Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
I will utilize therapy interventions like trauma-informed approaches, ACT, CBT, DBT and ERP which I have training and ongoing education in.
I am a therapist with years of experience helping people overcome the challenges of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, OCD, and more. Through evidenced-based therapies and a compassionate approach, I work with patients to develop effective coping strategies, learn their strengths, and build resilience. I aim to mirror the goodness that is already within you to help you achieve a more fulfilling life. Although I have experience with many different psychiatric conditions, in private practice I focus on patients and their struggles with anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, and relationship issues.
I will utilize therapy interventions like trauma-informed approaches, ACT, CBT, DBT and ERP which I have training and ongoing education in.
I am a therapist with years of experience helping people overcome the challenges of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, OCD, and more. Through evidenced-based therapies and a compassionate approach, I work with patients to develop effective coping strategies, learn their strengths, and build resilience. I aim to mirror the goodness that is already within you to help you achieve a more fulfilling life. Although I have experience with many different psychiatric conditions, in private practice I focus on patients and their struggles with anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, and relationship issues.
Michelle King Rayfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
In therapy, I use EMDR, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting, Gottman Method, and other therapeutic approaches that work.
Are you ready for something to change? Maybe you're struggling with anxiety or having trouble with your relationships? Going through a major life transition like a move or a new job? Or seeking couples counseling to support you and your partner? It can be hard to go through difficult things alone, and I would love to help you find greater happiness, success, and fulfillment while navigating the ups and downs of life.
In therapy, I use EMDR, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting, Gottman Method, and other therapeutic approaches that work.
Are you ready for something to change? Maybe you're struggling with anxiety or having trouble with your relationships? Going through a major life transition like a move or a new job? Or seeking couples counseling to support you and your partner? It can be hard to go through difficult things alone, and I would love to help you find greater happiness, success, and fulfillment while navigating the ups and downs of life.
I practice using evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
I’ve worked with adolescents, young adults, and adults from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds and in a variety of settings. I see many people dealing with stress, anxiety and depression, and I specialize in life transitions and adjustment, including experiences such as adjusting to a new job, beginning college, becoming a new parent or transitioning to more than one child in the family, and family structural changes like separation & divorce. I also specialize in both academic research and clinical work on the role of fathers in the family and issues that fathers face.
I practice using evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
I’ve worked with adolescents, young adults, and adults from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds and in a variety of settings. I see many people dealing with stress, anxiety and depression, and I specialize in life transitions and adjustment, including experiences such as adjusting to a new job, beginning college, becoming a new parent or transitioning to more than one child in the family, and family structural changes like separation & divorce. I also specialize in both academic research and clinical work on the role of fathers in the family and issues that fathers face.
I am trauma certified and trained in evidence-based practices such as CBT and DBT.
Do you feel like your past prevents you from enjoying your present and looking forward to your future? Do you find yourself repeating patterns of behavior that no longer serve you? Do you struggle to maintain meaningful and stable relationships? If yes, perhaps it’s time to take a deep breath and look inward. By exploring the wounds from your past, you can find empathy and understanding. You can be free. “Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence.” – Peter A. Levine
I am trauma certified and trained in evidence-based practices such as CBT and DBT.
Do you feel like your past prevents you from enjoying your present and looking forward to your future? Do you find yourself repeating patterns of behavior that no longer serve you? Do you struggle to maintain meaningful and stable relationships? If yes, perhaps it’s time to take a deep breath and look inward. By exploring the wounds from your past, you can find empathy and understanding. You can be free. “Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence.” – Peter A. Levine
Amada Battista
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
EMDR certified therapist, DETUR, Flash Technique, EMDR Attachment-Focused Model to heal the Parent and the Child, Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, Trauma Resiliency Model Level, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology interventions, Attachment in Couple Therapy, and Gottman Method.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
EMDR certified therapist, DETUR, Flash Technique, EMDR Attachment-Focused Model to heal the Parent and the Child, Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, Trauma Resiliency Model Level, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology interventions, Attachment in Couple Therapy, and Gottman Method.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
I received specialized addictions training as well as focused training in DBT and have experience treating anxiety in the presence of substance-use disorders, depression, and other problems.
Balance CBT is the name of my private practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY27841) and an expert in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and related conditions. My primary focus is providing evidence-based or "known to work" treatments for anxiety-related problems. While I place very high value on research-driven treatments, I strongly believe that compassion, validation, and a powerful relationship are cornerstones to effective therapy. I am a member of the clinical faculty at UCLA and hold positions in the departments of psychiatry and psychology.
I received specialized addictions training as well as focused training in DBT and have experience treating anxiety in the presence of substance-use disorders, depression, and other problems.
Balance CBT is the name of my private practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY27841) and an expert in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and related conditions. My primary focus is providing evidence-based or "known to work" treatments for anxiety-related problems. While I place very high value on research-driven treatments, I strongly believe that compassion, validation, and a powerful relationship are cornerstones to effective therapy. I am a member of the clinical faculty at UCLA and hold positions in the departments of psychiatry and psychology.
Katie Massey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Do you find yourself struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or relationship issues? Are obsessive compulsive behaviors creating a negative impact on your personal or professional life? Have you found it difficult to find purpose or direction? With a specialization in Spiritual and Depth Psychology I utilize evidenced-based interventions and protocols such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques and coping skills to empower my clients to live their best possible lives.
Do you find yourself struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or relationship issues? Are obsessive compulsive behaviors creating a negative impact on your personal or professional life? Have you found it difficult to find purpose or direction? With a specialization in Spiritual and Depth Psychology I utilize evidenced-based interventions and protocols such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques and coping skills to empower my clients to live their best possible lives.
Sara Lichstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
I incorporate Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Dialectical Behavioral therapy ( DBT) in addition to a Somatic therapy approach incorporating modalities such as IFS and Somatic Experiencing.
Are you struggling with dating? Experiencing challenges with romantic and/or non romantic relationships? Are you dealing with divorce or loss of a loved one? Do you find it challenging to notice your own needs and express yourself? Are you going through a difficult transition time in your life such as just graduating or starting college? I can help you work through these challenges and meet your goals!
I incorporate Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Dialectical Behavioral therapy ( DBT) in addition to a Somatic therapy approach incorporating modalities such as IFS and Somatic Experiencing.
Are you struggling with dating? Experiencing challenges with romantic and/or non romantic relationships? Are you dealing with divorce or loss of a loved one? Do you find it challenging to notice your own needs and express yourself? Are you going through a difficult transition time in your life such as just graduating or starting college? I can help you work through these challenges and meet your goals!
Treatments provided: Trauma: Attachment-focused EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, STAIR, PTSD Coping Skills, Seeking Safety, & Moral Injury; Depression, Anxiety, & more: ACT, CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, DBT (Informed), Mindfulness (Informed) & Motivational Interviewing (Informed); Insomnia: CBT for Insomnia.
My name is Dr. Heather Jones and I am a Registered Psychological Associate who provides therapy for adult individuals through integrative and evidence-based practices. I have a Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from Fuller Graduate School of Psychology; additionally, I completed my internship providing therapeutic interventions in a community mental health center and college counseling center, and postdoctoral residency through a VA Holistic Mental Health Clinic providing care for patients with PTSD and complex trauma.
Treatments provided: Trauma: Attachment-focused EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, STAIR, PTSD Coping Skills, Seeking Safety, & Moral Injury; Depression, Anxiety, & more: ACT, CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, DBT (Informed), Mindfulness (Informed) & Motivational Interviewing (Informed); Insomnia: CBT for Insomnia.
My name is Dr. Heather Jones and I am a Registered Psychological Associate who provides therapy for adult individuals through integrative and evidence-based practices. I have a Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from Fuller Graduate School of Psychology; additionally, I completed my internship providing therapeutic interventions in a community mental health center and college counseling center, and postdoctoral residency through a VA Holistic Mental Health Clinic providing care for patients with PTSD and complex trauma.
Sarah Mireles Therapy for OCD and Neurodivergence
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
We’ll utilize ERP/ DBT to tolerate stress and significantly reduce OCD, ADHD and anxiety.
Rumination and fear replaces life goals, connection and enjoyment. Every day feels like a struggle to move on from worry thoughts. Time loses meaning. You’re not able to concentrate on anything else. You hyper-focus on the past, or past decisions. You’re mind races and it cannot turn off. Life goals get further and further away. It becomes harder and harder to leave the house. You feel alone and helpless. The distance between you and your partner feels insurmountable. You feel powerless to save the relationship. The love is still there, but it's not the same. There is a way out of this endless loop.
We’ll utilize ERP/ DBT to tolerate stress and significantly reduce OCD, ADHD and anxiety.
Rumination and fear replaces life goals, connection and enjoyment. Every day feels like a struggle to move on from worry thoughts. Time loses meaning. You’re not able to concentrate on anything else. You hyper-focus on the past, or past decisions. You’re mind races and it cannot turn off. Life goals get further and further away. It becomes harder and harder to leave the house. You feel alone and helpless. The distance between you and your partner feels insurmountable. You feel powerless to save the relationship. The love is still there, but it's not the same. There is a way out of this endless loop.
My approach includes evidence-based treatment such as Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral ( DBT), Radically Open DBT, somatic, cognitive-processing, Internal Family Systems, and trauma-informed therapy.
I help people who struggle with compulsive, emotional, or binge eating or chronic dieting to find peace with their body, weight, food, and themselves. Preoccupation with not feeling "good enough" and perfectionism, trauma, and anxiety about life transitions and relationships can often be factors in disordered eating and body image. Getting in touch with your inner wisdom, your body's cues, and your needs are part of the journey to healing on an emotional, physical, and spiritual level.
My approach includes evidence-based treatment such as Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral ( DBT), Radically Open DBT, somatic, cognitive-processing, Internal Family Systems, and trauma-informed therapy.
I help people who struggle with compulsive, emotional, or binge eating or chronic dieting to find peace with their body, weight, food, and themselves. Preoccupation with not feeling "good enough" and perfectionism, trauma, and anxiety about life transitions and relationships can often be factors in disordered eating and body image. Getting in touch with your inner wisdom, your body's cues, and your needs are part of the journey to healing on an emotional, physical, and spiritual level.
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Stephanie Payne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
She draws from a variety of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, and strength-based therapy to help her clients gain insight, build resilience, and create positive change in their lives.
Stephanie is a skilled communicator and natural problem-solver. She specializes in assisting individuals and couples who feel stuck, overwhelmed, unhappy, or uncertain about next steps. She provides a stabilizing and grounding presence, helping clients gain clarity and identify a path forward. In her work with couples, Stephanie often addresses challenges such as communication breakdowns, fractured trust, unmet needs, misaligned values, and navigating periods of change, including ultimatums, family planning, career adjustments, and parenting.
She draws from a variety of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, and strength-based therapy to help her clients gain insight, build resilience, and create positive change in their lives.
Stephanie is a skilled communicator and natural problem-solver. She specializes in assisting individuals and couples who feel stuck, overwhelmed, unhappy, or uncertain about next steps. She provides a stabilizing and grounding presence, helping clients gain clarity and identify a path forward. In her work with couples, Stephanie often addresses challenges such as communication breakdowns, fractured trust, unmet needs, misaligned values, and navigating periods of change, including ultimatums, family planning, career adjustments, and parenting.
As a multi-cultural, bilingual (Spanish) licensed clinician, I provide Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and work with a broad range of adults and their families. I am a DBT-Marsha Linehan-trained clinician and adhere closely to the treatment model. I consider therapy to be a collaborative process and strive to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment, while at the same time, pushing clients toward change in order to achieve their life-worth-living goals. I take an active, problem-solving approach to therapy; that is, rather than just talking about changing behavior, we work to change behavior in and out of session.
As a multi-cultural, bilingual (Spanish) licensed clinician, I provide Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and work with a broad range of adults and their families. I am a DBT-Marsha Linehan-trained clinician and adhere closely to the treatment model. I consider therapy to be a collaborative process and strive to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment, while at the same time, pushing clients toward change in order to achieve their life-worth-living goals. I take an active, problem-solving approach to therapy; that is, rather than just talking about changing behavior, we work to change behavior in and out of session.
I have additional training in Gestalt Therapy, Stress Management, CBT/ DBT and EMDR.
I am interested in seeing anyone who needs help with major life transitions or who is in the midst of a life crisis. I also encourage people who are not in crisis but interested in improving the quality of their life and to enhance their overall well being. Besides being in private practice I have also worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I believe in using an eclectic approach, with a multitude of modalities, to help people, in a safe setting, clarify their issues, gain greater insight and assist them in finding their own solutions and coping skills. Most of my clients report feeling better in a short time.
I have additional training in Gestalt Therapy, Stress Management, CBT/ DBT and EMDR.
I am interested in seeing anyone who needs help with major life transitions or who is in the midst of a life crisis. I also encourage people who are not in crisis but interested in improving the quality of their life and to enhance their overall well being. Besides being in private practice I have also worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I believe in using an eclectic approach, with a multitude of modalities, to help people, in a safe setting, clarify their issues, gain greater insight and assist them in finding their own solutions and coping skills. Most of my clients report feeling better in a short time.
Nakisa is also trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, EFT, DBT, ACT, Breathwork, Somatic Havening and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
Nakisa is a licensed psychotherapist and clinical supervisor at Feya Health, utilizing eclectic and holistic approaches to support clients in engaging in meaningful self discovery via effective clinical models alongside Ketamine and Oxytocin Assisted Psychotherapy. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach, utilizing compassion and non-judgment to guide individuals in healing and developing a strong relationship with themselves, others and their environments. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach.
Nakisa is also trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, EFT, DBT, ACT, Breathwork, Somatic Havening and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
Nakisa is a licensed psychotherapist and clinical supervisor at Feya Health, utilizing eclectic and holistic approaches to support clients in engaging in meaningful self discovery via effective clinical models alongside Ketamine and Oxytocin Assisted Psychotherapy. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach, utilizing compassion and non-judgment to guide individuals in healing and developing a strong relationship with themselves, others and their environments. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach.
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy approaches and try to fit the approach to the client's needs.
We all have challenges as well as strengths in our lives. I support my clients as they work through life challenges , and mental health diagnosis such as ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I see teenagers and adults as well as couples in most cases virtually. In the context of a supportive relationship, I help clients deal with emotions that are causing distress and guide them in making meaningful life changes in their behaviors, thoughts and circumstances.
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy approaches and try to fit the approach to the client's needs.
We all have challenges as well as strengths in our lives. I support my clients as they work through life challenges , and mental health diagnosis such as ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I see teenagers and adults as well as couples in most cases virtually. In the context of a supportive relationship, I help clients deal with emotions that are causing distress and guide them in making meaningful life changes in their behaviors, thoughts and circumstances.
Hannah Schaler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I can provide CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and Trauma Resilience (TRM) interventions to support our work together.
Being a human these days is hard, and even more so when you get into complicated dynamics with your relationships, job, or family. Perhaps it's all feeling like too much? Or maybe you have a hunch that you can live a fuller life? Reaching out to a therapist does not mean that you are broken; it means that you are ready to evolve. With my background in art and extensive therapeutic training, I offer a dynamic healing experience that addresses old patterns in both mind and body. I can provide a supportive and creative space for you to explore yourself, practice relational skills, and grow into a life that you truly want to be living.
I can provide CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and Trauma Resilience (TRM) interventions to support our work together.
Being a human these days is hard, and even more so when you get into complicated dynamics with your relationships, job, or family. Perhaps it's all feeling like too much? Or maybe you have a hunch that you can live a fuller life? Reaching out to a therapist does not mean that you are broken; it means that you are ready to evolve. With my background in art and extensive therapeutic training, I offer a dynamic healing experience that addresses old patterns in both mind and body. I can provide a supportive and creative space for you to explore yourself, practice relational skills, and grow into a life that you truly want to be living.
Karen Clay Beck: Teens, Mid-Life, Couples
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
I tailor my treatment approach to harmonize well with my clients' specific needs, motivation, and treatment goals using ACT, DBT, mindfulness skills.
My dedication to my clients comes from a well deep with purpose. I enjoy working with clients in the age range of 30-55 who are experiencing burnout and may feel emotionally and physically exhausted due to prolonged stress, demanding responsibilities, or dissatisfaction in various aspects of their lives. Going through a midlife crisis due to life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss or trauma, you might be questioning life choices, and seeking meaning or change in your personal or professional spheres. These situations can benefit from self-reflection, professional support and guidance.
I tailor my treatment approach to harmonize well with my clients' specific needs, motivation, and treatment goals using ACT, DBT, mindfulness skills.
My dedication to my clients comes from a well deep with purpose. I enjoy working with clients in the age range of 30-55 who are experiencing burnout and may feel emotionally and physically exhausted due to prolonged stress, demanding responsibilities, or dissatisfaction in various aspects of their lives. Going through a midlife crisis due to life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss or trauma, you might be questioning life choices, and seeking meaning or change in your personal or professional spheres. These situations can benefit from self-reflection, professional support and guidance.
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist in California, New York and Virginia. With specialties in life stressors, teens, emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, executive coaching, and psychophysiology she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California, New York and Virginia!
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist in California, New York and Virginia. With specialties in life stressors, teens, emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, executive coaching, and psychophysiology she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California, New York and Virginia!
As a trauma-informed integrative therapist, I draw techniques from evidence-based practices: Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): exposure therapies, ACT, and DBT.
As a licensed clinical supervisor and psychologist with 13 years of experience, I have helped countless adults, adolescents, and families across many settings (hospitals, community centers, assessments, forensic). I currently work at UCLA. My clinical expertise is in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, and life transitions. Further, my background as a Chinese Malaysian – who has lived in different parts of the U.S. for almost two decades – has given me a unique perspective on the challenges that immigrants and people of color face. I am fluent in English, Mandarin Chinese, and Cantonese.
As a trauma-informed integrative therapist, I draw techniques from evidence-based practices: Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): exposure therapies, ACT, and DBT.
As a licensed clinical supervisor and psychologist with 13 years of experience, I have helped countless adults, adolescents, and families across many settings (hospitals, community centers, assessments, forensic). I currently work at UCLA. My clinical expertise is in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, and life transitions. Further, my background as a Chinese Malaysian – who has lived in different parts of the U.S. for almost two decades – has given me a unique perspective on the challenges that immigrants and people of color face. I am fluent in English, Mandarin Chinese, and Cantonese.
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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.