Contact Sarah :  610-504-7776​

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy- also known as CBT

- combines two different approaches for a practical

and solution-focused therapy. The therapy is very

active by nature and requires you to take a proactive

role within the treatment.

The premise behind CBT is that our thoughts and behaviors have an effect on each other, and by changing the way we think and behave - we can ultimately change the way we feel about life. The therapy examines learned behaviors and negative thought patterns with the view of altering them in a positive way.

Unlike some other therapies, CBT is rooted in the present and looks ahead to the future. While past events and experiences are considered during the therapy, the focus is more on current issues and dilemmas. The therapy takes its cue from two different psychological approaches:

1. Cognitive approach

Cognitive processes refer to our thoughts - including ideas, beliefs, and attitudes. The cognitive element of CBT looks at the way our thoughts can trigger or fuel certain feelings and behaviors. We will work together to identify any negative thought patterns you may have, how they affect you, and, more importantly, what you can do to change them.

2. Behavioral approach

Behavioral therapy notes that behavior is often learned and can therefore be unlearned. It looks at harmful or maladaptive behaviors and helps you to understand why they occur and what you can do to alter them.

CBT looks at how both cognitive and behavioral processes affect one another and aims to help you get out of negative cycles. The emphasis on behavioral or cognitive approaches will depend on the nature of the issue you are facing - for example, if you are suffering from depression or anxiety, the emphasis may be more so on the cognitive approach, whereas if you have a condition that causes unhelpful behavior (such as obsessive-compulsive disorder), the emphasis is likely to be on the behavioral approach.

This type of therapy is particularly helpful for those with specific issues as it is very practical (rather than insight-based) and looks at solutions. For this reason, the therapy works well for those who:

• Suffer from depression and/or anxiety
• Have an eating disorder
  
• Suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  
• Have an addiction
  
• Want to change their behavior
  
• Have anger issues
  
• Have a phobia
  
• Suffer from obsessive-compulsive behavior.
  
  

​

Mental Health Counseling  

​of Nazareth 

​In establishing a positive therapeutic relationship that provides an opportunity for growth and change, I believe that the first step is building trust and a connection. My goal is to help clients feel comfortable and at ease. I truly believe that everyone is capable of attaining the happiness and peace that they desire and deserve. It's is within all of us to get there and I see myself as a guide to help you explore such qualities within yourself.

Sarah Dinan is a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Mental Health Counseling of Nazareth located in Nazareth, PA. Sarah has been active in the mental health field since 2007. Throughout this time she has worked in various settings including in-home, school, and short-term care facilities. Outside of her master's level Counseling Psychology course work from the University of Scranton located in Scranton, PA; Sarah has extensive training from the Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center under Dr. Marion Lindblad-Goldberg who is the predecessor of the highly regarded Dr. Salvador Minuchin. She was accepted into and completed intensive courses through the Aaron Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is located in Bala Cynwyd, PA.​

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II

Sarah Dinan is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II, specializing in working with individuals who have experienced significant trauma. Since 2020, she has focused on continuing education and training to support first responders and victims of emotional and physical trauma. Sarah understands the vulnerability and strength it takes for trauma victims to seek help, and she is passionate about staying current in trauma-informed care. Starting in 2024, she expanded her expertise to work with immigration asylum seekers, with more details available by Spring 2025.

To schedule an appointment, please call: 610-504-7776.