Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the strongest evidence-based therapies there is, and it can be used to treat depression, anxiety, OCD and phobias. CBT is considered a “top-down” approach, meaning it focuses on creating change through your thoughts, behaviors, and patterns of interpretation. As the therapist, I might take on a collaborative role, bringing in new ways to think, and teaching you action-oriented skills to practice in the moment when overwhelming feelings show up. These can really help people who are suffering in the moment, and bring quick relief for down or anxious days.

 

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a branch of CBT that is more action oriented, combining practical skill-building with mindfulness, emotional awareness, and self-acceptance. This is great for people who experience “big emotions,” and can become easily dysregulated and find it hard to come down from intense feelings. I love DBT because I describe it as a “life skills manual” that no one gives you, on everything from relationships, communication, and tolerating intense emotions.