Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Vestavia Hills, AL
![Photo of Stephen Aaron Adair, MEd, ALC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b01c96e-9df3-46f1-96f7-05ef491827d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use an integrative approach using various counseling styles including Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, Person-Centered, and Trauma Focused Therapy.
I have a special interest in counseling male clients age 13 and up. I also specialize in seeing women who prefer to see a male counselor. Helping men with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life events, and helping them navigate the world through the male perspective is a passion of mine. I help men break the stigma of therapy to get the help they need and deserve. I help clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction, anger management, family conflict, communication, trauma, behavioral concerns, relationship problems, and many more.
I use an integrative approach using various counseling styles including Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, Person-Centered, and Trauma Focused Therapy.
I have a special interest in counseling male clients age 13 and up. I also specialize in seeing women who prefer to see a male counselor. Helping men with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life events, and helping them navigate the world through the male perspective is a passion of mine. I help men break the stigma of therapy to get the help they need and deserve. I help clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction, anger management, family conflict, communication, trauma, behavioral concerns, relationship problems, and many more.
![Photo of Lauren Gilbert, ALC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f66bb3ed-acd2-44db-80ea-0cd91c4999e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling in a relationship, at work, or at home? Maybe you're struggling to accept yourself in the place, body, or life you're currently in. Maybe you're thinking you'll be happy when... The answer does not lie in the "when," it lies in the now. Our struggles tend to target self-esteem and attack our confidence but there is hope, and the answers are already within you. I can help you find them. I utilize a combined person-centered and CFT approach with DBT and CBT techniques and skills to implement and perpetuate long-lasting change
Are you struggling in a relationship, at work, or at home? Maybe you're struggling to accept yourself in the place, body, or life you're currently in. Maybe you're thinking you'll be happy when... The answer does not lie in the "when," it lies in the now. Our struggles tend to target self-esteem and attack our confidence but there is hope, and the answers are already within you. I can help you find them. I utilize a combined person-centered and CFT approach with DBT and CBT techniques and skills to implement and perpetuate long-lasting change
![Photo of Haley Harper - Elpida Counseling, LLC, MEd, ALC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a48230ed-ed06-41c3-ae00-01c11e58ff51/4/320x400.jpeg)
Elpida Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MEd, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 (Online Only)
I find the use of DBT most beneficial to address emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, which are common among those with trauma and other everyday stressors.
What happened to you? This is the question that should be asked when a person decides to confront their trauma. So much of the focus is on "What is wrong with you?" that we fail to take in the traumatic events that led us here. Let’s work together to confront your trauma and make those healing steps forward. While I take special interest in traumatic experiences, I also have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, low self-esteem, OCD, life transitions, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and major depressive disorder.
I find the use of DBT most beneficial to address emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, which are common among those with trauma and other everyday stressors.
What happened to you? This is the question that should be asked when a person decides to confront their trauma. So much of the focus is on "What is wrong with you?" that we fail to take in the traumatic events that led us here. Let’s work together to confront your trauma and make those healing steps forward. While I take special interest in traumatic experiences, I also have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, low self-esteem, OCD, life transitions, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and major depressive disorder.
![Photo of Leslie T Herhold - The Nest Therapy Group LLC, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec1bbcf3-5811-44ff-9131-ca42d268da50/1/320x400.png)
The Nest Therapy Group LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Welcome to The Nest! We are a multi-specialty mental health therapy practice serving the needs of the entire family. From postpartum depression and infertility, to trauma and addiction, to ADHD and anxiety, we are here for your family. We utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, and Play therapy. We have each received specialized training in our respective areas of expertise, and we are so excited to bring these services to Baldwin and Jefferson Counties.
Welcome to The Nest! We are a multi-specialty mental health therapy practice serving the needs of the entire family. From postpartum depression and infertility, to trauma and addiction, to ADHD and anxiety, we are here for your family. We utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, and Play therapy. We have each received specialized training in our respective areas of expertise, and we are so excited to bring these services to Baldwin and Jefferson Counties.
![Photo of Jennifer Leigh Miller - Leigh Miller Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e590225-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leigh Miller Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of treatment modalities including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Seeking counseling is a very personal decision. Finding the right provider can be the most important step in the healing process. I believe I have helped so many clients because I use an array of tools and methods which I tailor to a client's unique goals. My approach is to work hard to understand a client's perspective and values. Sometimes this means helping the client explore and discover what that is for themselves. I lead AND follow - I may prompt, encourage, and confront, but I follow a client's pace (willingness and readiness) to delve into the issues.
I use a variety of treatment modalities including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Seeking counseling is a very personal decision. Finding the right provider can be the most important step in the healing process. I believe I have helped so many clients because I use an array of tools and methods which I tailor to a client's unique goals. My approach is to work hard to understand a client's perspective and values. Sometimes this means helping the client explore and discover what that is for themselves. I lead AND follow - I may prompt, encourage, and confront, but I follow a client's pace (willingness and readiness) to delve into the issues.
![Photo of Marilyn Michelle Knight - Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight, MSW, LICSW, PIP, CREP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33697042-a524-4aba-8ddf-340376e72251/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP, CREP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Modalities I often use are DBT, CBT, and mindfulness therapy.
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
Modalities I often use are DBT, CBT, and mindfulness therapy.
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
![Photo of Jaalah Olver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f47b5b8-c81d-433e-a19e-adce2adcaf50/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jaalah Olver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
I work from an attachment and trauma focused lens while incorporating DBT as needed.
Life is filled with unpredictability and difficulty. Whether it's loss, anxiety, trauma, or depression, sometimes life can feel overwhelming and hopeless. Therapy can help provide space to heal, grow, and create new beginnings. I strive to create an environment where clients can come and find hope in dark places while being their authentic selves.
I work from an attachment and trauma focused lens while incorporating DBT as needed.
Life is filled with unpredictability and difficulty. Whether it's loss, anxiety, trauma, or depression, sometimes life can feel overwhelming and hopeless. Therapy can help provide space to heal, grow, and create new beginnings. I strive to create an environment where clients can come and find hope in dark places while being their authentic selves.
![Photo of Rebecca Milstead, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79280d48-b032-4bca-92f3-8dfa74133303/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a mix of multiple modalities including DBT, CBT and Mindfulness Practices.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience providing therapy for youth and families. I help people connect and develop compassion for themselves and others. I teach interpersonal skills. I teach emotional regulation and distress tolerance. I help with recovery after trauma. I have experience treating a range of ages and mental health problems. When needed, I am an excellent diagnostician. I work closely with psychiatry and I am knowledgeable about medication options. I enjoy helping people understand their brain and the, “why,” behind problematic symptoms, behaviors and patterns that keep them stuck.
I use a mix of multiple modalities including DBT, CBT and Mindfulness Practices.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience providing therapy for youth and families. I help people connect and develop compassion for themselves and others. I teach interpersonal skills. I teach emotional regulation and distress tolerance. I help with recovery after trauma. I have experience treating a range of ages and mental health problems. When needed, I am an excellent diagnostician. I work closely with psychiatry and I am knowledgeable about medication options. I enjoy helping people understand their brain and the, “why,” behind problematic symptoms, behaviors and patterns that keep them stuck.
![Photo of Ebone Newton, EdS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/363747d0-0fb9-4beb-bbd9-e8821ea36b32/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ebone Newton
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 (Online Only)
CBT reshapes thoughts for behavior change, DBT enhances emotional regulation and mindfulness and Solution-Focused collaboratively targets concerns using a goal-oriented framework.
Accepting New Clients! Virtual appointments only! My ideal client is someone who seeks personal growth and a deeper understanding of themselves. They might be facing challenges related to depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, or unhealthy relationships. Their needs revolve around finding coping strategies and building resilience. Their primary goal is to achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life, free from limiting beliefs and emotional barriers. They want to develop healthier relationships and gain clarity about their purpose and identity, ultimately striving for lasting positive changes.
CBT reshapes thoughts for behavior change, DBT enhances emotional regulation and mindfulness and Solution-Focused collaboratively targets concerns using a goal-oriented framework.
Accepting New Clients! Virtual appointments only! My ideal client is someone who seeks personal growth and a deeper understanding of themselves. They might be facing challenges related to depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, or unhealthy relationships. Their needs revolve around finding coping strategies and building resilience. Their primary goal is to achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life, free from limiting beliefs and emotional barriers. They want to develop healthier relationships and gain clarity about their purpose and identity, ultimately striving for lasting positive changes.
![Photo of Meredith K McClendon, LMFT-A, ALC, MEd, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d1ca030-18c5-4b4a-8801-c174470dde7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith K McClendon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-A, ALC, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Counseling is collaborative, meaningful, and life-changing. As a therapist, I strive to create a compassionate and nonjudgmental space where you can explore a range of concerns and be your most authentic self. I enjoy working with preteens, teens, adults, couples and families on a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, neurodivergence, parenting, and TBI. I also have a Master's in Theology and work with clients who are dealing with issues related to their spirituality or have experienced spiritual or religious trauma.
Counseling is collaborative, meaningful, and life-changing. As a therapist, I strive to create a compassionate and nonjudgmental space where you can explore a range of concerns and be your most authentic self. I enjoy working with preteens, teens, adults, couples and families on a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, neurodivergence, parenting, and TBI. I also have a Master's in Theology and work with clients who are dealing with issues related to their spirituality or have experienced spiritual or religious trauma.
![Photo of Zahria P Richard - Dragonfly Counseling LLC, MEd, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc43b6b7-7d06-4bc7-80d1-88a2ee7340ee/2/320x400.png)
Dragonfly Counseling's goal is to help you facilitate the transformation you wish to see within yourself through affordable and accessible mental health therapy. We believe in walking alongside you while you are on this journey of self-exploration. Change is not a linear process, it is evolving and dynamic, and we wish to assist through this process. It is never too late to begin your expedition towards transformation and change, the right time to start is NOW!
Dragonfly Counseling's goal is to help you facilitate the transformation you wish to see within yourself through affordable and accessible mental health therapy. We believe in walking alongside you while you are on this journey of self-exploration. Change is not a linear process, it is evolving and dynamic, and we wish to assist through this process. It is never too late to begin your expedition towards transformation and change, the right time to start is NOW!
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![Photo of David Murphree, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf4cd03-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Murphree
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
There are three birds on a wire. One decides to fly away, how many are left? Answer: Three. The one just decided to fly away. It didn’t actually do it. Perhaps you have decided that you are going to change. Are you ready to do so? David believes that we already have everything we need within ourselves, including the presence of the Divine within us. As a therapist, David’s role is to create a space where individuals can do the work it takes to move toward wholeness.
There are three birds on a wire. One decides to fly away, how many are left? Answer: Three. The one just decided to fly away. It didn’t actually do it. Perhaps you have decided that you are going to change. Are you ready to do so? David believes that we already have everything we need within ourselves, including the presence of the Divine within us. As a therapist, David’s role is to create a space where individuals can do the work it takes to move toward wholeness.
![Photo of Dr. Luciana C. Silva, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed3a20a2-cdae-4306-9721-d4564c00f043/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Luciana C. Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
The single most important factor predicting a successful outcome in therapy is the quality of the relationship between client and therapist. As you look for a therapist, keep in mind: feeling like that person gets you is the priority. I am licensed in Alabama and Tennessee and have over 20 years of experience with a wide range of mental health settings and concerns. I use a systemic (relational) framework to help people balance individuality and togetherness, to better communicate their needs while listening to the needs of others, and to establish a clear sense of who they are.
The single most important factor predicting a successful outcome in therapy is the quality of the relationship between client and therapist. As you look for a therapist, keep in mind: feeling like that person gets you is the priority. I am licensed in Alabama and Tennessee and have over 20 years of experience with a wide range of mental health settings and concerns. I use a systemic (relational) framework to help people balance individuality and togetherness, to better communicate their needs while listening to the needs of others, and to establish a clear sense of who they are.
![Photo of Amanda Johnston, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d429d52-1afe-4090-831b-9727efa212bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
I believe that a client’s life is a journey towards the best version of themselves. That journey, however, is not without challenges that allow a client to take a deeper look into why they make certain choices. My approach looks at the connection between one's thoughts, feelings, and actions in past situations while helping a client reach the desired outcomes in the future. My 20+ years of experience have afforded me opportunities to work with individuals of all ages and needs. My passion, however, has been with clients struggling to find themselves, make sense of the world around them, and create healthy relationships with others.
I believe that a client’s life is a journey towards the best version of themselves. That journey, however, is not without challenges that allow a client to take a deeper look into why they make certain choices. My approach looks at the connection between one's thoughts, feelings, and actions in past situations while helping a client reach the desired outcomes in the future. My 20+ years of experience have afforded me opportunities to work with individuals of all ages and needs. My passion, however, has been with clients struggling to find themselves, make sense of the world around them, and create healthy relationships with others.
![Photo of Heeyoung Kang, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4d5ea13-dc9c-477d-9784-5172aec887c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heeyoung Kang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Hi and welcome! My name is Heeyoung. First of all, I’m glad you’re taking the initiative to take charge of your mental health! I take a collaborative approach to help you find the tools to get unstuck and make progress toward your goals. As a therapist, I focus on my clients' attachment and utilize a systemic lens to consider how their relationships with family and loved ones shape their thoughts, emotions, and beliefs.
Hi and welcome! My name is Heeyoung. First of all, I’m glad you’re taking the initiative to take charge of your mental health! I take a collaborative approach to help you find the tools to get unstuck and make progress toward your goals. As a therapist, I focus on my clients' attachment and utilize a systemic lens to consider how their relationships with family and loved ones shape their thoughts, emotions, and beliefs.
![Photo of LaTesha Gardner, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50b426ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
LaTesha Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
No two people or situations are exactly the same. I use active listening skills as you express your reality, so that we can work towards a positive change in your situation. I enjoy and continue to work with a diverse clientele. Providing services to adult and adolescent individuals who may be dealing with depression, boundary setting, bullying, self-esteem, peer pressure, gender identity or other environmental concerns that may unsettle daily life.
No two people or situations are exactly the same. I use active listening skills as you express your reality, so that we can work towards a positive change in your situation. I enjoy and continue to work with a diverse clientele. Providing services to adult and adolescent individuals who may be dealing with depression, boundary setting, bullying, self-esteem, peer pressure, gender identity or other environmental concerns that may unsettle daily life.
![Photo of Diana Paulk - Birmingham Anxiety and Trauma Therapy, PhD, LICSW, LPC, LMFT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4970258c-3cbf-4b4e-9fef-de3917ceae1f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Birmingham Anxiety and Trauma Therapy
Psychologist, PhD, LICSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Do you struggle with anxiety and excessive worry? Have you been through a traumatic event that was difficult to resolve? We help individuals, couples, children, and families overcome anxiety, depression, worry, recent or past trauma, stress, PTSD, child behavioral problems, couples challenges, and family conflict issues. We identify ways to get you un-stuck and back to wellness. Our Psychologists and Therapists have many years of combined training and experience. We use state of the art techniques to help you overcome your challenges. We'll help you practice new ways of looking at things and handling problems more effectively.
Do you struggle with anxiety and excessive worry? Have you been through a traumatic event that was difficult to resolve? We help individuals, couples, children, and families overcome anxiety, depression, worry, recent or past trauma, stress, PTSD, child behavioral problems, couples challenges, and family conflict issues. We identify ways to get you un-stuck and back to wellness. Our Psychologists and Therapists have many years of combined training and experience. We use state of the art techniques to help you overcome your challenges. We'll help you practice new ways of looking at things and handling problems more effectively.
![Photo of Susan R Rathmell, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39297125-fe29-442f-b902-338d101bd72d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready for therapy that works? Have you tried therapy before but not been able to achieve the results you had hoped for? My colleagues and I at Upward Behavioral Health are excited to help you! Our care encompasses 4 main values: it is relationship-focused, evidence-based, data-driven, and provides measurable results in a reasonable time frame. Our areas of expertise include the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, nightmare, panic, phobia, OCD, and personality disorders. We also offer adult ADHD evaluation.
Are you ready for therapy that works? Have you tried therapy before but not been able to achieve the results you had hoped for? My colleagues and I at Upward Behavioral Health are excited to help you! Our care encompasses 4 main values: it is relationship-focused, evidence-based, data-driven, and provides measurable results in a reasonable time frame. Our areas of expertise include the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, nightmare, panic, phobia, OCD, and personality disorders. We also offer adult ADHD evaluation.
![Photo of Brion Carlson, MA, NCC, ALC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90a6f073-6e96-4db6-b000-04b6f1ffbd98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you suspect your negative feelings and patterns of thought and action are based more on the difficulties of being a thinking, feeling human being than on a particular event? Is it hard to find people who understand? If so, I'm glad you're here. I focus on deep depression, addictions, and anxieties that have existential roots. I enjoy working with people fighting for recovery and those struggling with suicidality, aging, terminal illness, grief, loneliness, death anxiety, and loss of meaning. I believe in bulding new skills. But my ultimate aim is to help you find and liberate your higher Self.
Do you suspect your negative feelings and patterns of thought and action are based more on the difficulties of being a thinking, feeling human being than on a particular event? Is it hard to find people who understand? If so, I'm glad you're here. I focus on deep depression, addictions, and anxieties that have existential roots. I enjoy working with people fighting for recovery and those struggling with suicidality, aging, terminal illness, grief, loneliness, death anxiety, and loss of meaning. I believe in bulding new skills. But my ultimate aim is to help you find and liberate your higher Self.
![Photo of Michelle Miller - Alabama Professional Counseling, LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c8e1b57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alabama Professional Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 (Online Only)
Welcome! Evening appointments available now. Ms. Miller provides counseling to adults, couples and families. She is compassionate, cares about your healing process and wants to see you succeed. Using a person-centered approach incorporating various techniques she focuses on your individual needs and works with you to both develop and achieve your goals.
Welcome! Evening appointments available now. Ms. Miller provides counseling to adults, couples and families. She is compassionate, cares about your healing process and wants to see you succeed. Using a person-centered approach incorporating various techniques she focuses on your individual needs and works with you to both develop and achieve your goals.
See more therapy options for Vestavia Hills
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Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists
Who is DBT for?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.
Why do people need DBT?
The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.
What happens in DBT?
Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.
How long does DBT last?
Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.