Our therapists offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in Irvine, CA

My typical approach for helping people in cognitive behavioral therapy is fundamentally the same across all modalities — meeting them at their level and readiness for change. I find this works best because they are the experts on themselves. They need to be the ones driving things or the actions won’t be meaningful.

I teach many tools in cognitive behavioral therapy that are catered to each person’s needs. For example:

• Coping tools that build upon their existing coping mechanisms to help make their tools more effective
• Mindfulness tools that help build awareness and understanding of their emotions on a scaling perspective
• Insight tools like the cognitive triangle to help understand their common thinking traps
• Communication tools to help them feel heard when expressing feelings & needs

I know clients are making meaningful progress in therapy when they start reporting improvements in their lives and/or relationships. It’s important to help clients recognize and celebrate their successes, no matter how small.

Clients can supplement their therapy by practicing some good self-care & the coping tools discussed, or just by considering how the concepts from sessions can be applied. In cognitive behavioral therapy, consistent practice of tools is the foundation of forming new and healthier habits.

To prepare for their first session, clients can consider what their goals for therapy might be and keep an open mind for their new journey. Therapy can open doors to new concepts and methods of approach if clients are ready to open those doors.