Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Napa, CA

Photo of Cathie Gordon, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathie Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
Using an integrative approach, I pull from multiple orientations including: Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory, Mindfulness techniques, Family Systems, EMDR, DBT- a form of therapy that combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Eastern meditation and CBT.
If you are looking for help dealing with overwhelming emotions, relationship difficulties, or challenging life transitions, I'm glad you have found me. I work with individuals on a wide variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships issues, trauma, grief and loss, and stage of life transitions. I especially enjoy working with women with mid-life concerns. Working with couples and families, I focus on all stages of relationship including premarital counseling, couples and families in crisis or looking for deeper connection and those considering or in the process of separating or divorcing.
Using an integrative approach, I pull from multiple orientations including: Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory, Mindfulness techniques, Family Systems, EMDR, DBT- a form of therapy that combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Eastern meditation and CBT.
If you are looking for help dealing with overwhelming emotions, relationship difficulties, or challenging life transitions, I'm glad you have found me. I work with individuals on a wide variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships issues, trauma, grief and loss, and stage of life transitions. I especially enjoy working with women with mid-life concerns. Working with couples and families, I focus on all stages of relationship including premarital counseling, couples and families in crisis or looking for deeper connection and those considering or in the process of separating or divorcing.
(707) 419-3169 View (707) 419-3169
Photo of Megan Tarantino (Konchar), LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Tarantino (Konchar)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94559
As a therapist (LCSW) I can utilize a mixture of approaches like CBT, EMDR and DBT to create an individualized approach to aid in the mental health journey of each individual and/or family.
I believe It is okay not to be okay. Life is full of adversities and each person has their own unique life experiences. If you have experienced trauma, faced relationship difficulties, felt anxious on a regular basis, struggled with your family or experience sadness regularly, it may be time for you to reach out for help - and that's okay!
As a therapist (LCSW) I can utilize a mixture of approaches like CBT, EMDR and DBT to create an individualized approach to aid in the mental health journey of each individual and/or family.
I believe It is okay not to be okay. Life is full of adversities and each person has their own unique life experiences. If you have experienced trauma, faced relationship difficulties, felt anxious on a regular basis, struggled with your family or experience sadness regularly, it may be time for you to reach out for help - and that's okay!
(707) 736-6346 View (707) 736-6346
Photo of Dr. Kirsten Kuzirian, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kirsten Kuzirian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94559
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, Anxiety) affirming child/adolescent clinician. I enjoy supporting parents (check out my mindful parenting podcast at WideAwakeParenting.com) and kids with in person DBT, CBT and play therapy tools. I also complete ADHD, Autism and Specific Learning Disorder evaluations to identify your child's cognitive and emotional profile and make social, emotional and educational recommendations. My favorite part of this work is getting to know your family. We will use your family's strengths and value system to create comfortable solutions for you and your child.
Hi! I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, Anxiety) affirming child/adolescent clinician. I enjoy supporting parents (check out my mindful parenting podcast at WideAwakeParenting.com) and kids with in person DBT, CBT and play therapy tools. I also complete ADHD, Autism and Specific Learning Disorder evaluations to identify your child's cognitive and emotional profile and make social, emotional and educational recommendations. My favorite part of this work is getting to know your family. We will use your family's strengths and value system to create comfortable solutions for you and your child.
(707) 309-6688 View (707) 309-6688
Photo of Pam Walton, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pam Walton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
I am skilled and/or certified in a variety of evidence-based approaches such as, CBT, MB-CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Non-Violent Communication, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing.
Welcome. I have over 24 years of experience as a therapist, and master's degrees in Clinical Psychology and Physiology. I also have over 30 years of experience teaching and practicing mindfulness, and a background in neuroscience research. If you are suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, addiction or family/marriage problems, I can help. I can take you beyond traditional talk-based therapy using experiential methods, to access and change emotional and behavioral patterns that keep you stuck. Please see my website for additional information on my training and experience.
I am skilled and/or certified in a variety of evidence-based approaches such as, CBT, MB-CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Non-Violent Communication, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing.
Welcome. I have over 24 years of experience as a therapist, and master's degrees in Clinical Psychology and Physiology. I also have over 30 years of experience teaching and practicing mindfulness, and a background in neuroscience research. If you are suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, addiction or family/marriage problems, I can help. I can take you beyond traditional talk-based therapy using experiential methods, to access and change emotional and behavioral patterns that keep you stuck. Please see my website for additional information on my training and experience.
(707) 207-6036 View (707) 207-6036
Photo of Stefani Hadley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stefani Hadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558
A former journalist, I have a natural curiosity about people and am able to appreciate and embrace those from all cultures. I specialize in diverse populations including at-risk youth,victims of violence and adults who struggle with anger or behavioral issues due to past experiences or traumas. I utilize CBT, DBT and TF-CBT in most of my practice and am very direct, but always feel that a humanistic approach is the key to reaching a person with authenticity and genuine curiosity. I believe in second chances and that everyone deserves a voice in this world.
A former journalist, I have a natural curiosity about people and am able to appreciate and embrace those from all cultures. I specialize in diverse populations including at-risk youth,victims of violence and adults who struggle with anger or behavioral issues due to past experiences or traumas. I utilize CBT, DBT and TF-CBT in most of my practice and am very direct, but always feel that a humanistic approach is the key to reaching a person with authenticity and genuine curiosity. I believe in second chances and that everyone deserves a voice in this world.
(707) 985-3799 View (707) 985-3799
Photo of John Wyman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Wyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94559
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 Dr. Omyda Hernandez, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Omyda Hernandez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94558  (Online Only)
I use a combination of psychodynamic, multicultural, DBT, and Solution Focused modalities to help clients improve their ability to achieve personal and professional goals.
I specialize in working with bright, motivated clients who are professionally driven. I bring a social and racial justice lens to therapy, exploring the impact of immigration, ethnic & racial identity, and cultural issues that impact client's personal and professional lives. Life transitions, relationship challenges, experiences of loss, issues around acculturation, & family difficulties can lead to a sense of isolation and unrest. Whether these experiences happen in childhood or adulthood, their impact can be difficult to shake. They leave an influence on how we view ourselves, others, and our approach to new situations.
I use a combination of psychodynamic, multicultural, DBT, and Solution Focused modalities to help clients improve their ability to achieve personal and professional goals.
I specialize in working with bright, motivated clients who are professionally driven. I bring a social and racial justice lens to therapy, exploring the impact of immigration, ethnic & racial identity, and cultural issues that impact client's personal and professional lives. Life transitions, relationship challenges, experiences of loss, issues around acculturation, & family difficulties can lead to a sense of isolation and unrest. Whether these experiences happen in childhood or adulthood, their impact can be difficult to shake. They leave an influence on how we view ourselves, others, and our approach to new situations.
(707) 414-8252 View (707) 414-8252
Photo of Elaina Scrutchins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaina Scrutchins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94559
I view my role as a therapist as being both a safe witness and a compassionate guide with the goal of increasing your ability to cope with life's challenges, improve functioning, and increase your sense of health and wellbeing. I work adults and adolescents, treating a variety of issues and conditions using specialized treatment modalities, including Mindfulness, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems therapy, and DBT and CBT.
I view my role as a therapist as being both a safe witness and a compassionate guide with the goal of increasing your ability to cope with life's challenges, improve functioning, and increase your sense of health and wellbeing. I work adults and adolescents, treating a variety of issues and conditions using specialized treatment modalities, including Mindfulness, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems therapy, and DBT and CBT.
(707) 998-5943 View (707) 998-5943
Photo of Marisa Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558
I would say I start off focusing on the DBT model and adjust my style as needed for each patient.
My name is Marisa Garcia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My focus is to meet you where you are at and walk with you in the stage of life you are currently in. I am major believer in a strength-based setting that feels safe and welcoming to all. My main focus is assisting patients in meeting the goals they have set out for themselves. I am comfortable working with individuals struggling with depressive symptoms, anxiety, eating disorders, substance use and trauma.
I would say I start off focusing on the DBT model and adjust my style as needed for each patient.
My name is Marisa Garcia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My focus is to meet you where you are at and walk with you in the stage of life you are currently in. I am major believer in a strength-based setting that feels safe and welcoming to all. My main focus is assisting patients in meeting the goals they have set out for themselves. I am comfortable working with individuals struggling with depressive symptoms, anxiety, eating disorders, substance use and trauma.
(707) 368-3939 View (707) 368-3939
Photo of Kathleen Boe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Boe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558
Hello! I'm Kathleen Boe. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, license number 18205, and have been in practice for over 40 years. I think of therapy as a working partnership. Focused on helping you meet your goals, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness to help you develop skills for managing feelings and relationships. My goal is to help you feel included, important, affirmed, and empowered.
Hello! I'm Kathleen Boe. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, license number 18205, and have been in practice for over 40 years. I think of therapy as a working partnership. Focused on helping you meet your goals, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness to help you develop skills for managing feelings and relationships. My goal is to help you feel included, important, affirmed, and empowered.
(707) 701-5745 View (707) 701-5745
Photo of Debi Deutsch-Rios, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debi Deutsch-Rios
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558
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 You Her, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
You Her
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558
Hi, my name are You Her. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I've worked in the mental health field for over 5 years and focus on helping others who with a variety of mental health challenges, especially challenges with Depression and Anxiety. Other areas I've helped individuals through include experiences with trauma, life changes, self-esteem, and cultural stress. Theoretical approaches I utilize include CBT, Solution Focused, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi, my name are You Her. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I've worked in the mental health field for over 5 years and focus on helping others who with a variety of mental health challenges, especially challenges with Depression and Anxiety. Other areas I've helped individuals through include experiences with trauma, life changes, self-esteem, and cultural stress. Theoretical approaches I utilize include CBT, Solution Focused, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
(707) 985-7259 View (707) 985-7259
Photo of Anne Scouten, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Scouten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558
Welcome to my profile! My name is Anne Scouten (pronouns: she/her) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My holistic approach to therapy is integrative, utilizing various evidence-based modalities such as Person-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, and behavioral therapies with an emphasis on Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I value creating a collaborative therapeutic relationship, empowering you to take an active role in your healing journey.
Welcome to my profile! My name is Anne Scouten (pronouns: she/her) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My holistic approach to therapy is integrative, utilizing various evidence-based modalities such as Person-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, and behavioral therapies with an emphasis on Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I value creating a collaborative therapeutic relationship, empowering you to take an active role in your healing journey.
(707) 549-8357 View (707) 549-8357
Photo of Nicole Terrazas, LMFT, MT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Terrazas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MT
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558  (Online Only)
I have extensive training and experience with DBT.
Hello! Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Do you want to learn how to regulate your emotions? Do you need skills to help you manage distress? Would you like to learn how to more effectively communicate in your relationships? Would you like help finding focus in your life and making sense of your thoughts and feelings? I can help relieve distress with evidence-based skills through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, or DBT.
I have extensive training and experience with DBT.
Hello! Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Do you want to learn how to regulate your emotions? Do you need skills to help you manage distress? Would you like to learn how to more effectively communicate in your relationships? Would you like help finding focus in your life and making sense of your thoughts and feelings? I can help relieve distress with evidence-based skills through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, or DBT.
(707) 690-5284 View (707) 690-5284
Photo of Lorraine Webb, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lorraine Webb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558
Hi, my name is Lorraine Webb, and I am a Licensed MFT 131717. I've been practicing for several years. I tend to take an eclectic approach to therapy, with the client's needs as a guide for our sessions. I utilize an eclectic approach to treatment, incorporating client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused approaches, as well as aspects of DBT. I am also EMDR trained. I have experience working with individuals, children, adolescents, and couples going through a variety of struggles. My current focus is on adults experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc.
Hi, my name is Lorraine Webb, and I am a Licensed MFT 131717. I've been practicing for several years. I tend to take an eclectic approach to therapy, with the client's needs as a guide for our sessions. I utilize an eclectic approach to treatment, incorporating client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused approaches, as well as aspects of DBT. I am also EMDR trained. I have experience working with individuals, children, adolescents, and couples going through a variety of struggles. My current focus is on adults experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc.
(951) 540-2655 View (951) 540-2655
Photo of Josie Pulliam, PsyD, Psychologist
Josie Pulliam
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558  (Online Only)
I incorporate different therapeutic techniques, such as DBT, CBT, solution focused and art therapy.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing virtual therapy to children, teens and their families. My experience has been focused around individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, family/school struggles, behavioral problems, and adjustment concerns. I am dedicated to supporting you in your therapeutic goals to help you feel more grounded and at peace.
I incorporate different therapeutic techniques, such as DBT, CBT, solution focused and art therapy.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing virtual therapy to children, teens and their families. My experience has been focused around individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, family/school struggles, behavioral problems, and adjustment concerns. I am dedicated to supporting you in your therapeutic goals to help you feel more grounded and at peace.
(707) 520-6465 View (707) 520-6465
Photo of Janie Echeverria, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janie Echeverria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558
I graduated from SDSU in 2004 with a master's degree in social work and successfully attained licensure in 2010. I have been a counselor since 2004 in a variety of settings while working in outpatient mental health clinics, working with adults and children with severe psychological conditions. My approach is starting where the client is at and introducing them to the most suitable therapeutic models such as cognitive behavioral therapy, Motivational Interviewing Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and other models that have shown to be effective in the treatment of psychological conditions.
I graduated from SDSU in 2004 with a master's degree in social work and successfully attained licensure in 2010. I have been a counselor since 2004 in a variety of settings while working in outpatient mental health clinics, working with adults and children with severe psychological conditions. My approach is starting where the client is at and introducing them to the most suitable therapeutic models such as cognitive behavioral therapy, Motivational Interviewing Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and other models that have shown to be effective in the treatment of psychological conditions.
(213) 513-7738 View (213) 513-7738
Photo of Maria Lurinks Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Lurinks Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
I have a holistisch and eclectic approach using CBT, DBT, SFT, mindfulness and EMDR modalities.
Hi and welcome to ToBeYou Psychotherapy Practice. My name is Maria "Maaike" Lurinks Garcia, LCSW (69543). If you are looking for a therapist to assist in navigating life's challenges. Congratulations for taking the first step! I am passionate working with teens and adults, who are struggling with Mental Health issues, are looking for personal growth, or are you trying figure out some of life's challenges. At ToBeYou Psychotherapy Practice I am dedicated to help you find the best version of yourself, using integrative and evidence-based treatment methods. It is my goal to help you find your personal strengths and build on them.
I have a holistisch and eclectic approach using CBT, DBT, SFT, mindfulness and EMDR modalities.
Hi and welcome to ToBeYou Psychotherapy Practice. My name is Maria "Maaike" Lurinks Garcia, LCSW (69543). If you are looking for a therapist to assist in navigating life's challenges. Congratulations for taking the first step! I am passionate working with teens and adults, who are struggling with Mental Health issues, are looking for personal growth, or are you trying figure out some of life's challenges. At ToBeYou Psychotherapy Practice I am dedicated to help you find the best version of yourself, using integrative and evidence-based treatment methods. It is my goal to help you find your personal strengths and build on them.
(951) 524-6197 View (951) 524-6197
Photo of Yolanda Basoco Briscoe, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Yolanda Basoco Briscoe
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94581  (Online Only)
I have formal training in addictions, Grief/loss, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a psychologist with over 25 years of experience helping individuals navigate through challenging life events and transitions. I have a richness of personal and professional experiences to offer in a kind, compassionate, and non-judgmental style.
I have formal training in addictions, Grief/loss, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a psychologist with over 25 years of experience helping individuals navigate through challenging life events and transitions. I have a richness of personal and professional experiences to offer in a kind, compassionate, and non-judgmental style.
(707) 728-8446 View (707) 728-8446
Photo of Katie Sheridan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Sheridan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I work with with teens and adults who suffer from anxiety disorders (social, generalized, phobias, panic), OCD, body-focused repetitive behaviors, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions. I am dedicated to supporting people by helping them identify patterns that are no longer serving them and assist them in creating new ways of being to live meaningful lives. Empathy, humor and authenticity are the foundation to my therapeutic approach and I committed to working with people from diverse backgrounds and gender identities.
Through evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I work with with teens and adults who suffer from anxiety disorders (social, generalized, phobias, panic), OCD, body-focused repetitive behaviors, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions. I am dedicated to supporting people by helping them identify patterns that are no longer serving them and assist them in creating new ways of being to live meaningful lives. Empathy, humor and authenticity are the foundation to my therapeutic approach and I committed to working with people from diverse backgrounds and gender identities.
(925) 291-9986 View (925) 291-9986
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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.