Traditional Therapy in Pittsburgh

Evidence-based counseling for depression, anxiety, stress, and life transitions

Therapy is not about “fixing” you—it’s about creating a space where you can explore, heal, and grow. My approach combines proven methods with a compassionate, client-centered relationship, helping you address both immediate struggles and long-term patterns.

I offer traditional talk therapy rooted in evidence-based practices, including CBT, ACT, DBT, CPT, CBT-I, and relational psychodynamic therapy.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps you identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns that affect mood, behavior, and relationships. Together, we’ll work on practical tools to manage anxiety, reduce depressive symptoms, and create healthier daily habits.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT emphasizes living in alignment with your values, even when painful thoughts or emotions are present. Instead of trying to control or eliminate discomfort, we’ll focus on building psychological flexibility—learning how to live with greater purpose and resilience.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT is especially helpful for managing intense emotions, building distress tolerance, and improving relationships. Skills like mindfulness, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness can help you respond more intentionally rather than react impulsively.

CBT for Insomnia (CBT-I)

Sleep struggles affect both mental and physical health. CBT-I is a structured, short-term approach that addresses the thoughts and habits that interfere with rest, helping you restore a healthier sleep cycle.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

CPT is an evidence-based approach for treating trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It helps clients examine and shift unhelpful beliefs related to trauma, reducing distress and supporting recovery. Through CPT, you can develop new perspectives that allow for healing and greater self-compassion.

Relational Psychodynamic Therapy

Our early relationships shape the way we see ourselves and others. In psychodynamic work, we’ll explore how past experiences and attachment patterns influence your present life, creating space for healing and new ways of relating.

What Traditional Therapy Can Help With

• Anxiety, stress, and panic
  
  

• Depression and low mood
  
  

• Insomnia and sleep issues
  
  

• Relationship difficulties
  
  

• Life transitions and identity shifts
  
  

• Grief and loss
  
  

• Anger, shame, and self-criticism
  
  

My Approach

I believe effective therapy is more than just techniques—it’s a collaboration. My role is to offer structure, skills, and perspective, while honoring the inner resources you already have.

No single approach works for everyone, which is why I draw from multiple evidence-based methods and tailor therapy to each person’s unique needs, values, and goals.

Alongside these traditional therapies, I bring a holistic perspective informed by my training as a Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist. This allows me to recognize how emotional, physical, and relational well-being intersect, while always keeping therapy grounded, supportive, and nonjudgmental.

Looking for therapy in Pittsburgh?
If you’re ready to explore CBT, ACT, DBT, or psychodynamic therapy, I’d be glad to support you.

Justin Knizek, MS, LPC, NCC, CMNCS

Schedule a consultation today and take the next step toward balance and resilience.