Isabella Riojas, PhD

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

If you've ever felt trapped in a cycle of anxious thoughts or noticed patterns you can't seem to break, CBT might help. It's one of the most researched and effective approaches for addressing anxiety, depression, and stress—and it's surprisingly practical.

What CBT Actually Is

CBT is based on a simple but powerful idea: the way we think about things shapes how we feel and what we do. When we're anxious or depressed, our thoughts can become distorted—overly negative, catastrophic, or self-critical. These thoughts create painful emotions, which then influence our behavior, often in ways that keep us stuck.

CBT helps you identify these patterns and learn to challenge them. Not in a "just think positive" way—but in a way that's grounded in reality and focused on what actually helps.

Who CBT Helps

CBT can be particularly effective for people struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, depression, phobias, and chronic stress. It's also helpful if you tend to overthink, ruminate, or get stuck in negative thought loops.

What to Expect in CBT

CBT is collaborative and structured. We'll work together to identify the thoughts and beliefs that are causing you distress, examine the evidence for and against them, and develop more balanced, realistic ways of thinking.

You'll also learn practical skills—like how to manage difficult emotions, challenge unhelpful thinking, and gradually face situations you've been avoiding. Between sessions, there's usually some practice or reflection involved, which helps solidify what you're learning.

It's Not About "Fixing" Your Thoughts

CBT isn't about forcing yourself to think differently or pretending everything is fine. It's about noticing when your thoughts are making things harder than they need to be—and giving yourself other options. Sometimes just recognizing a thought pattern can be enough to loosen its grip.

If you're ready to break free from patterns that aren't serving you, CBT can offer real, lasting change.

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