Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Stanford, CA

Photo of Emily Livermore, PsyD, Psychologist
Emily Livermore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Stanford, CA 94305
I specialize in evidenced based treatments for PTSD and BPD: Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Written Exposure Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
It is crucial to find a therapist that is a good fit, therefore, I like to take the first few sessions to get to know each other and decide if we want to work together. My expertise is working with people who have PTSD, Complex Trauma, and/or Borderline Personality Disorder. I use acceptance and exposure based principles to help you get in touch with your emotions, in the service of living a life that is aligned with your values. I will help you face your fears by taking action steps towards what is most important to you, reducing the hold that trauma has on your life.
I specialize in evidenced based treatments for PTSD and BPD: Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Written Exposure Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
It is crucial to find a therapist that is a good fit, therefore, I like to take the first few sessions to get to know each other and decide if we want to work together. My expertise is working with people who have PTSD, Complex Trauma, and/or Borderline Personality Disorder. I use acceptance and exposure based principles to help you get in touch with your emotions, in the service of living a life that is aligned with your values. I will help you face your fears by taking action steps towards what is most important to you, reducing the hold that trauma has on your life.
(650) 963-7958 View (650) 963-7958
Photo of Kayleigh Watters, PhD, Psychologist
Kayleigh Watters
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Stanford, CA 94305
I offer Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Written Exposure Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of PTSD, complex trauma, and traumatic invalidation. I provide evidence based treatment approaches that have been supported by research, while tailoring treatment to meet the unique needs of each client. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and I work with each client to clarify their goals to develop an individualized treatment plan.
I offer Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Written Exposure Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of PTSD, complex trauma, and traumatic invalidation. I provide evidence based treatment approaches that have been supported by research, while tailoring treatment to meet the unique needs of each client. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and I work with each client to clarify their goals to develop an individualized treatment plan.
(650) 686-5461 View (650) 686-5461
Photo of Alyse Clayman, LCSW, CPC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyse Clayman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPC, LICSW
Verified Verified
Stanford, CA 94305  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with tween/teenage and their parents as they deal with a range of challenges, such as: school/social stress, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, grief, and dealing with anti-Semitism. I believe that therapy can be enjoyable (most of the time), and I focus on developing a collaborative relationship toward a more flexible mindset, increased capacity to manage symptoms, and improved self-esteem.
I specialize in working with tween/teenage and their parents as they deal with a range of challenges, such as: school/social stress, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, grief, and dealing with anti-Semitism. I believe that therapy can be enjoyable (most of the time), and I focus on developing a collaborative relationship toward a more flexible mindset, increased capacity to manage symptoms, and improved self-esteem.
(415) 969-5707 View (415) 969-5707
Photo of Dr. Marlina Rose Selva, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Marlina Rose Selva
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305  (Online Only)
I work with foster/adopted children and their families, as well as individuals and couples seeking counseling. I help families work through difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, school adjustment, attachment, and family conflict. My passion for working with families dates back to my undergraduate training in psychology at UCLA. I have worked extensivley with children, adolescents, and parents on overcoming obstacles related to cognitive, social and emotional needs. Upon special request, I provide in-home therapy services in the Bay Area.
I work with foster/adopted children and their families, as well as individuals and couples seeking counseling. I help families work through difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, school adjustment, attachment, and family conflict. My passion for working with families dates back to my undergraduate training in psychology at UCLA. I have worked extensivley with children, adolescents, and parents on overcoming obstacles related to cognitive, social and emotional needs. Upon special request, I provide in-home therapy services in the Bay Area.
(650) 899-8509 View (650) 899-8509
Photo of Nicole Ridout, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Nicole Ridout
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychologist with training and experience in helping individuals work through a variety of challenges. I especially enjoy working with 20 and 30 somethings struggling with relationship issues, low self worth, anxiety, perfectionism, work stress and life transitions. I also love working with those experiencing prenatal and postpartum issues and received my certification through Postpartum Support International. My clinical training includes work at several university counseling centers, residential treatment facilities, and children's hospitals. I've held psychologist positions at Stanford University and UCSF.
I am a psychologist with training and experience in helping individuals work through a variety of challenges. I especially enjoy working with 20 and 30 somethings struggling with relationship issues, low self worth, anxiety, perfectionism, work stress and life transitions. I also love working with those experiencing prenatal and postpartum issues and received my certification through Postpartum Support International. My clinical training includes work at several university counseling centers, residential treatment facilities, and children's hospitals. I've held psychologist positions at Stanford University and UCSF.
(415) 969-3481 View (415) 969-3481
Photo of Joe Latuga, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joe Latuga
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305
I work with adults (individuals, families, couples, and relationship constellations) on ways to release the grip on coping skills that are no longer serving them, and explore sustainable and affirming perspectives about themselves and the people they care about. I believe that many of the ways we interact with the world are connected to the attachments we have to each other, and attachments/ruptures we experienced in our childhoods. Together, we can explore how these experiences manifest in your life today; and challenge self-limiting beliefs.
I work with adults (individuals, families, couples, and relationship constellations) on ways to release the grip on coping skills that are no longer serving them, and explore sustainable and affirming perspectives about themselves and the people they care about. I believe that many of the ways we interact with the world are connected to the attachments we have to each other, and attachments/ruptures we experienced in our childhoods. Together, we can explore how these experiences manifest in your life today; and challenge self-limiting beliefs.
(415) 843-8408 View (415) 843-8408
Photo of Sara Skoda, MHC
Sara Skoda
MHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305  (Online Only)
Seeking therapy takes courage, especially during times when we are not at our best, whether that be due to mental health struggles, feeling burned out, or issues impacting important areas of our lives. Through regular sessions, I do my best to provide support while navigating the parts of life that feel painful, confusing, and frustrating. Together, we can work to resolve challenges, build on strengths, and provide you with insight and coping skills to help resolve trauma that continues to show up in your everyday life.
Seeking therapy takes courage, especially during times when we are not at our best, whether that be due to mental health struggles, feeling burned out, or issues impacting important areas of our lives. Through regular sessions, I do my best to provide support while navigating the parts of life that feel painful, confusing, and frustrating. Together, we can work to resolve challenges, build on strengths, and provide you with insight and coping skills to help resolve trauma that continues to show up in your everyday life.
(929) 556-6198 View (929) 556-6198
Photo of Farhad Mofidi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Farhad Mofidi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305
Do you struggle with managing your anxiety around others? Do you always worry about doing something that you think is embarrassing or saying the wrong thing in front of others? Maybe you feel like you don’t belong or aren’t good enough. You might feel frustrated, down on yourself, or hopeless about why things aren’t getting better. Everyone is out enjoying their lives, but you’re stuck in the same place. You’re trying your best to connect with others, but something always just gets in the way. Is social anxiety or even past trauma keeping you isolated, disconnected, and stuck? Therapy can change things for you!
Do you struggle with managing your anxiety around others? Do you always worry about doing something that you think is embarrassing or saying the wrong thing in front of others? Maybe you feel like you don’t belong or aren’t good enough. You might feel frustrated, down on yourself, or hopeless about why things aren’t getting better. Everyone is out enjoying their lives, but you’re stuck in the same place. You’re trying your best to connect with others, but something always just gets in the way. Is social anxiety or even past trauma keeping you isolated, disconnected, and stuck? Therapy can change things for you!
(650) 600-1692 View (650) 600-1692
Photo of Kristopher Ian Mathis, PhD, Psychologist
Kristopher Ian Mathis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305  (Online Only)
In my practice, I work well with clients from a broad spectrum of backgrounds, experiences, needs, and goals for therapy. Generally, my clients are high achieving, accomplished people who are seeking to develop their skills for managing stress, increasing motivation, reducing anxiety, building confidence, healing from trauma, and relating to people in personal and professional settings more effectively. My clients typically want therapy that is empowering, practical, and solutions-focused; as they are hoping to enact changes in their daily lives that will help them identify and reach their goals.
In my practice, I work well with clients from a broad spectrum of backgrounds, experiences, needs, and goals for therapy. Generally, my clients are high achieving, accomplished people who are seeking to develop their skills for managing stress, increasing motivation, reducing anxiety, building confidence, healing from trauma, and relating to people in personal and professional settings more effectively. My clients typically want therapy that is empowering, practical, and solutions-focused; as they are hoping to enact changes in their daily lives that will help them identify and reach their goals.
(424) 587-0497 View (424) 587-0497
Photo of Dr. Z. Seda Sahin, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Z. Seda Sahin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stanford, CA 94305  (Online Only)
Reaching out for help can be scary but it's also very courageous. Congratulations on taking the first step. It would be my honor to work with you. In individual, couple, or family sessions, I work with my clients to create inner and outer peace using evidence-based modalities. I believe that the healing journey is about creating awareness of our already existing inner resources and adding more to our resource toolbox so we can live our best life. I often work with clients facing life transitions, conflict, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together we discuss how to increase positivity and find confidence in one’s own abilities.
Reaching out for help can be scary but it's also very courageous. Congratulations on taking the first step. It would be my honor to work with you. In individual, couple, or family sessions, I work with my clients to create inner and outer peace using evidence-based modalities. I believe that the healing journey is about creating awareness of our already existing inner resources and adding more to our resource toolbox so we can live our best life. I often work with clients facing life transitions, conflict, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together we discuss how to increase positivity and find confidence in one’s own abilities.
(650) 374-0292 View (650) 374-0292

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa O'Donnell, PsyD, Psychologist
Melissa O'Donnell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
I incorporate empirically-supported practices such as ACT, DBT, CBT and mindfulness interventions.
The decision to enter therapy can be a difficult one. For many, recent and/or previous stressors have begun to feel insurmountable, and seem to be getting in the way of living a full, meaningful life. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and accepting atmosphere in order to truly understand each individual's lived-experience. I also work together with my clients, flexibly tailoring evidence-based interventions to best meet their unique needs and goals. In doing so, I help clients to develop greater awareness of their strengths, build resiliency, and learn new strategies for overcoming emotional suffering.
I incorporate empirically-supported practices such as ACT, DBT, CBT and mindfulness interventions.
The decision to enter therapy can be a difficult one. For many, recent and/or previous stressors have begun to feel insurmountable, and seem to be getting in the way of living a full, meaningful life. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and accepting atmosphere in order to truly understand each individual's lived-experience. I also work together with my clients, flexibly tailoring evidence-based interventions to best meet their unique needs and goals. In doing so, I help clients to develop greater awareness of their strengths, build resiliency, and learn new strategies for overcoming emotional suffering.
(628) 214-7502 View (628) 214-7502
Photo of Michele Koenes, LMSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Koenes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, JD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94305  (Online Only)
I use cutting edge interventions like CBT, ACT, DBT -just to name a few.
Do you feel anxious & stressed? Overwhelmed by daily life? Have you ever thought-is this all there is? When you are feeling stuck, it can be hard to isolate what is causing it. You want to feel relief - you want to feel happy. Together we can focus in on the cause and collaborate to find solutions that will work for you. I am here to accompany you on your journey; to provide education, tools, and support to make life’s challenges a little less challenging. I don’t just sit back, I am actively involved in your growth, your success. My focus is to provide you with relief as quickly as possible. Individualized intervention that works!
I use cutting edge interventions like CBT, ACT, DBT -just to name a few.
Do you feel anxious & stressed? Overwhelmed by daily life? Have you ever thought-is this all there is? When you are feeling stuck, it can be hard to isolate what is causing it. You want to feel relief - you want to feel happy. Together we can focus in on the cause and collaborate to find solutions that will work for you. I am here to accompany you on your journey; to provide education, tools, and support to make life’s challenges a little less challenging. I don’t just sit back, I am actively involved in your growth, your success. My focus is to provide you with relief as quickly as possible. Individualized intervention that works!
(616) 439-6145 View (616) 439-6145
Photo of Sonia Aldape, LCSW, CA91224, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonia Aldape
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CA91224
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I have specialty trainings in EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Attachment, Parts Work, Crucible, PACT, Somatic, Sex therapy and more.
Hi and welcome! I am a relationship, trauma, neurodiversity and culture informed therapist. If you feel that you are, are going through, have seen or lived through "too much," I offer you professional and compassionate support honoring your unique experiences, recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, speak your truth and trust someone new. I am passionate about helping you not just cope in life but find your way to lasting peace, liberation and healing through the power of your innate wisdom and our collaborative alliance. It would be a great honor to be considered as your therapist and a privilege to join you on your path.
I have specialty trainings in EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Attachment, Parts Work, Crucible, PACT, Somatic, Sex therapy and more.
Hi and welcome! I am a relationship, trauma, neurodiversity and culture informed therapist. If you feel that you are, are going through, have seen or lived through "too much," I offer you professional and compassionate support honoring your unique experiences, recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, speak your truth and trust someone new. I am passionate about helping you not just cope in life but find your way to lasting peace, liberation and healing through the power of your innate wisdom and our collaborative alliance. It would be a great honor to be considered as your therapist and a privilege to join you on your path.
(650) 910-1486 View (650) 910-1486
Photo of Pantea Bozorgfar, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pantea Bozorgfar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94305
I specialize in client-centered and process-oriented therapies, Mindfulness, DBT skills, and EMDR.
Welcome! If you're grappling with challenges stemming from past trauma or current situations—experiencing overwhelming sadness and worry, struggling to express your feelings, lacking joy and peace in your life, and noticing impacts on your work and relationships—I'm here to support you! If you're feeling powerless or questioning your worth, know that you're not alone. Let's work together to navigate through these difficulties.
I specialize in client-centered and process-oriented therapies, Mindfulness, DBT skills, and EMDR.
Welcome! If you're grappling with challenges stemming from past trauma or current situations—experiencing overwhelming sadness and worry, struggling to express your feelings, lacking joy and peace in your life, and noticing impacts on your work and relationships—I'm here to support you! If you're feeling powerless or questioning your worth, know that you're not alone. Let's work together to navigate through these difficulties.
(408) 755-9671 View (408) 755-9671
Photo of Rik Rusovick, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rik Rusovick
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94305  (Online Only)
Using cognitive, dialectical, self-compassion, and solution focused approaches we'll work to gain perspective, stability, and forward motion on goals and relationships.
Wrestling depression, anxiety, relationship problems, work stress or alcohol and drugs? Do others see you're at odds with yourself or your circumstances? Are inner conflict, harsh self-criticism, rigid thinking, and refusal to accept yourself blocking a life you want? Therapy doesn't need to last years nor require endless focus on the past. You can decide what to work on and have a say in the direction of that work. There are solutions for what's happening, and sometimes just seeing and keeping focused on these brings change without attention to much else. At other times it's more complicated. Give yourself room to explore.
Using cognitive, dialectical, self-compassion, and solution focused approaches we'll work to gain perspective, stability, and forward motion on goals and relationships.
Wrestling depression, anxiety, relationship problems, work stress or alcohol and drugs? Do others see you're at odds with yourself or your circumstances? Are inner conflict, harsh self-criticism, rigid thinking, and refusal to accept yourself blocking a life you want? Therapy doesn't need to last years nor require endless focus on the past. You can decide what to work on and have a say in the direction of that work. There are solutions for what's happening, and sometimes just seeing and keeping focused on these brings change without attention to much else. At other times it's more complicated. Give yourself room to explore.
(415) 323-0498 View (415) 323-0498
Photo of Helen Kim, PhD, Psychologist
Helen Kim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing virtual therapy that is multiculturally accessible and trauma-informed. I see individual adults across the age range and for a variety of issues in California. Therapy with me will integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and any other wisdom lineages that speak to you.
I specialize in providing virtual therapy that is multiculturally accessible and trauma-informed. I see individual adults across the age range and for a variety of issues in California. Therapy with me will integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and any other wisdom lineages that speak to you.
(650) 628-8895 View (650) 628-8895
Photo of Jennifer Y Nam, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Y Nam
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I am a Stanford University-trained, as well as DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician, clinical psychologist with specialized training in depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship challenges, issues surrounding grief, and difficulties related to past trauma.
You have solid skills and tools to manage symptoms and minimize the impact your mood cycles and anxiety have on your work and your relationships. You are no longer defined by what has happened to you but look forward to what is ahead of you. Your values, choices, and actions are in harmony. Most importantly, when you encounter obstacles or new challenges, you will be certain of how to overcome them with confidence and clarity.
I am a Stanford University-trained, as well as DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician, clinical psychologist with specialized training in depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship challenges, issues surrounding grief, and difficulties related to past trauma.
You have solid skills and tools to manage symptoms and minimize the impact your mood cycles and anxiety have on your work and your relationships. You are no longer defined by what has happened to you but look forward to what is ahead of you. Your values, choices, and actions are in harmony. Most importantly, when you encounter obstacles or new challenges, you will be certain of how to overcome them with confidence and clarity.
(650) 300-4955 View (650) 300-4955
Photo of Dr. Erica Suzanne Pool - Peninsula Behavioral Health, PsyD, Psychologist
Peninsula Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
Working together, we will co-create markers of success on the path towards your therapeutic goals, anchoring our work both in the evidence base and the stories and realities of each of our lived experiences. I am trained in modern trauma-informed and culturally-affirming behavioral therapies, including ACT, CBT, DBT, MBSR, and schema-based work.
Working together, we will co-create markers of success on the path towards your therapeutic goals, anchoring our work both in the evidence base and the stories and realities of each of our lived experiences. I am trained in modern trauma-informed and culturally-affirming behavioral therapies, including ACT, CBT, DBT, MBSR, and schema-based work.
(650) 770-1914 View (650) 770-1914
Photo of Joshua Zeier, PhD, Psychologist
Joshua Zeier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
As part of this process, my practice is based on an integrative approach that utilizes tools for conceptualization and treatment derived from Motivational Enhancement Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
By nature, people thrive with a sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. Oftentimes, a lack of confidence, difficult circumstances, trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use contribute to suffering and hold people back from living a life that feels fulfilling. I specialize in developing a strong therapeutic relationship with clients, exploring values, goals, and identity, and working collaboratively to develop an understanding of what the client wants their life to be about, the barriers that they are experiencing in getting there, and to provide tools and skills to move through these challenges.
As part of this process, my practice is based on an integrative approach that utilizes tools for conceptualization and treatment derived from Motivational Enhancement Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
By nature, people thrive with a sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. Oftentimes, a lack of confidence, difficult circumstances, trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use contribute to suffering and hold people back from living a life that feels fulfilling. I specialize in developing a strong therapeutic relationship with clients, exploring values, goals, and identity, and working collaboratively to develop an understanding of what the client wants their life to be about, the barriers that they are experiencing in getting there, and to provide tools and skills to move through these challenges.
(650) 770-8533 View (650) 770-8533
Photo of Christy F Telch, PhD, Psychologist
Christy F Telch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I typically integrate methods from a variety of research-supported therapies including cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Life's problems can feel much more difficult when faced alone. Perhaps you are struggling with a painful loss, are overwhelmed by fear, anger, loneliness or depression. You may be stuck in patterns of negative, self-critical thinking and inner pressure may cause you to feel tense and exhausted. You may feel shame and hopelessness and your means of coping such as avoidance, procrastination, withdrawal or overeating adds to your distress. I help people struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, phobias, eating issues, and relationship distress to understand these problems and develop skills to feel better and create happier lives.
I typically integrate methods from a variety of research-supported therapies including cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Life's problems can feel much more difficult when faced alone. Perhaps you are struggling with a painful loss, are overwhelmed by fear, anger, loneliness or depression. You may be stuck in patterns of negative, self-critical thinking and inner pressure may cause you to feel tense and exhausted. You may feel shame and hopelessness and your means of coping such as avoidance, procrastination, withdrawal or overeating adds to your distress. I help people struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, phobias, eating issues, and relationship distress to understand these problems and develop skills to feel better and create happier lives.
(650) 323-1637 View (650) 323-1637

See more therapy options for Stanford

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.