Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Pembroke, VA

Photo of Melissa Lively, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Melissa Lively
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
If EMDR isn’t the right fit, I also draw from ACT, CBT, DBT, and other evidence-based approaches to support growth and lasting change.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s unique needs. Whether you’re struggling with daily stress, overwhelming emotions, or the lasting impact of painful experiences, I provide a safe and supportive space to help you heal, grow, and reconnect with your strengths. Together, we’ll work to uncover the roots of your challenges, build effective coping skills, and create lasting change. I use evidence-based approaches to guide the process and believe therapy should feel like a partnership.
If EMDR isn’t the right fit, I also draw from ACT, CBT, DBT, and other evidence-based approaches to support growth and lasting change.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s unique needs. Whether you’re struggling with daily stress, overwhelming emotions, or the lasting impact of painful experiences, I provide a safe and supportive space to help you heal, grow, and reconnect with your strengths. Together, we’ll work to uncover the roots of your challenges, build effective coping skills, and create lasting change. I use evidence-based approaches to guide the process and believe therapy should feel like a partnership.
(540) 266-1772 View (540) 266-1772
Photo of Tim Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Tim Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Pembroke, VA 24136
Not accepting new clients
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or a challenging relationship that affects your day-to day life? Maybe you feel exhausted or overwhelmed, frustrated or just lost by just trying to get through the day or the thought that you have lost your motivation. Do you wonder if life could be better? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed about finding their place in life and moving forward through issues they are facing.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or a challenging relationship that affects your day-to day life? Maybe you feel exhausted or overwhelmed, frustrated or just lost by just trying to get through the day or the thought that you have lost your motivation. Do you wonder if life could be better? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed about finding their place in life and moving forward through issues they are facing.
(540) 426-1685 View (540) 426-1685

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michelle Swanson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michelle Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Michelle Swanson is a licensed clinical social worker who has been providing individual, group, and couples therapy to adult clients with a wide range of mental health challenges for eight years. She is passionate about helping clients to find lasting healing and has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She specializes in evidence-based approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing. She looks forward to supporting you on your mental health journey.
Michelle Swanson is a licensed clinical social worker who has been providing individual, group, and couples therapy to adult clients with a wide range of mental health challenges for eight years. She is passionate about helping clients to find lasting healing and has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She specializes in evidence-based approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing. She looks forward to supporting you on your mental health journey.
(518) 989-5724 View (518) 989-5724
Photo of Taylor Sinton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Taylor Sinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities to meet each client’s unique needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), play-based therapy, relational therapy, solution-focused therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
Hi, I’m Taylor! I support toddlers, children, teens, & young adults navigating everything from big feelings to major life transitions. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, family conflict, suicidal ideations, self esteem, & life’s ups and downs. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and comfortable being your true authentic self. When appropriate I collaborate with parents to provide support and guidance as I believe in the importance of family involvement to create lasting positive changes.
I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities to meet each client’s unique needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), play-based therapy, relational therapy, solution-focused therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
Hi, I’m Taylor! I support toddlers, children, teens, & young adults navigating everything from big feelings to major life transitions. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, family conflict, suicidal ideations, self esteem, & life’s ups and downs. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and comfortable being your true authentic self. When appropriate I collaborate with parents to provide support and guidance as I believe in the importance of family involvement to create lasting positive changes.
(202) 931-7385 View (202) 931-7385
Photo of Mindy Jackson - Willow Path Counseling and Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Willow Path Counseling and Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Blacksburg, VA 24060
If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, or navigating life transitions, Willow Path offers a welcoming space where you can feel supported and seen. Our counselors work with you to clarify your goals, understand how your experiences have shaped you, and identify strategies to help you feel more like yourself again. Whatever you are experiencing, our therapists are here to help you access the resilience within you and find a pathway toward healing.
If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, or navigating life transitions, Willow Path offers a welcoming space where you can feel supported and seen. Our counselors work with you to clarify your goals, understand how your experiences have shaped you, and identify strategies to help you feel more like yourself again. Whatever you are experiencing, our therapists are here to help you access the resilience within you and find a pathway toward healing.
(540) 787-2133 View (540) 787-2133
Melissa Tully, EMDR & somatic therapist, Virginia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
22 Endorsed
Online Only
I use modalities such as DBT/ CBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing (SE) and EMDR.
Does your mind feel like it never turns off—constantly racing, revisiting the same thoughts, or getting caught in emotional loops? You might notice anxiety showing up uninvited, stress taking over, or old wounds and grief resurfacing at the hardest times. Part of you wants to move forward, yet something keeps pulling you back—like you’re stuck between pushing ahead and holding yourself in place. It’s exhausting, and it can begin to touch every part of your life, including your ability to rest. But you don't have to keep living this way.
I use modalities such as DBT/ CBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing (SE) and EMDR.
Does your mind feel like it never turns off—constantly racing, revisiting the same thoughts, or getting caught in emotional loops? You might notice anxiety showing up uninvited, stress taking over, or old wounds and grief resurfacing at the hardest times. Part of you wants to move forward, yet something keeps pulling you back—like you’re stuck between pushing ahead and holding yourself in place. It’s exhausting, and it can begin to touch every part of your life, including your ability to rest. But you don't have to keep living this way.
(540) 306-5224 View (540) 306-5224
Photo of Sierra Harvest Gray - Sierra H Gray, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS, CCTP
Sierra H Gray, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS, CCTP
Online Only
I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, using an integrative approach that includes CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
I believe healing happens when people feel seen, heard, and empowered. My work is grounded in validation and collaboration—meeting each client where they are and helping them build the insight and tools they need to move forward. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for meaningful change, I'm here to walk with you on that journey.
I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, using an integrative approach that includes CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
I believe healing happens when people feel seen, heard, and empowered. My work is grounded in validation and collaboration—meeting each client where they are and helping them build the insight and tools they need to move forward. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for meaningful change, I'm here to walk with you on that journey.
(540) 269-5535 View (540) 269-5535
Photo of Britt Tarzia - Mainstream Mental Health Services, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mainstream Mental Health Services
Licensed Professional Counselor
Dublin, VA 24084
Do worries impact your ability to focus on what matters most? Has life got you down and you’re not sure why? Maybe you do know why, but you don’t feel comfortable sharing with family and friends? Are you facing relationship challenges or maybe you're struggling with loving yourself? Mainstream Mental Health Services believes in providing goal-directed, person-centered counseling to individuals seeking support with life’s challenges. It is our mission to support our clients to develop the skills, understanding and overall ability to manage their mind and enhance their quality of life.
Do worries impact your ability to focus on what matters most? Has life got you down and you’re not sure why? Maybe you do know why, but you don’t feel comfortable sharing with family and friends? Are you facing relationship challenges or maybe you're struggling with loving yourself? Mainstream Mental Health Services believes in providing goal-directed, person-centered counseling to individuals seeking support with life’s challenges. It is our mission to support our clients to develop the skills, understanding and overall ability to manage their mind and enhance their quality of life.
(540) 966-5808 View (540) 966-5808
Photo of Theresa Aileen Shuart, Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Theresa Aileen Shuart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Rich Creek, VA 24147
I use family systems work, brief therapy, CBT, and EMDR when helpful, keeping sessions practical, supportive, and focused on steady progress without dragging the process out.
When stress, anxiety, or conflict begins to disrupt family life or close relationships, it can feel hard to know where to turn. Parents may feel overwhelmed, couples may get stuck in the same arguments, or children and teens may struggle emotionally or behaviorally. I work with individuals ages 6+, couples, families, and military families to address anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, blended family dynamics, and relationships. Therapy focuses on understanding patterns, improving communication, and building emotional stability in ways that support real, lasting change.
I use family systems work, brief therapy, CBT, and EMDR when helpful, keeping sessions practical, supportive, and focused on steady progress without dragging the process out.
When stress, anxiety, or conflict begins to disrupt family life or close relationships, it can feel hard to know where to turn. Parents may feel overwhelmed, couples may get stuck in the same arguments, or children and teens may struggle emotionally or behaviorally. I work with individuals ages 6+, couples, families, and military families to address anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, blended family dynamics, and relationships. Therapy focuses on understanding patterns, improving communication, and building emotional stability in ways that support real, lasting change.
(703) 991-0519 View (703) 991-0519
Photo of Candace Renee Harless, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP-T
Candace Renee Harless
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP-T
3 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
I use a variety of interventions in my practice including a solution-focused approach, EMDR, prolonged exposure, cognitive behavioral therapy, and client-centered approaches.
Life can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling stuck, anxious, or emotionally drained. I often see clients who are navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress and who are searching for a way to reclaim their sense of peace and control. Whatever you're facing, you deserve support in building a life where you can thrive rather than merely survive. What you truly want is relief and understanding—to feel seen, heard, and validated. Seeking therapy is a brave step toward prioritizing your well-being and crafting a path that aligns with your values and aspirations.
I use a variety of interventions in my practice including a solution-focused approach, EMDR, prolonged exposure, cognitive behavioral therapy, and client-centered approaches.
Life can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling stuck, anxious, or emotionally drained. I often see clients who are navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress and who are searching for a way to reclaim their sense of peace and control. Whatever you're facing, you deserve support in building a life where you can thrive rather than merely survive. What you truly want is relief and understanding—to feel seen, heard, and validated. Seeking therapy is a brave step toward prioritizing your well-being and crafting a path that aligns with your values and aspirations.
(540) 572-7263 View (540) 572-7263
Photo of Stephanie Warf, Licensed Professional Counselor, MaEd, LPC
Stephanie Warf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MaEd, LPC
Online Only
Life can be many things and at times it can be very challenging. These challenges can lead you to feeling overwhelmed, stressed, disconnected from your friends and loved ones, and often lead to confusion about your future. I am a licensed counselor specializing in helping individuals explore their challenges in life to guide them on creating a better sense of self and hope for their future. I work with older adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, mood disorders, substance use, are struggling with adjustments to challenges in their lives or have experienced trauma.
Life can be many things and at times it can be very challenging. These challenges can lead you to feeling overwhelmed, stressed, disconnected from your friends and loved ones, and often lead to confusion about your future. I am a licensed counselor specializing in helping individuals explore their challenges in life to guide them on creating a better sense of self and hope for their future. I work with older adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, mood disorders, substance use, are struggling with adjustments to challenges in their lives or have experienced trauma.
(434) 361-3835 View (434) 361-3835
Photo of Sam Cowart - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Blacksburg, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Blacksburg
Licensed Professional Counselor
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(540) 530-4112 View (540) 530-4112
Photo of Celina Pearson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Celina Pearson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Life can be challenging, and sometimes it helps to have guidance along the way. I’m Celina Pearson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with three years of experience supporting individuals in community mental health and outpatient settings. I take an eclectic, personalized approach to therapy, drawing from person-centered therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help you navigate life’s challenges and build the skills to move forward with confidence.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes it helps to have guidance along the way. I’m Celina Pearson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with three years of experience supporting individuals in community mental health and outpatient settings. I take an eclectic, personalized approach to therapy, drawing from person-centered therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help you navigate life’s challenges and build the skills to move forward with confidence.
(434) 216-2215 View (434) 216-2215
Photo of Hannah Einstein, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hannah Einstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use an integrative approach drawing from CBT, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy.
I enjoy working with young adults and adults to address concerns with anxiety, depression, spirituality, self-esteem/body image, relational difficulties, transitions, and more. My desire in counseling is to provide a place where people feel safe, seen, and validated. I love asking questions that help the individual dig deeper to learn about themselves while challenging mindsets that may be hindering growth. Ultimately, I hope to empower my clients to use the skills and knowledge gained in counseling to reach their goals.
I use an integrative approach drawing from CBT, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy.
I enjoy working with young adults and adults to address concerns with anxiety, depression, spirituality, self-esteem/body image, relational difficulties, transitions, and more. My desire in counseling is to provide a place where people feel safe, seen, and validated. I love asking questions that help the individual dig deeper to learn about themselves while challenging mindsets that may be hindering growth. Ultimately, I hope to empower my clients to use the skills and knowledge gained in counseling to reach their goals.
(540) 253-1733 View (540) 253-1733
Photo of Alan Willard, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, DMin
Alan Willard
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, DMin
Blacksburg, VA 24060
When life hurts, I can help. Are you struggling with difficulties that have you feeling depressed, angry, worried, or guilty? Are your relationships at home or work in trouble or conflict? I help individuals and couples who are facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, pornography, coping w/chronic illness, sexual problems, PTSD, OCD and much more. I started out my professional career as a church pastor, and in my 40's transitioned into becoming a counselor/therapist. I guide people to get over problems and to be their deeper, higher, and more loving, compassionate self.
When life hurts, I can help. Are you struggling with difficulties that have you feeling depressed, angry, worried, or guilty? Are your relationships at home or work in trouble or conflict? I help individuals and couples who are facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, pornography, coping w/chronic illness, sexual problems, PTSD, OCD and much more. I started out my professional career as a church pastor, and in my 40's transitioned into becoming a counselor/therapist. I guide people to get over problems and to be their deeper, higher, and more loving, compassionate self.
(540) 361-6887 View (540) 361-6887
Photo of Chandra I Shorter, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chandra I Shorter
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
In a world where we are inundated with so much "noise" at the touch of our fingertips, I want to offer you a quiet space to come, turn off the noise for a while, and process through the things that matter to you. Whether you're dealing with life's stressors, suffering under the weight of anxiety and depression, needing assistance processing through trauma, looking for new tools to cope, or simply searching for a reassuring and validating outlet to help sift through the heavy emotions we all encounter at some point or another, I am ready to come alongside you and walk you through your healing journey.
In a world where we are inundated with so much "noise" at the touch of our fingertips, I want to offer you a quiet space to come, turn off the noise for a while, and process through the things that matter to you. Whether you're dealing with life's stressors, suffering under the weight of anxiety and depression, needing assistance processing through trauma, looking for new tools to cope, or simply searching for a reassuring and validating outlet to help sift through the heavy emotions we all encounter at some point or another, I am ready to come alongside you and walk you through your healing journey.
(540) 269-4935 View (540) 269-4935
Photo of Cynthia Witcher, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-SACS
Cynthia Witcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-SACS
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Areas of Expertise: Mental Resilience & Stress Management Confidence Building & Self-Esteem Overcoming Life transition stages Performance Coaching for Athletes & Professionals Goal Setting & Achievement Anxiety & Emotional Regulation Mindfulness & Cognitive Behavioral Technique
Life has a way of throwing us the unexpected which can be overwhelming. Don’t feel you have to face it alone. Your well-being is my top priority, whether you’re struggling with substance use,battling anxiety/depression, relationship issues, or going through major life transitions, I am here to help. As an experienced LPC you will be supported. I have a deep understanding of the human mind, behavior, &emotions. W/over 13 years of experience as a Mental Health Provider, I can support clients unlock their full potential. Having previously worked w/Professional Sports I now devote my time to individual/group therapy.
Areas of Expertise: Mental Resilience & Stress Management Confidence Building & Self-Esteem Overcoming Life transition stages Performance Coaching for Athletes & Professionals Goal Setting & Achievement Anxiety & Emotional Regulation Mindfulness & Cognitive Behavioral Technique
Life has a way of throwing us the unexpected which can be overwhelming. Don’t feel you have to face it alone. Your well-being is my top priority, whether you’re struggling with substance use,battling anxiety/depression, relationship issues, or going through major life transitions, I am here to help. As an experienced LPC you will be supported. I have a deep understanding of the human mind, behavior, &emotions. W/over 13 years of experience as a Mental Health Provider, I can support clients unlock their full potential. Having previously worked w/Professional Sports I now devote my time to individual/group therapy.
(571) 586-9282 View (571) 586-9282
Photo of Emily Woody, Counselor, MEd , LPC , CEDS
Emily Woody
Counselor, MEd , LPC , CEDS
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a passion for working with individuals dealing with matters such as the transition to adulthood, relationship issues, eating disorders, and trauma history. I use a variety of techniques when developing rich relationships with my clients to help them overcome their challenges. I believe in overall wellness for both the body and soul, and I incorporate this into my therapy sessions. I have training in Telehealth Services, CBT ( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF- CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Basic EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I am also a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist.
I have a passion for working with individuals dealing with matters such as the transition to adulthood, relationship issues, eating disorders, and trauma history. I use a variety of techniques when developing rich relationships with my clients to help them overcome their challenges. I believe in overall wellness for both the body and soul, and I incorporate this into my therapy sessions. I have training in Telehealth Services, CBT ( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF- CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Basic EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I am also a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist.
(434) 597-3328 View (434) 597-3328
Photo of Aisha Cowley, Resident in Counseling
Aisha Cowley
Resident in Counseling
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I deeply believe that everyone deserves a space to feel safe and safely express themselves regardless of their age, ethnicity, background, or beliefs. I also believe that each person’s struggle is real, and I am devoted to making sure that each client I work with is heard and feels heard. I am passionate about helping others understand, strengthen and use their natural ability to be resilient during and after times of crisis.
I deeply believe that everyone deserves a space to feel safe and safely express themselves regardless of their age, ethnicity, background, or beliefs. I also believe that each person’s struggle is real, and I am devoted to making sure that each client I work with is heard and feels heard. I am passionate about helping others understand, strengthen and use their natural ability to be resilient during and after times of crisis.
(757) 908-6758 View (757) 908-6758
Photo of Lindy Collins - Lindy Collins, LCSW & Licensure Supervisor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lindy Collins, LCSW & Licensure Supervisor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
One of my favorite parts of being a therapist is getting to know people and seeing them learn to embrace their imperfections with kindness. Life is hard. We aren't designed to do it alone. Whether you have an extensive trauma history or are experiencing an exciting transition, I am here to help you better understand yourself and your needs. I enjoy working with children, teens, and emerging adults (generally ages 4 to 22). I am licensed in VA and DC and an ADHD- Certified Clinical Services Provider. I have one opening for licensure supervision.
One of my favorite parts of being a therapist is getting to know people and seeing them learn to embrace their imperfections with kindness. Life is hard. We aren't designed to do it alone. Whether you have an extensive trauma history or are experiencing an exciting transition, I am here to help you better understand yourself and your needs. I enjoy working with children, teens, and emerging adults (generally ages 4 to 22). I am licensed in VA and DC and an ADHD- Certified Clinical Services Provider. I have one opening for licensure supervision.
(804) 743-0960 View (804) 743-0960
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.