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Therapists answer…

How does Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) work?

Emily DavidE

Emily David

I am a Compassionate psychiatric Nurse practitioner with extensive experience in ADHD and anxiety
Online Therapy
How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work and how can it help?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) works by helping clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their mental health issues. Through CBT, clients learn to reframe these thoughts and develop healthier coping mechanisms. This therapy is effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other conditions by promoting more balanced thinking and encouraging positive behavior changes.
I have extensive experience providing medication management using a holistic approach. During visits, I will listen carefully to your specific concerns and collaboratively develop a treatment. While all our clients have some needs that are similar, each client has different life encounters that may impede their mental health and independent living. I provide comprehensive online psychiatry services (telehealth), you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same mental services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. I am committed to offering personalized treatment plans and assisting patients and families with coping strategies. My goal is to provide supportive and effective mental health care to help you lead a healthier, happier life. *Specialties •Mental Health •Psychiatry *Conditions treated •ADHD •Anxiety •Depression •Bipolar disorders •PTSD •Addiction •Schizophrenia •Eating disorders •Mood disorders •Trauma •Panic attacks •Substance abuse •Anger Management •Female Psychiatry •Trauma and PTSD •Obsessive-Compulsive •Pediatric Psychiatry •Behavioural Therapy •OCD •Geriatric Psychiatry •Personality disorders •Insomnia •Alcohol Use •Behavioral Issues •Borderline Personality (BPD) •Chronic Illness •Chronic Impulsivity •Coping Skills •Domestic Violence •Emotional Disturbance •Impulse Control Disorders •Life Coaching •Medication Management •Narcissistic Personality (NPD) •Personality Disorders •Psychosis •Relationship Issues •School Issues •Sleep or Insomnia •Substance Use •Suicidal Ideation •Self-Harming *Practice description If you're struggling with a mental health condition, you'll find help and care here at Serenity Mental Healthcare PLLC. Our highly qualified staff will design a customized care plan to meet your needs, always treating you as a person first and a patient second.​ We accept client struggling with ADHD evaluation and medication management Depressed mood, isolation and anxiety mood swings, irritability and anger issues Suicide ideation, thoughts and aggression Lack of sleep, past trauma and nightmares Paranoid, hearing voices and personality changes Childhood behaviors and Individual therapy *Treatment philosophy I believe that every client is unique. I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter." My goal is to work with clients individually to achieve mental health stability. My goal is to help patients reach their optimal stability. *Treatment approach •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) •Culturally Sensitive •Emotionally Focused •Trauma-Focused •Person-Focused •Coaching
Karen MitchellK

Karen Mitchell

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work and how can it help?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. By challenging unhelpful beliefs and developing healthier coping strategies, CBT can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. It is goal-oriented, practical, and focused on promoting positive thinking and behaviors.
I provide expert psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychosocial counseling for children, adults, and their families. I am deeply committed to helping individuals with mental illness and their families reach their full potential in the most peaceful, low-stress manner possible. As the mother of an adult who has struggled with mental illness since childhood, I understand firsthand the challenges that come with managing these conditions. My experience includes providing psychiatric care in Level 1 Trauma emergency settings, community mental health clinics, and private practice. This background allows me to deliver high-quality, compassionate, and affordable care. Most appointments can be scheduled within a week of reaching out, and, given current concerns related to COVID-19, I also offer telepsychiatry visits. I work with children and adolescents to address behavioral and emotional issues that impact family life and school performance. For adults, I assist with mood disorders, thought disorders, and cognitive impairments. Medication management is a key part of the treatment process, alongside effective therapy and reducing environmental stressors. I understand the stress and anxiety that come with finding and accessing high-quality psychiatric care. That’s why I prioritize timely appointments, usually within a week of contact, to ensure you or your loved ones receive the support you need as quickly as possible. *Specialties •Mental Health •Adult Psychiatry •Child Psychiatry *Conditions treated •Depression •Bipolar disorders •Schizophrenia •PTSD •Mood disorders •Trauma •Panic attacks •Personality Disorders •Autism •Behavioral issues •Sleep problems •Anxiety disorders •Asperger's Syndrome •Bisexual •Emotional Disturbance •Family Conflict •Grief •Intellectual Disability •Lesbian •LGBTQ+ •Medication Management •Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) •Oppositional Defiance (ODD) •Parenting •Peer Relationships •Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum •School Issues •Insomnia •Stress •Suicidal Ideation •Thinking Disorders •Transgender •Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) *Practice description I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides telepsychiatric services for children and adults. I have worked in emergency psychiatric services at a Level 1 Trauma hospital as well as community health centers. I have also worked in inpatient psychiatric care & work diligently with my clients to prevent hospitalizations whenever possible. I have worked with clients who struggle with chronic serious mental illnesses including Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, & Bipolar I & II Disorders. I work in partnership with my clients and their family members to choose the most acceptable & effective treatment options. *Treatment philosophy As a mental health provider as well as the mother of an adult who has struggled with mental illness since childhood, I seek to serve my clients as their compassionate advocate and knowledgeable resource. I believe in respecting the dignity and autonomy of my clients while working in partnership with them. I seek to offer the latest evidence-based treatment options in the most cost-effective manner possible. *Treatment approach •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) •Culturally Sensitive •Eclectic •Humanistic •Coaching •Mindfulness-Based(MBCT) •Trauma-Focused •Family Systems •Interpersonal •Motivational Interviewing •Positive Psychology •Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT) •Strength-Based
Ekaete OyekaE

Ekaete Oyeka

MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work and how can it help?
The Harmonica Psychiatry team offers personalized anxiety treatments tailored to your condition and its severity. Options include: - Solution-focused brief therapy - Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) - Anti-anxiety medication - Lifestyle changes - Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) - Spravato® nasal spray TMS and Spravato are alternative approaches to treating depression that patients with anxiety might benefit from if other therapies aren’t producing results.
Welcome to a space where your mental health and well-being are the top priority. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for understanding and addressing your unique psychological needs. My journey in tele-psychiatry has equipped me to expertly conduct psychiatric evaluations, ensuring that you receive personalized care tailored to your situation. I believe in the power of communication and collaboration, which is why I always strive to create a care plan that aligns with your health goals. My approach is grounded in professionalism, empathy, and respect for your confidentiality. With a strong foundation in technology, I utilize the latest electronic health record systems to maintain accurate and timely documentation of your progress. My proficiency in an array of software tools means that no matter where you are, you can count on efficient and secure care. My commitment to excellence in nursing and leadership is reflected in my affiliations with prestigious societies such as the American Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. As a lifelong learner, I continue to expand my knowledge and skills to serve you better. Let's work together towards a healthier mind and a happier life.
Brandon KruseB

Brandon Kruse

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work and how can it help?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) works by helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. Through structured sessions, clients learn to recognize the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and actions, challenge and reframe negative beliefs, and engage in positive behaviors. CBT also involves setting measurable goals and developing practical skills for managing stress and emotions, ultimately empowering clients to take control of their mental health and improve their overall well-being. It is effective for various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and OCD.
We live in a world that seems to always be in chaos and it can get confusing and frustrating and we can often feel broken down from the daily fight. Even when you have done everything in your power to overcome the challenges that come your way you may find that your efforts seem to fall short. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) I am honored to walk beside patients in their life journeys and provide the needed resources to help them meet and overcome their life challenges. The first step to healing is realizing that we nee help, but seeking help can be scary at times. I am are here to walk beside you during your trials, challenges, and even the good times. At Integrity Mental Health you are not just a number, you are a valued patient. Call now to schedule. My life has given me many different experiences and I have learned that everyone's lived experience is different. We all need a little grace and understanding as we tread our own paths, and If you find yourself at a point in your life where you feel you can use some help with your mental health, I would be honored to assist you in your life's journey. *Specialties •Mental Health •Adult Psychiatry •Psychiatry •Behavioral Medicine *Conditions treated •Depression •Anxiety •Bipolar disorders •Schizophrenia •PTSD •ADHD •Insomnia •Mood disorders •Eating disorders •Trauma •Panic attacks •Personality Disorders •OCD •Geriatric Psychiatry •Anger Management •Behavioural Therapy •Obsessive-Compulsive •Trauma and PTSD •Addiction •Alcohol Use •Medication Management •Oppositional Defiance (ODD) •Stress •Substance Use •Autism •Coping Skills •Developmental Disorders •Drug Abuse •Dual Diagnosis •Intellectual Disability •Life Coaching •Life Transitions •Medical Detox •Men's Issues •Self Esteem •Self-Harming •Spirituality •Suicidal Ideation •Veterans *Treatment philosophy I treat patients with an inclusive and humanistic approach, recognizing the inherent dignity of every individual. I believe in meeting each patient where they are, and fostering a therapeutic relationship. I tailor treatments to the unique emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of each patient. I create a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space where collaboration, and empowerment help patients in their healing journey. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit, and that healing occurs when we are treated with kindness, patience, and encouragement. My role is promote overall well-being by integrating evidence-based treatments with functional approaches. Mental health care is a partnership, and my goal is to provide the support needed for patients to thrive. *Treatment approach •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) •Person-Focused •Humanistic •Mindfulness-Based(MBCT) •Coaching •Family / Marital •Positive Psychology •Strength-Based
James ValinotiJ

James Valinoti

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work and how can it help?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented therapeutic approach that aims to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I utilize CBT to help clients recognize the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By identifying and challenging distorted thinking patterns, clients can develop more adaptive coping strategies and improve their overall well-being. CBT is highly effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and addiction. By teaching client's practical skills to manage their symptoms, CBT empowers them to take control of their lives and make lasting positive changes.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. I treat clients across the lifespan and a sub-specialization in child and adolescents and addiction medicine. I make the experience a positive, supportive, and at times fun one. I am very clinical but I remove the "clinical feeling" from the experience. I am very client-focused and develop unique treatment plans that actually help them achieve their goals. I treat numerous areas of psychiatry including, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD and Trauma, Family/Couples therapy, sleep and appetite, Schizophrenia, OCD, ODD, personality, and eating disorders and addiction. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and supportive therapy. I learn about each individual client and learn my client's "story" so as to understand where they have been, where they are, and where they need/want to go. I also get to the "why" for each client, which is oftentimes the most important question. I utilize humor and my clients engage particularly well. My clients often say I should do standup psychiatry. My clients oftentimes ask me how I know them so well. I am famous for actively listening. My clients feel they receive my clinical expertise without feeling the clinical aspects of what one may expect in psychiatry. I am highly supportive and provide relevant health education. I utilize a team-based approach. I don't speak at my clients I speak with them. Anxiety in anticipation of the "first meeting" will be replaced by feeling more relaxed, comfortable, in a better mood, and more confident after the meeting than prior to it. They can also expect that their needs will be addressed and feel they have been "heard" by me. I am different than most in this regard as I treat my patients as I would a family member, and they can definitely feel it.
Allyson ColeA

Allyson Cole

Licensed Psychologist
Online & In-Person
How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work and how can it help?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy posits that problems people experience are based on unhelpful ways of thinking and on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior. One way to find relief from day-to-day problems is to learn better ways of coping with these thinking and behavior patterns. There are a number of well-researched strategies that your therapist will use to help you recognize when you fall into old patterns and examine whether those thoughts and behaviors are helpful. This therapy targets problems occurring in the here and now.
I help women and men overcome anxiety, depression, loss, and relational difficulties. I specialize in empowering women by developing their self-worth and confidence through individual therapy, group therapy, and specialized retreats. My approach is an integration of psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral modalities, which means I will explore the way you experienced the world from birth until present in order to identify habits and behaviors that have become roadblocks to living in alignment with the person you want to be. I utilize LifeMaps, a collaborative treatment plan where you can track progress and see your therapy notes. I am a Licensed Psychologist and the CEO of Create Outcomes and have over 20 years of experience helping people of all ages from a variety of backgrounds. I have also supervised other clinicians for over 10 years. I co-host What It Takes To Heal, a podcast that aims to demystify the therapeutic process and details what successful therapy looks like. I've served as a director in a variety of clinical settings, including inpatient facilities, outpatient clinics, non-profit organizations, and in juvenile justice programs. The C.R.E.A.T.E. Outcomes model was informed by this work as a way to provide care that is self aware and aligned with the client's values, while also systematically tracking progress.