Cognitive Behavioural (CBT) Therapists in Cape Town

Photo of Erica Searle, Registered Counsellor in Cape Town, Western Cape
Erica Searle
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Verified Verified
I believe that change is possible with the right kind of assistance, and as a result your situation can improve, no matter how difficult things may seem in the moment. My counselling approach is primarily Person-Centered, it also incorporates CBT, Narrative Therapy, Projective Play, and Positive Psychology as and when appropriate to my clients’ needs. I value the therapeutic relationship and endeavour to create a safe and collaborative environment in which to process your concerns.
I believe that change is possible with the right kind of assistance, and as a result your situation can improve, no matter how difficult things may seem in the moment. My counselling approach is primarily Person-Centered, it also incorporates CBT, Narrative Therapy, Projective Play, and Positive Psychology as and when appropriate to my clients’ needs. I value the therapeutic relationship and endeavour to create a safe and collaborative environment in which to process your concerns.
087 250 2910 x59 View 087 250 2910 x59
Photo of Klara de Villiers, General Counsellor in Cape Town, Western Cape
Klara de Villiers
General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
Verified Verified
The Lakes 7975  (Online Only)
Using techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), we will help you create appropriate coping mechanisms, manage negative thinking, or change harmful behaviours.
Have you been feeling stuck? Anxious? Depressed? Overwhelmed and exhausted? Sometimes we don't even know what we are feeling at all. People start counselling for various reasons, all of which are completely valid. These could range from anything between unpacking and healing childhood trauma, to maintaining healthy habits and reaching personal goals. Some of us need a little more support to manage the symptoms of mental health disorders, while others want to develop better boundaries or improve relationships.
Using techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), we will help you create appropriate coping mechanisms, manage negative thinking, or change harmful behaviours.
Have you been feeling stuck? Anxious? Depressed? Overwhelmed and exhausted? Sometimes we don't even know what we are feeling at all. People start counselling for various reasons, all of which are completely valid. These could range from anything between unpacking and healing childhood trauma, to maintaining healthy habits and reaching personal goals. Some of us need a little more support to manage the symptoms of mental health disorders, while others want to develop better boundaries or improve relationships.
087 250 0902 x94 View 087 250 0902 x94
Photo of Hannes Wessels, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Hannes Wessels
Psychologist, HPCSA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
I am a registered psychologist in Cape Town and the Northern Suburbs. As a psychologist registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa, I strive to help you live a rich and meaningful life despite your emotional difficulties and life struggles. Together in therapy or counselling, we explore the most widely accepted therapy methods to help you. Most importantly I provide a non-judgemental and safe space as a psychologist. The psychological services I provide are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Career Counselling, Anxiety Therapy, and Assessments.
I am a registered psychologist in Cape Town and the Northern Suburbs. As a psychologist registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa, I strive to help you live a rich and meaningful life despite your emotional difficulties and life struggles. Together in therapy or counselling, we explore the most widely accepted therapy methods to help you. Most importantly I provide a non-judgemental and safe space as a psychologist. The psychological services I provide are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Career Counselling, Anxiety Therapy, and Assessments.
087 250 2219 x43 View 087 250 2219 x43
Photo of Heidi Sandra Wichman, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Heidi Sandra Wichman
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
I am trained in BWRT, Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Solution focused Therapy.
Hi. I am an experienced therapist who enjoys working with clients who are pursuing psychological growth and development. My goal is to provide an environment and professional skills which can assist you in achieving this goal. I look forward to taking this journey with you.
I am trained in BWRT, Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Solution focused Therapy.
Hi. I am an experienced therapist who enjoys working with clients who are pursuing psychological growth and development. My goal is to provide an environment and professional skills which can assist you in achieving this goal. I look forward to taking this journey with you.
087 250 0914 x10 View 087 250 0914 x10
Photo of Jean-Pierre Hartmann, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Jean-Pierre Hartmann
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Gardens 8001
I work as a Schema Therapist, which is integrative approach – stepped in developmental and attachment theory but approaches change with a strong focus on experiential techniques (emotion focused, imaginary, parts/chair-work) and cognitive therapy.
JP is warm, kind and approachable but also honest, direct and humorous. As a therapist he is active and engaged with an empathic focus on the client’s presenting problem or pain ensuing that therapy is not reduced to just a chit-chat with a friend – but something more meaningful. JP believes the hard task of psychotherapy is 1) to help a person understand their current selves in relation to their past self and 2) to help them really change their distressing emotions and behaviors. As a therapist JP aims to be connected, authentic, real and contrary to the mystiques that usually engulf the therapeutic processes.
I work as a Schema Therapist, which is integrative approach – stepped in developmental and attachment theory but approaches change with a strong focus on experiential techniques (emotion focused, imaginary, parts/chair-work) and cognitive therapy.
JP is warm, kind and approachable but also honest, direct and humorous. As a therapist he is active and engaged with an empathic focus on the client’s presenting problem or pain ensuing that therapy is not reduced to just a chit-chat with a friend – but something more meaningful. JP believes the hard task of psychotherapy is 1) to help a person understand their current selves in relation to their past self and 2) to help them really change their distressing emotions and behaviors. As a therapist JP aims to be connected, authentic, real and contrary to the mystiques that usually engulf the therapeutic processes.
087 250 0162 x85 View 087 250 0162 x85
Photo of Debbie Lucille Meyer, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Debbie Lucille Meyer
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Parow 7500
I use different approaches to psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Narrative therapy, Person-Centred therapy, Non-Directive play therapy as well as Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
I believe that every child can learn and should have every opportunity to learn. These opportunities should not just be what our education system offers. Children learn in different ways and I see it as part of my expertise to find ways to help our children learn and develop. I love working with children of all ages. I feel that teens and young adults are often misunderstood and I want to be there for them. We need to find the hope and light within each person and sometimes, we even need to show them what they have within themselves.
I use different approaches to psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Narrative therapy, Person-Centred therapy, Non-Directive play therapy as well as Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
I believe that every child can learn and should have every opportunity to learn. These opportunities should not just be what our education system offers. Children learn in different ways and I see it as part of my expertise to find ways to help our children learn and develop. I love working with children of all ages. I feel that teens and young adults are often misunderstood and I want to be there for them. We need to find the hope and light within each person and sometimes, we even need to show them what they have within themselves.
087 250 0412 x27 View 087 250 0412 x27
Photo of Johan Le Roux, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Johan Le Roux
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I mainly use Cognitive Behaviour therapy (CBT) which places emphasis on you becoming your own therapist so that your growth can continue when therapy comes to an end.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” - Carl Rogers. If you are unhappy with your life at the moment, I would love to explore with you how we can inspire a better future. By simply understanding and accepting ourselves and our current situations, it can lead to a happier and healthier future.
I mainly use Cognitive Behaviour therapy (CBT) which places emphasis on you becoming your own therapist so that your growth can continue when therapy comes to an end.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” - Carl Rogers. If you are unhappy with your life at the moment, I would love to explore with you how we can inspire a better future. By simply understanding and accepting ourselves and our current situations, it can lead to a happier and healthier future.
087 250 0049 x12 View 087 250 0049 x12
Photo of Stephan Nel, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Stephan Nel
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
This specialized approach focuses on helping clients explore fundamental questions of human existence, purpose, choice and suffering with the aim of creating meaning by providing a holistic perspective that integrates various psychological theories & techniques (such as CBT, DBT & Gestalt).
I have always been interested in understanding why people think and feel the way they do and how this may inform their behavior. As a result, I aim to work with clients to gain understanding of themselves, by accompanying them in their therapeutic journey of self discovery where they can realize their choices as to discover meaning and purpose in their lives, even in the face of adversity.
This specialized approach focuses on helping clients explore fundamental questions of human existence, purpose, choice and suffering with the aim of creating meaning by providing a holistic perspective that integrates various psychological theories & techniques (such as CBT, DBT & Gestalt).
I have always been interested in understanding why people think and feel the way they do and how this may inform their behavior. As a result, I aim to work with clients to gain understanding of themselves, by accompanying them in their therapeutic journey of self discovery where they can realize their choices as to discover meaning and purpose in their lives, even in the face of adversity.
087 250 2837 x89 View 087 250 2837 x89
Photo of Tana Silver, Registered Counsellor in Cape Town, Western Cape
Tana Silver
Registered Counsellor, MPsych, HPCSA - Counsellor
Verified Verified
My philosophy is that all of us have the necessary abilities to overcome any challenges in life with the right support. I offer an integrative approach to counselling that draws on Gestalt, existential and cognitive theories. I view counselling as a creative process of discovering the masterpiece in each client. I work within an interpersonal framework that places the relationship between the client and the therapist at the heart of the process.
My philosophy is that all of us have the necessary abilities to overcome any challenges in life with the right support. I offer an integrative approach to counselling that draws on Gestalt, existential and cognitive theories. I view counselling as a creative process of discovering the masterpiece in each client. I work within an interpersonal framework that places the relationship between the client and the therapist at the heart of the process.
087 250 2962 x79 View 087 250 2962 x79
Photo of Zingaphi Zazini, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Zingaphi Zazini
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Durbanville 7550  (Online Only)
As a counseling psychologist with a background in working with children with cognitive and behavioral issues, as well as guiding parents on coping and dealing with the pressures of raising children, my passion lies in helping individuals and families navigate through their challenges and find a path towards growth and well-being. My approach to counseling is integrative, drawing from various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, and family systems therapy. I believe in tailoring my interventions to meet the specific needs of each client.
As a counseling psychologist with a background in working with children with cognitive and behavioral issues, as well as guiding parents on coping and dealing with the pressures of raising children, my passion lies in helping individuals and families navigate through their challenges and find a path towards growth and well-being. My approach to counseling is integrative, drawing from various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, and family systems therapy. I believe in tailoring my interventions to meet the specific needs of each client.
087 250 0412 x51 View 087 250 0412 x51
Photo of Siza Mazibuko, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Siza Mazibuko
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Medicolegal assessment: conducted to assess the cognitive functioning of an individual following the accident for the purpose of the road accident fund claims.
Though rarely easy, therapy requires clients to be brave, bold and willing to be vulnerable: I provide a safe and confidential space for therapeutic work which is life-changing and therefore a worthwhile personal investment. Psychotherapy is offered exclusively to adolescent and adult patients, with the option of individual and group sessions. My therapeutic approach is holistic and informed by psychodynamic approach, however, other modalities are used in specific cases where they are identified to be the best treatment.
Medicolegal assessment: conducted to assess the cognitive functioning of an individual following the accident for the purpose of the road accident fund claims.
Though rarely easy, therapy requires clients to be brave, bold and willing to be vulnerable: I provide a safe and confidential space for therapeutic work which is life-changing and therefore a worthwhile personal investment. Psychotherapy is offered exclusively to adolescent and adult patients, with the option of individual and group sessions. My therapeutic approach is holistic and informed by psychodynamic approach, however, other modalities are used in specific cases where they are identified to be the best treatment.
087 250 0719 x64 View 087 250 0719 x64
Photo of Ben-Lou Marais, General Counsellor in Cape Town, Western Cape
Ben-Lou Marais
General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons, ASCHP Specialist Wellness Counsellor
Verified Verified
Welcome! I'm a counselor who blends DBT & CBT with a person-centered approach, I'm committed to guiding you on a transformative journey tailored to your unique goals, needs, and challenges. Rooted in Christian principles, I offer holistic support for your growth. Let's embark on this journey together toward fulfillment and healing. Together, we'll embark on a collaborative exploration, where your well-being is the focal point. Whether you're seeking to navigate life's complexities, manage overwhelming emotions, or overcome obstacles. By fostering a safe and nurturing environment, I aim to empower you to cultivate resilience.
Welcome! I'm a counselor who blends DBT & CBT with a person-centered approach, I'm committed to guiding you on a transformative journey tailored to your unique goals, needs, and challenges. Rooted in Christian principles, I offer holistic support for your growth. Let's embark on this journey together toward fulfillment and healing. Together, we'll embark on a collaborative exploration, where your well-being is the focal point. Whether you're seeking to navigate life's complexities, manage overwhelming emotions, or overcome obstacles. By fostering a safe and nurturing environment, I aim to empower you to cultivate resilience.
087 250 0902 x86 View 087 250 0902 x86
Photo of Samantha Moldan, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Samantha Moldan
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
The therapeutic orientations that I draw on include Narrative Therapy, CBT, BWRT, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic theory.
As a counselling psychologist my focus is on short and long term therapeutic interventions with adolescents and adults. Over the past twenty years, I have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings within South Africa and Canada. Through these experiences, I have developed special interests that include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress management, adjustment issues, interpersonal difficulties and low self esteem.
The therapeutic orientations that I draw on include Narrative Therapy, CBT, BWRT, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic theory.
As a counselling psychologist my focus is on short and long term therapeutic interventions with adolescents and adults. Over the past twenty years, I have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings within South Africa and Canada. Through these experiences, I have developed special interests that include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress management, adjustment issues, interpersonal difficulties and low self esteem.
087 250 3069 x11 View 087 250 3069 x11
Photo of Alexia Daniels, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Alexia Daniels
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
I prefer using short-term therapeutic modalities such as Brain Working Recursive Therapy (BWRT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and equipping the clients with skills and techniques to develop a sense of agency.
I am fascinated by the human psyche, the potential for change and the resilience that we display in the face of life's difficulties. This is what initially drew me to studying Psychology and it is my passion that keeps me in this field. I am passionate about assisting people, empowering them with insight and knowledge to cope with challenges; bearing witness to their challenges but also their strengths and helping them develop a more balanced view of themselves. I have an interest in assisting with the following: anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, stress management, grief and career guidance and assessments.
I prefer using short-term therapeutic modalities such as Brain Working Recursive Therapy (BWRT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and equipping the clients with skills and techniques to develop a sense of agency.
I am fascinated by the human psyche, the potential for change and the resilience that we display in the face of life's difficulties. This is what initially drew me to studying Psychology and it is my passion that keeps me in this field. I am passionate about assisting people, empowering them with insight and knowledge to cope with challenges; bearing witness to their challenges but also their strengths and helping them develop a more balanced view of themselves. I have an interest in assisting with the following: anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, stress management, grief and career guidance and assessments.
087 250 0160 x26 View 087 250 0160 x26
Photo of Kerrin van Schalkwyk, General Counsellor in Cape Town, Western Cape
Kerrin van Schalkwyk
General Counsellor
Verified Verified
My preferred method is a combination of CBT & narrative therapy, but my counselling approach varies as I believe every person has specific needs.
All of us have at least one thing in our lives that we wish we could overcome or conquer. As a registered wellness counsellor, my goal is to help clients navigate their way to climbing and conquering the mountain that they face. We often feel alone and like nobody understands us and what we are going through, but my aim is to offer you a space to be heard, to be vulnerable and to encourage you to take the first step toward having autonomy over your own life.
My preferred method is a combination of CBT & narrative therapy, but my counselling approach varies as I believe every person has specific needs.
All of us have at least one thing in our lives that we wish we could overcome or conquer. As a registered wellness counsellor, my goal is to help clients navigate their way to climbing and conquering the mountain that they face. We often feel alone and like nobody understands us and what we are going through, but my aim is to offer you a space to be heard, to be vulnerable and to encourage you to take the first step toward having autonomy over your own life.
087 250 0719 x89 View 087 250 0719 x89
Photo of Wilma Beukes (Cloete), Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Wilma Beukes (Cloete)
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
What I offer therapeutically includes: Trauma work, Cognitive behavioural therapy, Mindfulness, Psychotherapy from a Christian Perspective, and personal growth work.
The wound is the place where the light enters you. - Rumi. Through dealing with my own wounds, I have realized that psychology gives me perspective. I do not take for granted, the priviledge of being part of a very personal process with my clients. I hope to create conditions in which my clients can empower themselves. During 2021 I had my radio, online, and TV debut. Mental health awareness and health promotion is very important to me. Psychology is not only what I do, it forms a profound part of who I am. Online article by Wilma Beukes: https://afrikaans.com/2021/09/24/geestesgesondheid-kom-ons-praat-daaroor/
What I offer therapeutically includes: Trauma work, Cognitive behavioural therapy, Mindfulness, Psychotherapy from a Christian Perspective, and personal growth work.
The wound is the place where the light enters you. - Rumi. Through dealing with my own wounds, I have realized that psychology gives me perspective. I do not take for granted, the priviledge of being part of a very personal process with my clients. I hope to create conditions in which my clients can empower themselves. During 2021 I had my radio, online, and TV debut. Mental health awareness and health promotion is very important to me. Psychology is not only what I do, it forms a profound part of who I am. Online article by Wilma Beukes: https://afrikaans.com/2021/09/24/geestesgesondheid-kom-ons-praat-daaroor/
087 250 0914 x40 View 087 250 0914 x40
Photo of AR Counselling (Abigail Reeve), Registered Counsellor in Cape Town, Western Cape
AR Counselling (Abigail Reeve)
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Verified Verified
I would make use of Cognitive behavioural therapy as well as positive psychology.
I provide a safe space, where you can feel heard and understood. I am a big advocate for mental health and breaking the stigma. Seeking counselling is a sign of strength as you have admitted that you need assistance... You are not alone. My services are also offered in Afrikaans. My dienste is ook beskikbaar in Afrikaans.
I would make use of Cognitive behavioural therapy as well as positive psychology.
I provide a safe space, where you can feel heard and understood. I am a big advocate for mental health and breaking the stigma. Seeking counselling is a sign of strength as you have admitted that you need assistance... You are not alone. My services are also offered in Afrikaans. My dienste is ook beskikbaar in Afrikaans.
087 250 2910 x98 View 087 250 2910 x98
Photo of Karen Jooste, General Counsellor in Cape Town, Western Cape
Karen Jooste
General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
Verified Verified
Somerset West 7130  (Online Only)
When you feel that your life has become unmanageable, it can be difficult to know which direction to go in. It takes bravery to reach out and to admit that you feel overwhelmed. You need a place where you will feel accepted and not judged. I offer on-line addiction counseling sessions to adolescents and adults. I offer a space where you will feel safe and supported. I have worked in the field of addiction for 8 years and I have a degree in Social Sciences, specializing in substance abuse. I work from a positive psychology approach, focusing on a range of treatments such as DBT, CBT and Motivation Interviewing.
When you feel that your life has become unmanageable, it can be difficult to know which direction to go in. It takes bravery to reach out and to admit that you feel overwhelmed. You need a place where you will feel accepted and not judged. I offer on-line addiction counseling sessions to adolescents and adults. I offer a space where you will feel safe and supported. I have worked in the field of addiction for 8 years and I have a degree in Social Sciences, specializing in substance abuse. I work from a positive psychology approach, focusing on a range of treatments such as DBT, CBT and Motivation Interviewing.
072 408 7481 View 072 408 7481
Photo of Heart to Heart Online Counselling-Dr Piet van Zyl, General Counsellor in Cape Town, Western Cape
Heart to Heart Online Counselling-Dr Piet van Zyl
General Counsellor, PhD
Verified Verified
Somerset West 7130  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a Specialist Wellness Counsellor, Counselling Practitioner, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, or Pastoral Counsellor? Here you find all in one.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Are your relationship in shambles? Alfred Adler said, Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another, and feeling with the heart of another. That is what you will find at Heart to Heart. I am a registered Specialist Wellness Counsellor with more than 40 years of experience in counselling individuals and families through various hardships and traumas. Why don’t you arrange a 10-15 minute Complimentary Session with me to see how online counselling works and if I am the counsellor you are looking for? Whatsapp, email or call to arrange the session.
Are you looking for a Specialist Wellness Counsellor, Counselling Practitioner, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, or Pastoral Counsellor? Here you find all in one.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Are your relationship in shambles? Alfred Adler said, Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another, and feeling with the heart of another. That is what you will find at Heart to Heart. I am a registered Specialist Wellness Counsellor with more than 40 years of experience in counselling individuals and families through various hardships and traumas. Why don’t you arrange a 10-15 minute Complimentary Session with me to see how online counselling works and if I am the counsellor you are looking for? Whatsapp, email or call to arrange the session.
087 250 0536 x85 View 087 250 0536 x85
Photo of Alexa Jane Scher, Psychologist in Cape Town, Western Cape
Alexa Jane Scher
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Muizenberg 7950  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw on multiple theoretical frameworks (CBT, ACT & DBT) to suit my client's needs & the therapeutic relationship.
I enjoy engaging with people from all walks of life. I've worked with clients from a diverse range of settings - from townships & rural clinics, to psychiatric facilities & now private practice. Life can be incredibly overwhelming, which is why it's crucial to find a supportive space to let it all out & find healthy, effective ways to cope. If you're wanting to learn more about yourself & how to promote your mental health, needing practical skills to improve your relationships, mindfulness skills to deal with your thoughts or ways to manage emotions, so that you're in control - look no further! I'm only working online at the moment.
I draw on multiple theoretical frameworks (CBT, ACT & DBT) to suit my client's needs & the therapeutic relationship.
I enjoy engaging with people from all walks of life. I've worked with clients from a diverse range of settings - from townships & rural clinics, to psychiatric facilities & now private practice. Life can be incredibly overwhelming, which is why it's crucial to find a supportive space to let it all out & find healthy, effective ways to cope. If you're wanting to learn more about yourself & how to promote your mental health, needing practical skills to improve your relationships, mindfulness skills to deal with your thoughts or ways to manage emotions, so that you're in control - look no further! I'm only working online at the moment.
087 250 2389 x67 View 087 250 2389 x67

See more therapy options for Cape Town

Cognitive Behavioural (CBT) Counsellors

How does cognitive behavioural therapy work?

Cognitive behavioural 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 catastrophising 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 behavioural therapy?

It’s reasonable to consider cognitive behavioural 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 behavioural therapist for someone else?

To find a cognitive behavioural therapist for someone else, you may want to begin by discussing the person’s problem, researching cognitive behavioural 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.