Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective therapeutic approach that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. By understanding and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviours, you can improve your mental and emotional well-being.

Through CBT, you can:

  • Identify negative thought patterns: Recognize and challenge distorted or unhelpful thinking.
  • Develop positive coping skills: Learn practical strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Improve problem-solving skills: Develop effective problem-solving skills to overcome challenges.
  • Enhance self-esteem: Build self-confidence and self-worth.
  • Strengthen relationships: Improve your communication and interpersonal skills.

Our experienced therapists will work with you to tailor CBT techniques to your specific needs. By combining CBT with other evidence-based approaches, we can help you achieve lasting change.

Many clients pay little or nothing out of pocket — we direct bill Pacific Blue Cross, SunLife, Telus Health / Canada Life, GreenShield, and more. See all insurance & funding options → Direct billing available

Ready to take control of your thoughts and feelings? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Need help finding the right counsellor for you? Get matched to one of our qualified Registered Clinical Counsellors

CBT — Frequently Asked Questions

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on the relationship between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. The core idea is that how we interpret situations shapes how we feel and act — and that those interpretations can be examined and changed. Compared to some other approaches, CBT tends to be structured, goal-focused, and relatively shorter-term. It gives clients practical tools they can use between sessions.
CBT has strong research support for anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, panic disorder, eating disorders, chronic stress, and sleep difficulties. It's also widely used for relationship issues, low self-esteem, and managing the psychological impact of health conditions. At MasterMind we often combine CBT with other modalities — such as EMDR or mindfulness — depending on what's most helpful for each client.
CBT is generally considered a shorter-term therapy. Many people notice meaningful shifts within 8 to 16 sessions, though this varies depending on the issue and the individual. Your counsellor will set clear goals with you early on so progress is trackable. Some clients continue beyond that for deeper work or maintenance.
Yes. CBT is one of the most well-established approaches for children and adolescents, particularly for anxiety and depression. Our team includes counsellors with experience working with younger clients. Sessions are adapted to be age-appropriate and engaging.

Work with our counselling team

All of our Registered Clinical Counsellors practise CBT. Sessions in North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and by secure video.

Maryam Mills

Maryam Mills

MA, RCC-ACS, CCC, BCN, EMDRIA-Consultant — Clinic Director

“My aim is to guide clients toward realizing their highest potential — drawing on EMDR, neurofeedback, and a deeply holistic understanding of what shapes each person's experience.”

EMDR Neurofeedback Trauma Couples Hypnotherapy Farsi Full profile →
Teresa Berkholtz

Teresa Berkholtz

MA, RCC

“I believe every individual has the capacity to grow through their struggles and emerge with clarity, strength, and purpose — I use EMDR and parts work to help clients find what keeps them stuck.”

EMDR IFS / Parts work Somatic Gottman Full profile →
Alireza Badri

Alireza Badri

MA, RCC

“I bring a calm, thoughtful presence — helping clients build self-awareness, strengthen coping skills, and reconnect with their sense of strength using EMDR, DBT, and ACT.”

EMDR DBT ACT Gottman Farsi Full profile →
Sogol Shams

Sogol Shams

PhD, MACP, RCC

“I'm dedicated to creating a culturally sensitive, supportive environment — drawing on CBT, EMDR, and play therapy to empower clients of all ages to build resilience and thrive.”

EMDR CBT Play therapy IFS Farsi Full profile →
May Yao

May Yao

MACP, RCC

“I create a safe, supportive space where clients can freely explore their thoughts and emotions — with a particular focus on anxiety, depression, and life transitions.”

CBT EMDR Gottman Mandarin Full profile →
Jackie McGregor

Jackie McGregor

MACP, RCC

“True healing involves attending to the whole person — I integrate IFS, somatic, and Gottman approaches to help clients achieve deeper self-discovery and lasting change.”

IFS / Parts work Somatic CBT Gottman Full profile →
Stephanie Stanton

Stephanie Stanton

MACP, RCC, RRT

“My background as a respiratory therapist shaped my understanding of how stress and anxiety live in the body — I work alongside clients to explore the patterns that may no longer be serving them.”

EMDR IFS Somatic Gottman Full profile →
Diba Ferdowsi

Diba Ferdowsi

Counselling Intern — available through our low-cost counselling program

“I offer a warm, non-judgmental space for clients navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions — supervised by our senior clinical team.”

CBT DBT Mindfulness Farsi Low-cost program only Full profile →

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