Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Dakota County, MN

Photo of Annie E Emanuel, Psychologist in Dakota County, MN
Annie E Emanuel
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55121
I utilize an integrated approach to therapy, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, attachment-based, & relational approaches.
Each of us experience times in our lives in which our problems seem overwhelming. We may become stuck in the same patterns of dealing with challenges. By working collaboratively with clients through therapy or psychological assessment, my goal is to help each of my clients become "unstuck" and create positive change. Therapeutic relationships built on trust & respect are imperative to the success of any therapeutic intervention. I strive to create a warm & safe environment in which client's can feel more comfortable telling their stories & exploring the issues for which they are seeking support.
I utilize an integrated approach to therapy, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, attachment-based, & relational approaches.
Each of us experience times in our lives in which our problems seem overwhelming. We may become stuck in the same patterns of dealing with challenges. By working collaboratively with clients through therapy or psychological assessment, my goal is to help each of my clients become "unstuck" and create positive change. Therapeutic relationships built on trust & respect are imperative to the success of any therapeutic intervention. I strive to create a warm & safe environment in which client's can feel more comfortable telling their stories & exploring the issues for which they are seeking support.
(651) 401-8737 x3 View (651) 401-8737 x3
Photo of Jerry Jorgenson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dakota County, MN
Jerry Jorgenson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
I utilize CBT, narrative therapy, mindfulness and a few other therapeutic strategies to sort through feelings and help figure out the root of the reasons we sometimes need counseling.
Seeking counseling as a man can be intimidating with all of the "bro codes" and expectations we put on ourselves. Whether there are issues with anxiety, depression, identity, trauma, relational issues, communication problems, I am here to help figure out how to navigate the emotions in a nonjudgmental way.
I utilize CBT, narrative therapy, mindfulness and a few other therapeutic strategies to sort through feelings and help figure out the root of the reasons we sometimes need counseling.
Seeking counseling as a man can be intimidating with all of the "bro codes" and expectations we put on ourselves. Whether there are issues with anxiety, depression, identity, trauma, relational issues, communication problems, I am here to help figure out how to navigate the emotions in a nonjudgmental way.
(952) 522-2424 View (952) 522-2424
Photo of Panoramic Perspectives Therapy and Training PA, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dakota County, MN
Panoramic Perspectives Therapy and Training PA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Our providers are trained in DBT, CBT, EMDR, Narrative and Solution-focused therapies.
We have immediate openings for individual, couples, and family therapy. We can help you sort through your thoughts and feelings about your circumstances by providing an emotionally safe environment for you to be curious about barriers you might encounter. We explore negative mindsets that may be keeping you stuck and encourage self-care and compassion as you work to change those faulty beliefs, creating lasting change. We support you!
Our providers are trained in DBT, CBT, EMDR, Narrative and Solution-focused therapies.
We have immediate openings for individual, couples, and family therapy. We can help you sort through your thoughts and feelings about your circumstances by providing an emotionally safe environment for you to be curious about barriers you might encounter. We explore negative mindsets that may be keeping you stuck and encourage self-care and compassion as you work to change those faulty beliefs, creating lasting change. We support you!
(952) 592-4454 x55044 View (952) 592-4454 x55044
Photo of Heather Hartwig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dakota County, MN
Heather Hartwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I believe that every one of us is trying our best and sometimes we need help from a professional to offer us additional perspective. Each one of us is the expert in our own lives, but we do not always see the water we are swimming in that might be causing us distress. Therapy is a collaborative process where we explore what works best for you. I would love to partner with you to help you find your way forward.
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I believe that every one of us is trying our best and sometimes we need help from a professional to offer us additional perspective. Each one of us is the expert in our own lives, but we do not always see the water we are swimming in that might be causing us distress. Therapy is a collaborative process where we explore what works best for you. I would love to partner with you to help you find your way forward.
(651) 564-9527 View (651) 564-9527
Photo of Cindy Lou Fischer Hancock, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dakota County, MN
Cindy Lou Fischer Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
My focus in therapy is to provide an environment where clients can develop coping skills and explore their own thoughts and feelings. By providing evidence-based practices including CBT and DBT, mind-body skills work clients can increase their awareness of how their own thought patterns and their impact emotionally. I have a history of skills in developing rapport and making effective progress with clients who have co-occurring disorders of mental health and addictions. My approach is integrative, collaborative, client-centered and includes alternative complimentary modalities. and co-occurring disorders from Alfred Adler Graduate School.
My focus in therapy is to provide an environment where clients can develop coping skills and explore their own thoughts and feelings. By providing evidence-based practices including CBT and DBT, mind-body skills work clients can increase their awareness of how their own thought patterns and their impact emotionally. I have a history of skills in developing rapport and making effective progress with clients who have co-occurring disorders of mental health and addictions. My approach is integrative, collaborative, client-centered and includes alternative complimentary modalities. and co-occurring disorders from Alfred Adler Graduate School.
(952) 777-7842 View (952) 777-7842
Photo of Nimo Ali, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dakota County, MN
Nimo Ali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124  (Online Only)
In my practice, I use CBT, DBT, Trauma therapy, empowerment model, solution focused therapy, harm reduction, Holistic, strengths-Based and Person Centered Approaches.
Greetings, and thank you for considering me as your therapist. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space for individuals seeking positive change and personal growth. My practice is rooted in a commitment to cultural responsiveness, recognizing and honoring the unique backgrounds and experiences of each individual. I firmly believe that a safe and inclusive environment is essential for the therapeutic journey. Clients often describe my therapeutic style as authentic and relatable. I understand the importance of feeling seen and heard in the therapeutic process.
In my practice, I use CBT, DBT, Trauma therapy, empowerment model, solution focused therapy, harm reduction, Holistic, strengths-Based and Person Centered Approaches.
Greetings, and thank you for considering me as your therapist. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space for individuals seeking positive change and personal growth. My practice is rooted in a commitment to cultural responsiveness, recognizing and honoring the unique backgrounds and experiences of each individual. I firmly believe that a safe and inclusive environment is essential for the therapeutic journey. Clients often describe my therapeutic style as authentic and relatable. I understand the importance of feeling seen and heard in the therapeutic process.
(651) 564-9137 View (651) 564-9137
Photo of Angela Hoch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dakota County, MN
Angela Hoch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and Trauma focused work to better understand how your struggles impact how you feel and how you function in different areas of your life.
I believe therapy can create positive change in anyones life. It is important to carve out time in our busy world to explore ones sense of self and work towards bettering our lives. As a therapist I provide a supportive, honest and compassionate space. I focus on client-centered counseling and I believe everyone can change and has the ability to build a happy, healthy, full life. I have experience in: Substance abuse, AA, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, mood disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and self harm.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and Trauma focused work to better understand how your struggles impact how you feel and how you function in different areas of your life.
I believe therapy can create positive change in anyones life. It is important to carve out time in our busy world to explore ones sense of self and work towards bettering our lives. As a therapist I provide a supportive, honest and compassionate space. I focus on client-centered counseling and I believe everyone can change and has the ability to build a happy, healthy, full life. I have experience in: Substance abuse, AA, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, mood disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and self harm.
(612) 431-8804 View (612) 431-8804
Photo of Leanne D Ravey, Counselor in Dakota County, MN
Leanne D Ravey
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
My therapy style integrates insight-focused, attachment and cognitive-behavioral therapies.
Seeking help from a therapist can be a difficult decision. Successful therapy is highly based on the client-therapist relationship as well as openness to change. I have a warm eclectic style that creates a trusting therapeutic environment. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families to address unhealthy patterns that keep them stuck in emotional distress and unfulfilling relationships. I treat a variety of issues including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, spiritual and relationship issues.
My therapy style integrates insight-focused, attachment and cognitive-behavioral therapies.
Seeking help from a therapist can be a difficult decision. Successful therapy is highly based on the client-therapist relationship as well as openness to change. I have a warm eclectic style that creates a trusting therapeutic environment. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families to address unhealthy patterns that keep them stuck in emotional distress and unfulfilling relationships. I treat a variety of issues including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, spiritual and relationship issues.
(952) 314-9000 View (952) 314-9000
Photo of Sierra Paup, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dakota County, MN
Sierra Paup
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
In my practice, I draw on proven therapy techniques from approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness, schema therapy, and interpersonal therapy.
I hold a PhD in clinical psychology from Washington State University, and I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the University of Minnesota Student Counseling Center. My main focus is to build a collaborative and safe relationship with my clients, where we can openly explore their feelings and challenges. I specialize in helping people dealing with anxiety, depression, life changes, trauma, and questions about their identity, and I customize my approach to suit each client's unique needs.
In my practice, I draw on proven therapy techniques from approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness, schema therapy, and interpersonal therapy.
I hold a PhD in clinical psychology from Washington State University, and I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the University of Minnesota Student Counseling Center. My main focus is to build a collaborative and safe relationship with my clients, where we can openly explore their feelings and challenges. I specialize in helping people dealing with anxiety, depression, life changes, trauma, and questions about their identity, and I customize my approach to suit each client's unique needs.
(952) 800-7373 View (952) 800-7373
Photo of Amber Egdorf, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Dakota County, MN
Amber Egdorf
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076  (Online Only)
I am trained in methods of motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, EMDR and am seeking further training in IFS.
My passion is working with individuals with dual-diagnosis or co-occurring substance use concerns along with an array of mental health disorders. I have a specific passion working with those who have experienced trauma or have been diagnosed/have concerns related to a personality disorder. I have worked with individuals with both substance and sexual addictions and find great passion in being able to work with individuals to help them implement changes and shape their lives towards a life worth enjoying.
I am trained in methods of motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, EMDR and am seeking further training in IFS.
My passion is working with individuals with dual-diagnosis or co-occurring substance use concerns along with an array of mental health disorders. I have a specific passion working with those who have experienced trauma or have been diagnosed/have concerns related to a personality disorder. I have worked with individuals with both substance and sexual addictions and find great passion in being able to work with individuals to help them implement changes and shape their lives towards a life worth enjoying.
(651) 360-1147 View (651) 360-1147
Photo of Jen Marie Rynes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dakota County, MN
Jen Marie Rynes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Jen specializes in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Eating Disorders, Women Issues, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Hi, I'm Jen, I have 9 years of experience in community mental health. I specialize in trauma-focused care, Health at Every Size, LGBTQIA+ issues, and working with children and adults. With a background in eating disorder research and personal experience, I offer compassionate support for those struggling with eating disorders and fatphobia. I'm passionate about helping individuals navigate trauma using trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, especially children. I believe in creating a safe, inclusive space for all clients, regardless of background or identity.
Jen specializes in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Eating Disorders, Women Issues, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Hi, I'm Jen, I have 9 years of experience in community mental health. I specialize in trauma-focused care, Health at Every Size, LGBTQIA+ issues, and working with children and adults. With a background in eating disorder research and personal experience, I offer compassionate support for those struggling with eating disorders and fatphobia. I'm passionate about helping individuals navigate trauma using trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, especially children. I believe in creating a safe, inclusive space for all clients, regardless of background or identity.
(952) 592-2839 View (952) 592-2839
Photo of Natalie Fafinski, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dakota County, MN
Natalie Fafinski
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Many of my clients have experienced depression, anxiety, difficult life transitions, stress, struggles with self-esteem, and more. Together, we work to incorporate coping skills, build on strengths, and focus on empowerment! I prioritize creating an individualized and empowering therapeutic experience through collaboration, honesty, and trust to allow space for this work. Utilizing a person-centered approach that recognizes your potential and ability for growth, I incorporate concepts related to Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Many of my clients have experienced depression, anxiety, difficult life transitions, stress, struggles with self-esteem, and more. Together, we work to incorporate coping skills, build on strengths, and focus on empowerment! I prioritize creating an individualized and empowering therapeutic experience through collaboration, honesty, and trust to allow space for this work. Utilizing a person-centered approach that recognizes your potential and ability for growth, I incorporate concepts related to Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
(952) 214-7130 View (952) 214-7130
Photo of Lance Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dakota County, MN
Lance Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
I use family systems, strengths/empowerment, CBT, and emotionally-focused models.
Feeling a sense of belonging is crucial to mental health. You want to feel like you matter to your community, your loved ones, and yourself. Whether struggling in your primary relationship, feeling like you don't fit in with your faith community because of your unique beliefs or identity, or feeling unable to sense your own worth generally, help is available. I will empower you by helping you see how your strengths can help you rekindle a belief in your worth and abilities. Through both empathy and accountability, I can help you find joy in your relationships and your life generally.
I use family systems, strengths/empowerment, CBT, and emotionally-focused models.
Feeling a sense of belonging is crucial to mental health. You want to feel like you matter to your community, your loved ones, and yourself. Whether struggling in your primary relationship, feeling like you don't fit in with your faith community because of your unique beliefs or identity, or feeling unable to sense your own worth generally, help is available. I will empower you by helping you see how your strengths can help you rekindle a belief in your worth and abilities. Through both empathy and accountability, I can help you find joy in your relationships and your life generally.
(651) 273-0978 View (651) 273-0978
Photo of John Gawboy, Counselor in Dakota County, MN
John Gawboy
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55306
I have received training for CBT-I which focuses on treating severe insomnia and I enjoy helping people sleep.
Absorb what is useful, Discard what is not, Add what is uniquely your own." - Bruce Lee. I enjoy focusing on personal growth and building awareness of our own morals and values. Everyone will experience bad times (some longer and more severely than others) and I absolutely love teaching the best ways on how to cope with them. I work with a variety of issues including feeling passive, suicidal thoughts, self harm, and relationship difficulties for men and women. The ideal client for me is a client who is committed to looking at their own behavior and focus on change.
I have received training for CBT-I which focuses on treating severe insomnia and I enjoy helping people sleep.
Absorb what is useful, Discard what is not, Add what is uniquely your own." - Bruce Lee. I enjoy focusing on personal growth and building awareness of our own morals and values. Everyone will experience bad times (some longer and more severely than others) and I absolutely love teaching the best ways on how to cope with them. I work with a variety of issues including feeling passive, suicidal thoughts, self harm, and relationship difficulties for men and women. The ideal client for me is a client who is committed to looking at their own behavior and focus on change.
(952) 260-2393 View (952) 260-2393
Photo of Anna McCourt, Psychologist in Dakota County, MN
Anna McCourt
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
Although I am influenced by several theoretical approaches including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, solution focused and Rogerian, I believe that all people do not benefit from the same approach.
I believe in the inherent goodness and inner wisdom of people. I see my job as providing an environment that is safe, nurturing and supportive enough for people to discover their own wisdom and learn to tap into it for strength, direction and purpose.
Although I am influenced by several theoretical approaches including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, solution focused and Rogerian, I believe that all people do not benefit from the same approach.
I believe in the inherent goodness and inner wisdom of people. I see my job as providing an environment that is safe, nurturing and supportive enough for people to discover their own wisdom and learn to tap into it for strength, direction and purpose.
(651) 728-7387 View (651) 728-7387
Photo of Sheila Lee Salo-Seifert, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dakota County, MN
Sheila Lee Salo-Seifert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55121
Waitlist for new clients
I believe the client is their best source for understanding their needs; my approach for therapy is usually Solution Focused or CBT with an emphasis in building a tool box of skills for them to move forward with.
My formal education and clinical training happened later in life. But my experience in youth and individual counseling began over 12 years ago. My position as a mother, grandmother and wife gives me a perspective of over 32 years of life experience and empathy. My natural inclination to simply embrace, enjoy, and accept people without judgment, has prepared and enabled me to open of avenues of connection with a diverse client base. I believe that every client has the skill to heal and just needs some guidance and support. I am experienced in working with Individuals, Family, Couples and teens.
I believe the client is their best source for understanding their needs; my approach for therapy is usually Solution Focused or CBT with an emphasis in building a tool box of skills for them to move forward with.
My formal education and clinical training happened later in life. But my experience in youth and individual counseling began over 12 years ago. My position as a mother, grandmother and wife gives me a perspective of over 32 years of life experience and empathy. My natural inclination to simply embrace, enjoy, and accept people without judgment, has prepared and enabled me to open of avenues of connection with a diverse client base. I believe that every client has the skill to heal and just needs some guidance and support. I am experienced in working with Individuals, Family, Couples and teens.
(952) 209-9556 View (952) 209-9556
Photo of Jessica DuPay Ellison, Counselor in Dakota County, MN
Jessica DuPay Ellison
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
My experience includes but not limited to using mindfulness, DBT, and CBT techniques with adults and youth.
We all possess the strength and ability to learn what motivates us and what holds us back. Together I'd like to create a plan to aid in reducing the pain and suffering with whatever struggles you have in life and learn new ways to find happiness and inner-peace. My passion for guiding youth has always been at the forefront of my practice. It can be difficult as a parent or guardian and see your child struggle with depression, anxiety, anger or self-esteem. I want to support your child in a way to become a happy healthy adult.
My experience includes but not limited to using mindfulness, DBT, and CBT techniques with adults and youth.
We all possess the strength and ability to learn what motivates us and what holds us back. Together I'd like to create a plan to aid in reducing the pain and suffering with whatever struggles you have in life and learn new ways to find happiness and inner-peace. My passion for guiding youth has always been at the forefront of my practice. It can be difficult as a parent or guardian and see your child struggle with depression, anxiety, anger or self-esteem. I want to support your child in a way to become a happy healthy adult.
(612) 326-9655 View (612) 326-9655
Photo of Dan Redman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dakota County, MN
Dan Redman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Therapy is all about the engagement and relationship with my client. There needs to be a mutual trust and open dialogue in each session. I will provide a non-judgmental environment to explore difficult relationships and other areas of life. I believe in the power of language - the words you choose reflect how others will perceive you, and more importantly how you perceive yourself. We will explore and recognize how the process impacts the content of our lives. I utilize a narrative, CBT and existential therapeutic approach and when necessary, explore how the givens of our existence impact our daily lives.
Therapy is all about the engagement and relationship with my client. There needs to be a mutual trust and open dialogue in each session. I will provide a non-judgmental environment to explore difficult relationships and other areas of life. I believe in the power of language - the words you choose reflect how others will perceive you, and more importantly how you perceive yourself. We will explore and recognize how the process impacts the content of our lives. I utilize a narrative, CBT and existential therapeutic approach and when necessary, explore how the givens of our existence impact our daily lives.
(952) 522-7181 View (952) 522-7181
Photo of Reanna Persaud, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dakota County, MN
Reanna Persaud
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Hastings, MN 55033
I am trauma-informed and draw upon principles and techniques from several approaches including feministic and multicultural therapy, person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and incorporates elements of humor, nature, and somatic awareness. I have experience working with disordered eating and body image issues. As a first generation immigrant clinician, I am passionate about incorporating any cultural identities and their intersections into the therapeutic relationship if desired. I enjoy working with ages 15+.
I am trauma-informed and draw upon principles and techniques from several approaches including feministic and multicultural therapy, person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and incorporates elements of humor, nature, and somatic awareness. I have experience working with disordered eating and body image issues. As a first generation immigrant clinician, I am passionate about incorporating any cultural identities and their intersections into the therapeutic relationship if desired. I enjoy working with ages 15+.
View
Photo of Meghan Keating, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dakota County, MN
Meghan Keating
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
I have experience providing services to individuals with a range of various disorders and symptoms using CBT and DBT.
Healing isn't just about alleviating symptoms; it's about fostering growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. My practice primarily focuses on providing therapy to individuals who are facing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief and loss, stress, and trauma. I provide support to adolescents and adults struggling with self-esteem, family and peer relationship issues, co-dependency, family conflict, and life transitions. Additionally, I am trained in Love and Logic Parenting Curriculum, which encourages parents to minimize power struggles within the parent-child relationships.
I have experience providing services to individuals with a range of various disorders and symptoms using CBT and DBT.
Healing isn't just about alleviating symptoms; it's about fostering growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. My practice primarily focuses on providing therapy to individuals who are facing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief and loss, stress, and trauma. I provide support to adolescents and adults struggling with self-esteem, family and peer relationship issues, co-dependency, family conflict, and life transitions. Additionally, I am trained in Love and Logic Parenting Curriculum, which encourages parents to minimize power struggles within the parent-child relationships.
(952) 522-2056 View (952) 522-2056

See more therapy options for Dakota County

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.