult SO treatment. We have extensive experience working with justice involved families and provide comprehensive psychological evaluations.
(786) 839-5607 View (786) 839-5607
Photo of Melisa DeMahy, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Melisa DeMahy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I use core principles from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Person-Centered and Humanistic approaches.
With over 8 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate their emotional and psychological challenges with compassion and integrity. I utilize evidence-based techniques tailored to meet your specific needs, whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sex issues or the stresses of everyday life. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where you can openly express yourself without judgment. We will explore the thoughts and behaviors that may be holding you back, develop practical coping strategies, and work towards personal growth and healing.
I use core principles from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Person-Centered and Humanistic approaches.
With over 8 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate their emotional and psychological challenges with compassion and integrity. I utilize evidence-based techniques tailored to meet your specific needs, whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sex issues or the stresses of everyday life. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where you can openly express yourself without judgment. We will explore the thoughts and behaviors that may be holding you back, develop practical coping strategies, and work towards personal growth and healing.
(786) 745-7757 View (786) 745-7757
Photo of Jonelle K Dougery, Counselor, LMHC, MCAP
Jonelle K Dougery
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP
Miami, FL 33186
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Masters Leveled Certified Addiction Professional and a Qualified Supervisor for Mental Health Counseling Interns. I have experience with a variety of populations and will work with you to develop a treatment plan and address any issues that you may be experiencing. Please contact me to discuss your needs.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Masters Leveled Certified Addiction Professional and a Qualified Supervisor for Mental Health Counseling Interns. I have experience with a variety of populations and will work with you to develop a treatment plan and address any issues that you may be experiencing. Please contact me to discuss your needs.
(305) 501-2746 View (305) 501-2746
Photo of Dr. Lina Haji, Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC
Dr. Lina Haji
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Lina Haji is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychodiagnostics assessment, forensic assessment, risk assessment, dual diagnosis treatment, serious and persistent mental illness, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, CBT as a treatment approach, and substance abuse treatment.
THERAPY AND ASSESSMENT
Lina Haji is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychodiagnostics assessment, forensic assessment, risk assessment, dual diagnosis treatment, serious and persistent mental illness, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, CBT as a treatment approach, and substance abuse treatment.
THERAPY AND ASSESSMENT
(786) 304-2519 View (786) 304-2519
Photo of Dr. Yazmine Marimon, Counselor, LMHC, CAP, SAP
Dr. Yazmine Marimon
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, SAP
Miami, FL 33137
I offer different types of interventions according to your needs and goals such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Couples encounter therapy, Emotional Focused therapy for couples, Mindfulness, EMDR to work with trauma and negative core beliefs and emotions that may feel stuck.
I'm a couple's psychotherapist, sex therapist, trauma informed therapist and EMDR certified. Owner of Prada & Ortiz Men's Sexual Health Center, specialized in men's intimacy including sexual dysfunctions, delay and premature ejaculation, Low Testosterone, Curvature of the penis, Sex addiction, and other physical and psychological conditions. I work with couples to improve their communication, recovery from affair, help them build conflict resolution skills, and improve their intimacy when they feel "like roommates". I conduct intensive couple's sessions integrating Imago Therapy, Emotional Focused and Gottman.
I offer different types of interventions according to your needs and goals such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Couples encounter therapy, Emotional Focused therapy for couples, Mindfulness, EMDR to work with trauma and negative core beliefs and emotions that may feel stuck.
I'm a couple's psychotherapist, sex therapist, trauma informed therapist and EMDR certified. Owner of Prada & Ortiz Men's Sexual Health Center, specialized in men's intimacy including sexual dysfunctions, delay and premature ejaculation, Low Testosterone, Curvature of the penis, Sex addiction, and other physical and psychological conditions. I work with couples to improve their communication, recovery from affair, help them build conflict resolution skills, and improve their intimacy when they feel "like roommates". I conduct intensive couple's sessions integrating Imago Therapy, Emotional Focused and Gottman.
(786) 623-2146 View (786) 623-2146
Photo of Jaquelina Kopytkin, Counselor, LCMHC
Jaquelina Kopytkin
Counselor, LCMHC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 30 years of professional experience providing psychotherapy services. I speak English and Spanish. I provide my clients with a unique approach to helping them identify and achieve specific therapy goals in a confidential, empathetic, and trusting atmosphere. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks and phobias, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and behavioral issues. I have a special experience with midlife and empty nest transitions, career and work issues, aging, loss, divorce, and cultural adjustments.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 30 years of professional experience providing psychotherapy services. I speak English and Spanish. I provide my clients with a unique approach to helping them identify and achieve specific therapy goals in a confidential, empathetic, and trusting atmosphere. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks and phobias, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and behavioral issues. I have a special experience with midlife and empty nest transitions, career and work issues, aging, loss, divorce, and cultural adjustments.
(904) 872-5277 View (904) 872-5277
Photo of Leonel Juan Garciga, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Leonel Juan Garciga
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I integrate a broad range of evidence-based and experiential approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Choice Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Motivational Interviewing, and psychodrama techniques.
I am Leonel J. Garciga, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been practicing in Florida since 2004. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care and believe that effective therapy begins with understanding each person’s unique experiences, strengths, and challenges.
I integrate a broad range of evidence-based and experiential approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Choice Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Motivational Interviewing, and psychodrama techniques.
I am Leonel J. Garciga, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been practicing in Florida since 2004. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care and believe that effective therapy begins with understanding each person’s unique experiences, strengths, and challenges.
(786) 713-9511 View (786) 713-9511
Photo of Dr. Chemika Burkhalter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, MCLC
Dr. Chemika Burkhalter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, MCLC
Online Only
We use an integrative approach grounded in CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness.
Offering virtual therapy services in Virginia, Alabama, and Florida. You’re ready for something different—more peace, more purpose, more you. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, or major life changes, you don’t have to do it alone. I’m a licensed clinical social worker and certified life coach with more than two decades of experience, leading a diverse team that’s here to help you heal, grow, and show up fully in your life. We’ll help you tap into your strengths, build resilience, and move toward the clarity, confidence, and fulfillment you’ve been craving.
We use an integrative approach grounded in CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness.
Offering virtual therapy services in Virginia, Alabama, and Florida. You’re ready for something different—more peace, more purpose, more you. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, or major life changes, you don’t have to do it alone. I’m a licensed clinical social worker and certified life coach with more than two decades of experience, leading a diverse team that’s here to help you heal, grow, and show up fully in your life. We’ll help you tap into your strengths, build resilience, and move toward the clarity, confidence, and fulfillment you’ve been craving.
(786) 418-0661 View (786) 418-0661

See more therapy options for Miami

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.