Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) in Venice

Change Your Thoughts. Shift Your Patterns. Feel Better—From the Inside Out.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CPT) supports clients with:

    •    Anxiety and excessive worry

    •    Depression and low motivation

    •    Negative self-talk and self-esteem struggles

    •    OCD, phobias, and panic attacks

    •    Perfectionism and fear of failure

    •    Social anxiety and avoidance

    •    Anger and frustration management

    •    Stress-related insomnia and rumination

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely researched and effective approaches for addressing a range of emotional and behavioral challenges. Based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are deeply connected, CBT helps individuals identify unhelpful thinking patterns, challenge them, and replace them with more balanced, supportive beliefs.

As a therapist trained in CBT, I help clients break free from the mental loops that fuel anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and self-doubt. CBT is active, structured, and goal-oriented—perfect for individuals who want tools they can use both inside and outside of our therapy sessions.

In our therapy sessions, we will use thought records, behavioral experiments, mindfulness, and practical strategies to rewire your relationship with your thoughts—so you can feel more empowered, clear, and in control.

I provide therapy in Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Venice, Marina Del Rey, Culver City, Mar Vista, Playa Del Rey, West Los Angeles, Pacific Palisades, Palms, and Santa Monica.

Are negative thoughts or habits disrupting your daily life? A Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) works with you to understand these thought patterns and change how you respond to stress, anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues. At Steven Kilmann, LMFT, we use CBT to help clients take practical steps toward relief and growth, without judgment and delay.

This guide explains how CBT works, what makes it effective, and how our Venice Beach-based sessions are helping clients every day. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply want support in building healthier habits, you’ll leave here with a clear idea of what CBT offers—and how it may be the change you need.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured form of talk therapy focused on changing unhelpful thought and behavior patterns. Unlike some other forms of therapy, CBT is action-oriented and based on what’s happening in your life right now.

Core principles of CBT include:

  • Identifying distorted thinking patterns

  • Challenging harmful beliefs

  • Developing realistic and helpful thoughts

  • Changing behavior through daily practice

CBT is evidence-based and widely used to treat conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and phobias. It can also be helpful for people managing stress, relationship conflict, or low self-esteem.

How a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) Works with You

A Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) doesn’t just listen. They guide you through specific exercises that reshape how you respond to your thoughts and emotions.

Sessions typically involve:

  • Setting weekly goals

  • Practicing strategies like journaling or thought tracking

  • Role-playing difficult situations

  • Reviewing progress regularly

At Steven Kilmann, LMFT, each client’s session is customized. We don’t use a one-size-fits-all worksheet. We work with you to build strategies that match your lifestyle and goals.

Is CBT Right for You? Answer These Questions

  1. Do you often feel overwhelmed by your thoughts?

  2. Are certain behaviors or habits holding you back?

  3. Do you want a therapy approach that gives you practical tools?

  4. Have you tried other forms of talk therapy with limited results?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) could be a strong fit.

Clients in Venice Beach regularly seek out CBT to handle life transitions, improve communication, and feel more in control of their emotional state.

Benefits of CBT with Steven Kilmann, LMFT

Working with a licensed Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) in Venice Beach, like Steven Kilmann, brings both skill and sensitivity. Steven draws on years of experience treating a wide range of emotional and behavioral concerns.

What clients often achieve through CBT:

  • Reduced anxiety and panic

  • Healthier habits and coping strategies

  • Better sleep and focus

  • Confidence in handling challenges

  • Relief from self-critical thoughts

Unlike therapies that take months to find clarity, CBT focuses on solutions from the first session.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in Venice Beach: What to Expect

At our Venice Beach office—or through secure video sessions—you’ll experience a supportive and practical approach. Many people searching for a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) in Venice find that Steven Kilmann’s style is direct, respectful, and focused on real outcomes.

Your sessions will be clear and structured:

  1. Initial Intake – We review your goals and map out your therapy plan.

  2. Weekly Sessions – You’ll learn tools to shift patterns and track your progress.

  3. Skill Building – You’ll leave each session with something to apply in your day-to-day life.

  4. Check-Ins – Every few weeks, we assess what’s working and adjust.

If you’re also dealing with addiction or trauma, Steven’s approach incorporates CBT techniques alongside addiction recovery strategies.

Why People in Venice Choose Steven Kilmann, LMFT for CBT

  • Licensed and experienced: Steven is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with deep expertise in CBT.

  • Local expertise: Based in Venice Beach, he understands the pressures and pace of LA life.

  • Results-driven: CBT isn’t about endless talking—it’s about creating change you can feel.

  • Holistic care: CBT is often paired with other services like grief therapy to support full emotional well-being.

Common Issues CBT Helps Treat

Concern

General Anxiety

Depression

Anger Issues

Sleep Struggles

Relationship Conflict

Perfectionism or Guilt

How CBT Helps

Calms mental spirals with grounding techniques

Reframes hopeless thoughts and builds momentum

Improves impulse control and emotional balance

Helps break thought patterns that interrupt rest

Enhances communication and boundaries

Replaces negative loops with achievable goals

Take the First Step Toward Feeling Better

You don’t have to feel stuck. You don’t have to wait. With support from Steven Kilmann, LMFT, a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) in Venice Beach, you can begin shifting your mindset, habits, and mood, starting now.

Contact us to schedule a consultation and begin therapy either in-person or online.