Care without the wait

41 licensed therapists & providers in California—8 in San Diego. Available as soon as today, in person and online

Therapy for every life stage

Our providers work with individuals, couples, families, & teens for anxiety, depression, grief, & more

#1 for in-network coverage

We accept UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, BCBS Plans, Humana, Aetna, & many more. Self-pay options available, no membership fees

Patients who get better

94% of patients feel truly understood by their provider. 3 out of 4 see improvement in depression & anxiety symptoms within 3 months

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1,534 people sought cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) help in California in the last year

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

Start CBT with a licensed therapist as soon as this week

As one who experienced difficulty with managing my mental health, I have an authentic understanding of how we are impacted by life...

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As a Latina woman, I understand the unique role we play not only in society but in our own family....

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This will be a journey where I will walk alongside you, supporting you through tough times and cheering you on in easier times....

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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) FAQs

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 San Diego, CA 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 insurance and we offer self-pay options too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling at Thriveworks.

Our therapists and counselors in San Diego accept 38 insurance plans

  • Adventist Health Associates | Employee Health Plan

  • Adventist Health Associates | Non-Employee Health Plan

  • Aetna

  • Alignment Health Plan

  • Anthem Blue Cross of California | Commercial

  • Anthem Blue Cross of California | Medicare Advantage

  • Blue Shield of California | BCBS

  • Blue Shield of California | Medicare Advantage

  • Carelon

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Compsych

  • Firefly Health Plan | Cigna PPO Network

View more
Self-pay costs at San Diego
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

4.9 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
My high rating is primarily attributable to my great therapist. And the ease of communicating online makes it very accessible and of value to me.
Willa Sep 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I loved working with Valerie Stern, I worked with her for almost 2 years and she's helped me pull through many hard times and come to understand myself better. I would highly recommend her as anyone's therapist.
Janelle Sep 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I appreciate the immediate response and prompt scheduling with a psychologist. The psychologist was a perfect match for my needs. The experience was the best outcome possible. . Thank you
Alice Sep 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
She was very supportive the last three years and always encouraged me and helped me to keep to my goals.
Tatum Sep 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Nothing to improve, my providers are excellent.
Isabelle Sep 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I've been seeing Mia for over 3 years now, and it's always a pleasure having a session with her.
Mary Sep 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I've appreciated having Val as someone who I could talk to about all the troubles in my life. She has worked with me to understand my issues and given me coping strategies for dealing with things in the future.
Raechel Sep 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I have easily connected with my provider and feel safe and comfortable with her, I would recommend Mia to any of my friends or family.
Sean Sep 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
8 of 30 reviews

Where to find us

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Address

2525 Camino del Rio S Suite 301
San Diego, CA 92108-3717

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry San Diego is located near Camino del Rio S and Texas St, off I-8. It is right by the San Diego River and a short distance from the University Heights.

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Phone number

(619) 480-2140
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Languages spoken by CA providers

  • Swedish
  • English
  • Spanish
  • Filipino
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Hours

Wednesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in PT

Wednesday 8:00am - 11:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 11:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 11:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 11:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 11:00pm

Shown in PT

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