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686,000 people sought help with Thriveworks in the last year

Discover how starting therapy with a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

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Logan Spicer

Hear from Logan Spicer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)

View Logan Spicer's profile

What is your go-to approach for cognitive behavioral therapy?

My go-to approach for helping people in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative and structured approach that focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. I prefer this approach because it empowers individuals to take an active role in their therapy and equips them with practical skills for managing their emotions and improving their overall well-being. By working together with clients to set specific goals and develop personalized treatment plans, I can tailor interventions to their unique needs and preferences, maximizing the effectiveness of therapy. Additionally, I find that the structured nature of CBT provides a clear framework for addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, from anxiety and depression to trauma and OCD. By teaching clients strategies for recognizing and challenging negative thoughts, modifying maladaptive behaviors, and implementing healthier coping skills, CBT helps them build resilience and regain control over their lives.

What tools do you teach in cognitive behavioral therapy?

In cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I teach the following tools:

  • Thought records: Thought records help individuals identify and challenge unhelpful or distorted thinking patterns. Clients learn to track their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in specific situations, analyze the evidence for and against their automatic thoughts, and develop more balanced and realistic alternatives.
  • Behavioral activation: Behavioral activation involves scheduling and engaging in pleasurable and meaningful activities to counteract depression or low mood. Clients learn to identify activities that bring them joy or fulfillment and create a structured plan to increase their participation in these activities.
  • Exposure: Exposure involves gradually confronting feared or avoided situations or stimuli in a controlled and systematic manner. Clients learn to tolerate anxiety-provoking situations and reduce avoidance behaviors, ultimately decreasing the intensity of their anxiety over time.
  • Relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery, help individuals reduce physiological arousal and promote feelings of calmness and relaxation. These techniques can be useful for managing stress, anxiety, and physical tension.
  • Problem-solving skills: Problem-solving skills help individuals identify problems, generate potential solutions, evaluate the pros and cons of each option, and implement effective solutions. Clients learn to approach challenges in a systematic and adaptive manner, enhancing their ability to cope with life's stressors.
  • Cognitive restructuring: Cognitive restructuring involves identifying and challenging unhelpful or distorted thought patterns that contribute to negative emotions and behaviors. Clients learn to recognize cognitive distortions, such as black-and-white thinking or catastrophizing, and develop more balanced and realistic ways of thinking.
  • Assertiveness training: Assertiveness training helps individuals communicate their needs, preferences, and boundaries in a clear and respectful manner. Clients learn to assert themselves effectively, express their thoughts and feelings assertively, and negotiate conflicts assertively.

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in cognitive behavioral therapy?

I know a client is making meaningful progress in cognitive behavioral therapy when several key indicators are observed. First, there is a noticeable reduction in the frequency and intensity of the symptoms or problems they sought therapy for, such as decreased levels of anxiety, depression, or other distressing emotions. The client may also demonstrate an increased awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, as well as a greater ability to identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors that contribute to their difficulties. Another sign of progress is improved coping skills and problem-solving abilities, as evidenced by the client's ability to effectively manage stressors and navigate challenges in their daily life. Furthermore, there is evidence of increased engagement and participation in therapy sessions, with the client actively applying the skills and strategies learned in therapy to real-life situations. Importantly, progress is also reflected in the client's overall sense of well-being and quality of life, as they report feeling more empowered, resilient, and hopeful about their future. Ultimately, meaningful progress in cognitive behavioral therapy is characterized by positive changes in thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and overall functioning, leading to improved mental health and a greater sense of control and satisfaction in life.

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement cognitive behavioral therapy?

Clients can supplement their time in cognitive behavioral therapy with various activities and practices to enhance their progress and reinforce therapeutic gains. Engaging in a regular practice of cognitive restructuring techniques, such as thought records or cognitive distortions worksheets, can help individuals become more adept at identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns on their own. Additionally, integrating relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or guided imagery, into their daily routine can help clients manage stress and anxiety more effectively outside of therapy sessions. Journaling can provide a valuable outlet for processing thoughts and emotions, allowing clients to gain insight into their experiences and track their progress over time. Practicing behavioral activation by scheduling and participating in pleasurable or meaningful activities can help individuals counteract low mood and depression and maintain a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment in their lives. Seeking out peer support groups or online communities for individuals undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy can provide additional encouragement, validation, and practical tips for coping with challenges. Finally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and limiting substance use, can support overall well-being and complement the therapeutic process. By actively engaging in these supplemental activities and practices, clients can enhance the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy and promote long-term positive outcomes.

What should someone do to prepare for starting cognitive behavioral therapy?

To prepare for their first cognitive behavioral therapy session, an individual can take several steps to ensure a smooth and productive start to their therapeutic journey. First, they can reflect on their reasons for seeking therapy and identify specific goals or areas of concern they would like to address during the sessions. Writing down any thoughts, emotions, or behaviors they have been experiencing can help them articulate their needs and provide a starting point for discussion with the therapist. Additionally, they may want to gather relevant information about their personal history, including past experiences, relationships, and significant life events to provide context for their current difficulties. It can also be helpful to familiarize themselves with the basics of cognitive behavioral therapy by reading introductory materials or watching educational videos online. Finally, taking care of themselves by getting enough rest, practicing relaxation techniques, and engaging in self-care activities can help them feel more grounded and prepared for their first session. By proactively engaging in these preparatory steps, individuals can set a strong foundation for their cognitive behavioral therapy journey and maximize the potential for positive outcomes.

Starting Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

What is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?

At Thriveworks, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized and evidence-based form of psychotherapy or talk therapy. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors that can contribute to various mental health issues or challenges that people are struggling with.

What does a cognitive behavioral therapist do?

Cognitive behavioral therapists specialize in Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and can help you to identify and comprehend your thought patterns, which often encompass automatic negative thoughts, cognitive distortions, and self-defeating beliefs. Once these negative thought patterns are pinpointed, cognitive behavioral therapists aim to challenge and replace them with the objective of fostering more constructive and logical thinking. In addition, these therapists place significant emphasis on implementing positive behavioral changes based on the newly established, healthier thought patterns.

What is CBT best for?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for addressing conditions like anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. It focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors, making it well-suited for issues related to distorted thinking and emotional regulation.

How much does a CBT session cost?

At Thriveworks, we accept most major insurance plans, allowing many clients to pay as little as $0–$50 per session with their co-pay. We also offer self-pay options for those out-of-network or without insurance. Self-pay rates for talk therapy range from $160 to $240 for intake sessions and $135 to $195 for follow-ups, depending on your state. For psychiatry services, self-pay intake sessions are $255–$375, with follow-ups ranging from $175–$300, also varying by state. More information on current self-pay costs is available on our pricing page.

What is the success rate of CBT?

The success rate of CBT varies depending on the intentions of the client and their condition(s).

What is better: CBT or DBT?

The selection between cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is based on an individual’s unique needs and challenges. CBT is commonly chosen for addressing conditions such as anxiety and depression, whereas DBT is especially beneficial for individuals dealing with borderline personality disorder, emotional regulation issues, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.

Is CBT conducted in person or online?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with our Thriveworks therapists in Chicago, IL is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How many sessions is CBT?

Generally, CBT is considered a short-term therapy, typically lasting for about 12 to 20 weekly sessions. In some cases, it might extend to around 16 to 20 sessions for more complex issues.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Chicago therapists and counselors accept 26 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois BCBS | HMO - Essential Health Partners IPA

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois BCBS | HMO - Essential Health Partners Kane County

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois BCBS | HMO - Essential Health Partners Silver Cross

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois BCBS | PPO

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)

  • Choice Care (Humana)

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

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Self-pay costs at Chicago
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

Thriveworks Chicago has no reviews yet, but check out these reviews from locations in Illinois.

4.5 Thriveworks Chicago reviews are collected through Thriveworks.com.
★★★★★
Thriveworks helped me realize that I do believe people can change. I’m not the person I was three months ago, broken and fearful. I’m healthy and happy and for the first time being kind to myself. Thank you for giving me my life back.
Read more Thriveworks helped me realize that I do believe people can change. I’m not the person I was three months ago, broken and fearful. I’m healthy and happy and for the first time being kind to myself. Thank you for giving me my life back.
Anonymous Thriveworks Client
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chicago is at the corner of West Chicago Avenue and North Halsted. We are near City Church Chicago, and Jerk Jamaican Barbecue.

Phone number

(708) 394-7536

Languages spoken by IL providers

  • English
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
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