Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Tampa, FL

Photo of Rice Psychology Group, Psychologist in Tampa, FL
Rice Psychology Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33606
In addition to therapy, we also provide neuropsychological testing and cognitive training for attention, memory and processing.
Rice Psychology Group now has offices in both North and South Tampa. We are dedicated to offering a highly personalized and compassionate experience in an atmosphere that is professional, yet welcoming. Our therapists offer up-to-date and effective help for children, adolescents and adults and our therapy dogs can often be found at the office as well. Please note: Contacting a therapist at Rice Psychology or emailing the office does not establish a therapist-patient relationship. If this an emergency please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
In addition to therapy, we also provide neuropsychological testing and cognitive training for attention, memory and processing.
Rice Psychology Group now has offices in both North and South Tampa. We are dedicated to offering a highly personalized and compassionate experience in an atmosphere that is professional, yet welcoming. Our therapists offer up-to-date and effective help for children, adolescents and adults and our therapy dogs can often be found at the office as well. Please note: Contacting a therapist at Rice Psychology or emailing the office does not establish a therapist-patient relationship. If this an emergency please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
(813) 333-9483 View (813) 333-9483
Photo of Jeralyn R Tharp Lpcc-S Licdc, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Jeralyn R Tharp Lpcc-S Licdc
Counselor, MEd , LPCC-S, LICDC, LMHC FL, Gamb
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33612  (Online Only)
Welcome I hope to be part of your support journey as you seek hope, health and recovery to various life challenges . I have over 25 years experience providing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment in a great deal of diverse settings. I am interested in learning more about (you ) and (your ) goals and objectives for therapy. I believe a counseling relationship works best when you are comfortable with a therapist and free to be who you are. I help you reach this goal by bringing to the session , experience , honesty of myself , kindness and genuine regard. I am part of the Veteran Choice Programs to receive VA referrals.
Welcome I hope to be part of your support journey as you seek hope, health and recovery to various life challenges . I have over 25 years experience providing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment in a great deal of diverse settings. I am interested in learning more about (you ) and (your ) goals and objectives for therapy. I believe a counseling relationship works best when you are comfortable with a therapist and free to be who you are. I help you reach this goal by bringing to the session , experience , honesty of myself , kindness and genuine regard. I am part of the Veteran Choice Programs to receive VA referrals.
(850) 279-5214 View (850) 279-5214
Photo of Kate Hittel, Psychologist in Tampa, FL
Kate Hittel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609
I utilize an integrative and collaborative therapeutic approach, including techniques of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, strength-based,& mindfulness-based interventions.
I am Licensed Clinical Psychologist who provides therapy for adults and evaluations for individuals 5 years old and older. Psychological and psychoeducational testing services offered include evaluation of learning disabilities, ADHD, gifted, personality, and diagnostic clarification.
I utilize an integrative and collaborative therapeutic approach, including techniques of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, strength-based,& mindfulness-based interventions.
I am Licensed Clinical Psychologist who provides therapy for adults and evaluations for individuals 5 years old and older. Psychological and psychoeducational testing services offered include evaluation of learning disabilities, ADHD, gifted, personality, and diagnostic clarification.
(813) 993-4928 View (813) 993-4928
Photo of Deborah Vargas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tampa, FL
Deborah Vargas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
Hello! Hola! If you’re reading this it means you’re likely seeking an opportunity for healing, growth, and connection. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, hopeless, or feel like you need a space to just be YOU. You’ve come to the right place. I would be honored to join you in your journey of healing, recovery, and empowerment. I believe that everyone has the potential to get to where they want to be but often have difficulty identifying and utilizing their resources in times of distress. My goal is to help individuals realize their strengths and use them to their advantage.
Hello! Hola! If you’re reading this it means you’re likely seeking an opportunity for healing, growth, and connection. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, hopeless, or feel like you need a space to just be YOU. You’ve come to the right place. I would be honored to join you in your journey of healing, recovery, and empowerment. I believe that everyone has the potential to get to where they want to be but often have difficulty identifying and utilizing their resources in times of distress. My goal is to help individuals realize their strengths and use them to their advantage.
(813) 773-2512 View (813) 773-2512
Photo of Cameisha McQueen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tampa, FL
Cameisha McQueen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33605  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Whether you are looking for Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), mindfulness techniques, or spiritual counseling, I am here to help you with this journey.
Feeling stressed, and overwhelmed? Having difficulties facing yourself or your past? Honestly, you are not alone. There are many people who struggle with facing obstacles, traumas, and everyday life situations who desire to be happy and mentally and emotionally healthy. It is my heartfelt mission to help individuals and families to learn how to develop better coping strategies, face and overcome trauma, and develop healthy techniques that will follow them throughout their entire life journey.
Whether you are looking for Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), mindfulness techniques, or spiritual counseling, I am here to help you with this journey.
Feeling stressed, and overwhelmed? Having difficulties facing yourself or your past? Honestly, you are not alone. There are many people who struggle with facing obstacles, traumas, and everyday life situations who desire to be happy and mentally and emotionally healthy. It is my heartfelt mission to help individuals and families to learn how to develop better coping strategies, face and overcome trauma, and develop healthy techniques that will follow them throughout their entire life journey.
(727) 250-5379 View (727) 250-5379
Photo of Julie J. McKean, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Julie J. McKean
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33624
Healing, change and growth will lead to improved well being, stronger relationships and a better quality of life for you! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a National Board Certified Counselor who is committed to helping you attain your goals within an atmosphere of respect, competence and collaboration.
Healing, change and growth will lead to improved well being, stronger relationships and a better quality of life for you! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a National Board Certified Counselor who is committed to helping you attain your goals within an atmosphere of respect, competence and collaboration.
(813) 964-7883 View (813) 964-7883
Photo of Arthur Becker-Weidman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tampa, FL
Arthur Becker-Weidman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609
My focus is on trauma and attachment issues, especially those related to adoption and foster care. I always begin with a thorough assessment that includes assessment the seven domains that may be affected by Complex Trauma. In addition I work extensively with families of teenagers on relationships, family conflicts, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, and school issues.
My focus is on trauma and attachment issues, especially those related to adoption and foster care. I always begin with a thorough assessment that includes assessment the seven domains that may be affected by Complex Trauma. In addition I work extensively with families of teenagers on relationships, family conflicts, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, and school issues.
(716) 337-5186 View (716) 337-5186
Photo of Dr. Gina Midyett, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Dr. Gina Midyett
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist. I provide a safe, non judgmental and down to earth environment for my clients to express themselves. I offer individual, couple and family therapy. I assist my clients in developing new coping skills to deal with their presenting issues. I believe that developing new, healthy ways of thinking and living can lead to a healthy mind and body. I incorporate nutrition and exercise consultation as related to mental health.I specialize but not limited to depression, anxiety, phobias, relationship issues, grief/loss,child/adolescent issues,and eating disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist. I provide a safe, non judgmental and down to earth environment for my clients to express themselves. I offer individual, couple and family therapy. I assist my clients in developing new coping skills to deal with their presenting issues. I believe that developing new, healthy ways of thinking and living can lead to a healthy mind and body. I incorporate nutrition and exercise consultation as related to mental health.I specialize but not limited to depression, anxiety, phobias, relationship issues, grief/loss,child/adolescent issues,and eating disorders.
(813) 438-4957 View (813) 438-4957
Photo of Ha Alberti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tampa, FL
Ha Alberti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33626
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life's challenges? You don't have to struggle alone anymore. Allow me to walk beside you and offer support. As your therapist, my mission is to provide a safe haven where you can feel understood and validated. I will help you to identify the root cause of your pain, provide you with skills to deal with life's challenges, and maximize your potential for personal growth and fulfillment.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life's challenges? You don't have to struggle alone anymore. Allow me to walk beside you and offer support. As your therapist, my mission is to provide a safe haven where you can feel understood and validated. I will help you to identify the root cause of your pain, provide you with skills to deal with life's challenges, and maximize your potential for personal growth and fulfillment.
(813) 906-1492 View (813) 906-1492
Photo of Dr. Josh Littleton, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Tampa, FL
Dr. Josh Littleton
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, NCC, CLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607
You feel stuck. As far as others know you are doing just fine, but inside you are bombarded by feelings of fear, shame, and sadness. Even though you are able to function enough to get by, you're exhausted by the thoughts about not getting it "right". Would it help to have a safe place to share your concerns, ideas and dreams? And when you are ready to move with courageous action, would it help to have someone by your side? What you want is to believe that you matter, that it’s possible to feel grounded and find joy in life. You need to feel safe to be yourself.
You feel stuck. As far as others know you are doing just fine, but inside you are bombarded by feelings of fear, shame, and sadness. Even though you are able to function enough to get by, you're exhausted by the thoughts about not getting it "right". Would it help to have a safe place to share your concerns, ideas and dreams? And when you are ready to move with courageous action, would it help to have someone by your side? What you want is to believe that you matter, that it’s possible to feel grounded and find joy in life. You need to feel safe to be yourself.
(941) 241-3837 View (941) 241-3837
Photo of Paola Andrea Holguin, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Paola Andrea Holguin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33615
Do you feel disconnected from yourself? Do you want to improve your relationships, or wish to enjoy parenting? Do you wonder if life should feel "different"? Things happen that push us out of our comfort zone, let’s face it! . Whether you're facing challenges, seeking personal growth, or navigating relationships, you don’t need to figure it out on your own.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself? Do you want to improve your relationships, or wish to enjoy parenting? Do you wonder if life should feel "different"? Things happen that push us out of our comfort zone, let’s face it! . Whether you're facing challenges, seeking personal growth, or navigating relationships, you don’t need to figure it out on your own.
(813) 328-6574 View (813) 328-6574
Photo of Kalin Palmer - Healing Connections Therapy, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Tampa, FL
Kalin Palmer - Healing Connections Therapy
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33619
I focus strongly on CBT, or how behaviors, thoughts, and feelings interact and affect each other, as well as EMDR which allows the brain's natural healing processes to work on past traumas.
The idea of therapy can be really scary, especially for children and adults who are already feeling overwhelmed! I have a strong passion for working with youth - I tend to gravitate toward young clients struggling with history of trauma, frequent anxiety, and difficulties with regulating emotions and/or behaviors. That being said, I’ve recently done some wonderful work with adults as well. I am especially passionate about helping individuals who have had difficulty enjoying therapy previously, as I believe sessions should typically feel empowering rather than upsetting.
I focus strongly on CBT, or how behaviors, thoughts, and feelings interact and affect each other, as well as EMDR which allows the brain's natural healing processes to work on past traumas.
The idea of therapy can be really scary, especially for children and adults who are already feeling overwhelmed! I have a strong passion for working with youth - I tend to gravitate toward young clients struggling with history of trauma, frequent anxiety, and difficulties with regulating emotions and/or behaviors. That being said, I’ve recently done some wonderful work with adults as well. I am especially passionate about helping individuals who have had difficulty enjoying therapy previously, as I believe sessions should typically feel empowering rather than upsetting.
(941) 344-2754 View (941) 344-2754
Photo of Phyllis Green, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Phyllis Green
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602  (Online Only)
My counseling approach is warm, open-minded, empathetic, empowering, and direct. My goal is to provide psychological safety and build a therapeutic alliance with my clients to facilitate their exploration of their thoughts, emotions and presenting concerns. Through our therapeutic collaboration, you will gain increased personal insights, adaptive coping techniques and building self-regulation skills. As a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), I will help my clients recognize and understand the connection between their thoughts and feelings.
My counseling approach is warm, open-minded, empathetic, empowering, and direct. My goal is to provide psychological safety and build a therapeutic alliance with my clients to facilitate their exploration of their thoughts, emotions and presenting concerns. Through our therapeutic collaboration, you will gain increased personal insights, adaptive coping techniques and building self-regulation skills. As a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), I will help my clients recognize and understand the connection between their thoughts and feelings.
(813) 669-5093 View (813) 669-5093
Photo of Niki Lopez in Tampa, FL
Niki Lopez
MA, HS
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33617
I believe all people have the potential to live healthy, happy, fulfilling lives. I also believe that sometimes we need help when we struggle with various issues. It is my honor to sit with you as you share your story and allow yourself to be vulnerable. Together we will work on becoming stronger, acquiring tools, and building skills to manage the many things life throws your way. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, talk therapy, solution focused therapy, client-centered and equine assisted therapy, and more. It can be very difficult to reach out for help and I admire your courage in taking that first step.
I believe all people have the potential to live healthy, happy, fulfilling lives. I also believe that sometimes we need help when we struggle with various issues. It is my honor to sit with you as you share your story and allow yourself to be vulnerable. Together we will work on becoming stronger, acquiring tools, and building skills to manage the many things life throws your way. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, talk therapy, solution focused therapy, client-centered and equine assisted therapy, and more. It can be very difficult to reach out for help and I admire your courage in taking that first step.
(727) 235-7180 View (727) 235-7180
Photo of Sharon B. Zigman, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Sharon B. Zigman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Master's level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) in the State of Florida. I have been working in the field for 25 years, with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, trauma, change of life challenges, family and relationship issues. I offer a safe, respectful, nonjudgmental environment by creating an open, trusting and collaborative partnership, and utilizing evidence-based practices, I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities while emphasizing self-care and mindfulness practices.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Master's level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) in the State of Florida. I have been working in the field for 25 years, with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, trauma, change of life challenges, family and relationship issues. I offer a safe, respectful, nonjudgmental environment by creating an open, trusting and collaborative partnership, and utilizing evidence-based practices, I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities while emphasizing self-care and mindfulness practices.
(813) 808-8152 View (813) 808-8152
Photo of Meagan Zeiger, Psychologist in Tampa, FL
Meagan Zeiger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33629
Our specialities include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders (ODD, conduct), Congenital Abnormalities, Developmental Delays, Epilepsy/Seizure Disorders, Genetic Disorders, Gifted Testing, Intellectual Disability, Learning Disorders including dyslexia, Memory concerns, Mild Cognitive Impairment, Stroke Traumatic Brain Injury, and concussion.
We are now accepting new therapy patients! We strive to provide a supportive environment to help you and your family resolve conflict, reduce stress, and increase positive wellbeing. At Sunstate, we specialize in the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Specific Learning Disorders. Our goal is to partner with individuals, parents, and caregivers to identify specific strengths and weaknesses through psychological testing.
Our specialities include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders (ODD, conduct), Congenital Abnormalities, Developmental Delays, Epilepsy/Seizure Disorders, Genetic Disorders, Gifted Testing, Intellectual Disability, Learning Disorders including dyslexia, Memory concerns, Mild Cognitive Impairment, Stroke Traumatic Brain Injury, and concussion.
We are now accepting new therapy patients! We strive to provide a supportive environment to help you and your family resolve conflict, reduce stress, and increase positive wellbeing. At Sunstate, we specialize in the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Specific Learning Disorders. Our goal is to partner with individuals, parents, and caregivers to identify specific strengths and weaknesses through psychological testing.
(813) 296-5279 View (813) 296-5279
Photo of Dr. Jaime Bercuson, Psychologist in Tampa, FL
Dr. Jaime Bercuson
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33629  (Online Only)
Dr. Jaime Bercuson is a licensed clinical psychologist in California, Florida, and Utah. With more than 15 years of experience, Dr. Bercuson's compassionate and non-judgmental approach to addressing anxiety, depression, coping with life changes and stressors at work and at home will help you get to where you want to be. Using Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, along with supportive listening and reflection, Dr. Bercuson is ready to work with you to meet your goals. She is happy to connect with you for a free consult to learn more about you and what you are hoping to achieve in you work together.
Dr. Jaime Bercuson is a licensed clinical psychologist in California, Florida, and Utah. With more than 15 years of experience, Dr. Bercuson's compassionate and non-judgmental approach to addressing anxiety, depression, coping with life changes and stressors at work and at home will help you get to where you want to be. Using Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, along with supportive listening and reflection, Dr. Bercuson is ready to work with you to meet your goals. She is happy to connect with you for a free consult to learn more about you and what you are hoping to achieve in you work together.
(415) 366-3596 View (415) 366-3596
Photo of Marcdala Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tampa, FL
Marcdala Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Marcdala is a culturally competent and trauma informed psychotherapist with experienced work with various client populations from the persistent mentally ill to individuals needing brief solution focused interventions. Marcdala specializes in LGBT issues, gender identity, adolescent and childhood mental health needs and is passionate about family therapy work. She obtained a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Central Florida and is a trained EMDR and PCIT therapist. Marcdala enjoys exploring the culinary arts and spending time with her family.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Marcdala is a culturally competent and trauma informed psychotherapist with experienced work with various client populations from the persistent mentally ill to individuals needing brief solution focused interventions. Marcdala specializes in LGBT issues, gender identity, adolescent and childhood mental health needs and is passionate about family therapy work. She obtained a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Central Florida and is a trained EMDR and PCIT therapist. Marcdala enjoys exploring the culinary arts and spending time with her family.
(813) 544-7946 View (813) 544-7946
Photo of Briana Schmidt, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tampa, FL
Briana Schmidt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33603  (Online Only)
My approach blends systemic insights with eclectic, trauma-informed strategies, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, and DBT.
Most folks I collaborate with are navigating the aftermath of trauma or adverse experiences, seeking pathways to healing. They confront challenges such as C-PTSD, eating concerns/body image issues, and codependency, with the aim of identifying triggers and managing unwanted behaviors more effectively. Their journey is towards processing past traumas, fostering resilience, and reclaiming their lives. They aspire to convert their pain into strength, nurturing healthier relationships with both themselves and the surrounding world.
My approach blends systemic insights with eclectic, trauma-informed strategies, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, and DBT.
Most folks I collaborate with are navigating the aftermath of trauma or adverse experiences, seeking pathways to healing. They confront challenges such as C-PTSD, eating concerns/body image issues, and codependency, with the aim of identifying triggers and managing unwanted behaviors more effectively. Their journey is towards processing past traumas, fostering resilience, and reclaiming their lives. They aspire to convert their pain into strength, nurturing healthier relationships with both themselves and the surrounding world.
(646) 355-1771 View (646) 355-1771
Photo of Adam Horwitz, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Adam Horwitz
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33610
I am currently accepting new clients with a wide variety of goals and circumstances. I aim to create a partnership to help unlock your potential, overcome challenges, strive for success, and manage difficult situations/negative life experiences. Every individual is extremely valuable, unique, and deserving of the support necessary to have a good quality of life, peace, and satisfaction. Frequently the biggest obstacles lie within, and my goal is to enable you to free yourself from problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you may strive for your ideal version of yourself.
I am currently accepting new clients with a wide variety of goals and circumstances. I aim to create a partnership to help unlock your potential, overcome challenges, strive for success, and manage difficult situations/negative life experiences. Every individual is extremely valuable, unique, and deserving of the support necessary to have a good quality of life, peace, and satisfaction. Frequently the biggest obstacles lie within, and my goal is to enable you to free yourself from problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you may strive for your ideal version of yourself.
(813) 567-8211 View (813) 567-8211
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.