Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Daly City, CA

Photo of Chantal Stendardo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chantal Stendardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
My name is Chantal Stendardo, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with an extensive history of individual therapy, crisis intervention, marriage counseling, and family therapy, helping with issues such as depression, anxiety, family stress, trauma history, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and more. My therapeutic approach focuses on taking action, either by setting and accomplishing tasks, or improving insight and outlook. My approach varies based on individual need, however Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Trauma-Informed therapy are the most common.
My name is Chantal Stendardo, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with an extensive history of individual therapy, crisis intervention, marriage counseling, and family therapy, helping with issues such as depression, anxiety, family stress, trauma history, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and more. My therapeutic approach focuses on taking action, either by setting and accomplishing tasks, or improving insight and outlook. My approach varies based on individual need, however Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Trauma-Informed therapy are the most common.
(650) 582-2116 View (650) 582-2116
Photo of Gabrielle Gray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
I am trained in CBT, DBT style, solution-focused, strength-based, and mindfulness techniques.
Hi! My name is Gabrielle Gray and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sonoma County, California, and working with clients statewide through telehealth. I work with teens and adults, specializing in anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I am comfortable working with all ages, from teens to the elderly. I have experience working with a wide range of illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. I do well working on relationship troubles, life transitions, problem-solving, and more.
I am trained in CBT, DBT style, solution-focused, strength-based, and mindfulness techniques.
Hi! My name is Gabrielle Gray and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sonoma County, California, and working with clients statewide through telehealth. I work with teens and adults, specializing in anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I am comfortable working with all ages, from teens to the elderly. I have experience working with a wide range of illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. I do well working on relationship troubles, life transitions, problem-solving, and more.
(650) 648-7359 View (650) 648-7359
Photo of Victoria Zurkan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Zurkan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015  (Online Only)
I've been licensed since 2006. My experience in addiction is extensive, including work in inpatient, outpatient and detox. I tailor each client's treatment needs individually using evidence based EMDR, CBT, DBT and psychodynamic therapy. Together we will learn to pay close attention to aspects of yourself that you may be unable to touch on your own. I look for patterns in either behavior or thoughts. Examining past family dynamics and reaching unconscious behavior, I connect that information to how it affects our current lives. Currently I am doing telemedicine with couples, individuals and I run CBT and DBT addiction groups.
I've been licensed since 2006. My experience in addiction is extensive, including work in inpatient, outpatient and detox. I tailor each client's treatment needs individually using evidence based EMDR, CBT, DBT and psychodynamic therapy. Together we will learn to pay close attention to aspects of yourself that you may be unable to touch on your own. I look for patterns in either behavior or thoughts. Examining past family dynamics and reaching unconscious behavior, I connect that information to how it affects our current lives. Currently I am doing telemedicine with couples, individuals and I run CBT and DBT addiction groups.
(628) 214-2234 View (628) 214-2234
Photo of Sheri Akins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheri Akins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94014
My primary focus lies in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I am pleased to introduce myself as Sheri Akins, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a distinguished career spanning over 15 years in the field. I am renowned for my Client Centered approach to therapy, which has proven to be highly effective in addressing various challenges faced by individuals and families. I possess a wealth of experience in addressing a diverse range of adult and childhood obstacles, with a particular emphasis on assessing an individual's willingness to change. My professional background is deeply rooted in assisting adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and addiction challenges.
My primary focus lies in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I am pleased to introduce myself as Sheri Akins, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a distinguished career spanning over 15 years in the field. I am renowned for my Client Centered approach to therapy, which has proven to be highly effective in addressing various challenges faced by individuals and families. I possess a wealth of experience in addressing a diverse range of adult and childhood obstacles, with a particular emphasis on assessing an individual's willingness to change. My professional background is deeply rooted in assisting adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and addiction challenges.
(951) 904-4069 View (951) 904-4069
Photo of Laura Jessen, LIMHP, MSE, Counselor
Laura Jessen
Counselor, LIMHP, MSE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94014
Waitlist for new clients
I use a client-centered, holistic approach to therapy while incorporating CBT, DBT, Play, Mindfulness, Emotion Code, and Creative Expression into treatment.
I understand that life presents many challenges. My goal is for my clients to develop peace with themselves, calmness, tranquility, confidence, and strength. I believe if you want to help others heal, love them unconditional.
I use a client-centered, holistic approach to therapy while incorporating CBT, DBT, Play, Mindfulness, Emotion Code, and Creative Expression into treatment.
I understand that life presents many challenges. My goal is for my clients to develop peace with themselves, calmness, tranquility, confidence, and strength. I believe if you want to help others heal, love them unconditional.
(402) 741-6291 View (402) 741-6291
Photo of Desiree Williams-Trinidad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Desiree Williams-Trinidad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94014
My approach to therapy is to meet each client where they are at and help each client to identify where they want to go using primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy to help the client reach their self-set goals.
My name is Desiree Trinidad and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LSCW) based in Los Angeles, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with women recovering from substance abuse disorder, anxiety, depression, stress, and divorce recovery using Integrative/Holistic Therapy. In my experience, my approach has been effective with individuals and families who find themselves facing challenging life transitions often bringing on anxiety, depression, stress, and substance abuse disorder.
My approach to therapy is to meet each client where they are at and help each client to identify where they want to go using primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy to help the client reach their self-set goals.
My name is Desiree Trinidad and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LSCW) based in Los Angeles, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with women recovering from substance abuse disorder, anxiety, depression, stress, and divorce recovery using Integrative/Holistic Therapy. In my experience, my approach has been effective with individuals and families who find themselves facing challenging life transitions often bringing on anxiety, depression, stress, and substance abuse disorder.
(562) 554-5192 View (562) 554-5192
Photo of Guru Shabd Khalsa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Guru Shabd Khalsa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94016  (Online Only)
I have experience with CBT, DBT and narrative therapies.
I believe that therapy can be helpful to anyone looking to grow, change habits or heal old wounds. I’m a fat positive, queer therapist devoted to supporting my clients in that growth. As a therapist I maintain curiosity, and hold space for you to dig deeper. You are the expert in your experience, my job is to offer the tools, feedback and resources that I have developed over time. I am looking forward to working with clients in non traditional relationships, those exploring their identity and sexuality, and wanting to come to peace and a place of joy with their bodies. I am honored to provide gender affirming care.
I have experience with CBT, DBT and narrative therapies.
I believe that therapy can be helpful to anyone looking to grow, change habits or heal old wounds. I’m a fat positive, queer therapist devoted to supporting my clients in that growth. As a therapist I maintain curiosity, and hold space for you to dig deeper. You are the expert in your experience, my job is to offer the tools, feedback and resources that I have developed over time. I am looking forward to working with clients in non traditional relationships, those exploring their identity and sexuality, and wanting to come to peace and a place of joy with their bodies. I am honored to provide gender affirming care.
(323) 208-0357 View (323) 208-0357
Photo of Ruby Estrada, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruby Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
I also use another theoretical approach ( Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to help manage moods, learn how to be calm & in control mentally, relate to other people effectively, and function well with stress.
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
I also use another theoretical approach ( Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to help manage moods, learn how to be calm & in control mentally, relate to other people effectively, and function well with stress.
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
(619) 586-6733 View (619) 586-6733
Photo of Erika Garcia Rangel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Garcia Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94015
I support individuals struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues utilizing evidence-based approaches: EMDR, CBT, DBT and internal family systems (IFS).
Finding a therapist you trust is a challenge and scheduling your first session takes courage. You’ve taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. I’m offering you a safe, nurturing and accepting place to freely express your feelings, thoughts and experiences. My vocation is to guide and support individuals like yourself to better understand themselves at a deeper level through the transformative power of compassion and empathy. With commitment to therapy, we will explore your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, addressing behavioral and emotional issues that are potentially holding you back.
I support individuals struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues utilizing evidence-based approaches: EMDR, CBT, DBT and internal family systems (IFS).
Finding a therapist you trust is a challenge and scheduling your first session takes courage. You’ve taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. I’m offering you a safe, nurturing and accepting place to freely express your feelings, thoughts and experiences. My vocation is to guide and support individuals like yourself to better understand themselves at a deeper level through the transformative power of compassion and empathy. With commitment to therapy, we will explore your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, addressing behavioral and emotional issues that are potentially holding you back.
(650) 679-7286 View (650) 679-7286
Photo of Jahi Corbin, MA, AMFT, APCC, SUDRC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jahi Corbin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC, SUDRC
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015  (Online Only)
Are you navigating challenges related to identity, self-esteem, anxiety, or the pressures of life transitions? Whether you're an adolescent, young adult, adult, woman in recovery, or an athlete, you don’t have to face these struggles alone. My name is Jahi Corbin, and I’m here to offer you a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where we can work together to build your confidence and move forward with purpose. I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy and am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (BBS 149945).
Are you navigating challenges related to identity, self-esteem, anxiety, or the pressures of life transitions? Whether you're an adolescent, young adult, adult, woman in recovery, or an athlete, you don’t have to face these struggles alone. My name is Jahi Corbin, and I’m here to offer you a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where we can work together to build your confidence and move forward with purpose. I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy and am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (BBS 149945).
(650) 719-5937 View (650) 719-5937
Photo of Kevin Phillips, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
My name is Kevin Phillips, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Reality Therapy. My practice is focused on adolescents, young adults, individuals, and couples. I work with adolescents struggling with behavioral issues, as well as young adults and individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and other issues. I also work with couples seeking help with relationships difficulties. I utilize an eclectic approach, borrowing useful techniques and interventions from multiple modalities. I primarily focus on reality therapy.
My name is Kevin Phillips, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Reality Therapy. My practice is focused on adolescents, young adults, individuals, and couples. I work with adolescents struggling with behavioral issues, as well as young adults and individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and other issues. I also work with couples seeking help with relationships difficulties. I utilize an eclectic approach, borrowing useful techniques and interventions from multiple modalities. I primarily focus on reality therapy.
(650) 747-6380 View (650) 747-6380
Photo of Jenna King, PhD, CATP, Psychologist
Jenna King
Psychologist, PhD, CATP
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced in working with adults, children (3+), teens, and families with anxiety, depression, challenging behavior, and childhood trauma. Identity affirmation and development is central to my practice, including but not limited to expertise with neurodiverse and gender and sexual diverse individuals/families. I also provide Psychodiagnostic Assessment for neurodiverse Children/teens and Adults considering Autism Spectrum/ADHD/Anxiety related concerns and Youth presenting with Mood, Anxiety, ADHD, and Trauma/Significant Life Stress related concerns.
I am experienced in working with adults, children (3+), teens, and families with anxiety, depression, challenging behavior, and childhood trauma. Identity affirmation and development is central to my practice, including but not limited to expertise with neurodiverse and gender and sexual diverse individuals/families. I also provide Psychodiagnostic Assessment for neurodiverse Children/teens and Adults considering Autism Spectrum/ADHD/Anxiety related concerns and Youth presenting with Mood, Anxiety, ADHD, and Trauma/Significant Life Stress related concerns.
(650) 547-4901 View (650) 547-4901
Photo of Marianna Dobak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marianna Dobak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
My name is Marianna Dobak. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adult population and specialize in anxiety, stress, and life changes, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I believe that that therapy should be tailored to the individual's need. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy.
My name is Marianna Dobak. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adult population and specialize in anxiety, stress, and life changes, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I believe that that therapy should be tailored to the individual's need. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy.
(650) 398-3235 View (650) 398-3235
Photo of Elizabeth Ramos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Ramos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
Whole person therapy using systems approach therapy models: I hold to the truth that, as human beings each one of us have complex natures and experiences that must be respected and understood if change and healing can occur. I walk beside and behind the clients I serve knowing that the true solutions to issues are already extising inside that family or client and only need to nurture into existence. open and clear with a focus on the client's request for change assistance given with respect and unconditional regard.
Whole person therapy using systems approach therapy models: I hold to the truth that, as human beings each one of us have complex natures and experiences that must be respected and understood if change and healing can occur. I walk beside and behind the clients I serve knowing that the true solutions to issues are already extising inside that family or client and only need to nurture into existence. open and clear with a focus on the client's request for change assistance given with respect and unconditional regard.
(951) 470-1983 View (951) 470-1983
Photo of Kristine Emiko Takeshita-Doty, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristine Emiko Takeshita-Doty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94014
My name is Emi Takeshita-Doty and I am an LMFT based out of California. As a therapist, I view authenticity and rapport as vital ingredients of the therapeutic process. My goal during treatment is to give clients the opportunity to feel heard and collaboratively work together towards the client's vision of wellness. During my previous clinical experiences, I have worked with adults, adolescents, and children. Clinically, I am most familiar with treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and adjustment disorders.
My name is Emi Takeshita-Doty and I am an LMFT based out of California. As a therapist, I view authenticity and rapport as vital ingredients of the therapeutic process. My goal during treatment is to give clients the opportunity to feel heard and collaboratively work together towards the client's vision of wellness. During my previous clinical experiences, I have worked with adults, adolescents, and children. Clinically, I am most familiar with treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and adjustment disorders.
(323) 417-5398 View (323) 417-5398
Photo of Katherine Boucher, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Boucher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
Hi there, I'm Katherine! Everyone has the capacity to change what's not working. My goal is to help you get to know all parts of yourself and understand that you are already in possession of a vast amount of resources for self-understanding, acceptance, and change. By showing appreciation for all parts of yourself, while focusing on your strengths and potentials, we will work to increase balance and well-being in your life. My approach is dynamic, collaborative, and eclectic, blending experiential methods with traditional talk therapy in order to design the most beneficial strategy for each individual.
Hi there, I'm Katherine! Everyone has the capacity to change what's not working. My goal is to help you get to know all parts of yourself and understand that you are already in possession of a vast amount of resources for self-understanding, acceptance, and change. By showing appreciation for all parts of yourself, while focusing on your strengths and potentials, we will work to increase balance and well-being in your life. My approach is dynamic, collaborative, and eclectic, blending experiential methods with traditional talk therapy in order to design the most beneficial strategy for each individual.
(209) 210-4165 View (209) 210-4165
Joy T Gamble
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
I provide both brief and long term psychotherapy. Currently. I work remotely , but I would like to be able see people in person in the Spring of 2023. I have been in the field for many years ,have a wealth of experience in both life and as a therapist ,to help me help you. I enjoy working with all kinds of people from all walks of life. Many people now are dealing with the impacts of the Pandemic and I am here to support those folks , and people who have mental health issues that predate the Pandemic but that may have been exacerbated by it. My goal is to design the treatment to fit the needs of the client.
I provide both brief and long term psychotherapy. Currently. I work remotely , but I would like to be able see people in person in the Spring of 2023. I have been in the field for many years ,have a wealth of experience in both life and as a therapist ,to help me help you. I enjoy working with all kinds of people from all walks of life. Many people now are dealing with the impacts of the Pandemic and I am here to support those folks , and people who have mental health issues that predate the Pandemic but that may have been exacerbated by it. My goal is to design the treatment to fit the needs of the client.
(510) 684-2313 View (510) 684-2313
Photo of John Robert Montopoli, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Robert Montopoli
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94015
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I work almost exclusively with adults overcoming struggles with anxiety and depression. People often experience depression and/or anxiety when they are dissatisfied with important relationships in their personal and professional lives. I have particular interest in helping clients develop skills to overcome shyness and social anxiety issues which can interfere with having the kind of relationships that give special meaning to one's life. I am also the co-founder of the National Social Anxiety Center.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I work almost exclusively with adults overcoming struggles with anxiety and depression. People often experience depression and/or anxiety when they are dissatisfied with important relationships in their personal and professional lives. I have particular interest in helping clients develop skills to overcome shyness and social anxiety issues which can interfere with having the kind of relationships that give special meaning to one's life. I am also the co-founder of the National Social Anxiety Center.
(415) 689-4131 View (415) 689-4131
Photo of Jo Burrows, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jo Burrows
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94014
Life is increasingly busy and complex. Compassionate Brain Life Coaching (CPLC), helps you to press the pause button, slow down and remember and or newly discover who you are. Science tells us that our brains at rest are actually programmed to be happy. But it sure doesn't always feel that way. CBLC equips you with the cognitive and mindfulness tools to counter the self-critic and manage difficult times. I will help you identify, name and validate the places you go under stress, with a view to exploring what works and creating newly, including moving from surviving to thriving.
Life is increasingly busy and complex. Compassionate Brain Life Coaching (CPLC), helps you to press the pause button, slow down and remember and or newly discover who you are. Science tells us that our brains at rest are actually programmed to be happy. But it sure doesn't always feel that way. CBLC equips you with the cognitive and mindfulness tools to counter the self-critic and manage difficult times. I will help you identify, name and validate the places you go under stress, with a view to exploring what works and creating newly, including moving from surviving to thriving.
(510) 306-7232 View (510) 306-7232
Photo of Jeanna Eichenbaum, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanna Eichenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94014
Longing for a different outcome? Want to write a new story? You are probably hoping to find support with the process of healing something that isn't feeling right. Psychotherapy can help by offering an accepting space to look, non-judgmentally, at whatever feels stuck, painful, or unresolved. Use my support and encouragement to help you approach these challenges in new ways, and find new solutions. My goal is to provide you with acceptance and ways to access your own innate wisdom and energy. I offer individual and relationship psychotherapy. Short and long term therapy options are available, depending on your concerns and goals.
Longing for a different outcome? Want to write a new story? You are probably hoping to find support with the process of healing something that isn't feeling right. Psychotherapy can help by offering an accepting space to look, non-judgmentally, at whatever feels stuck, painful, or unresolved. Use my support and encouragement to help you approach these challenges in new ways, and find new solutions. My goal is to provide you with acceptance and ways to access your own innate wisdom and energy. I offer individual and relationship psychotherapy. Short and long term therapy options are available, depending on your concerns and goals.
(415) 799-4049 View (415) 799-4049
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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.