Photo of Melissa Ayrado, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kingwood, TX
Melissa Ayrado
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
In my practice, I provide a person centered approach, while also using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy models.
Mental health struggles, whether intense or mild, can really make everyday life difficult. Sometimes these struggles affect us personally and other times they affect the people around us, making us collateral damage. Attending therapy can help us learn skills to manage such struggles. For example, processing is a skill that allows us to understand our thoughts, understand our feelings, accept certain aspects of our lives and situations, and work through the struggle to move on. Learning to process and work through our struggles can make a huge difference in how we handle stress and daily life situations.
In my practice, I provide a person centered approach, while also using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy models.
Mental health struggles, whether intense or mild, can really make everyday life difficult. Sometimes these struggles affect us personally and other times they affect the people around us, making us collateral damage. Attending therapy can help us learn skills to manage such struggles. For example, processing is a skill that allows us to understand our thoughts, understand our feelings, accept certain aspects of our lives and situations, and work through the struggle to move on. Learning to process and work through our struggles can make a huge difference in how we handle stress and daily life situations.
(281) 214-9177 View (281) 214-9177
Photo of Capstone Connect PLLC Counseling & Trauma Services, Licensed Master Social Worker in Kingwood, TX
Capstone Connect PLLC Counseling & Trauma Services
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Some of the techniques I utilize include Child Centered Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Hello, I'm Kenya L Moore, LMSW. Welcome to a safe space of healing and wholeness! I am honored to have the opportunity to partner with you on your counseling journey. I am passionate about whole-person healing that addresses the mind, body, and soul. I am fully aware that experiences of trauma, hurt, and wounds can cause instabilities in mental and emotional wellbeing. This awareness helps me connect with those I serve. I desire to create a welcoming space for clients to come as they are without fear of judgment. I am passionate about working with young children, pre-teens, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Some of the techniques I utilize include Child Centered Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Hello, I'm Kenya L Moore, LMSW. Welcome to a safe space of healing and wholeness! I am honored to have the opportunity to partner with you on your counseling journey. I am passionate about whole-person healing that addresses the mind, body, and soul. I am fully aware that experiences of trauma, hurt, and wounds can cause instabilities in mental and emotional wellbeing. This awareness helps me connect with those I serve. I desire to create a welcoming space for clients to come as they are without fear of judgment. I am passionate about working with young children, pre-teens, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(281) 306-5032 View (281) 306-5032
Photo of Rachael Frasier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kingwood, TX
Rachael Frasier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339  (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship and peer issues, and I use an eclectic approach to counseling with my clients by utilizing Solution Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Are you feeling out of sorts? Are you finding it difficult and challenging to work through conflict with others, or the inner conflict with yourself? Would you like to find supportive help that is solution focused and goal oriented? We can work together to identify what the conflicts are, what goals you want to set, and how to reach the goals and get back on your journey to a new path.
I specialize in relationship and peer issues, and I use an eclectic approach to counseling with my clients by utilizing Solution Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Are you feeling out of sorts? Are you finding it difficult and challenging to work through conflict with others, or the inner conflict with yourself? Would you like to find supportive help that is solution focused and goal oriented? We can work together to identify what the conflicts are, what goals you want to set, and how to reach the goals and get back on your journey to a new path.
(281) 626-5095 View (281) 626-5095
Photo of Carol Sepulveda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kingwood, TX
Carol Sepulveda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
I am trained and use Cognitive Behavior Therapy to help clients examine thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
Do you want a more rewarding life for yourself, your child or your family? Has your child's behavior changed? Is your child acting out? Are you or your child coping with feelings of anger, anxiety and depression or feelings of worthlessness? Have you or your child experienced stress related situations or trauma? Are you coping with family of origin issues that are disrupting peace of mind and/or quality of life. If you are, I can help by providing evidence-based treatment modalities specific to your issues. I can help you better understand and resolve the challenges you are facing.
I am trained and use Cognitive Behavior Therapy to help clients examine thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
Do you want a more rewarding life for yourself, your child or your family? Has your child's behavior changed? Is your child acting out? Are you or your child coping with feelings of anger, anxiety and depression or feelings of worthlessness? Have you or your child experienced stress related situations or trauma? Are you coping with family of origin issues that are disrupting peace of mind and/or quality of life. If you are, I can help by providing evidence-based treatment modalities specific to your issues. I can help you better understand and resolve the challenges you are facing.
(281) 394-1807 View (281) 394-1807
Photo of Harding & Associates, Psychotherapy & Evaluation, Psychologist in Kingwood, TX
Harding & Associates, Psychotherapy & Evaluation
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
A cognitive-behavioral Psychologist and Licensed Professional Counselor, we assist in stopping negative thinking to reduce stress/anxiety and extreme mood fluctuations and to help you change unwanted behaviors.
At Harding & Associates, we have 2 very capable, caring therapists who are experienced in working with people of all ages with a wide variety of presenting concerns. We help people discover long-lasting solutions that work for them. Identifying unhelpful thoughts and coping mechanisms and working to change them can create relief. Parenting & family sessions are usually necessary for children and adolescents. We look forward to helping you build a more comfortable life for yourself and your family.
A cognitive-behavioral Psychologist and Licensed Professional Counselor, we assist in stopping negative thinking to reduce stress/anxiety and extreme mood fluctuations and to help you change unwanted behaviors.
At Harding & Associates, we have 2 very capable, caring therapists who are experienced in working with people of all ages with a wide variety of presenting concerns. We help people discover long-lasting solutions that work for them. Identifying unhelpful thoughts and coping mechanisms and working to change them can create relief. Parenting & family sessions are usually necessary for children and adolescents. We look forward to helping you build a more comfortable life for yourself and your family.
(903) 225-2945 View (903) 225-2945
Keith R Stirrup
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
My theoretical approach is based on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
My clinical practice offers comprehensive psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for adults, adolescents, and children. I offer individual, group, couples, and family therapy. I have experience in treating and/or assessing a range of psychological problems.
My theoretical approach is based on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
My clinical practice offers comprehensive psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for adults, adolescents, and children. I offer individual, group, couples, and family therapy. I have experience in treating and/or assessing a range of psychological problems.
(281) 849-3784 View (281) 849-3784
Photo of Katelyn King Fertitta, LPC Intern in Kingwood, TX
Katelyn King Fertitta
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
My practice is shaped by theories such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, and solution-focused brief therapy.
We can all benefit from having someone to talk to. Sometimes, it can help to have someone provide us with a new or different way of thinking about things. As a licensed professional counselor intern, it is my desire to provide attentive presence during clients' times of personal growth and emotional need. Whether the client is 4 years old or 84 years old, I believe everyone’s story has value, and everyone can benefit from going to counseling. I am passionate about equipping my clients to live their lives to the fullest.
My practice is shaped by theories such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, and solution-focused brief therapy.
We can all benefit from having someone to talk to. Sometimes, it can help to have someone provide us with a new or different way of thinking about things. As a licensed professional counselor intern, it is my desire to provide attentive presence during clients' times of personal growth and emotional need. Whether the client is 4 years old or 84 years old, I believe everyone’s story has value, and everyone can benefit from going to counseling. I am passionate about equipping my clients to live their lives to the fullest.
(281) 957-8704 View (281) 957-8704
Photo of Amie Allain, Psychologist in Kingwood, TX
Amie Allain
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
Welcome! Foremost, my goal is to provide a safe space for individuals and families to learn more about themselves and the current issues that led them to my office. I treat a range of emotional and behavioral concerns in children, adolescents, and adults; I work in individual, group, couples, and family formats. In addition, I provide comprehensive testing, including detailed analyses of attention, social, emotional, behavioral, and personality. My therapeutic technique is integrative; I incorporate research-based methods from the Gottman Method (Level 3 trained), CBT, ACT, interpersonal, and systemic theories.
Welcome! Foremost, my goal is to provide a safe space for individuals and families to learn more about themselves and the current issues that led them to my office. I treat a range of emotional and behavioral concerns in children, adolescents, and adults; I work in individual, group, couples, and family formats. In addition, I provide comprehensive testing, including detailed analyses of attention, social, emotional, behavioral, and personality. My therapeutic technique is integrative; I incorporate research-based methods from the Gottman Method (Level 3 trained), CBT, ACT, interpersonal, and systemic theories.
(281) 801-1775 View (281) 801-1775
Photo of Shari Slessinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kingwood, TX
Shari Slessinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Positive Psychology, Somatic Experiencing, and Empowerment Therapy with a feminine focus.
You might feel hopeless and overwhelmed right now. However, no matter what happens, improving our circumstances is always within reach. I help individuals of all ages (children to adults) struggling with trauma – including coexisting PTSD, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, burnout, life transitions, complex relationships, and grief/loss. No matter how vulnerable and lost you feel, you can always regain your power and live a happy, fulfilling life. Our initial session focuses on what brings you to therapy. My mission is to understand the best way to support you throughout your journey to achieve your goals.
I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Positive Psychology, Somatic Experiencing, and Empowerment Therapy with a feminine focus.
You might feel hopeless and overwhelmed right now. However, no matter what happens, improving our circumstances is always within reach. I help individuals of all ages (children to adults) struggling with trauma – including coexisting PTSD, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, burnout, life transitions, complex relationships, and grief/loss. No matter how vulnerable and lost you feel, you can always regain your power and live a happy, fulfilling life. Our initial session focuses on what brings you to therapy. My mission is to understand the best way to support you throughout your journey to achieve your goals.
(281) 957-4052 View (281) 957-4052
Photo of Hope Within Healing, Counseling Services, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kingwood, TX
Hope Within Healing, Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
My name is Jamie Shields. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Licensed Chemical Dependence Counselor. My experience with children, teens and adults spans over two decades. I currently specialize in trauma, substance abuse, grief/loss, anxiety, mood disorders. Additionally, I am a Certified EMDR Therapist . I provide an eclectic approach to counseling with my patients by utilizing components of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and/or Solution Focused Therapy for trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders and other obstacles presented during counseling sessions.
My name is Jamie Shields. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Licensed Chemical Dependence Counselor. My experience with children, teens and adults spans over two decades. I currently specialize in trauma, substance abuse, grief/loss, anxiety, mood disorders. Additionally, I am a Certified EMDR Therapist . I provide an eclectic approach to counseling with my patients by utilizing components of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and/or Solution Focused Therapy for trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders and other obstacles presented during counseling sessions.
(832) 497-1706 View (832) 497-1706
Photo of Kendall Tarbet, LPC Associate in Kingwood, TX
Kendall Tarbet
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
The style of therapy that I utilize is a Strengths-Based Approach, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Assisting and supporting clients through the journey and struggles of life is my focus. My passion for counseling was sparked when working as a mentor for an under privileged elementary school in the Houston area. I enjoy working with a variety of ages and I often focus on developing empowerment and exploring resources needed to best help one succeed.
The style of therapy that I utilize is a Strengths-Based Approach, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Assisting and supporting clients through the journey and struggles of life is my focus. My passion for counseling was sparked when working as a mentor for an under privileged elementary school in the Houston area. I enjoy working with a variety of ages and I often focus on developing empowerment and exploring resources needed to best help one succeed.
(281) 305-1217 View (281) 305-1217
Photo of Joanna M Loredo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kingwood, TX
Joanna M Loredo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
I specialize in children and adolescents and have specialized training in Play Therapy and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
As a parent of a struggling child, you often find yourself wondering what you can do to help them feel better. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have provided psychotherapy to children and adolescents to help them overcome various struggles. I specialize in depression, anxiety, physical and sexual abuse/trauma, divorce-related problems, adoption issues, and behavior problems. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation for you or your child or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
I specialize in children and adolescents and have specialized training in Play Therapy and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
As a parent of a struggling child, you often find yourself wondering what you can do to help them feel better. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have provided psychotherapy to children and adolescents to help them overcome various struggles. I specialize in depression, anxiety, physical and sexual abuse/trauma, divorce-related problems, adoption issues, and behavior problems. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation for you or your child or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(713) 714-5422 View (713) 714-5422
Photo of Camille Shea, Psychologist in Kingwood, TX
Camille Shea
Psychologist, PhD, CFMHE, CCCE, PF, PC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77345  (Online Only)
My approach is client-centered and I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an eclectic approach incorporating powerful techniques drawn from Family Systems Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) .
I see individuals, couples and families. I have been a counselor since early 2000 and also began conducting psychological and neuropsychological assessments in 2005. My clients’ ages have ranged from 18 months of age all the way up to 82 years. I have worked extensively with a variety of population groups including sports athletes, law enforcement, domestic violence victims, sexual assault survivors, trauma victims, and traumatic brain injured clients as well. I provide many forms of court ordered evaluations for families in crisis. I am a certified trauma specialist. I also provide EMDR therapy. I hold BBA, Ph.D., CFMHE, & CCCE.
My approach is client-centered and I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an eclectic approach incorporating powerful techniques drawn from Family Systems Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) .
I see individuals, couples and families. I have been a counselor since early 2000 and also began conducting psychological and neuropsychological assessments in 2005. My clients’ ages have ranged from 18 months of age all the way up to 82 years. I have worked extensively with a variety of population groups including sports athletes, law enforcement, domestic violence victims, sexual assault survivors, trauma victims, and traumatic brain injured clients as well. I provide many forms of court ordered evaluations for families in crisis. I am a certified trauma specialist. I also provide EMDR therapy. I hold BBA, Ph.D., CFMHE, & CCCE.
(713) 804-8290 View (713) 804-8290
Photo of Nancy Breunig Schultz, Psychologist in Kingwood, TX
Nancy Breunig Schultz
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, LSSP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
I have worked with children and adults for 25+ years. In my practice, I provide an individualized written treatment plan to meet the client's needs. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). CBT focuses on changing an individual's thoughts in order to change his or her behavior and emotional state. It has been proven to be highly effective in many areas such as anxiety and depression. DBT is a modified form of CBT where clients are taught mindfulness (living in the moment), how to tolerate and cope with stress, regulate emotions and develop healthy interpersonal relationships.
I have worked with children and adults for 25+ years. In my practice, I provide an individualized written treatment plan to meet the client's needs. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). CBT focuses on changing an individual's thoughts in order to change his or her behavior and emotional state. It has been proven to be highly effective in many areas such as anxiety and depression. DBT is a modified form of CBT where clients are taught mindfulness (living in the moment), how to tolerate and cope with stress, regulate emotions and develop healthy interpersonal relationships.
(713) 597-7329 View (713) 597-7329
Photo of Heather Jewell, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Kingwood, TX
Heather Jewell
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
First, using ACT, CBT, and Attachment theory, I offer therapy sessions that can lift the weight that often comes with anxiety, depression, grief, abuse, trauma, divorce, and other issues.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor- Associate under the supervision of Vikki Sears, LPC-S. I love working with individuals (8+), couples, and families. I also offer ADHD evaluations. I believe you are the expert in your life, and there is power in learning to understand yourself better. It is never too late to change patterns that aren’t serving you, and to create relationships that bring joy. People can change and grow no matter how long they have felt stuck, or what has happened in their past; I watch them do it everyday!
First, using ACT, CBT, and Attachment theory, I offer therapy sessions that can lift the weight that often comes with anxiety, depression, grief, abuse, trauma, divorce, and other issues.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor- Associate under the supervision of Vikki Sears, LPC-S. I love working with individuals (8+), couples, and families. I also offer ADHD evaluations. I believe you are the expert in your life, and there is power in learning to understand yourself better. It is never too late to change patterns that aren’t serving you, and to create relationships that bring joy. People can change and grow no matter how long they have felt stuck, or what has happened in their past; I watch them do it everyday!
(281) 784-3510 View (281) 784-3510
Photo of Stephanie Presley, LPC-Associate in Kingwood, TX
Stephanie Presley
LPC-Associate, NCC, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Stephanie is a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. She is experienced in working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and domestic abuse/trauma survivors treating stress, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, self-harm/suicidal ideation, childhood trauma, PTSD, adjustment/conduct disorder, self-esteem, intimacy, career guidance, relationship issues, ADHD, grief, and LGBTQ related challenges.
Stephanie is a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. She is experienced in working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and domestic abuse/trauma survivors treating stress, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, self-harm/suicidal ideation, childhood trauma, PTSD, adjustment/conduct disorder, self-esteem, intimacy, career guidance, relationship issues, ADHD, grief, and LGBTQ related challenges.
(281) 626-8106 View (281) 626-8106
Photo of Tracy Lambert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kingwood, TX
Tracy Lambert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
Do you feel your child is struggling emotionally or behaviorally? Is your child having trouble with focusing or making friends at school? Therapy is a process and may help! I enjoy working with a variety of ages of individuals and families. I specialize in working with children/adolescents facing varying difficulties. Some of these issues may be low self-esteem, grief, anxiety, difficulties with peers, traumatic experiences, or trouble adjusting to changes in their life. I strive to create a space where your child will feel safe to connect, openly express their feelings, and begin developing healthy ways to cope.
Do you feel your child is struggling emotionally or behaviorally? Is your child having trouble with focusing or making friends at school? Therapy is a process and may help! I enjoy working with a variety of ages of individuals and families. I specialize in working with children/adolescents facing varying difficulties. Some of these issues may be low self-esteem, grief, anxiety, difficulties with peers, traumatic experiences, or trouble adjusting to changes in their life. I strive to create a space where your child will feel safe to connect, openly express their feelings, and begin developing healthy ways to cope.
(713) 766-0781 View (713) 766-0781
Photo of Josalynn Cartagena, Counselor in Kingwood, TX
Josalynn Cartagena
Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339  (Online Only)
Do you battle anxiety and stress in the form of racing thoughts that don't seem to go away? Or full blown panic attacks that seem to knock the breathe out of you and keep you immobilized? I've been there. I truly believe every experience in life can help mold you and shift you for the better. Through every hardship you encounter, you can pull through and gain more on the other end. Life begins to change the most when you stop asking “Why does this keep happening to me?” and start asking yourself “What am I meant to learn from this?” and “How can I grow from this?” I believe I can help you overcome anxiety and moving forward.
Do you battle anxiety and stress in the form of racing thoughts that don't seem to go away? Or full blown panic attacks that seem to knock the breathe out of you and keep you immobilized? I've been there. I truly believe every experience in life can help mold you and shift you for the better. Through every hardship you encounter, you can pull through and gain more on the other end. Life begins to change the most when you stop asking “Why does this keep happening to me?” and start asking yourself “What am I meant to learn from this?” and “How can I grow from this?” I believe I can help you overcome anxiety and moving forward.
(281) 524-3604 View (281) 524-3604
Photo of Ashlee Vines, LPC Associate in Kingwood, TX
Ashlee Vines
LPC Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
I believe going to therapy is one of the best gifts you can give yourself—the gift of attentiveness and connection in a world that too often encourages rushing through and pushing away. I find one of my favorite parts of therapy is creating a relaxing and comfortable environment where you can feel at ease while exploring personal challenges and growth. Friends describe me as optimistic and genuine, and I’m certainly not against utilizing the healing power of laughter!
I believe going to therapy is one of the best gifts you can give yourself—the gift of attentiveness and connection in a world that too often encourages rushing through and pushing away. I find one of my favorite parts of therapy is creating a relaxing and comfortable environment where you can feel at ease while exploring personal challenges and growth. Friends describe me as optimistic and genuine, and I’m certainly not against utilizing the healing power of laughter!
(281) 941-6975 View (281) 941-6975
Photo of Kayla Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kingwood, TX
Kayla Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
I try to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for you to express yourself and help you reach your personal goals. There's no magic pill I can give you, but we can work together so you can develop the tools and coping skills you need to overcome obstacles and maximize your potential to make healthy choices and live the most fulfilling life possible.
I try to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for you to express yourself and help you reach your personal goals. There's no magic pill I can give you, but we can work together so you can develop the tools and coping skills you need to overcome obstacles and maximize your potential to make healthy choices and live the most fulfilling life possible.
(832) 981-6227 View (832) 981-6227
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.