Therapists in North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Michael Christiansen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Christiansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I utilize a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Parts Work Therapy, and PCIT.
I work with a variety of clients, ranging in age from 2 years old through late 20s and early 30s. My hope is that I can help individuals and families learn more effective ways to respond to challenges in their lives that may come from things such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anxiety, and adjusting to large changes. PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy), in particular, is an approach that I specialize in. PCIT is focused on helping caregivers learn effective ways to address problematic behavior from their children who are between the ages of 2 and 7.
I utilize a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Parts Work Therapy, and PCIT.
I work with a variety of clients, ranging in age from 2 years old through late 20s and early 30s. My hope is that I can help individuals and families learn more effective ways to respond to challenges in their lives that may come from things such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anxiety, and adjusting to large changes. PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy), in particular, is an approach that I specialize in. PCIT is focused on helping caregivers learn effective ways to address problematic behavior from their children who are between the ages of 2 and 7.
(412) 891-6875 View (412) 891-6875
Photo of Stanley H Nadulek, PhD, Psychologist
Stanley H Nadulek
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I use various psychological approaches in therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy, brief-solution focused therapy and insight-oriented therapy.
Sometimes life can use a little help. If you struggle with lifes daily stress and pressures,I can help you focus on getting your life back on track. I am a very active therapist who not only listens but provides direct helpful feedback. I realize that people need a caring but active therapist who will help guide and direct them to health and wellness. I also help couples and spouses get unstuck in their relationship by providing brief-solution focused therapy to help guide couples in developing effective strategies that enhances communication, trust and respect for one another.
I use various psychological approaches in therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy, brief-solution focused therapy and insight-oriented therapy.
Sometimes life can use a little help. If you struggle with lifes daily stress and pressures,I can help you focus on getting your life back on track. I am a very active therapist who not only listens but provides direct helpful feedback. I realize that people need a caring but active therapist who will help guide and direct them to health and wellness. I also help couples and spouses get unstuck in their relationship by providing brief-solution focused therapy to help guide couples in developing effective strategies that enhances communication, trust and respect for one another.
(412) 357-4507 View (412) 357-4507
Photo of Vincent Michael Reginella, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vincent Michael Reginella
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Services focus on executive functions, including organization, decision-making, problem-solving, cognitive reframing, and discipline.
I provide mental health therapy, sports performance counseling, and vocational guidance. I work with individuals who have sustained neurological trauma, including concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI). I work alongside athletes with improving their mental health and athletic performance. I work with undergraduate and graduate students struggling with academic performance and pressure. I also work with young professionals making the transition to the workforce after school. I also specialize in coping skill development, anxiety, stress management, mood disorders caused by endocrine dysfunction, and performance enhancement.
Services focus on executive functions, including organization, decision-making, problem-solving, cognitive reframing, and discipline.
I provide mental health therapy, sports performance counseling, and vocational guidance. I work with individuals who have sustained neurological trauma, including concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI). I work alongside athletes with improving their mental health and athletic performance. I work with undergraduate and graduate students struggling with academic performance and pressure. I also work with young professionals making the transition to the workforce after school. I also specialize in coping skill development, anxiety, stress management, mood disorders caused by endocrine dysfunction, and performance enhancement.
(412) 205-6031 View (412) 205-6031
Photo of Dr. Phillip Raab, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Phillip Raab
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
I’m also ABPP board-certified in Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) Therapy and offer treatments for anger management, anxiety, and depression.
(Updated 6/3/24: Currently Accepting New Clients) I deeply respect the strength and courage it takes to reach out to someone you’ve never met before and ask for help. To honor this, I begin by listening to understand not only the things you’re struggling with, but also your strengths, goals, the things you value most. You’re the expert of your own life, and I strongly believe treatment should be a collaboration in which we work together as a team to achieve your goals. With this as the starting point we’ll develop a treatment plan personalized to you and make sure we’re always focused on the changes you want to make.
I’m also ABPP board-certified in Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) Therapy and offer treatments for anger management, anxiety, and depression.
(Updated 6/3/24: Currently Accepting New Clients) I deeply respect the strength and courage it takes to reach out to someone you’ve never met before and ask for help. To honor this, I begin by listening to understand not only the things you’re struggling with, but also your strengths, goals, the things you value most. You’re the expert of your own life, and I strongly believe treatment should be a collaboration in which we work together as a team to achieve your goals. With this as the starting point we’ll develop a treatment plan personalized to you and make sure we’re always focused on the changes you want to make.
(412) 981-2075 View (412) 981-2075
Photo of Dave Spence, MSEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dave Spence
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I also integrate Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral techniques in my work.
I work hard to help each client connect more fully with what their heart, mind, and body are telling them right here and right now so that they can utilize this awareness to more choicefully navigate how they make contact with the world around them. I will support you at a pace that you set while offering friendly invitations to challenge yourself in ways that lead to meaningful growth. I stress creating a safe environment free from judgment, guilt, or shame, where you will not only be heard but you will also feel heard. If this sounds like what you are looking for, I warmly invite you to reach out to me via phone or email.
I also integrate Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral techniques in my work.
I work hard to help each client connect more fully with what their heart, mind, and body are telling them right here and right now so that they can utilize this awareness to more choicefully navigate how they make contact with the world around them. I will support you at a pace that you set while offering friendly invitations to challenge yourself in ways that lead to meaningful growth. I stress creating a safe environment free from judgment, guilt, or shame, where you will not only be heard but you will also feel heard. If this sounds like what you are looking for, I warmly invite you to reach out to me via phone or email.
(412) 538-6633 View (412) 538-6633
Photo of Timothy W Overton, PsyD, Psychologist
Timothy W Overton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use evidenced based psychotherapy treatments, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT).
In my practice, therapy starts with recognizing what you bring to the table. The courage and resilience that got you to this page are the tip of the iceberg of the strengths that we can leverage to help manage the challenges you are facing. My approach to therapy centers the ways we cope across different contexts of our lives. Behavioral patterns that are strengths in one area of our lives may be holding us back in others. What works in the short term can perpetuate suffering in the long term. I want to support you to cope with life's challenges by leveraging all of your strengths in a flexible way that works in any context.
I use evidenced based psychotherapy treatments, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT).
In my practice, therapy starts with recognizing what you bring to the table. The courage and resilience that got you to this page are the tip of the iceberg of the strengths that we can leverage to help manage the challenges you are facing. My approach to therapy centers the ways we cope across different contexts of our lives. Behavioral patterns that are strengths in one area of our lives may be holding us back in others. What works in the short term can perpetuate suffering in the long term. I want to support you to cope with life's challenges by leveraging all of your strengths in a flexible way that works in any context.
(267) 772-5633 View (267) 772-5633
Photo of William Bendgen, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Bendgen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I have experience implementing CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused, and Motivational Interviewing.
Unfortunately previous negative experiences with counseling can impact one's decision to seek out treatment again. Therapy isn't about walking into a room because of needing to be "fixed". Therapy is a collaborative approach that begin's with me creating a safe, comfortable, and non judgmental environment. I will always recognize the person before the behavior that we are working to change. My hope at the end of each session is to assist with enhancing your strengths to elicit long term change.
I have experience implementing CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused, and Motivational Interviewing.
Unfortunately previous negative experiences with counseling can impact one's decision to seek out treatment again. Therapy isn't about walking into a room because of needing to be "fixed". Therapy is a collaborative approach that begin's with me creating a safe, comfortable, and non judgmental environment. I will always recognize the person before the behavior that we are working to change. My hope at the end of each session is to assist with enhancing your strengths to elicit long term change.
(878) 218-9617 View (878) 218-9617
Photo of Desmond Alexander Kane, LPC , NCC, CADC, CIP, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Desmond Alexander Kane
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , NCC, CADC, CIP, CCTP
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems.
“I just want a change that will work!” That’s a phrase that I have heard many times over my 10+ years in this field. If you desire real change and want help through this process I offer laughter filled, person-centered, evidence based interventions and guidance.
I have specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems.
“I just want a change that will work!” That’s a phrase that I have heard many times over my 10+ years in this field. If you desire real change and want help through this process I offer laughter filled, person-centered, evidence based interventions and guidance.
(814) 546-5651 View (814) 546-5651
Photo of undefined - Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring, LPC, MSEd, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd, MS
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I can help. In these challenging times, it's important to have a person and place for support; a place where your voice is truly heard. At Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring LLC, I understand the art of listening and guidance.
I can help. In these challenging times, it's important to have a person and place for support; a place where your voice is truly heard. At Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring LLC, I understand the art of listening and guidance.
(878) 881-1861 View (878) 881-1861
Photo of Todd Schachter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Todd Schachter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
(878) 645-3173 View (878) 645-3173
Photo of undefined - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
Everyone struggles at times, and there should be no shame in asking for help. This is why we started Serenity Psychotherapy with a core belief that everybody should have access to professional mental health services and dedicated health care professionals anywhere in the world. With our national teletherapy sessions, we seek to help individuals, families, couples, and children with all the tools and therapy sessions they may need to live happier lives. Here at Serenity Psychotherapy, we have an array of therapists with various specializations, such as depression, anxiety, relationship, substance abuse, and parenting problems.
Everyone struggles at times, and there should be no shame in asking for help. This is why we started Serenity Psychotherapy with a core belief that everybody should have access to professional mental health services and dedicated health care professionals anywhere in the world. With our national teletherapy sessions, we seek to help individuals, families, couples, and children with all the tools and therapy sessions they may need to live happier lives. Here at Serenity Psychotherapy, we have an array of therapists with various specializations, such as depression, anxiety, relationship, substance abuse, and parenting problems.
(610) 510-6360 View (610) 510-6360
Photo of undefined - Dennis M. Nigra, LPC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dennis M. Nigra, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I engage with individuals, couples, & families in their efforts to gain improved "mental health" awareness, education, & wellness, through a process of exploring fresh perspectives in relationship challenges at home, work; personal issues of anger, anxiety, depression, & other issues that negatively impact the quality of life. Counseling is an empowering process that can restore hope and lead to effective resolutions to many troubling issues. By tapping into resources within, you can live your life as you like, be socially responsible for your behavior, and discover satisfaction in striving to be the best self that you can be.
I engage with individuals, couples, & families in their efforts to gain improved "mental health" awareness, education, & wellness, through a process of exploring fresh perspectives in relationship challenges at home, work; personal issues of anger, anxiety, depression, & other issues that negatively impact the quality of life. Counseling is an empowering process that can restore hope and lead to effective resolutions to many troubling issues. By tapping into resources within, you can live your life as you like, be socially responsible for your behavior, and discover satisfaction in striving to be the best self that you can be.
(412) 419-2184 View (412) 419-2184
Photo of undefined - Andrew J. Eppich LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew J. Eppich LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I am an LCSW that has been in the field of counseling and social work since 1995. I am of the belief that everyone deserves help and support with dignity and respect. I specialize in addictions, gambling addiction, dual diagnosis, GLBT issues, grief and bereavement issues as well as have over 15 years experience in hospice and helping patients and their families cope with end of life issues. In addition I have expertise in group counseling for early recovery, families in recovery and grief support.
I am an LCSW that has been in the field of counseling and social work since 1995. I am of the belief that everyone deserves help and support with dignity and respect. I specialize in addictions, gambling addiction, dual diagnosis, GLBT issues, grief and bereavement issues as well as have over 15 years experience in hospice and helping patients and their families cope with end of life issues. In addition I have expertise in group counseling for early recovery, families in recovery and grief support.
(412) 567-3552 View (412) 567-3552
Photo of undefined - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Counselor
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 216-0332 View (724) 216-0332
Photo of undefined - New Directions Mental Health - Wexford, PsyD, Psychologist
New Directions Mental Health - Wexford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
(724) 436-1948 View (724) 436-1948
Photo of David Prybock, PhD, Psychologist
David Prybock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Do you want to improve your relationship, have less stress, or simply gain insight about yourself so that you can be happier and live a more fulfilling life? Change is difficult, especially when we try to do it alone. I am a Licensed Psychologist who offers individual and group therapy that are designed to help you be happier. My aim is to provide you with the knowledge and skills that will help you achieve change. Working together, we will utilize the strengths you already have and target those aspects of yourself that you want to change the most.
Do you want to improve your relationship, have less stress, or simply gain insight about yourself so that you can be happier and live a more fulfilling life? Change is difficult, especially when we try to do it alone. I am a Licensed Psychologist who offers individual and group therapy that are designed to help you be happier. My aim is to provide you with the knowledge and skills that will help you achieve change. Working together, we will utilize the strengths you already have and target those aspects of yourself that you want to change the most.
(412) 228-0094 View (412) 228-0094
David E Levit
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
(412) 906-9181 View (412) 906-9181
Photo of Thomas J Stokes, ACSW, LCSW, BCD, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas J Stokes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW, BCD, RN
Verified Verified
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
My goal is to collaborate with you in a safe, caring environment to help you grow and develop in ways that are meaningful to you. I will partner with you in a holistic manner and tailor approaches designed to your unique set of circumstances. I particularly welcome past or present members of the military, military families, and anyone associated with military members and their families.
My goal is to collaborate with you in a safe, caring environment to help you grow and develop in ways that are meaningful to you. I will partner with you in a holistic manner and tailor approaches designed to your unique set of circumstances. I particularly welcome past or present members of the military, military families, and anyone associated with military members and their families.
(412) 246-8318 View (412) 246-8318
Photo of Pascual Chen, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Pascual Chen
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Change happens one decision at a time. If you are feeling hopeless, confused, frustrated, stuck, or stressed, I can help. Most of my clients see me because they are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, or relational/marital conflict. Others see me to gain insight and understanding to a life transition or temporary problem. I provide a safe and warm environment for my clients to feel validated, understood, encouraged, and hopeful. I use evidence-based and goal-directed treatments. I am passionate about working with people to reach their potential and flourish. Therapy within a Christian framework is offered upon request.
Change happens one decision at a time. If you are feeling hopeless, confused, frustrated, stuck, or stressed, I can help. Most of my clients see me because they are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, or relational/marital conflict. Others see me to gain insight and understanding to a life transition or temporary problem. I provide a safe and warm environment for my clients to feel validated, understood, encouraged, and hopeful. I use evidence-based and goal-directed treatments. I am passionate about working with people to reach their potential and flourish. Therapy within a Christian framework is offered upon request.
(412) 453-5636 View (412) 453-5636
Photo of Steve Wize | Mental Fitness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Wize | Mental Fitness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Hills, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Mental health has a stigma. It implies that someone who is struggling needs help from a therapist just to return back to their baseline. At Mental Fitness, however, we want to help you achieve more than that. We do this by challenging our clients to remove self-limiting beliefs, master their emotions, and improve their relationships. Beyond just listening and validating, we offer guidance and structure to inspire you to achieve your best self. Here at Mental Fitness, we truly believe, “If you master your thinking, you master your life!”
Mental health has a stigma. It implies that someone who is struggling needs help from a therapist just to return back to their baseline. At Mental Fitness, however, we want to help you achieve more than that. We do this by challenging our clients to remove self-limiting beliefs, master their emotions, and improve their relationships. Beyond just listening and validating, we offer guidance and structure to inspire you to achieve your best self. Here at Mental Fitness, we truly believe, “If you master your thinking, you master your life!”
(412) 231-9931 View (412) 231-9931

See more therapy options for North Hills, Pittsburgh

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.