Photo of Holly O'Hearn, PhD, Psychologist
Holly O'Hearn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I integrate a variety of treatment techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Emotion Focussed (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), and Somatic based approaches.
Whether you are stuck in self-defeating patterns, struggling with stress, anxiety or depression, or having difficulty getting your needs met in your relationships, I am ready to listen and give you the tools you need to make meaningful changes and live a more peaceful, joyful, and satisfying life.
I integrate a variety of treatment techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Emotion Focussed (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), and Somatic based approaches.
Whether you are stuck in self-defeating patterns, struggling with stress, anxiety or depression, or having difficulty getting your needs met in your relationships, I am ready to listen and give you the tools you need to make meaningful changes and live a more peaceful, joyful, and satisfying life.
(805) 257-0294 View (805) 257-0294
Photo of Lisa Conn Akoni, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Conn Akoni
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ynez, CA 93460  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years experience in the mental health field specializing in Couples & Marriage Counseling, Infidelity, Divorce, Family Therapy, DBT, Relationship Issues, Trauma, Teens, Depression & Anxiety.
Feeling stuck, lonely, depressed, anxious, fearful, unfulfilled, or going through a life transition? You're not alone...we all have to face life's challenges! I believe true change & growth require a willingness to take risks. Resiliency & self-trust are strengthened by facing & moving through adversity. Together, we can explore & map out a plan so you can take that leap of faith, try something new, face your fear, or learn to accept the things outside your control. Life can be hard at times...with insight, the right tools, supportive relationships, & a little courage you can get through almost anything & live a fulfilled life!
I have over 25 years experience in the mental health field specializing in Couples & Marriage Counseling, Infidelity, Divorce, Family Therapy, DBT, Relationship Issues, Trauma, Teens, Depression & Anxiety.
Feeling stuck, lonely, depressed, anxious, fearful, unfulfilled, or going through a life transition? You're not alone...we all have to face life's challenges! I believe true change & growth require a willingness to take risks. Resiliency & self-trust are strengthened by facing & moving through adversity. Together, we can explore & map out a plan so you can take that leap of faith, try something new, face your fear, or learn to accept the things outside your control. Life can be hard at times...with insight, the right tools, supportive relationships, & a little courage you can get through almost anything & live a fulfilled life!
(805) 719-7406 View (805) 719-7406
Photo of Julieta Serrato, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Julieta Serrato
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108  (Online Only)
I am bilingual and utilize a combination of cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, person centered, positive psychology, narrative therapy, emotion focused therapy and eclectic techniques in my treatment approach to teach new skills, change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, regulate emotions and develop health coping skills.
My passion is to support clients through empowerment in order for them to reach their goals. I work with adolescents, teens, women, men and couples through short and long term therapy. My approach is to meet the client where they are at and find the best path that can positively propel them in the direction of their goals and further support positive change.
I am bilingual and utilize a combination of cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, person centered, positive psychology, narrative therapy, emotion focused therapy and eclectic techniques in my treatment approach to teach new skills, change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, regulate emotions and develop health coping skills.
My passion is to support clients through empowerment in order for them to reach their goals. I work with adolescents, teens, women, men and couples through short and long term therapy. My approach is to meet the client where they are at and find the best path that can positively propel them in the direction of their goals and further support positive change.
(916) 621-6560 View (916) 621-6560
Photo of Max Golding, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Max Golding
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Now that you have PTSD from drowning in a sea of therapist marketing profiles, I’m here to help! Hit me up if you’re a high conflict couple and you’re fighting too much, or an individual and you’re fighting with (parts of?) yourself (or others?) in your head too much. I’m foundationally "humanistic-existentialist", meaning I join you on your journey with curiosity/authenticity/empathy, and help you become more confidently you through a relational process. But I'm trained in lots of acronyms: Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Now that you have PTSD from drowning in a sea of therapist marketing profiles, I’m here to help! Hit me up if you’re a high conflict couple and you’re fighting too much, or an individual and you’re fighting with (parts of?) yourself (or others?) in your head too much. I’m foundationally "humanistic-existentialist", meaning I join you on your journey with curiosity/authenticity/empathy, and help you become more confidently you through a relational process. But I'm trained in lots of acronyms: Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(805) 427-8722 View (805) 427-8722
Photo of Claudia D Crawford, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia D Crawford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
As a Marriage and Family therapist, I work with couples & individuals: *With couples,I focus our work within a developmental framework to achieve empathic communication and differentiation leading to deepened emotional intimacy; *With those experiencing life transitions, we explore the impact on us as individuals & on our relationships; *In navigating depression, life style choices, anxiety, and other struggles I provide the opportunity to challenge & ability to realize your potential *Teaching communication skills, the focus is to make the accompanying shift from looking outside ourselves for explanation to taking responsibility for Self. *I offer DBT for individuals/groups to develop the ability to regulate emotions.
As a Marriage and Family therapist, I work with couples & individuals: *With couples,I focus our work within a developmental framework to achieve empathic communication and differentiation leading to deepened emotional intimacy; *With those experiencing life transitions, we explore the impact on us as individuals & on our relationships; *In navigating depression, life style choices, anxiety, and other struggles I provide the opportunity to challenge & ability to realize your potential *Teaching communication skills, the focus is to make the accompanying shift from looking outside ourselves for explanation to taking responsibility for Self. *I offer DBT for individuals/groups to develop the ability to regulate emotions.
(805) 214-8975 View (805) 214-8975
Photo of Dr. Holli Stewart - Dr Holli Stewart  & Associates in Counseling , MS , MA, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
I have enjoyed helping clients of all ages, for 30 yrs, utilizing DBT, Family systems, & Cognitive education.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
I have enjoyed helping clients of all ages, for 30 yrs, utilizing DBT, Family systems, & Cognitive education.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of Eva Sahar Moheban, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eva Sahar Moheban
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orcutt, CA 93455  (Online Only)
I use a range of therapeutic and holistic modalities: Jungian depth psychology (shadow work/parts work), Somatic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Do you desire more empowerment and mastery over your life? Do you intuitively sense you are destined for more, but are plagued by fears and doubts? Are you committed to your growth, but feel stuck in low-moods or trauma spirals? In our work together, we will take an honest inventory of everything that is no longer serving you, such as, old, destructive patterns, false limiting beliefs, and intrusive negative self-talk that unconsciously runs on a loop. My intention is to empower you to make lasting changes and to ultimately help you see yourself through a more honest and loving lens.
I use a range of therapeutic and holistic modalities: Jungian depth psychology (shadow work/parts work), Somatic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Do you desire more empowerment and mastery over your life? Do you intuitively sense you are destined for more, but are plagued by fears and doubts? Are you committed to your growth, but feel stuck in low-moods or trauma spirals? In our work together, we will take an honest inventory of everything that is no longer serving you, such as, old, destructive patterns, false limiting beliefs, and intrusive negative self-talk that unconsciously runs on a loop. My intention is to empower you to make lasting changes and to ultimately help you see yourself through a more honest and loving lens.
(818) 619-3236 View (818) 619-3236
Photo of Michael Carnevale, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Carnevale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93117
My name is Michael Carnevale, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in San Francisco, California who works with clients statewide via Telehealth. I have experience serving a diverse client population of all ages using primarily Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I operate from a person-in-environment lens that acknowledges the many factors and variables in our lives beyond the individual.
My name is Michael Carnevale, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in San Francisco, California who works with clients statewide via Telehealth. I have experience serving a diverse client population of all ages using primarily Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I operate from a person-in-environment lens that acknowledges the many factors and variables in our lives beyond the individual.
(626) 702-2927 View (626) 702-2927
Photo of Veronica Calkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1330 View (562) 268-1330
Photo of Megan Frazier - Megan Frazier, PsyD, CEDS, PsyD, CEDS, Psychologist
Megan Frazier, PsyD, CEDS
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
I use evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, parts work, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), CBT, and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Have you experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or negative self-worth? Have you become stuck in negative patterns of poor self-care, disordered eating, or interpersonal relationships that are draining or even abusive? I have dedicated my practice to helping others heal and break free from negative cycles of abuse - both within and outside oneself.
I use evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, parts work, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), CBT, and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Have you experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or negative self-worth? Have you become stuck in negative patterns of poor self-care, disordered eating, or interpersonal relationships that are draining or even abusive? I have dedicated my practice to helping others heal and break free from negative cycles of abuse - both within and outside oneself.
(720) 706-9213 View (720) 706-9213
Photo of Jason Murphy, LMFT, EMDR, ICAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, ICAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
A few modalities I employ are DBT, MCBT, ACT, and process-oriented therapies.
“I have a deep belief in treating the whole human being and not just the symptom whether it be physical, psychological or spiritual. Both my skill as a therapist and my knowledge of East/ West Psychology aids me in providing essential knowledge and techniques for clients to affect change. I have been in the fields of therapy and mindfulness meditation for the last 20 years and in that time I have focused on integrating what works for those clients I have served. My work is informed by over two decades of exploration into the heart and mind. From the monasteries of Asia to the lecture halls of cutting edge American Universities.
A few modalities I employ are DBT, MCBT, ACT, and process-oriented therapies.
“I have a deep belief in treating the whole human being and not just the symptom whether it be physical, psychological or spiritual. Both my skill as a therapist and my knowledge of East/ West Psychology aids me in providing essential knowledge and techniques for clients to affect change. I have been in the fields of therapy and mindfulness meditation for the last 20 years and in that time I have focused on integrating what works for those clients I have served. My work is informed by over two decades of exploration into the heart and mind. From the monasteries of Asia to the lecture halls of cutting edge American Universities.
(831) 777-6253 View (831) 777-6253
New Beginnings Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
We offer confidential psychological counseling and assessment services to individuals, couples and families in the greater Santa Barbara area. Experienced counselors are here to help clients explore life transitions, relationship issues and a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, compulsive behaviors, substance use, job loss and stress, aging, isolation and anger management. Many clients experience a 15% reduction in overall distress after only eight sessions. Counselors are ready and able to serve you. We will match your needs with the education and experience of our clinicians to find the best person to assist you.
We offer confidential psychological counseling and assessment services to individuals, couples and families in the greater Santa Barbara area. Experienced counselors are here to help clients explore life transitions, relationship issues and a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, compulsive behaviors, substance use, job loss and stress, aging, isolation and anger management. Many clients experience a 15% reduction in overall distress after only eight sessions. Counselors are ready and able to serve you. We will match your needs with the education and experience of our clinicians to find the best person to assist you.
(805) 669-9352 x206 View (805) 669-9352 x206
Photo of Andria Cohen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andria Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Our quality of life is determined by the quality of our relationships. Whatever your goals may be, change is an inside job, and I'm here to be both a witness and a resource in that complex process. When we can let go of shame and judgments around emotions, we allow space to cultivate more curiosity, compassion, acceptance, resiliency, and joy. When we utilize mistakes as informational gifts we can strengthen and clarify the authentic self. I would like to help you meet this self.
Our quality of life is determined by the quality of our relationships. Whatever your goals may be, change is an inside job, and I'm here to be both a witness and a resource in that complex process. When we can let go of shame and judgments around emotions, we allow space to cultivate more curiosity, compassion, acceptance, resiliency, and joy. When we utilize mistakes as informational gifts we can strengthen and clarify the authentic self. I would like to help you meet this self.
(805) 257-0746 View (805) 257-0746
Photo of Gustavo Olvera Santos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gustavo Olvera Santos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lompoc, CA 93436
Hello! I'm Gustavo Olvera and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), serving clients via telehealth throughout the State of California. My long time approach to therapy is to meet the client where they are and work with them to identify goals that will help them improve their quality of life. I believe that we all have the potential to succeed in life and the potential to achieve greatness. A healthy mind is key to success, as we often have to make critical decisions on a daily basis. I believe we can all achieve our desired goals by increasing and maintaining a positive outlook on our mental health.
Hello! I'm Gustavo Olvera and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), serving clients via telehealth throughout the State of California. My long time approach to therapy is to meet the client where they are and work with them to identify goals that will help them improve their quality of life. I believe that we all have the potential to succeed in life and the potential to achieve greatness. A healthy mind is key to success, as we often have to make critical decisions on a daily basis. I believe we can all achieve our desired goals by increasing and maintaining a positive outlook on our mental health.
(805) 506-5972 View (805) 506-5972
Photo of Bonnie Dooms, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bonnie Dooms
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Everyone can use a little help at times. We often experience difficult emotions, such as anxiety, depression and anger that are hard to handle and interfere with relationships and quality of life. With 15 years of experience in practice, I will help you alleviate these unwanted symptoms, improve functioning and improve your relationships. I work with adults and couples who are having struggles in their personal lives. I also specialize in working with those who have experienced sexual trauma.
Everyone can use a little help at times. We often experience difficult emotions, such as anxiety, depression and anger that are hard to handle and interfere with relationships and quality of life. With 15 years of experience in practice, I will help you alleviate these unwanted symptoms, improve functioning and improve your relationships. I work with adults and couples who are having struggles in their personal lives. I also specialize in working with those who have experienced sexual trauma.
(805) 590-7764 View (805) 590-7764
Photo of Phillip Guttmann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phillip Guttmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lompoc, CA 93436
Phillip Guttmann, LCSW, has been a therapist for 13 years and has worked with a wide array of people. He believes change is possible, particularly in a supportive environment where a trusting dynamic between therapist and client can be achieved. Phillip specializes in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, panic disorder, depression, complex trauma, loss, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, and more. I try to meet each client where they are at and set my tone and style based on what intuitively feels best. In other words, our dynamic will be unique and adjusted to your preferences and comfort level.
Phillip Guttmann, LCSW, has been a therapist for 13 years and has worked with a wide array of people. He believes change is possible, particularly in a supportive environment where a trusting dynamic between therapist and client can be achieved. Phillip specializes in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, panic disorder, depression, complex trauma, loss, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, and more. I try to meet each client where they are at and set my tone and style based on what intuitively feels best. In other words, our dynamic will be unique and adjusted to your preferences and comfort level.
(805) 855-1687 View (805) 855-1687
Photo of Carla Sotelo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carla Sotelo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orcutt, CA 93455
Does it feel like your anxiety is getting the best of you ? Engaging in avoidant behaviors? Intrusive thoughts/ compulsions disrupting your life? Unresolved trauma? Feeling depressed and hopeless? Poor body image and obsession over calories ? Hope and healing is possible. With over 10 years of clinical experience, I offer you the opportunity to work through difficult emotions, face your fears vs avoiding, learn to set healthy limits for yourself, strengthen your sense of self and develop healthier coping mechanisms. It is my mission to help you feel empowered and live a life of value/ fulfillment despite your adversities.
Does it feel like your anxiety is getting the best of you ? Engaging in avoidant behaviors? Intrusive thoughts/ compulsions disrupting your life? Unresolved trauma? Feeling depressed and hopeless? Poor body image and obsession over calories ? Hope and healing is possible. With over 10 years of clinical experience, I offer you the opportunity to work through difficult emotions, face your fears vs avoiding, learn to set healthy limits for yourself, strengthen your sense of self and develop healthier coping mechanisms. It is my mission to help you feel empowered and live a life of value/ fulfillment despite your adversities.
(805) 900-3375 View (805) 900-3375
Photo of Maxwell Sleep-Frankel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maxwell Sleep-Frankel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
(805) 510-7694 View (805) 510-7694
Photo of Jacquelyn Meissner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacquelyn Meissner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity without judgment. As a bilingual and multicultural therapist I strive to support individuals and couples who are experiencing difficult life events.
Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity without judgment. As a bilingual and multicultural therapist I strive to support individuals and couples who are experiencing difficult life events.
(805) 719-7308 View (805) 719-7308
Photo of Maria Stave, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Stave
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93117
If you are facing difficulty in life (as we all have) I believe in getting the support and care you deserve. I have extensive knowledge in anxiety/depression, relationship issues, addiction/recovery, couples work and Alzheimer's disease / dementia. I also love working with children and teens (and even have two of my own)! I look at the issues we face in a whole-person approach and believe in exploring all aspects of a client's health including mindfulness, nutrition, and exercise.
If you are facing difficulty in life (as we all have) I believe in getting the support and care you deserve. I have extensive knowledge in anxiety/depression, relationship issues, addiction/recovery, couples work and Alzheimer's disease / dementia. I also love working with children and teens (and even have two of my own)! I look at the issues we face in a whole-person approach and believe in exploring all aspects of a client's health including mindfulness, nutrition, and exercise.
(805) 214-6674 View (805) 214-6674

See more therapy options for Santa Barbara County

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.