Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Fairfield, CA

Photo of Lauren Nicole Hill, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Nicole Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94534  (Online Only)
Lauren’s speciality is in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression and relationships. One of the techniques she uses is called EMDR which helps reduce the effects that traumatic event (s) and panic are having on a persons life. She also has a breadth of knowledge and experience in CBT and DBT which has been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression.
Lauren’s speciality is in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression and relationships. One of the techniques she uses is called EMDR which helps reduce the effects that traumatic event (s) and panic are having on a persons life. She also has a breadth of knowledge and experience in CBT and DBT which has been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression.
(707) 380-8776 View (707) 380-8776
Photo of Kimberly Lorna Shin, MA, LPCC, ATR-BC, CADC
Kimberly Lorna Shin
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, ATR-BC, CADC
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94534  (Online Only)
I am trained to teach DBT skills and CBT techniques.
I believe that change is always possible and it's never too late to start the process. The pandemic has impacted us all in different ways and you are not alone. I work in a collaborative, eclectic, with my clients. I provide a safe space for you to learn and practice new skills- free of judgment. If you are ready to improve your life and open to discovering new options to life's challenges, I can help. Invest in yourself and creating the life you deserve.
I am trained to teach DBT skills and CBT techniques.
I believe that change is always possible and it's never too late to start the process. The pandemic has impacted us all in different ways and you are not alone. I work in a collaborative, eclectic, with my clients. I provide a safe space for you to learn and practice new skills- free of judgment. If you are ready to improve your life and open to discovering new options to life's challenges, I can help. Invest in yourself and creating the life you deserve.
(707) 532-2618 View (707) 532-2618
Photo of Takyi Dwumfuoh, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Takyi Dwumfuoh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
I utilize CBT/DBT, Emotional Focused Therapy and Existential Approach in my practice.
I enjoy working with individuals (late teens and adults), couples (pre-marital, marital and post-marital) and families. It's always too soon to give up on enriching your life and improving your relationships. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I provide you with the opportunity, the safe space and the quality time needed to attend to your emotional, relational and spiritual needs. My goal is to create a therapeutic alliance with you that allows you to bring me into your world where our work together will meet your needs and improve your life.
I utilize CBT/DBT, Emotional Focused Therapy and Existential Approach in my practice.
I enjoy working with individuals (late teens and adults), couples (pre-marital, marital and post-marital) and families. It's always too soon to give up on enriching your life and improving your relationships. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I provide you with the opportunity, the safe space and the quality time needed to attend to your emotional, relational and spiritual needs. My goal is to create a therapeutic alliance with you that allows you to bring me into your world where our work together will meet your needs and improve your life.
(510) 901-3393 View (510) 901-3393
Photo of Carmen Perez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmen Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94534
I'm a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs around mental health disorders to bring about changes. I use CBT, DBT, Trauma Informed Care Approach, and psychoeducation to improve the lives of people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other trauma disorders. I provide individual therapy to culturally diverse individuals. I use an array of knowledge from different work experiences to provide compassionate services to culturally diverse individuals ages 12 and older who are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD and other trauma disorders.
I'm a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs around mental health disorders to bring about changes. I use CBT, DBT, Trauma Informed Care Approach, and psychoeducation to improve the lives of people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other trauma disorders. I provide individual therapy to culturally diverse individuals. I use an array of knowledge from different work experiences to provide compassionate services to culturally diverse individuals ages 12 and older who are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD and other trauma disorders.
(707) 394-0818 View (707) 394-0818
Photo of Sue Pollington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Pollington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94534
Welcome, I am Dr. Sue Pollington. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of California, Nevada, and Montana, for the past 36 years. Focusing on cliented centered treatment as each person is unique and deserves the attention and time needed to focus on attaining their goals. As as Therapist I am here for you, not the other way around. My theraputic approach with clients is based on their needs. This may call for cognative behavioral therapys, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational therapy aproaches or a host of other modalities which we discuss and decide on together. The client is the head of our treatment team.
Welcome, I am Dr. Sue Pollington. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of California, Nevada, and Montana, for the past 36 years. Focusing on cliented centered treatment as each person is unique and deserves the attention and time needed to focus on attaining their goals. As as Therapist I am here for you, not the other way around. My theraputic approach with clients is based on their needs. This may call for cognative behavioral therapys, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational therapy aproaches or a host of other modalities which we discuss and decide on together. The client is the head of our treatment team.
(707) 657-6947 View (707) 657-6947
Photo of Eliott Goretsky, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eliott Goretsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
At heart, I consider myself to be psychodynamic and humanistic in my approach while integrating various treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, solution-focused therapy, and other interventions related to trauma and recovery.
I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008. Born and raised in the Bay Area, I spent the majority of my adult life in Southern California. I received my Masters's Degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles in 2005. In 2006, I relocated to the Coachella Valley and spent a decade in county mental health services while establishing a small private practice from 2008 to 2016.
At heart, I consider myself to be psychodynamic and humanistic in my approach while integrating various treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, solution-focused therapy, and other interventions related to trauma and recovery.
I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008. Born and raised in the Bay Area, I spent the majority of my adult life in Southern California. I received my Masters's Degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles in 2005. In 2006, I relocated to the Coachella Valley and spent a decade in county mental health services while establishing a small private practice from 2008 to 2016.
(707) 946-7629 View (707) 946-7629
Photo of Vickie Williams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vickie Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
I am trained in some of the latest counseling techniques such as DBT and EMDR in addition to the more traditional ones.
My clients include individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic violence, grief and loss, substance abuse and stress. I am a skill based therapist who intentionally creates opportunities for you to learn and adopt more useful skills to manage the issues that brought you in. Clients enjoy my eclectic therapeutic style as "I don't believe in a one size fits all" approach.
I am trained in some of the latest counseling techniques such as DBT and EMDR in addition to the more traditional ones.
My clients include individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic violence, grief and loss, substance abuse and stress. I am a skill based therapist who intentionally creates opportunities for you to learn and adopt more useful skills to manage the issues that brought you in. Clients enjoy my eclectic therapeutic style as "I don't believe in a one size fits all" approach.
(707) 309-7015 View (707) 309-7015
Photo of Alexandria Noel Tan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria Noel Tan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
For example, I tend to use cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and skill development through dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) in addition to focusing on how trauma and lifetime experiences can influence the way we see the world and impact our mental health.
My name is Alexandria (Alex) Tan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in the greater Sacramento area. I enjoy providing non-judgmental, empathetic therapy to individuals from all backgrounds and age ranges. I have experience working with a wide variety of individuals including those with mild to moderate depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to those who have more serious mental illnesses including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders (including Histrionic, Borderline, and antisocial personality disorders).
For example, I tend to use cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and skill development through dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) in addition to focusing on how trauma and lifetime experiences can influence the way we see the world and impact our mental health.
My name is Alexandria (Alex) Tan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in the greater Sacramento area. I enjoy providing non-judgmental, empathetic therapy to individuals from all backgrounds and age ranges. I have experience working with a wide variety of individuals including those with mild to moderate depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to those who have more serious mental illnesses including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders (including Histrionic, Borderline, and antisocial personality disorders).
(707) 878-5174 View (707) 878-5174
Photo of Kristine Dewitt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristine Dewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94534
Kristine DeWitt is a licensed marriage and family therapist. Kristine works with adults through a person-centered approach to help reduce things like stress, anxiety, and depression. In her practice, Kristine uses a warm and casual approach to teach CBT, DBT, and other mindfulness-based skills to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other life problems. Kristine works primarily with adults 18-60 years old experiencing mild to moderate symptoms and life difficulties. Kristine is experienced in integrating Christian faith and principles when appropriate for those who would like to use their spirituality in therapy.
Kristine DeWitt is a licensed marriage and family therapist. Kristine works with adults through a person-centered approach to help reduce things like stress, anxiety, and depression. In her practice, Kristine uses a warm and casual approach to teach CBT, DBT, and other mindfulness-based skills to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other life problems. Kristine works primarily with adults 18-60 years old experiencing mild to moderate symptoms and life difficulties. Kristine is experienced in integrating Christian faith and principles when appropriate for those who would like to use their spirituality in therapy.
(707) 244-7151 View (707) 244-7151
Photo of Charles T Anderson - My Niche Therapy, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
My Niche Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, CA 94533  (Online Only)
I have extensive knowledge in Trauma focused treatment, Moral Recognation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing.
My focus is to assist each client fulfill their therapeutic goals at a pace that they are comfortable with. Each person's circumstances are unique. I want your experience to be educational and helpful for you to come to an understanding of the events that are causing you distress. Some things take longer than others and the length of treatment may differ for one individual to the next. At our first meeting we will set a course that's flexible depending on your needs.
I have extensive knowledge in Trauma focused treatment, Moral Recognation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing.
My focus is to assist each client fulfill their therapeutic goals at a pace that they are comfortable with. Each person's circumstances are unique. I want your experience to be educational and helpful for you to come to an understanding of the events that are causing you distress. Some things take longer than others and the length of treatment may differ for one individual to the next. At our first meeting we will set a course that's flexible depending on your needs.
(707) 475-3203 View (707) 475-3203
Photo of Antoinette Temple, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Antoinette Temple
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94534  (Online Only)
I believe in the mind/body connection and have formal training in mindfulness-based therapies including DBT, guided imagery, kinesiology, and.
I love what I do. While I have an affinity for couples work, most of the work I do is on an individual platform. I bring a varied approach to mental health and recovery from trauma. I consider our relationship to be collaborative, however, I am flexible and will take the lead at times when necessary or therapy feels "stuck". I am sensitive the to the fact that much of what you share in session, has never been shared with others and am invested in making therapy a safe space, and a place that you look forward to coming every time.
I believe in the mind/body connection and have formal training in mindfulness-based therapies including DBT, guided imagery, kinesiology, and.
I love what I do. While I have an affinity for couples work, most of the work I do is on an individual platform. I bring a varied approach to mental health and recovery from trauma. I consider our relationship to be collaborative, however, I am flexible and will take the lead at times when necessary or therapy feels "stuck". I am sensitive the to the fact that much of what you share in session, has never been shared with others and am invested in making therapy a safe space, and a place that you look forward to coming every time.
(707) 760-0498 View (707) 760-0498
Photo of Rachel Trott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Trott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfield, CA 94533  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am eclectic in my approach; some evidence-based approaches I utilize are: EMDR, mindfulness, cognitive/dialectical behavioral therapies, acceptance commitment therapy and narrative therapy.
Everyone deserves the time and space to lay down their worries, their fears, their past, their pain—and especially their hopes for the future and the change they want to see in their lives. My job is to provide that time and space to my clients, listening attentively, non-judgmentally and empathetically. Once we’ve settled into that space, we can work together to identify your goals and work to achieve them. I am experienced in working with adults and teens with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and trauma, mood and thought disorders, substance use, grief, major life transitions and self-esteem. If you're ready, I'm here for you.
I am eclectic in my approach; some evidence-based approaches I utilize are: EMDR, mindfulness, cognitive/dialectical behavioral therapies, acceptance commitment therapy and narrative therapy.
Everyone deserves the time and space to lay down their worries, their fears, their past, their pain—and especially their hopes for the future and the change they want to see in their lives. My job is to provide that time and space to my clients, listening attentively, non-judgmentally and empathetically. Once we’ve settled into that space, we can work together to identify your goals and work to achieve them. I am experienced in working with adults and teens with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and trauma, mood and thought disorders, substance use, grief, major life transitions and self-esteem. If you're ready, I'm here for you.
(707) 883-1246 View (707) 883-1246
Photo of Terrial S Davenport, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terrial S Davenport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
I am trained in current therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT and more.
Feeling overwhelmed, having relationship issues, work stress, past traumas interfearing with life, or just don't feel like yourself? I understand how Anxiety, Depression, Anger, and Post Traumatic Stress can leave you feeling alone, confused, unsafe or socially uncomfortable. Therapy can help if you find it difficult to set boundaries, manage emotions/behaviors, or even have healthy communication with others. Choosing the right therapist is important. I have over 18 years of experience that I use to tailor your therapy sessions to fit your individual needs in an interactive, compassionate, and supportive environment.
I am trained in current therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT and more.
Feeling overwhelmed, having relationship issues, work stress, past traumas interfearing with life, or just don't feel like yourself? I understand how Anxiety, Depression, Anger, and Post Traumatic Stress can leave you feeling alone, confused, unsafe or socially uncomfortable. Therapy can help if you find it difficult to set boundaries, manage emotions/behaviors, or even have healthy communication with others. Choosing the right therapist is important. I have over 18 years of experience that I use to tailor your therapy sessions to fit your individual needs in an interactive, compassionate, and supportive environment.
(707) 203-0049 View (707) 203-0049
Photo of Teresa Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94534
Hi, my name is Teresa Hernandez I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My areas of expertise include childhood and adult trauma, anxiety, adjustment challenges, intimate partner violence, depression, life coaching, behavioral concerns, boundary setting, self-esteem, and social difficulties. I have a long history of supporting survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals with lifelong traumas. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic approaches including, a strengths-based approach, trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, exposure therapy, meditation, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, as well as CBT.
Hi, my name is Teresa Hernandez I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My areas of expertise include childhood and adult trauma, anxiety, adjustment challenges, intimate partner violence, depression, life coaching, behavioral concerns, boundary setting, self-esteem, and social difficulties. I have a long history of supporting survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals with lifelong traumas. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic approaches including, a strengths-based approach, trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, exposure therapy, meditation, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, as well as CBT.
(209) 332-9804 View (209) 332-9804
Photo of John Wyman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Wyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
My approach is eclectic drawing on dialectic behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and solution-focused models.
I have over 25 years experience working with issues from major mental illness to depression, and anxiety. I help people like you who are struggling with life transitions, relationship problems, or looking to discover more meaningful relationships. I also work with family conflict, mediation and divorce. I do no advertising. Nearly all of my clients come upon the recommendation of previous clients.
My approach is eclectic drawing on dialectic behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and solution-focused models.
I have over 25 years experience working with issues from major mental illness to depression, and anxiety. I help people like you who are struggling with life transitions, relationship problems, or looking to discover more meaningful relationships. I also work with family conflict, mediation and divorce. I do no advertising. Nearly all of my clients come upon the recommendation of previous clients.
(707) 340-6130 View (707) 340-6130
Photo of Debi Deutsch-Rios, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debi Deutsch-Rios
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
With individuals, I incorporate CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and client centered approaches and techniques.
Therapy is effective when individuals, couples, and families can be seen in the environment where they feel most comfortable. I provide high quality and individualized therapy at an affordable cost in a safe environment, either by video, phone, in person, or home visits if required. I have over 30 years of experience and have specialized training in couples and family therapy as well adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. I have practiced as a therapist in the US, Europe and Asia. Together, we will work together to achieve your personalized highlighting your strengths, needs, abilities and preferences.
With individuals, I incorporate CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and client centered approaches and techniques.
Therapy is effective when individuals, couples, and families can be seen in the environment where they feel most comfortable. I provide high quality and individualized therapy at an affordable cost in a safe environment, either by video, phone, in person, or home visits if required. I have over 30 years of experience and have specialized training in couples and family therapy as well adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. I have practiced as a therapist in the US, Europe and Asia. Together, we will work together to achieve your personalized highlighting your strengths, needs, abilities and preferences.
(925) 378-4769 View (925) 378-4769
Photo of Courtney Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94534
My name is Courtney Brown and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Southern California. I typically use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and/or Dialectical Behavior Therapy with my clients during treatment. I specialize in adolescents, previously incarcerated individuals, depression symptom management, and individuals with co-occurring medical issues.
My name is Courtney Brown and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Southern California. I typically use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and/or Dialectical Behavior Therapy with my clients during treatment. I specialize in adolescents, previously incarcerated individuals, depression symptom management, and individuals with co-occurring medical issues.
(323) 693-7406 View (323) 693-7406
Photo of Theldon Fryberger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theldon Fryberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused, and Mindfulness-Based treatments.
Welcome, I'm Theldon Fryberger, a 52-year-old LCSW with over 20 years of experience working with a wide variety of patient situations and needs. I focus on working on providing individual treatment for adults experiencing challenges with anxiety of all types, mood/depression, and relationship challenges. I am open to working with a wide variety of situations and people. I strongly consider the role of culture and am appreciative of diversity. I primarily work with adults but have experience with teens.
My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused, and Mindfulness-Based treatments.
Welcome, I'm Theldon Fryberger, a 52-year-old LCSW with over 20 years of experience working with a wide variety of patient situations and needs. I focus on working on providing individual treatment for adults experiencing challenges with anxiety of all types, mood/depression, and relationship challenges. I am open to working with a wide variety of situations and people. I strongly consider the role of culture and am appreciative of diversity. I primarily work with adults but have experience with teens.
(951) 916-3836 View (951) 916-3836
Photo of Ofelia Ramirez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ofelia Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
Waitlist for new clients
¡Bienvenido a mi consultorio! My name is Ofelia Ramirez, I provide bilingual and culturally sensitive services in an empathetic and humanistic environment. My personal and professional mission in life as a Marriage and Family Therapist is to walk along side with you to provide you with a personal experience so you can discover your own potential, increase self-empowerment, find solutions to your problems, increase personal and meaningful relationships, transform your life, and help you overcome and manage life's barriers, break toxic patterns to help you make life manageable for you.
¡Bienvenido a mi consultorio! My name is Ofelia Ramirez, I provide bilingual and culturally sensitive services in an empathetic and humanistic environment. My personal and professional mission in life as a Marriage and Family Therapist is to walk along side with you to provide you with a personal experience so you can discover your own potential, increase self-empowerment, find solutions to your problems, increase personal and meaningful relationships, transform your life, and help you overcome and manage life's barriers, break toxic patterns to help you make life manageable for you.
(707) 267-2403 View (707) 267-2403
Photo of Rachel Gren, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Gren
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
Hello! My name is Rachel Gren and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus is to fully understand your experience, interactions, and interpretations to lead us to uncover opportunities for healing and resolve. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, in addition to using an eclectic approach to treating symptoms stemming from Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, and other sources of emotional distress.
Hello! My name is Rachel Gren and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus is to fully understand your experience, interactions, and interpretations to lead us to uncover opportunities for healing and resolve. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, in addition to using an eclectic approach to treating symptoms stemming from Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, and other sources of emotional distress.
(707) 878-5069 View (707) 878-5069
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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.