Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Imperial Beach, CA

Photo of Amy Schmidt - Coastal Counseling , MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Coastal Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
I believe that all clients have the ability to change with guidance and unconditional empathic support. Therapy consists of a combination of methodologies including CBT, holistic, Trauma informed, solution focused, DBT and choice theory for background foundation. My intention is to provide a safe, confidential, supportive, comfortable environment for clients to explore areas of concern. I have been practicing the counseling profession since 1995 and thoroughly enjoy the work. I welcome new and return clients to come and experience my new location at the Coronado Plaza Building with views of the Hotel Del Coronado and the Ocean.
I believe that all clients have the ability to change with guidance and unconditional empathic support. Therapy consists of a combination of methodologies including CBT, holistic, Trauma informed, solution focused, DBT and choice theory for background foundation. My intention is to provide a safe, confidential, supportive, comfortable environment for clients to explore areas of concern. I have been practicing the counseling profession since 1995 and thoroughly enjoy the work. I welcome new and return clients to come and experience my new location at the Coronado Plaza Building with views of the Hotel Del Coronado and the Ocean.
(619) 434-0778 View (619) 434-0778
Photo of Crystal Young, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Hi there, I'm Crystal, a Licensed Clinical social worker with over 8 years of experience in the field. I am proudly born and raised in Inglewood, California. My experience includes field-based mental health, outpatient, hospice, psychiatric inpatient hospital setting, group homes, and currently private practice. I have helped people with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, personality disorders, and more. My diverse, universal approach creates a safe and supportive environment while challenging my clients. I use Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), CBT, DBT, Person-Centered, and Psychodynamic modalities.
Hi there, I'm Crystal, a Licensed Clinical social worker with over 8 years of experience in the field. I am proudly born and raised in Inglewood, California. My experience includes field-based mental health, outpatient, hospice, psychiatric inpatient hospital setting, group homes, and currently private practice. I have helped people with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, personality disorders, and more. My diverse, universal approach creates a safe and supportive environment while challenging my clients. I use Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), CBT, DBT, Person-Centered, and Psychodynamic modalities.
(619) 730-7954 View (619) 730-7954
Photo of Britney Putterman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Britney Putterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Hello, my name is Britney Putterman and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have six years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety and depressive disorders. I also do a great deal of addressing issues related to self-esteem and communication. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused modalities with a client-centered approach. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment that invites my clients to explore, challenge, and grow.
Hello, my name is Britney Putterman and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have six years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety and depressive disorders. I also do a great deal of addressing issues related to self-esteem and communication. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused modalities with a client-centered approach. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment that invites my clients to explore, challenge, and grow.
(619) 728-2741 View (619) 728-2741
Photo of Kathleen (Katie) Shearman, MS, LPCC, LIMHP, Counselor
Kathleen (Katie) Shearman
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Welcome! I have spent more than a decade in trauma work and understand the arduous process to release the debilitating grip past trauma can have on a client’s present-moment experience. I recognize the profound courage it takes to look deeply within. I prepare my clients to find that invisible line between comfort and discomfort to set the foundation for lifechanging results and encourage them to live in their own authentic truth. Trauma healing looks different for everyone and I work side by side with each of my clients to design a path of healing that feels right to them.
Welcome! I have spent more than a decade in trauma work and understand the arduous process to release the debilitating grip past trauma can have on a client’s present-moment experience. I recognize the profound courage it takes to look deeply within. I prepare my clients to find that invisible line between comfort and discomfort to set the foundation for lifechanging results and encourage them to live in their own authentic truth. Trauma healing looks different for everyone and I work side by side with each of my clients to design a path of healing that feels right to them.
(619) 492-5984 View (619) 492-5984
Photo of Dianna C Hansen, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dianna C Hansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
I work with individuals, couples and families to heal from trauma, addictions, PTSD, and mood or anxiety disorders. I have also worked with chronic pain disorders and opiate dependence disorder. Mental illness impacts relationships and healthy relationships support healing so I work with people in the context of their family to restore healthy connections to the family and community at large.
I work with individuals, couples and families to heal from trauma, addictions, PTSD, and mood or anxiety disorders. I have also worked with chronic pain disorders and opiate dependence disorder. Mental illness impacts relationships and healthy relationships support healing so I work with people in the context of their family to restore healthy connections to the family and community at large.
(619) 568-2581 View (619) 568-2581
Photo of Shani Judis Laub, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shani Judis Laub
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Imperial Beach, CA 91932  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns including: Anxiety ,Depression ,Psychosis , LGBTQ+ Issues , ADHD , Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders , PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders.
I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns including: Anxiety ,Depression ,Psychosis , LGBTQ+ Issues , ADHD , Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders , PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders.
(619) 612-0684 View (619) 612-0684

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Matthew Milstein, PhD, Psychologist
Matthew Milstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
Live the life you unconditionally deserve! Nights and weekend counseling sessions are available to avoid any work/school scheduling issues and promote your success! I work with individuals interested in personal growth, excelling in effective communication styles, setting and maintaining healthy boundaries, minimizing procrastination, and achieving flow states while alleviating mental health challenges. My choice modalities include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with a Person-centered approach, inner child work, and a mix of Rational Emotive/ Dialectical Behavioral techniques.
Live the life you unconditionally deserve! Nights and weekend counseling sessions are available to avoid any work/school scheduling issues and promote your success! I work with individuals interested in personal growth, excelling in effective communication styles, setting and maintaining healthy boundaries, minimizing procrastination, and achieving flow states while alleviating mental health challenges. My choice modalities include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with a Person-centered approach, inner child work, and a mix of Rational Emotive/ Dialectical Behavioral techniques.
(323) 894-1609 View (323) 894-1609
Photo of Irving Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Irving Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91911
I integrate various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, in order to assist my clients in being able to radically accept their current reality and develop a plan to move toward improved functioning.
My name is Irving Martinez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Los Angeles, CA, and working with clients in California via telehealth. I work with both adolescents/adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in order to help my clients create change and move towards a better path.
I integrate various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, in order to assist my clients in being able to radically accept their current reality and develop a plan to move toward improved functioning.
My name is Irving Martinez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Los Angeles, CA, and working with clients in California via telehealth. I work with both adolescents/adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in order to help my clients create change and move towards a better path.
(619) 914-2978 View (619) 914-2978
Photo of Rosalind Daniel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rosalind Daniel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
I will customize my therapeutic approach based on your needs and have experience in CBT/DBT, mindfulness, emotion-focused, family systems, attachment-based, person-centered, solution based, and psychodynamic theories.
I have been a therapist for 28 years and have worked with people aged 3 - 93! My specialization in graduate school was child and adolescent treatment. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life. Due to my practice being online now, I have narrowed my client base from 13 -99! Most of my clients have struggled with life transitions, depression, and anxiety.
I will customize my therapeutic approach based on your needs and have experience in CBT/DBT, mindfulness, emotion-focused, family systems, attachment-based, person-centered, solution based, and psychodynamic theories.
I have been a therapist for 28 years and have worked with people aged 3 - 93! My specialization in graduate school was child and adolescent treatment. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life. Due to my practice being online now, I have narrowed my client base from 13 -99! Most of my clients have struggled with life transitions, depression, and anxiety.
(562) 784-5075 View (562) 784-5075
Photo of Malia Hanna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malia Hanna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
We have all, at one point or another, found ourselves in a place of feeling confused, angry, depressed, worried, betrayed, or abandoned and need a place to feel safe, supported, and accepted. I am dedicated to providing this space for you and assisting you in navigating life's troubled waters. Together we can heal the parts that may feel "broken" and "lost." I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills.
We have all, at one point or another, found ourselves in a place of feeling confused, angry, depressed, worried, betrayed, or abandoned and need a place to feel safe, supported, and accepted. I am dedicated to providing this space for you and assisting you in navigating life's troubled waters. Together we can heal the parts that may feel "broken" and "lost." I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills.
(707) 737-9820 View (707) 737-9820
Photo of Julia Palafox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Palafox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91911
I work with my clients to develop the best approach that will benefit them to meet their goals, which include, CBT, DBT, solution-focused, narrative, and strength based approach.
Have you ever felt like your life is a puzzle you are struggling to put together? I have had the opportunity to guide a wide verity of individuals with putting the puzzle pieces together in a way the individual is able to step back and see a bigger picture. My Name is Julia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have worked in the mental health field for approximately for eight years and have experience in a clinical setting as well as case management.
I work with my clients to develop the best approach that will benefit them to meet their goals, which include, CBT, DBT, solution-focused, narrative, and strength based approach.
Have you ever felt like your life is a puzzle you are struggling to put together? I have had the opportunity to guide a wide verity of individuals with putting the puzzle pieces together in a way the individual is able to step back and see a bigger picture. My Name is Julia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have worked in the mental health field for approximately for eight years and have experience in a clinical setting as well as case management.
(619) 505-3632 View (619) 505-3632
Photo of Ruthie Ayzenberg, LMFT, LPCC, PMH-C, RYT500, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruthie Ayzenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, PMH-C, RYT500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92154  (Online Only)
We generally use several approaches, including Experiential Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT & DBT (for practical skills), IFS, Brainspotting, and Yoga methods, depending on your needs and personality.
If you are struggling with mood, anxiety, motivation, energy, sleep, adjusting to a new baby, relationship turbulence, or difficulties at work or school, I may be able to help. I work with a lot of college students, parents, and corporate workers to help bring out our strengths and guide you towards greater alignment within yourself. I have a specialty interest and intensive training experience in prenatal and postpartum mental health. So if you're a new parent, I'd be happy to help you navigate the beginning of parenthood. As a yoga student and teacher, I'm a big fan of using yoga practices to assist with healing.
We generally use several approaches, including Experiential Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT & DBT (for practical skills), IFS, Brainspotting, and Yoga methods, depending on your needs and personality.
If you are struggling with mood, anxiety, motivation, energy, sleep, adjusting to a new baby, relationship turbulence, or difficulties at work or school, I may be able to help. I work with a lot of college students, parents, and corporate workers to help bring out our strengths and guide you towards greater alignment within yourself. I have a specialty interest and intensive training experience in prenatal and postpartum mental health. So if you're a new parent, I'd be happy to help you navigate the beginning of parenthood. As a yoga student and teacher, I'm a big fan of using yoga practices to assist with healing.
(650) 667-8842 View (650) 667-8842
Photo of Maida Patricia Ferraes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maida Patricia Ferraes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92154  (Online Only)
I use some leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Internal Family Systems (IFS), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
My appreciation and love for the human experience and for helping others have been a lifelong journey. I want to be able to support you in your process of healing. Each individual requires special attention with not just patience but a sense of understanding and compassion. I have experience conducting individual and group therapy, in-office and both residential and outpatient settings with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship, teen concerns, and a wide range of challenges including grief/loss, insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, bipolar, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis.
I use some leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Internal Family Systems (IFS), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
My appreciation and love for the human experience and for helping others have been a lifelong journey. I want to be able to support you in your process of healing. Each individual requires special attention with not just patience but a sense of understanding and compassion. I have experience conducting individual and group therapy, in-office and both residential and outpatient settings with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship, teen concerns, and a wide range of challenges including grief/loss, insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, bipolar, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis.
(619) 432-6247 View (619) 432-6247
Photo of Clare Lewis, LCP, Psychologist
Clare Lewis
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91911
I work collaboratively with my clients to use the most effective modalities that I have been trained in including CBT, EMDR, EFT, solution-focused, IFS, DBT, etc.
Hi there, I'm Clare. I am a licensed psychologist who is passionate about helping clients overcome the daily struggles we all deal with in life, that are often related to ongoing issues. My goal is to assist with your personal growth and healing and to learn better techniques for coping. I am also a licensed physical therapist, so I believe in a holistic approach that incorporates mind and body. I typically work with adjustment disorders but also eating disorders, anxiety and depression, OCD, trauma, relationship issues/couples, childhood abuse, addiction of all kinds, and ADHD/ADD.
I work collaboratively with my clients to use the most effective modalities that I have been trained in including CBT, EMDR, EFT, solution-focused, IFS, DBT, etc.
Hi there, I'm Clare. I am a licensed psychologist who is passionate about helping clients overcome the daily struggles we all deal with in life, that are often related to ongoing issues. My goal is to assist with your personal growth and healing and to learn better techniques for coping. I am also a licensed physical therapist, so I believe in a holistic approach that incorporates mind and body. I typically work with adjustment disorders but also eating disorders, anxiety and depression, OCD, trauma, relationship issues/couples, childhood abuse, addiction of all kinds, and ADHD/ADD.
(619) 724-4102 View (619) 724-4102
Photo of Diane M Estrada, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diane M Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91911
Let me guide you through your mental health wellness journey. You are not alone. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, with nine years of experience working as a Psychotherapist. My specialties include working with culturally diverse populations, including teenagers, LGBTQ, young adults, and older adults. I am fluent in Spanish and English. The modalities that I utilize include evidence base practices in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns.
Let me guide you through your mental health wellness journey. You are not alone. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, with nine years of experience working as a Psychotherapist. My specialties include working with culturally diverse populations, including teenagers, LGBTQ, young adults, and older adults. I am fluent in Spanish and English. The modalities that I utilize include evidence base practices in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns.
(559) 838-4362 View (559) 838-4362
Photo of Emmapreet Bal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emmapreet Bal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91911
This includes utilizing the following therapies to support healing and transformation: Narrative therapy, Trauma therapy, Mindfulness, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), Person-centered, Strengths-based, and Art therapy.
My name is Emma Bal and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. My role as a therapist is to help create a safe and inclusive space where you can explore the complexities of your identity and how they intersect with the challenges you may face. I work with adults, ranging from younger adults to older adults, with a focus on trauma (including intimate partner violence and sexual trauma), anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and intrusive/negative thoughts.
This includes utilizing the following therapies to support healing and transformation: Narrative therapy, Trauma therapy, Mindfulness, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), Person-centered, Strengths-based, and Art therapy.
My name is Emma Bal and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. My role as a therapist is to help create a safe and inclusive space where you can explore the complexities of your identity and how they intersect with the challenges you may face. I work with adults, ranging from younger adults to older adults, with a focus on trauma (including intimate partner violence and sexual trauma), anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and intrusive/negative thoughts.
(858) 786-1490 View (858) 786-1490
Photo of Mariola Craver, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariola Craver
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
My name is Mariola Craver, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Utilizing cultural competency and trauma-informed capability, I provide services to teens and adults. During sessions, we address symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression, among others, as well as coping skills for many life transitions. In my practice, I use CBT/DBT as well as Positive Psychology and Mindfulness. I am client-centered and emphasize unconditional positive regard.
My name is Mariola Craver, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Utilizing cultural competency and trauma-informed capability, I provide services to teens and adults. During sessions, we address symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression, among others, as well as coping skills for many life transitions. In my practice, I use CBT/DBT as well as Positive Psychology and Mindfulness. I am client-centered and emphasize unconditional positive regard.
(530) 456-7339 View (530) 456-7339
Photo of Reannin Weinstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reannin Weinstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91911
Hello, my name is Reannin Weinstein, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My clinical background includes providing therapy to children, individuals, and families. I believe therapy should be a collaboration between client and therapist that focuses on listening, empathizing, accepting, and partnering to help each client reach their goals. I have worked with individuals from the ages of 3 months to 65 and older. I have had the pleasure of working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, bi-polar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, Schizophrenia, and everything in between.
Hello, my name is Reannin Weinstein, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My clinical background includes providing therapy to children, individuals, and families. I believe therapy should be a collaboration between client and therapist that focuses on listening, empathizing, accepting, and partnering to help each client reach their goals. I have worked with individuals from the ages of 3 months to 65 and older. I have had the pleasure of working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, bi-polar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, Schizophrenia, and everything in between.
(657) 837-5589 View (657) 837-5589
Photo of Lonniel Myles, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lonniel Myles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91911
My name is Lonniel Myles and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with cross-state licensure in Nevada and California. I work with a wide range of populations and specialize in mood, stress, trauma, addiction, and co-occurring disorders using an integrative approach to help my clients toward sustainable progress toward goals and overall wellness. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
My name is Lonniel Myles and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with cross-state licensure in Nevada and California. I work with a wide range of populations and specialize in mood, stress, trauma, addiction, and co-occurring disorders using an integrative approach to help my clients toward sustainable progress toward goals and overall wellness. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(209) 651-2243 View (209) 651-2243
Photo of David Haro, MA, APCC
David Haro
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154  (Online Only)
Sometimes you don't really know what you have until you almost lose it. Sexual issues can cause you to lose relationships, jobs, and sometimes, your freedom. You never meant to hurt anyone and so often, things get out of control. The constant worry that someone will find out about your sexual behavior is exhausting. What would be like to live a life with no secrets?
Sometimes you don't really know what you have until you almost lose it. Sexual issues can cause you to lose relationships, jobs, and sometimes, your freedom. You never meant to hurt anyone and so often, things get out of control. The constant worry that someone will find out about your sexual behavior is exhausting. What would be like to live a life with no secrets?
(760) 823-8323 View (760) 823-8323

See more therapy options for Imperial Beach

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.