Written by Leigh Enselman, Medically reviewed by Damla Ricks
If you’re struggling with anxiety, you’re not alone—and help is available. One of the most effective, research-backed approaches for managing anxiety is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). At Healing First Counseling, our Fort Worth-based counselors specialize in CBT, helping clients understand and change the patterns of thinking that fuel their anxiety. But what exactly is CBT, and how does it work?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a structured, goal-oriented type of talk therapy that focuses on the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. When it comes to anxiety, CBT helps identify the unhelpful thought patterns—like catastrophizing or excessive worry—that contribute to anxious feelings. From there, your therapist will work with you to challenge and reframe those thoughts, creating healthier, more balanced ways of thinking and coping.
How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Can Help Your Anxiety
CBT is particularly effective for a variety of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, panic disorder, and phobias. Through CBT, you’ll learn practical tools to reduce anxiety symptoms and improve daily functioning.
Here’s how CBT can help:
- Identifying Triggers: Recognizing what situations or thoughts tend to trigger your anxiety.
- Challenging Negative Thoughts: Learning to question and reframe anxious or irrational beliefs.
- Behavioral Strategies: Practicing calming techniques, exposure exercises, or journaling to break the anxiety cycle.
- Building Confidence: Gaining a sense of control over your emotions and responses.
With time and consistency, CBT can empower you to manage anxiety more effectively and feel more grounded in everyday life.
Other Types of Therapy for Anxiety
While CBT is highly effective, it’s not the only approach. At Healing First Counseling, we offer a variety of therapeutic modalities, because every person’s journey with anxiety is unique.
Other helpful therapies for anxiety include:
- Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Focuses on staying present and nonjudgmentally aware of your thoughts and emotions.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages you to accept anxious feelings while still pursuing what matters most to you.
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Often used for trauma-related anxiety, helping the brain process and resolve distressing memories.
- Person-Centered Therapy: Emphasizes empathy and support, helping you feel seen and understood as you explore your anxiety.
Our therapists work collaboratively with you to find the best fit for your goals and experiences.
Contact Our Fort Worth Counselors if You’re Struggling with Anxiety
At Healing First Counseling, we understand how overwhelming anxiety can feel—but you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you’re new to therapy or have tried it before, our compassionate team is here to help you take the next step toward healing. We offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidence-based treatments tailored to your needs. Reach out today to schedule a session with one of our Fort Worth counselors and begin your journey toward relief, resilience, and peace of mind.
Damla Ricks is a Licensed Professional Counselor working on her Ph.D. in Family and Marriage Counseling. She is trained in trauma and system based therapy. She works with adults, couples, and families. On the side, she is also a full time college instructor in Communication Studies with 17 years of experience in higher education.