Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Rohnert Park, CA

Photo of Jordan A. Gonzales, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordan A. Gonzales
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical approach is strength-based, culturally humble, and trauma-informed. I believe in working in a collaborative non-judgmental space to meet your needs and treatment goals. I'm experienced working with individuals with anxiety, depression, substance-use disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and other challenges related to life transitions and trauma across the lifespan. I primarily utilize a DBT or ACT-based art therapy approach with a critical social- justice lens and have significant experience implementing this approach with resilient adolescents and emerging adults.
My clinical approach is strength-based, culturally humble, and trauma-informed. I believe in working in a collaborative non-judgmental space to meet your needs and treatment goals. I'm experienced working with individuals with anxiety, depression, substance-use disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and other challenges related to life transitions and trauma across the lifespan. I primarily utilize a DBT or ACT-based art therapy approach with a critical social- justice lens and have significant experience implementing this approach with resilient adolescents and emerging adults.
(707) 602-3867 View (707) 602-3867
Photo of Gina Phillips, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gina Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Gina Phillips, LMFT. I am a bilingual bicultural licensed therapist and feel very passionate about helping people reach their full potential. I consider our work together a journey and encourage clients to be as proactive about their treatment plans as possible. I use a strength-based approach in addition to a variety of techniques to help formulate a treatment plan that will best address your most pressing needs. I also use CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. All work from a strength-based perspective to support clients who want to change, explore, and/or create more awareness.
Gina Phillips, LMFT. I am a bilingual bicultural licensed therapist and feel very passionate about helping people reach their full potential. I consider our work together a journey and encourage clients to be as proactive about their treatment plans as possible. I use a strength-based approach in addition to a variety of techniques to help formulate a treatment plan that will best address your most pressing needs. I also use CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. All work from a strength-based perspective to support clients who want to change, explore, and/or create more awareness.
(707) 868-8140 View (707) 868-8140
Photo of Andrea Sanserino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Sanserino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Andrea Sanserino uses a genuine, compassionate approach to helping others heal and grow. Andrea utilizes a recovery-oriented focus- starting from a place that believes that every individual has enormous strength and talent that can be harnessed to create a rich meaningful life. Trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), Seeking Safety (trauma-focused work), and skilled in Motivational Interviewing, Andrea approaches therapy as a collaborative process.
Andrea Sanserino uses a genuine, compassionate approach to helping others heal and grow. Andrea utilizes a recovery-oriented focus- starting from a place that believes that every individual has enormous strength and talent that can be harnessed to create a rich meaningful life. Trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), Seeking Safety (trauma-focused work), and skilled in Motivational Interviewing, Andrea approaches therapy as a collaborative process.
(707) 607-8182 View (707) 607-8182
Photo of Jonathan Mattice, LMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan Mattice
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928  (Online Only)
I'm additionally certified in DBT and Level 1 Gottman trained.
Welcome and thanks for visiting my site! Life is stressful and you might be dealing with amounting pressures related to time, finance, intimacy and perhaps a second child; all amidst communication breaking down. The overwhelm is real. Know you are not alone in dealing with this. Imagine the possibility of collaborating with your partner while feeling fully supported amidst dialed-in communication. There is hope! This hope is anchored in small, strategic shifts to alleviate those pressures and improve your relationship. Most couples I work with have their relationship back on track in about two to three months.
I'm additionally certified in DBT and Level 1 Gottman trained.
Welcome and thanks for visiting my site! Life is stressful and you might be dealing with amounting pressures related to time, finance, intimacy and perhaps a second child; all amidst communication breaking down. The overwhelm is real. Know you are not alone in dealing with this. Imagine the possibility of collaborating with your partner while feeling fully supported amidst dialed-in communication. There is hope! This hope is anchored in small, strategic shifts to alleviate those pressures and improve your relationship. Most couples I work with have their relationship back on track in about two to three months.
(303) 536-1238 View (303) 536-1238
Photo of Roberta Vinck, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roberta Vinck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
I use talk therapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, ALPHA-STIM, hypnosis, & Eye movement Desensitization & Reprocessing for trauma, and PTSD.
Are you anxious/depressed, overthinking, and not sleeping well? I was waking up at 3 a.m. and not being able to go back to sleep until I discovered ALPHA-STIM, It uses safe and effective Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation to dramatically reduce anxiety, insomnia and depression. One of my clients was able to cut back on medication. If you would like to use ALPHA-STIM along with therapy, give me a call. You can try it and see for yourself how effective it is. You can also look it up on the internet for further information and clarification.
I use talk therapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, ALPHA-STIM, hypnosis, & Eye movement Desensitization & Reprocessing for trauma, and PTSD.
Are you anxious/depressed, overthinking, and not sleeping well? I was waking up at 3 a.m. and not being able to go back to sleep until I discovered ALPHA-STIM, It uses safe and effective Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation to dramatically reduce anxiety, insomnia and depression. One of my clients was able to cut back on medication. If you would like to use ALPHA-STIM along with therapy, give me a call. You can try it and see for yourself how effective it is. You can also look it up on the internet for further information and clarification.
(707) 549-6850 View (707) 549-6850
Photo of Dr. Lacey Lynn Palmer, CDS, C-PD, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Lacey Lynn Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, CDS, C-PD, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Welcome! I recently completed my PhD in Psychology, Public Policy, and Law, meaning I have a more in-depth understanding of the intersection between the mental health and criminal justice systems - this does not make me a clinical psychologist. I have also been recently certified as a Certified Personality Disorder Provider (C-PD). My primary therapeutic modality is Dialectical Behavior Therapy, which has been empirically proven to help individuals struggling with self-harm, suicidal ideation, intense mood fluctuations, unstable relationships, poor emotion regulation capabilities, and frequent impulsive & risk-taking behaviors.
Welcome! I recently completed my PhD in Psychology, Public Policy, and Law, meaning I have a more in-depth understanding of the intersection between the mental health and criminal justice systems - this does not make me a clinical psychologist. I have also been recently certified as a Certified Personality Disorder Provider (C-PD). My primary therapeutic modality is Dialectical Behavior Therapy, which has been empirically proven to help individuals struggling with self-harm, suicidal ideation, intense mood fluctuations, unstable relationships, poor emotion regulation capabilities, and frequent impulsive & risk-taking behaviors.
(415) 358-3840 View (415) 358-3840
Photo of Marc Antonio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marc Antonio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
My name is Marc Antonio. I'm an LMFT based in Fresno, California who sees clients throughout the state via telehealth. I work with young adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and attachment using a combination of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and sensorimotor psychotherapy (SP) to help my clients work toward their goals and create a life worth living. I work well with young adults who are trying to find themselves, heal old wounds, and live their most authentic life.
My name is Marc Antonio. I'm an LMFT based in Fresno, California who sees clients throughout the state via telehealth. I work with young adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and attachment using a combination of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and sensorimotor psychotherapy (SP) to help my clients work toward their goals and create a life worth living. I work well with young adults who are trying to find themselves, heal old wounds, and live their most authentic life.
(657) 837-2583 View (657) 837-2583
Photo of Irving Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Irving Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
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 Victoria A Brekelmans, LMFT, APCC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria A Brekelmans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928  (Online Only)
I tend to use a mix of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative theory, and others to create a space for self-discovery.
I work with a wide range of clients, each facing their own set of challenges. Whether it's dealing with issues related to eating or embracing neurodiversity like autism and ADHD, I strive to create a warm and inviting environment for self-discovery. I have a wealth of experience working with kids, teens, and the LGBTQ+ community. As someone who identifies as queer, my goal is to create a supportive and empowering space for fellow LGBTQ+ individuals.
I tend to use a mix of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative theory, and others to create a space for self-discovery.
I work with a wide range of clients, each facing their own set of challenges. Whether it's dealing with issues related to eating or embracing neurodiversity like autism and ADHD, I strive to create a warm and inviting environment for self-discovery. I have a wealth of experience working with kids, teens, and the LGBTQ+ community. As someone who identifies as queer, my goal is to create a supportive and empowering space for fellow LGBTQ+ individuals.
(707) 896-8589 View (707) 896-8589
Photo of Victoria Lynne Brown - Lets Talk Counseling and Psychotherapy, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lets Talk Counseling and Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94926  (Online Only)
Using techniques from different therapies including CBT, DBT, Attachment Theory and Narrative therapy with a psychodynamic, person-center approach I offer a way out of the struggle.
Quite often people are reluctant to admit to having problems. Life is difficult when your problems are long lasting and impair your ability to function adequately in the world ie at work, school or in the home. Life is difficult when you can't seem to maintain satisfying, safe relationships w/others. You may feel that there's something wrong with you or that you just aren't ever going to be able to have the kind of life you want. And it's not for lack of trying. Perhaps you just don't know what to do. All that you have tried to do seems to have failed and left you floundering, frustrated and feeling hopeless.
Using techniques from different therapies including CBT, DBT, Attachment Theory and Narrative therapy with a psychodynamic, person-center approach I offer a way out of the struggle.
Quite often people are reluctant to admit to having problems. Life is difficult when your problems are long lasting and impair your ability to function adequately in the world ie at work, school or in the home. Life is difficult when you can't seem to maintain satisfying, safe relationships w/others. You may feel that there's something wrong with you or that you just aren't ever going to be able to have the kind of life you want. And it's not for lack of trying. Perhaps you just don't know what to do. All that you have tried to do seems to have failed and left you floundering, frustrated and feeling hopeless.
(707) 504-3718 View (707) 504-3718
Photo of Shaghayegh 'Shauna' Lopez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shaghayegh 'Shauna' Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
I specialize in working with clients through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family Therapy and Attachment focused approach.
I believe that therapy can provide a sense of clarity in beliefs and values that guide insight and understanding of our path moving forward through challenges. I work with you to find actionable steps by using self-awareness, acceptance and tools to better your life. I often work with pre-teens, teens, young adults, families and individuals in creating a safe space to explore challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, career/identity issues, life adjustments, relational challenges and parenting struggles.
I specialize in working with clients through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family Therapy and Attachment focused approach.
I believe that therapy can provide a sense of clarity in beliefs and values that guide insight and understanding of our path moving forward through challenges. I work with you to find actionable steps by using self-awareness, acceptance and tools to better your life. I often work with pre-teens, teens, young adults, families and individuals in creating a safe space to explore challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, career/identity issues, life adjustments, relational challenges and parenting struggles.
(707) 669-4377 View (707) 669-4377
Photo of Jenny Diane Patterson-Kerr, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenny Diane Patterson-Kerr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Waitlist for new clients
Namaste! Have you ever been told, "You're too sensitive. Get over it, move on!" Do you process events deeply, noticing nuances? Do you have strong emotions of anger, sadness, guilt, worry? Do other people's moods affect you? At times is your environment too loud, bright, or overstimulating? Have you used sex, relationships, food, shopping, etc. as a way to self-soothe to the point of over-indulgence or addiction? You may be a Highly Sensitive Person or HSP. HSPs can have higher rates of anxiety, depression and overwhelm. By developing skills like self-compassion, mind/body /spirit connection, you can thrive rather than just survive.
Namaste! Have you ever been told, "You're too sensitive. Get over it, move on!" Do you process events deeply, noticing nuances? Do you have strong emotions of anger, sadness, guilt, worry? Do other people's moods affect you? At times is your environment too loud, bright, or overstimulating? Have you used sex, relationships, food, shopping, etc. as a way to self-soothe to the point of over-indulgence or addiction? You may be a Highly Sensitive Person or HSP. HSPs can have higher rates of anxiety, depression and overwhelm. By developing skills like self-compassion, mind/body /spirit connection, you can thrive rather than just survive.
(707) 207-8807 View (707) 207-8807
Photo of Agata Baker, AMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Agata Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, thank you for stopping by! I am here for you if you are looking for a down-to-earth, relatable, and action-inspiring therapist. I am passionate about helping clients embrace positive health behaviors, enhance their connection to self and others, develop greater self-awareness, and increase self-compassion. I believe in the bio-psycho-social model of mental and physical wellness and consider all aspects of our beings: not only how we think, behave, and feel but also how we move, what we eat, our mindset, and our connections in the community.
Hi, thank you for stopping by! I am here for you if you are looking for a down-to-earth, relatable, and action-inspiring therapist. I am passionate about helping clients embrace positive health behaviors, enhance their connection to self and others, develop greater self-awareness, and increase self-compassion. I believe in the bio-psycho-social model of mental and physical wellness and consider all aspects of our beings: not only how we think, behave, and feel but also how we move, what we eat, our mindset, and our connections in the community.
(707) 754-0888 View (707) 754-0888
Photo of Patricia Britton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Britton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928  (Online Only)
You have taken the step to look for help and now you want relief. But how do you choose the "right" therapist? Let me start the conversation...Over the past 35 years of professional practice, my clients have come to rely on my ability to be objective, direct and safe. But you want to know how long all this will take...right? My goal is to help you move toward solutions within the shortest time span possible while relieving unnecessary tension.
You have taken the step to look for help and now you want relief. But how do you choose the "right" therapist? Let me start the conversation...Over the past 35 years of professional practice, my clients have come to rely on my ability to be objective, direct and safe. But you want to know how long all this will take...right? My goal is to help you move toward solutions within the shortest time span possible while relieving unnecessary tension.
(707) 820-7980 View (707) 820-7980
Photo of Monica Linares, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Linares
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928  (Online Only)
Many clients come to work with me at a time in their lives when they feel disconnected from themselves, stuck in their relationships, or when they are experiencing a major life transition. During these times, people often believe something is wrong with them and fear that others will judge them if they open up about their true feelings. As a result, many people stay quiet about their pain and feel lonely. Being a therapist has taught me that the struggles we encounter in life are far more common than we realize and your healing can be possible with my support.
Many clients come to work with me at a time in their lives when they feel disconnected from themselves, stuck in their relationships, or when they are experiencing a major life transition. During these times, people often believe something is wrong with them and fear that others will judge them if they open up about their true feelings. As a result, many people stay quiet about their pain and feel lonely. Being a therapist has taught me that the struggles we encounter in life are far more common than we realize and your healing can be possible with my support.
(510) 650-0263 View (510) 650-0263
Photo of Mariela Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mariela Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Mariela Hernandez, LCSW, MPH I am a bilingual first generation Latinx therapist with a passion for connection. I hope to help heal generational trauma, teach concrete tools for coping with life’s challenges, and help you feel seen and heard.
Mariela Hernandez, LCSW, MPH I am a bilingual first generation Latinx therapist with a passion for connection. I hope to help heal generational trauma, teach concrete tools for coping with life’s challenges, and help you feel seen and heard.
(925) 317-1249 View (925) 317-1249
Photo of Erica Fawn Thomas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Fawn Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Parenting can be the hardest job in the world and I am here to help. Do you have a difficult teenager? Is your child having trouble in High School? Has your family experienced divorce, remarriage, or difficulties with co-parenting? These types of issues have become very common and it is normal to need some help coping with them. I have many years experience working with children and their families and as a parent I can relate to the difficulties that arise each day. The decision to start therapy can be difficult because you may feel that you have already tried everything or you wonder if this will really help.
Parenting can be the hardest job in the world and I am here to help. Do you have a difficult teenager? Is your child having trouble in High School? Has your family experienced divorce, remarriage, or difficulties with co-parenting? These types of issues have become very common and it is normal to need some help coping with them. I have many years experience working with children and their families and as a parent I can relate to the difficulties that arise each day. The decision to start therapy can be difficult because you may feel that you have already tried everything or you wonder if this will really help.
(925) 281-3551 View (925) 281-3551
Photo of Don Bruce Ross, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Don Bruce Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Most of us seek therapy in crisis: facing divorce, job loss, a cancer diagnosis, etc. This means danger and opportunity. The danger is shutting down (hiding your feelings) or "acting out" (fighting or seeking comfort in affairs, the internet, alcohol/drugs etc.). The opportunity is to learn new ways to connect deeply with yourself and those you love; to accept and express your deepest feelings and needs; and to hear others' feelings with openness. You can create your life anew and authentically. I know this road personally. And I welcome you, as you share your journey from crisis to growth.
Most of us seek therapy in crisis: facing divorce, job loss, a cancer diagnosis, etc. This means danger and opportunity. The danger is shutting down (hiding your feelings) or "acting out" (fighting or seeking comfort in affairs, the internet, alcohol/drugs etc.). The opportunity is to learn new ways to connect deeply with yourself and those you love; to accept and express your deepest feelings and needs; and to hear others' feelings with openness. You can create your life anew and authentically. I know this road personally. And I welcome you, as you share your journey from crisis to growth.
(707) 466-0928 View (707) 466-0928
Photo of Gayle Janet Whitlock - GWhitlock- New Leaf Counseling and Psychotherapy, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
GWhitlock- New Leaf Counseling and Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928  (Online Only)
Welcome: I see you juggling work, family, relationships, and cultural identity while your self care has been placed on the back burner. As a woman of color, you may find yourself working twice as hard yet often getting half as much for your trouble. You want to live a full juicy life yet find yourself feeling stuck. I see you and I've got your back. It is my passion to support and encourage women (and a few sensitive men) who are ready to move past surviving to thriving. I work with women of all races and I am especially passionate in supporting Black Women and WOC who are desiring to be seen and heard.
Welcome: I see you juggling work, family, relationships, and cultural identity while your self care has been placed on the back burner. As a woman of color, you may find yourself working twice as hard yet often getting half as much for your trouble. You want to live a full juicy life yet find yourself feeling stuck. I see you and I've got your back. It is my passion to support and encourage women (and a few sensitive men) who are ready to move past surviving to thriving. I work with women of all races and I am especially passionate in supporting Black Women and WOC who are desiring to be seen and heard.
(707) 785-8526 View (707) 785-8526
Photo of Diana Mendelson, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Mendelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928  (Online Only)
Who stole the road sign to a happy life? Have you tried everything to make things better, but nothing is working? If a good life is eluding you, let's talk. We'll look at what is getting in your way and--as we discover your strengths--map out a plan that works for you. You can expect to feel understood, supported, and gently challenged to make shifts that move you forward. Whether your focus is on strengthening your relationships, navigating difficult life transitions, or "unsticking" yourself from depression, anxiety, or trauma, our work together will empower you and help you to make wise choices.
Who stole the road sign to a happy life? Have you tried everything to make things better, but nothing is working? If a good life is eluding you, let's talk. We'll look at what is getting in your way and--as we discover your strengths--map out a plan that works for you. You can expect to feel understood, supported, and gently challenged to make shifts that move you forward. Whether your focus is on strengthening your relationships, navigating difficult life transitions, or "unsticking" yourself from depression, anxiety, or trauma, our work together will empower you and help you to make wise choices.
(707) 595-9316 View (707) 595-9316
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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.