Cognitive Processing (CPT) Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Dona Schaffer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dona Schaffer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
My goal is to help everyday people, facing everyday problems overcome challenges and live their best life. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with families, individuals, and couples. I provide a collaborative therapeutic approach integrating human-centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to support clients as they face, explore, and cope with painful emotions, behavioral challenges, and stressors. I recognize the need for help navigating life and emotional challenges.
My goal is to help everyday people, facing everyday problems overcome challenges and live their best life. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with families, individuals, and couples. I provide a collaborative therapeutic approach integrating human-centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to support clients as they face, explore, and cope with painful emotions, behavioral challenges, and stressors. I recognize the need for help navigating life and emotional challenges.
(415) 625-1643 View (415) 625-1643
Photo of Carolyn Ponting, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Carolyn Ponting
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
Dr. Ponting is a licensed clinical psychologist specialized in treating anxiety, traumatic stress, and depression in adults and children. In her roles as a researcher and clinician, she focuses on improving mental health during the transition to parenthood, including pregnancy and the postpartum period. Dr. Ponting also works with families with young children ages 2-6 who have experienced a recent traumatic event.
Dr. Ponting is a licensed clinical psychologist specialized in treating anxiety, traumatic stress, and depression in adults and children. In her roles as a researcher and clinician, she focuses on improving mental health during the transition to parenthood, including pregnancy and the postpartum period. Dr. Ponting also works with families with young children ages 2-6 who have experienced a recent traumatic event.
(415) 301-2339 View (415) 301-2339
Photo of Lili Liew, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Lili Liew
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with more than 10 years of experience counseling individuals, couples, and families. My specialty is treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and interpersonal relationship issues due to trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with more than 10 years of experience counseling individuals, couples, and families. My specialty is treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and interpersonal relationship issues due to trauma.
(415) 634-0949 View (415) 634-0949
Photo of Kristen Cubeta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kristen Cubeta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I strive to provide evidence-based treatment, while also meeting my clients where they are and treating them as the expert of their experience. My style can be described as warm and laid-back. It is my goal to get to know each person I work with deeply so I can tailor treatment to fit their individual needs. I tend to utilize CBT and/or DBT strategies in most sessions.
I strive to provide evidence-based treatment, while also meeting my clients where they are and treating them as the expert of their experience. My style can be described as warm and laid-back. It is my goal to get to know each person I work with deeply so I can tailor treatment to fit their individual needs. I tend to utilize CBT and/or DBT strategies in most sessions.
(510) 359-5058 View (510) 359-5058
Photo of Cherise Arzaga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Cherise Arzaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, 74795
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Are you a driven person yet having difficulties managing your relationships, work stress, and family life? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Do you need help getting through a traumatic event? Are you feeling like you’ve exhausted all your coping skills and nothing seems to work? From a trauma informed and attachment-based lens we will explore your core issues and help you improve your mental health and emotional well-being. You can heal from past trauma, learn to regulate your emotions, lift your mood, and communicate effectively. Together we'll work through unresolved feelings and patterns to live a more authentic life now.
Are you a driven person yet having difficulties managing your relationships, work stress, and family life? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Do you need help getting through a traumatic event? Are you feeling like you’ve exhausted all your coping skills and nothing seems to work? From a trauma informed and attachment-based lens we will explore your core issues and help you improve your mental health and emotional well-being. You can heal from past trauma, learn to regulate your emotions, lift your mood, and communicate effectively. Together we'll work through unresolved feelings and patterns to live a more authentic life now.
(415) 619-5433 View (415) 619-5433
Photo of Mary LaGue, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Mary LaGue
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
Throughout my 20 years of experience as a psychologist, I have helped people cope with anxiety, depression, and the stresses of life changes such as divorce, medical issues, menopause, retirement, grief, and much more. My mission is to partner with my patients to develop coping strategies, improve self-awareness, and help them enhance their relationships with others. I guide my clients through the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and Object Relations. I am here to support your healing and personal growth.
Throughout my 20 years of experience as a psychologist, I have helped people cope with anxiety, depression, and the stresses of life changes such as divorce, medical issues, menopause, retirement, grief, and much more. My mission is to partner with my patients to develop coping strategies, improve self-awareness, and help them enhance their relationships with others. I guide my clients through the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and Object Relations. I am here to support your healing and personal growth.
(619) 651-9495 View (619) 651-9495
Photo of Christina Rheingold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Christina Rheingold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
My name is Christina Rheingold, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have spent almost 20 years serving individuals who experience stress related to the home or work environment, situational challenges, symptoms of depression, or anxiety, that has impacted a person’s quality of life. I have found that my style and approach best serve individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, high stress, or who have served in the military. My focus is to work together to address common concerns that negatively affect individuals' overall wellbeing.
My name is Christina Rheingold, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have spent almost 20 years serving individuals who experience stress related to the home or work environment, situational challenges, symptoms of depression, or anxiety, that has impacted a person’s quality of life. I have found that my style and approach best serve individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, high stress, or who have served in the military. My focus is to work together to address common concerns that negatively affect individuals' overall wellbeing.
(415) 649-2604 View (415) 649-2604
Photo of Elizabeth Barragan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Elizabeth Barragan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am dedicated to assisting you in this process by providing the safety to look inward without judgment or expectation but with a sense of curiosity, understanding, and self-compassion. My approach is to join you on your journey and support you in accessing your inner strength, building purpose, hope, and the quality of your life that you deserve. Whatever it is you seek on this journey my hope is to support you in working through the difficulties and support you in reaching your highest potential and building your optimal sense of self.
As a therapist, I am dedicated to assisting you in this process by providing the safety to look inward without judgment or expectation but with a sense of curiosity, understanding, and self-compassion. My approach is to join you on your journey and support you in accessing your inner strength, building purpose, hope, and the quality of your life that you deserve. Whatever it is you seek on this journey my hope is to support you in working through the difficulties and support you in reaching your highest potential and building your optimal sense of self.
(415) 687-4439 View (415) 687-4439
Photo of Therapy Lab San Francisco, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Therapy Lab San Francisco
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
(213) 376-3455 View (213) 376-3455
Photo of Amanda Murray, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Amanda Murray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
If you feel anxious, odd, or out of place I want to help you connect with what matters to you. I work with autistic adults, other neurodivergent folks, and individuals experiencing anxiety. We all deserve a life where we can truly be ourselves. I will support you in harnessing your strengths to pursue the goals you care about. Goals might include building more supportive relationships, combating self-stigma, alleviating burnout, or better understanding and communicating your needs.
If you feel anxious, odd, or out of place I want to help you connect with what matters to you. I work with autistic adults, other neurodivergent folks, and individuals experiencing anxiety. We all deserve a life where we can truly be ourselves. I will support you in harnessing your strengths to pursue the goals you care about. Goals might include building more supportive relationships, combating self-stigma, alleviating burnout, or better understanding and communicating your needs.
(415) 802-0627 View (415) 802-0627
Photo of Austin Heafey, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Austin Heafey
Psychologist, MFT, Psy D
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Everyone deserves support– life can be overwhelming. Our sessions provide a safe, encouraging space for you to slow down and focus on what’s important. As an advocate for you, your family, or your child, we create solutions that help you find healing.
Everyone deserves support– life can be overwhelming. Our sessions provide a safe, encouraging space for you to slow down and focus on what’s important. As an advocate for you, your family, or your child, we create solutions that help you find healing.
(415) 594-4159 View (415) 594-4159
Photo of Elise Yoshida, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Elise Yoshida
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
Life is so stressful, that anxiety can feel like a constant companion highlighting worry after worry. I can help you see life and yourself differently by teaching you skills that are supported by research. My specialty is helping people address their anxiety symptoms, cope with stress, and change their relationship to worry by using evidence-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness). I strive to create a supportive therapeutic relationship with my genuine, compassionate, and culturally responsive style. Together, we will work as a team to reach your goals so that you feel empowered to take on stressors.
Life is so stressful, that anxiety can feel like a constant companion highlighting worry after worry. I can help you see life and yourself differently by teaching you skills that are supported by research. My specialty is helping people address their anxiety symptoms, cope with stress, and change their relationship to worry by using evidence-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness). I strive to create a supportive therapeutic relationship with my genuine, compassionate, and culturally responsive style. Together, we will work as a team to reach your goals so that you feel empowered to take on stressors.
(562) 451-8470 View (562) 451-8470
Photo of Mark Beidelman, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Mark Beidelman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
My goal is to help people obtain insight, new perspectives, and tools for improved wellbeing. I enjoy working with a wide variety of people and implement a range of evidence-based treatments. When I work with people in therapy, I utilize the whole person and look at biological, psychological, and social factors that may be impacting their wellbeing. When we begin working together, I discuss different approaches to therapy so that you can make an informed decision about what approach you prefer.
My goal is to help people obtain insight, new perspectives, and tools for improved wellbeing. I enjoy working with a wide variety of people and implement a range of evidence-based treatments. When I work with people in therapy, I utilize the whole person and look at biological, psychological, and social factors that may be impacting their wellbeing. When we begin working together, I discuss different approaches to therapy so that you can make an informed decision about what approach you prefer.
(415) 592-7379 View (415) 592-7379
Photo of Laurie Fields, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Laurie Fields
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
Warm, experienced, down-to-earth, effective... I am a clinical psychologist providing individual therapy for adults in California. I think good therapy calls for sensitivity, genuineness, open-mindedness, honesty, and having your best interests at heart. During our work together, I will listen deeply to your struggles and help clarify aspects that you may not be aware of. I can help you to move forward from painful places, uncover your full potential, feel better about yourself, improve your relationships with others, and navigate your life according to your values.
Warm, experienced, down-to-earth, effective... I am a clinical psychologist providing individual therapy for adults in California. I think good therapy calls for sensitivity, genuineness, open-mindedness, honesty, and having your best interests at heart. During our work together, I will listen deeply to your struggles and help clarify aspects that you may not be aware of. I can help you to move forward from painful places, uncover your full potential, feel better about yourself, improve your relationships with others, and navigate your life according to your values.
(415) 749-9352 View (415) 749-9352
Photo of Megan Kossar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Megan Kossar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121
As a skilled psychotherapist, I understand the challenges and concerns that can arise when seeking therapy. That's why I accept insurance to make the process more accessible and affordable for those in need. Whether you're new to therapy or have sought help in the past, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights necessary to manage life's difficulties and achieve healthy, meaningful relationships. With over 26 years of experience, I have worked extensively with clients facing chronic and terminal illnesses, as well as their support systems, helping to alleviate stress and promote positive coping strategies.
As a skilled psychotherapist, I understand the challenges and concerns that can arise when seeking therapy. That's why I accept insurance to make the process more accessible and affordable for those in need. Whether you're new to therapy or have sought help in the past, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights necessary to manage life's difficulties and achieve healthy, meaningful relationships. With over 26 years of experience, I have worked extensively with clients facing chronic and terminal illnesses, as well as their support systems, helping to alleviate stress and promote positive coping strategies.
(628) 266-4342 View (628) 266-4342
Photo of Octave - Financial District SF Clinic, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Octave - Financial District SF Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
(415) 634-1043 View (415) 634-1043
Photo of Alex Eichenbaum, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Alex Eichenbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Dr. Alex Eichenbaum is a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys working with adults coping with anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, and the impacts of surviving past traumas. He uses an integrative approach to therapy, employing evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral and mindfulness techniques to tailor treatment to your specific needs.  Dr. Eichenbaum emphasizes a collaborative, strength-based approach that values and affirms each person’s unique identity and culture.
Dr. Alex Eichenbaum is a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys working with adults coping with anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, and the impacts of surviving past traumas. He uses an integrative approach to therapy, employing evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral and mindfulness techniques to tailor treatment to your specific needs.  Dr. Eichenbaum emphasizes a collaborative, strength-based approach that values and affirms each person’s unique identity and culture.
(855) 674-0607 View (855) 674-0607
Photo of Kayla Whaley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kayla Whaley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
My approach to each session is to provide a safe space that invites clients to feel at ease in the present. While in this calming space, they can explore, challenge, and heal core wounds and behaviors. Things will continue to change as they heal various forms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and physical unrest. I hope to support your growth as you develop self-compassion and self-awareness, understanding how experiences can affect your overall well-being. By doing so you can begin to allow yourself a space for healing your thoughts, your body, and your relationship with the world around you.
My approach to each session is to provide a safe space that invites clients to feel at ease in the present. While in this calming space, they can explore, challenge, and heal core wounds and behaviors. Things will continue to change as they heal various forms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and physical unrest. I hope to support your growth as you develop self-compassion and self-awareness, understanding how experiences can affect your overall well-being. By doing so you can begin to allow yourself a space for healing your thoughts, your body, and your relationship with the world around you.
(415) 663-5011 View (415) 663-5011
Photo of Jermaine L Dictado, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Jermaine L Dictado
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I work with adults (18+) who are having difficulties with negative self-talk, emotion regulation, and conflicts in relationships. These difficulties can often look like depression, anxiety, intense stress, anger, poor self-esteem, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and more. I also work with couples who are having difficulties with communication, connecting with each other, and resolving conflicts. I am here to support you with these challenges. Looking for a therapist can especially be difficult in addition to facing current struggles in our life. Feel free to call for a free 15-minute consultation to see how I may be able to help.
I work with adults (18+) who are having difficulties with negative self-talk, emotion regulation, and conflicts in relationships. These difficulties can often look like depression, anxiety, intense stress, anger, poor self-esteem, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and more. I also work with couples who are having difficulties with communication, connecting with each other, and resolving conflicts. I am here to support you with these challenges. Looking for a therapist can especially be difficult in addition to facing current struggles in our life. Feel free to call for a free 15-minute consultation to see how I may be able to help.
(619) 292-0452 View (619) 292-0452
Photo of Marisol Cendejas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Marisol Cendejas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual therapist who cares about creating safer spaces to empower mental health and wellness in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color). I take a holistic and trauma-informed approach.
I am a bilingual therapist who cares about creating safer spaces to empower mental health and wellness in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color). I take a holistic and trauma-informed approach.
(415) 949-2397 View (415) 949-2397

See more therapy options for San Francisco

Cognitive Processing (CPT) Therapists

How does cognitive processing therapy work?

A CPT therapist helps a client evaluate their thoughts about the trauma they experienced, focusing on maladaptive or self-blaming thoughts that can exacerbate symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, or depression. The therapist will work with a client to help them learn to challenge such thoughts and consider different perspectives. The therapist is also likely to ask a client to work on these techniques at home between meetings, such as writing an account of their trauma that can be read aloud during a future session.

What is cognitive processing therapy for PTSD?

Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy primarily used in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to treat individuals who experienced abuse or violence, who survived natural disasters, who were first responders to such incidents, or who otherwise experienced trauma.

How long does cognitive processing therapy last?

CPT is a short-term therapy. Whether conducted one-on-one or in a group, a complete set of CPT sessions typically includes 12 weekly sessions, along with tasks for clients to complete at home, although this can vary depending on a client’s needs or a therapist’s particular treatment plan. Sessions typically last 60 or 90 minutes.

How effective is cognitive processing therapy?

A large body of research supports the use of CPT to treat people experiencing PTSD, finding it to be effective among different age groups, either in one-on-one therapy sessions or in a group therapy environment. Research suggests that although the initial sessions may be difficult, clients tend to begin to feel positive progress after the first few sessions, and that the benefits tend to last well after the therapy ends.