Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a research-supported treatment that focuses on altering patterns of thinking that amplify your distress. The counselors at Star Meadow Counseling incorporate elements of CBT therapy in to their treatment of many types of disorders and emotional experiences, including depression, trauma, anxiety, anger management, and self-esteem.

For example, a person who is depressed may have the belief, “I am worthless,” and a person with a phobia may have the belief, “I am in danger.” While the person in distress likely holds such beliefs with great conviction, with a therapist’s help, clients are encouraged to challenge negative thinking. People who seek CBT can expect their therapist to be active and goal-directed.

New Wave CBT Therapies

In addition to traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), some of our therapists incorporate newer, evidence-based approaches that are designed to help you make meaningful, lasting change by addressing your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a holistic way. These therapies include:

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT helps you break free from the struggle with difficult emotions by learning to accept them rather than fight against them. This approach encourages living in alignment with your values, even in the face of emotional discomfort.

• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT): Our therapists use MBCT to help you develop mindfulness skills that can reduce the intensity of negative thoughts and prevent depressive relapse. Through mindful awareness, you’ll learn to experience the present moment without judgment, creating more mental space and calm.

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): Specialized for OCD, ERP therapy works by gently guiding you through exposure to anxiety-provoking situations while preventing the compulsive behaviors that keep you stuck. Over time, this helps reduce anxiety and break the cycle of obsessive thinking.

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): For clients struggling with emotional dysregulation or relationship difficulties, DBT blends cognitive and behavioral strategies with mindfulness and acceptance. This approach teaches skills like emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and effective communication to help you navigate life with more ease.

Each of these therapies is tailored to your unique experiences, helping you build resilience, reduce suffering, and live more authentically. Our therapists are here to support you on that journey—whether you’re looking for relief from emotional distress or seeking to improve your overall well-being.

For more information about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, including some New Wave approaches, check out some of our helpful blog posts:

• 7 Great CBT Websites
• Understanding Cognitive Therapy: The Basics
• Exposure and Response Prevention for Effective OCD Treatment
• Thought Defusion: An Alternative Approach to Handling Intrusive Negative Thoughts
• Mindfulness Mastery: Your Ultimate Weapon Against Depression
• Why I Think “Worthless” Isn’t a Feeling AND Why that Matters
• How to Disobey “Worthless” Thoughts

Ready to take the next step?

Contact us today to learn more about our evidenced-based counseling services and how we can help you on your path to recovery. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.