Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Duarte, CA
![Photo of Andrea Majdfaridi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eabc00c9-2988-499c-9963-146f812bc83c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Andrea, a licensed clinical social worker. My focus areas include the exploration of relationship dynamics and self-esteem, and I embrace work within grief and loss, depression and anxiety, and those who are impacted by illness and a changing of health. I apply Rogerian, Behavioral, and Solution Focused techniques, to name a few. I frequently use tools from the fields of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness-Based practices. The greatest outcomes are found through integrative practices that champion growth to meet the unique experience of each person.
Hi there, I'm Andrea, a licensed clinical social worker. My focus areas include the exploration of relationship dynamics and self-esteem, and I embrace work within grief and loss, depression and anxiety, and those who are impacted by illness and a changing of health. I apply Rogerian, Behavioral, and Solution Focused techniques, to name a few. I frequently use tools from the fields of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness-Based practices. The greatest outcomes are found through integrative practices that champion growth to meet the unique experience of each person.
![Photo of Nicole Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69f13eb1-ea15-41b0-90cd-54d089a49f2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Exposure Therapy helps clients address fears, while DBT and CBT aid in building skills and confronting negative patterns.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade in mental health, I bring a compassionate, culturally sensitive, and holistic approach to therapy. I understand the barriers and stigma associated with treatment, and I use a blend of praise and Harm Reduction to meet each person at their current stage of personal growth. I build rapport using a Person Centered Approach, respecting each individual's unique journey. I believe in the power of personal strengths and use Motivational Interviewing to help individuals identify desired changes.
Exposure Therapy helps clients address fears, while DBT and CBT aid in building skills and confronting negative patterns.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade in mental health, I bring a compassionate, culturally sensitive, and holistic approach to therapy. I understand the barriers and stigma associated with treatment, and I use a blend of praise and Harm Reduction to meet each person at their current stage of personal growth. I build rapport using a Person Centered Approach, respecting each individual's unique journey. I believe in the power of personal strengths and use Motivational Interviewing to help individuals identify desired changes.
![Photo of Kayla Garcia, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4976c9ae-78a4-48b3-a7d3-8a142d10d7dc/1/320x400.png)
I use CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and creative arts to provide individualized care.
Connecting to my clients is of utmost importance to me. Connecting to you is essential in assisting you to achieve your goals; I truly believe in actively being present for you. I openly listen to what is of significance to you and I non-judgmentally hear where you’re coming from and your life experiences.
I use CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and creative arts to provide individualized care.
Connecting to my clients is of utmost importance to me. Connecting to you is essential in assisting you to achieve your goals; I truly believe in actively being present for you. I openly listen to what is of significance to you and I non-judgmentally hear where you’re coming from and your life experiences.
![Photo of Suzanna Chan, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4430c5f5-2e59-4f71-a4da-d3ce844efee3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanna Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Duarte, CA 91010 (Online Only)
I warmly welcome you as you embark on your journey of exploration and discovery along this bright new path. Wherever you may find yourself on your life's journey, know that you're not alone. Addressing issues like anger, anxiety, depression, trauma, bullying, grief and loss, relationship struggles, among other emotional wounds can be tough. Despite this, I have a deep heart in offering supportive empathy, compassionate care, and fostering your comfort in facing these challenges. Since there is no one-size-fits-all treatment approach, I holistically tailor treatment plans to suit you according to your specific and unique needs.
I warmly welcome you as you embark on your journey of exploration and discovery along this bright new path. Wherever you may find yourself on your life's journey, know that you're not alone. Addressing issues like anger, anxiety, depression, trauma, bullying, grief and loss, relationship struggles, among other emotional wounds can be tough. Despite this, I have a deep heart in offering supportive empathy, compassionate care, and fostering your comfort in facing these challenges. Since there is no one-size-fits-all treatment approach, I holistically tailor treatment plans to suit you according to your specific and unique needs.
![Photo of Jason Gabriel Stringer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6c7aa80-1d00-4aa7-9628-f11cc6dd9ed7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maybe you're in a tough place in life and need some help finding a direction. Or perhaps you're struggling to find connection, and support. Perhaps you're struggling with depression, and anxiety, and you're trying to feel something different. Or maybe, the current state of the world has affected you, your family or your children. We all suffer, and sometimes we need help, and I'd like to acknowledge you for trying to find an answer. Therapy can be place where we learn to address our suffering by taking power over it, through learning about what we can change. Are you ready for something different in your life?
Maybe you're in a tough place in life and need some help finding a direction. Or perhaps you're struggling to find connection, and support. Perhaps you're struggling with depression, and anxiety, and you're trying to feel something different. Or maybe, the current state of the world has affected you, your family or your children. We all suffer, and sometimes we need help, and I'd like to acknowledge you for trying to find an answer. Therapy can be place where we learn to address our suffering by taking power over it, through learning about what we can change. Are you ready for something different in your life?
![Photo of Tina Payne Bryson, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57bf97b6-fe2d-4cb1-94c4-3dba5f22c0d2/1/320x400.png)
I'm the coauthor of The Whole-Brain Child and other books with Dr. Dan Siegel. I created The Center for Connection (CFC) to create a place where relationships, regulation, & the science of interpersonal neurobiology would guide all we do. We have an amazing team of interdisciplinary professionals- speech/language, neuropsych assessment, occupational therapy, ed therapy & mental health for all ages. Informed by cutting-edge research, and intently focused on how the brain changes, we help people discover more joy and meaning in their lives. We are a neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming practice.
I'm the coauthor of The Whole-Brain Child and other books with Dr. Dan Siegel. I created The Center for Connection (CFC) to create a place where relationships, regulation, & the science of interpersonal neurobiology would guide all we do. We have an amazing team of interdisciplinary professionals- speech/language, neuropsych assessment, occupational therapy, ed therapy & mental health for all ages. Informed by cutting-edge research, and intently focused on how the brain changes, we help people discover more joy and meaning in their lives. We are a neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming practice.
![Photo of Kerstin Cornell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57fb4705-38dd-4f1d-8769-3bda58f8e513/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences and a certified alcohol and drug counselor with the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals. I earned a Master of Arts in psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy and professional clinical counseling from Brandman University and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Washington State University; I am currently enrolled in a Ph.D. in psychology at Walden University.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences and a certified alcohol and drug counselor with the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals. I earned a Master of Arts in psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy and professional clinical counseling from Brandman University and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Washington State University; I am currently enrolled in a Ph.D. in psychology at Walden University.
![Photo of Joseph Martinez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9d06af7-f562-486c-a28d-4a89b7e3696d/1/320x400.jpeg)
You are seeking a therapist because you are in emotional pain. Are you struggling with an addiction – sex, alcohol, drugs, or gambling? Have you been abused as a child or in an adult relationship? Have you experienced sexual assault, violence or other trauma? Are you experiencing issues with your significant other or other relationships? Sometimes addiction, depression, anger, and anxiety can happen because of a trauma history. Treating trauma can help you get your emotional health back and free you from addictive behavior and pain.
You are seeking a therapist because you are in emotional pain. Are you struggling with an addiction – sex, alcohol, drugs, or gambling? Have you been abused as a child or in an adult relationship? Have you experienced sexual assault, violence or other trauma? Are you experiencing issues with your significant other or other relationships? Sometimes addiction, depression, anger, and anxiety can happen because of a trauma history. Treating trauma can help you get your emotional health back and free you from addictive behavior and pain.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Destiny Rattanapichetkul, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7272b6d2-c5ac-492e-92ea-4d93124438be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Destiny Rattanapichetkul
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016 (Online Only)
I practice both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (focus is on challenging unhealthy thoughts) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (focus is on emotional regulation).
I am not the “smile and nod” type of therapist and you will not be the only one talking in our sessions. I will work with you to develop concrete skills to get you back on track in the shortest amount of time possible. Your struggle is real and I want to help. Contact me today for a free 15 minute consultation over the phone and find out if I’m the right fit for you.
I practice both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (focus is on challenging unhealthy thoughts) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (focus is on emotional regulation).
I am not the “smile and nod” type of therapist and you will not be the only one talking in our sessions. I will work with you to develop concrete skills to get you back on track in the shortest amount of time possible. Your struggle is real and I want to help. Contact me today for a free 15 minute consultation over the phone and find out if I’m the right fit for you.
![Photo of Sheila Alfaro - Radiantly Mindful Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc715ffe-c9f3-47d6-9d59-72351f0a670b/1/320x400.png)
Radiantly Mindful Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016 (Online Only)
Trained in treatment modalities such as: Mindfulness Practice, Trauma Informed Care, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Hi, my name is Sheila. Myself & other clinicians offer a nurturing, safe, & accepting environment to help achieve your needs in therapy & aid in reaching your potential for self-growth. We help with others become present in their daily lives, appreciate moment & achieve their life worth living goals in hopes for clients to have glowing expressions of love, confidence & happiness. Our therapeutic approach focuses on client-strengths, practicing mindfulness, challenging unhelpful thoughts, & improved behavioral patterns, and utilizing creative activities such as handouts & arts. Worked in hospitals, community & yrs private practice.
Trained in treatment modalities such as: Mindfulness Practice, Trauma Informed Care, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Hi, my name is Sheila. Myself & other clinicians offer a nurturing, safe, & accepting environment to help achieve your needs in therapy & aid in reaching your potential for self-growth. We help with others become present in their daily lives, appreciate moment & achieve their life worth living goals in hopes for clients to have glowing expressions of love, confidence & happiness. Our therapeutic approach focuses on client-strengths, practicing mindfulness, challenging unhelpful thoughts, & improved behavioral patterns, and utilizing creative activities such as handouts & arts. Worked in hospitals, community & yrs private practice.
![Photo of Omar De La Cruz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f869572c-c038-4509-8969-3af8f58d95aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience with different modalities that would include cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Hi! My name is Omar de la Cruz, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have an extensive amount of experiencing working with individuals having difficulties with substance use and mental health. I have worked with children, youth, and adults experiencing difficulties in different areas, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship difficulties, and trauma. My goal is to meet clients where they are at and through my expertise be able to work on the therapeutic goals that individuals have.
I have experience with different modalities that would include cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Hi! My name is Omar de la Cruz, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have an extensive amount of experiencing working with individuals having difficulties with substance use and mental health. I have worked with children, youth, and adults experiencing difficulties in different areas, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship difficulties, and trauma. My goal is to meet clients where they are at and through my expertise be able to work on the therapeutic goals that individuals have.
![Photo of Dr. Keith Lamont Marshall - Dedicato Treatment Center (Intensive Outpatient) , PsyD, MHD, CATC-V, SUDCC, LAADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a81c6f7-4c04-4487-999b-b73eaf1b2d50/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dedicato Treatment Center (Intensive Outpatient)
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PsyD, MHD, CATC-V, SUDCC, LAADC
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
Our Treatment consist of a Full Bio-Psycho Social Assessment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Relapse Prevention, Drug and Alcohol Treatment, Psychoeducation, Physical Education Individual and Group Psychotherapy, Family Group, Co-Occurring Mental Disorders, 12 Step Social Support Development.
Our Mission At Dedicato Outpatient Services is to provide responsible and comprehensive Intensive Substance Abuse Treatment that will enhance our patient’s ability to achieve optimal mental health and recovery from chemical dependency. We are dedicated to treat the whole person as well as the primary problem. We treat every patient, family, friend, and staff, with dignity and respect. We are licensed by the California Department of Health Care Services and accredited by the Joint Commission. We are among only 6% in the United States with this highest level of accreditation.
Our Treatment consist of a Full Bio-Psycho Social Assessment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Relapse Prevention, Drug and Alcohol Treatment, Psychoeducation, Physical Education Individual and Group Psychotherapy, Family Group, Co-Occurring Mental Disorders, 12 Step Social Support Development.
Our Mission At Dedicato Outpatient Services is to provide responsible and comprehensive Intensive Substance Abuse Treatment that will enhance our patient’s ability to achieve optimal mental health and recovery from chemical dependency. We are dedicated to treat the whole person as well as the primary problem. We treat every patient, family, friend, and staff, with dignity and respect. We are licensed by the California Department of Health Care Services and accredited by the Joint Commission. We are among only 6% in the United States with this highest level of accreditation.
![Photo of Sameh Abdelmalak, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91916779-7ad2-48fe-a2f4-1b5308a060f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sameh Abdelmalak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016 (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with a diverse population, offering services to adults, children, couples, and families of different ethnic backgrounds, religions, spiritual beliefs, and sexual orientations. The anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, and relational distress can be very impending to the quality of one's life. Though I am trained in Trauma Focus CBT, Gottman method for couples, DBT, Attachment therapy, and motivational interviewing, if you have a hard time remembering when you felt good or feel like you are alone in your struggle, I would be glad to come alongside you and offer my counseling service.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with a diverse population, offering services to adults, children, couples, and families of different ethnic backgrounds, religions, spiritual beliefs, and sexual orientations. The anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, and relational distress can be very impending to the quality of one's life. Though I am trained in Trauma Focus CBT, Gottman method for couples, DBT, Attachment therapy, and motivational interviewing, if you have a hard time remembering when you felt good or feel like you are alone in your struggle, I would be glad to come alongside you and offer my counseling service.
![Photo of Dawn Wisniewski, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1fad43a-3c4d-422f-9d2d-5177b4e05cf8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Wisniewski
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91017
During the seasons of life, we encounter various barriers, bumps, ditches and forks in the road that lead us in different directions leaving us feeling disconnected, stressed, anxious, depressed, confused and frustrated. As your therapist, my goal is to empower and collaboratively help you heal, resolve and work through issues, identify and explore your strengths and help you to reconnect with yourself and others in the way you envision. I offer a place that is welcoming, friendly, empathetic, supportive, nonjudgmental and safe in order for you to explore and discuss the issues that are impacting you and your life.
During the seasons of life, we encounter various barriers, bumps, ditches and forks in the road that lead us in different directions leaving us feeling disconnected, stressed, anxious, depressed, confused and frustrated. As your therapist, my goal is to empower and collaboratively help you heal, resolve and work through issues, identify and explore your strengths and help you to reconnect with yourself and others in the way you envision. I offer a place that is welcoming, friendly, empathetic, supportive, nonjudgmental and safe in order for you to explore and discuss the issues that are impacting you and your life.
![Photo of Rebecca Banke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a33bd1d6-36a7-453b-9c09-ae411644f443/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Rebecca Banke, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy that is individualized to your own needs, strengths, and goals. I believe you are the true expert in your life, and we will work in collaboration to reach your treatment goals. I have worked with a variety of different populations aging from 14 years old and on. My experience is typically with those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life adjustments and work/school related conflicts.
My name is Rebecca Banke, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy that is individualized to your own needs, strengths, and goals. I believe you are the true expert in your life, and we will work in collaboration to reach your treatment goals. I have worked with a variety of different populations aging from 14 years old and on. My experience is typically with those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life adjustments and work/school related conflicts.
![Photo of Andrea Galeana, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26a87248-b0b8-41d9-ae38-c281672f2450/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clients would describe me as genuine, caring, and accepting. I work with clients who have experienced trauma, micro-aggression and several messages from others and even from themselves to "get over it" or "get it together." My clients face challenges in finding fulfillment in their life and connecting with the world around them in a meaningful way. They are desiring a life in which they are able to fully embrace joy in the daily things and in their relationships. They want to be able to feel all their feelings without judgment and stress.
My clients would describe me as genuine, caring, and accepting. I work with clients who have experienced trauma, micro-aggression and several messages from others and even from themselves to "get over it" or "get it together." My clients face challenges in finding fulfillment in their life and connecting with the world around them in a meaningful way. They are desiring a life in which they are able to fully embrace joy in the daily things and in their relationships. They want to be able to feel all their feelings without judgment and stress.
![Photo of Angela Zhang, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aced8139-f090-4a5c-8043-707204b21b0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Zhang, LPCC, specializes in supporting individuals through the challenges of depression, anxiety, stress management, and life transitions. She strives to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives. Angela emphasizes the power of the therapeutic relationship to motivate clients on their journey of healing and growth, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Angela Zhang, LPCC, specializes in supporting individuals through the challenges of depression, anxiety, stress management, and life transitions. She strives to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives. Angela emphasizes the power of the therapeutic relationship to motivate clients on their journey of healing and growth, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Christopher Ruffin, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59ee6d20-1e54-42bb-82fc-b4e74e2a4ed9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Ruffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
Waitlist for new clients
We are not victims of this life. We wake up everyday with choices we can make. Life is a journey that should enhance who we are and should help us grow personally and professionally. I truly believe that events in life ‘‘happen for you, not to you.’’ When we adapt that mentality, we are able to utilize the obstacle in our lives as opportunities to grow and enhance our existence. In treatment I help my clients process past events that occurred in their lives in order for them to understand how those events affected their lives and shaped their existence.
We are not victims of this life. We wake up everyday with choices we can make. Life is a journey that should enhance who we are and should help us grow personally and professionally. I truly believe that events in life ‘‘happen for you, not to you.’’ When we adapt that mentality, we are able to utilize the obstacle in our lives as opportunities to grow and enhance our existence. In treatment I help my clients process past events that occurred in their lives in order for them to understand how those events affected their lives and shaped their existence.
![Photo of Tammy Kealey Neuropsychologist, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3c32c21-ffd4-4996-b3de-b8ddaf949ad5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Has there been a change in mood? Have you noticed a change in memory or find it harder to focus or multitask? A variety of conditions impact our thinking and influence how we function at home, school, and work. Fortunately, neuropsychological assessments can help identify what neurological challenges might be impacting your day-to-day. As a clinical neuropsychologist, I provide comprehensive evaluations about cognitive and emotional functioning, including (but not limited to) ADHD, stroke, traumatic head injury, dementia, depression, anxiety, and trauma, which can help guide diagnosis and inform treatment planning.
Has there been a change in mood? Have you noticed a change in memory or find it harder to focus or multitask? A variety of conditions impact our thinking and influence how we function at home, school, and work. Fortunately, neuropsychological assessments can help identify what neurological challenges might be impacting your day-to-day. As a clinical neuropsychologist, I provide comprehensive evaluations about cognitive and emotional functioning, including (but not limited to) ADHD, stroke, traumatic head injury, dementia, depression, anxiety, and trauma, which can help guide diagnosis and inform treatment planning.
![Photo of Jessica Baity, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc5de8bc-453c-4ca9-b02c-c518a40c413f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, My Name is Jessica Baity and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a very peaceful approach to therapy and believe it is important to meet every client where they are at. I work a great deal with those who struggle with cultural adversities, Anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach is more of a narrative base approach. Therapy should be client lead and meeting clients where they are at. I have experience using Cognitive Behavioral Approach ( CBT) And Client Center.
Hello, My Name is Jessica Baity and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a very peaceful approach to therapy and believe it is important to meet every client where they are at. I work a great deal with those who struggle with cultural adversities, Anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach is more of a narrative base approach. Therapy should be client lead and meeting clients where they are at. I have experience using Cognitive Behavioral Approach ( CBT) And Client Center.
See more therapy options for Duarte
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Duarte
- Arcadia
- Azusa
- Baldwin Park
- Covina
- El Monte
- Glendora
- Monrovia
- Rosemead
- Sierra Madre
- South El Monte
- Temple City
- West Covina
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.