Photo of Barbara Pannell, MS, LPC, Counselor
Barbara Pannell
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80924  (Online Only)
I use a DBT and trauma-focused approach to reduce symptoms and promote healing.
Feeling alone, confused, scared? Sometimes life's struggles can get us down, but there is hope and freedom from past and present stresses. I want to help support you in making positive change to heal past and present challenges. I specialize in working with people of all ages, diversities, and circumstances. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, marital issues, sexuality, transgender, trauma (PTSD), divorce, behavioral issues, loss (grief), cultural identity, postpartum, or parenting, I can help you find peace. I use an eceltic approach to meet each client's needs. I look forward to helping you find peace.
I use a DBT and trauma-focused approach to reduce symptoms and promote healing.
Feeling alone, confused, scared? Sometimes life's struggles can get us down, but there is hope and freedom from past and present stresses. I want to help support you in making positive change to heal past and present challenges. I specialize in working with people of all ages, diversities, and circumstances. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, marital issues, sexuality, transgender, trauma (PTSD), divorce, behavioral issues, loss (grief), cultural identity, postpartum, or parenting, I can help you find peace. I use an eceltic approach to meet each client's needs. I look forward to helping you find peace.
(719) 259-6146 View (719) 259-6146
Photo of Katie Levisay, PhD, Psychologist
Katie Levisay
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in several evidence-based modalities including Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapies (CBT, DBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in southeast Denver. I work with adults struggling with a variety of mental health concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and stress related to parenting, career, school, adjustment concerns, and overall self-fulfillment. No matter what the presenting problem, my goals are to tailor treatment to each individual and to provide powerful, straightforward strategies to be used long after therapy has ended. My therapeutic style is collaborative, straightforward, and action-oriented.
I am trained in several evidence-based modalities including Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapies (CBT, DBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in southeast Denver. I work with adults struggling with a variety of mental health concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and stress related to parenting, career, school, adjustment concerns, and overall self-fulfillment. No matter what the presenting problem, my goals are to tailor treatment to each individual and to provide powerful, straightforward strategies to be used long after therapy has ended. My therapeutic style is collaborative, straightforward, and action-oriented.
(720) 924-4942 View (720) 924-4942
Photo of Bernadette Pivarunas - Radical Healing, Licensed Professional Counselor
Radical Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526
We integrate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and mindfulness, interpersonal psychotherapy, EMDR, and novel, body-based (dance movement, IFS, nature based adventure therapy, PACT, psychedelic-assisted, and sensorimotor) approaches to support you!.
Radical Healing - body, mind, and spirit. It is possible, even when life and your experiences feel insurmountable. You don’t have to do this alone. You deserve to feel safe, whole, and lovable. We highly value using state of the art, empirically-based mental health services and care for individuals, couples, and families. We welcome you, affirm you, and celebrate you.
We integrate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and mindfulness, interpersonal psychotherapy, EMDR, and novel, body-based (dance movement, IFS, nature based adventure therapy, PACT, psychedelic-assisted, and sensorimotor) approaches to support you!.
Radical Healing - body, mind, and spirit. It is possible, even when life and your experiences feel insurmountable. You don’t have to do this alone. You deserve to feel safe, whole, and lovable. We highly value using state of the art, empirically-based mental health services and care for individuals, couples, and families. We welcome you, affirm you, and celebrate you.
(970) 999-1668 View (970) 999-1668
Photo of Lisa Griffiths - Center for Valued Living, PLLC, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC, Psychologist
Center for Valued Living, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
(720) 262-5859 View (720) 262-5859
Photo of Alyssa Oland, PhD, Psychologist
Alyssa Oland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80220
I primarily use a strengths-based patient-centered approach, integrating empirically supported interventions such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, behavior management, motivational interviewing, exposure response prevention, narrative therapy, and functional family therapy.
I have 19 yrs experience treating a range of conditions and concerns, including difficulty coping with medical conditions, adherence issues with medical recommendations, difficulty adjusting to medical and/or psychiatric diagnoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief and loss, behavioral challenges in children, ADHD, parenting challenges and stress, co-parenting issues, transitioning from youth to adulthood, academic and job stress, life stress, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, marital issues, and trauma. I also have experience conducting psychological testing for diagnostic clarification and treatment planning.
I primarily use a strengths-based patient-centered approach, integrating empirically supported interventions such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, behavior management, motivational interviewing, exposure response prevention, narrative therapy, and functional family therapy.
I have 19 yrs experience treating a range of conditions and concerns, including difficulty coping with medical conditions, adherence issues with medical recommendations, difficulty adjusting to medical and/or psychiatric diagnoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief and loss, behavioral challenges in children, ADHD, parenting challenges and stress, co-parenting issues, transitioning from youth to adulthood, academic and job stress, life stress, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, marital issues, and trauma. I also have experience conducting psychological testing for diagnostic clarification and treatment planning.
(720) 702-1693 x711 View (720) 702-1693 x711
Photo of René White, MA, LPC, CAClll, Licensed Professional Counselor
René White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAClll
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
CBT/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focus Therapy, EMDR/Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Imago Relationship Therapy, DBT/Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Body/Mind Centering, Feldenkrais Awareness, Mindfulness and Awareness Practice, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in Individual and Couples Therapies. I maintain a private practice in Boulder, Colorado and am a graduate of Naropa University. With over 21yrs of experience the therapeutic approach I use is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. As needed, I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
CBT/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focus Therapy, EMDR/Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Imago Relationship Therapy, DBT/Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Body/Mind Centering, Feldenkrais Awareness, Mindfulness and Awareness Practice, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in Individual and Couples Therapies. I maintain a private practice in Boulder, Colorado and am a graduate of Naropa University. With over 21yrs of experience the therapeutic approach I use is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. As needed, I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
(720) 513-2643 View (720) 513-2643
1st Priority Institute for Better Living
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216
We know finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. We hope to make that easier. We pride ourselves on the ability to work with each person in a supportive and encouraging setting. We strongly believe in each persons potential and ability to make changes and create happiness. Our clinicians are highly trained in a wide array of specialties. At 1st Priority Institute for Better Living the atmosphere is cheerful and hopeful; optimistic for a better tomorrow. We encourage you to dig deep and call today.
We know finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. We hope to make that easier. We pride ourselves on the ability to work with each person in a supportive and encouraging setting. We strongly believe in each persons potential and ability to make changes and create happiness. Our clinicians are highly trained in a wide array of specialties. At 1st Priority Institute for Better Living the atmosphere is cheerful and hopeful; optimistic for a better tomorrow. We encourage you to dig deep and call today.
(720) 740-8949 View (720) 740-8949
Photo of Jocelyn Petrella, PhD, Psychologist
Jocelyn Petrella
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience providing empirically-supported treatments to children, adolescents, couples, and families. I am passionate about the work I do and love seeing my clients reach their full potential. In my practice, I offer a warm, supportive, and fun environment, where we work together to meet your goals.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience providing empirically-supported treatments to children, adolescents, couples, and families. I am passionate about the work I do and love seeing my clients reach their full potential. In my practice, I offer a warm, supportive, and fun environment, where we work together to meet your goals.
(720) 903-4740 View (720) 903-4740
Photo of Erika DeLeon (Referral Coordinator) - Lifelong, Inc., LCSW , CTRS, DVOMB, CAC III, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifelong, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CTRS, DVOMB, CAC III, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80235
Lifelong specializes in mental health and therapeutic services to clients with disabilities of all ages. An ideal client will be someone who desires change, but has not had success with previous approaches or providers. Someone who is ready to do the work and is motivated to do things differently than before. A person, couple, or family who is open to understanding how they learn best and willing to be adaptive and creative along with us during the therapy process. Lifelong has multiple therapists to choose from with a diverse set of specialties and expertise. Our services are listed on our website for your review.
Lifelong specializes in mental health and therapeutic services to clients with disabilities of all ages. An ideal client will be someone who desires change, but has not had success with previous approaches or providers. Someone who is ready to do the work and is motivated to do things differently than before. A person, couple, or family who is open to understanding how they learn best and willing to be adaptive and creative along with us during the therapy process. Lifelong has multiple therapists to choose from with a diverse set of specialties and expertise. Our services are listed on our website for your review.
(833) 661-0813 View (833) 661-0813
Photo of Joel Chabrier, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joel Chabrier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
I work especially with people who struggle with their intimate and social relationships, who suffer from anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-harm, insomnia, chronic pain, or chronic illness, or with those who need more support, more positivity, help starting a career, or a better process of coping in their life due to a stressful moment or transition. I see clients of all ages, as well as couples and families.
I work especially with people who struggle with their intimate and social relationships, who suffer from anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-harm, insomnia, chronic pain, or chronic illness, or with those who need more support, more positivity, help starting a career, or a better process of coping in their life due to a stressful moment or transition. I see clients of all ages, as well as couples and families.
(480) 571-9168 View (480) 571-9168
Photo of Dr. Meshkin Amiri-Rad, Psychologist
Dr. Meshkin Amiri-Rad
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
Do you want to change your situation, improve your decision making process, and maintain a healthy happy life and you believe you do not have the strengths, supports, or tools to bring changes into your life? Good news; with the right help, it is possible. I am a Clinical Psychologist oriented to Eastern Psychology with existential based lens, I listen to everything you say and I focus on your strengths that will lead me to help you to bring changes you desire to see in your life. I practice holistically and offer a comprehensive service in that I incorporate possible aspects influencing your well-being into your treatment.
Do you want to change your situation, improve your decision making process, and maintain a healthy happy life and you believe you do not have the strengths, supports, or tools to bring changes into your life? Good news; with the right help, it is possible. I am a Clinical Psychologist oriented to Eastern Psychology with existential based lens, I listen to everything you say and I focus on your strengths that will lead me to help you to bring changes you desire to see in your life. I practice holistically and offer a comprehensive service in that I incorporate possible aspects influencing your well-being into your treatment.
(720) 809-7982 View (720) 809-7982
Photo of Emily Walter, PsyD, Psychologist
Emily Walter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I love this work and feel passionately about finding clients the right fit. I know how powerful the therapeutic relationship can be and hope to help you find that perfect formula, whether with me or with others. I have helped a wide variety of clients, from those struggling with major mental illness to those who are hoping to make small changes to overall improve their quality of life. I am particularly successful at providing warm, affirming support, no matter your phase of life. If you feel called to add something to your life, whether it is mindfulness, calm, gratitude, or making major changes, I am honored to be considered.
I love this work and feel passionately about finding clients the right fit. I know how powerful the therapeutic relationship can be and hope to help you find that perfect formula, whether with me or with others. I have helped a wide variety of clients, from those struggling with major mental illness to those who are hoping to make small changes to overall improve their quality of life. I am particularly successful at providing warm, affirming support, no matter your phase of life. If you feel called to add something to your life, whether it is mindfulness, calm, gratitude, or making major changes, I am honored to be considered.
(720) 443-0406 View (720) 443-0406
Photo of Nicole Harrison, LMFT, LAC, RPT, AAMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Harrison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAC, RPT, AAMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014  (Online Only)
Supervision available. I offer an Afrocentric view of psychotherapy coupled with honesty, humor, and compassion. I believe in the potential to coexist with the events of the past while fueling the future. Bruised Not Broken Therapy was born from the lack of Afrocentric-based psychotherapy that allowed people of color to embrace their life journey through the context of color. HIV, substance abuse, mental health, and the denial of the everyday experience of being a person of color continue to plague communities of color, as we still have yet to discuss these experiences.
Supervision available. I offer an Afrocentric view of psychotherapy coupled with honesty, humor, and compassion. I believe in the potential to coexist with the events of the past while fueling the future. Bruised Not Broken Therapy was born from the lack of Afrocentric-based psychotherapy that allowed people of color to embrace their life journey through the context of color. HIV, substance abuse, mental health, and the denial of the everyday experience of being a person of color continue to plague communities of color, as we still have yet to discuss these experiences.
(720) 863-6730 View (720) 863-6730
Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80134
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 562-1489 View (303) 562-1489
Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 747-4067 View (303) 747-4067
Photo of Nels Lopez Wechgelaer, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Nels Lopez Wechgelaer
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
I have learned the importance of blending evidence-based care with a unique individualized approach tailored to the needs and desires of the individual; therefore, I practice a multi-modal approach that mixes neuroscience and psychology. I have served underprivileged communities, worked with survivors and perpetrators of sexual and gender violence and have specialized training working with addictions, and promoting mind-body wellness.
I have learned the importance of blending evidence-based care with a unique individualized approach tailored to the needs and desires of the individual; therefore, I practice a multi-modal approach that mixes neuroscience and psychology. I have served underprivileged communities, worked with survivors and perpetrators of sexual and gender violence and have specialized training working with addictions, and promoting mind-body wellness.
(719) 215-9952 View (719) 215-9952
Photo of Colleen Todd, MA, LPC, CAC, III, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen Todd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAC, III
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, CO 80027
Do you struggle with motivation, decision-making, shame/guilt or direction? Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious? Do you struggle with substance abuse? Are you going through transition and struggling to find your own genuine direction? Are you nervous to ask for help? Are you concerned therapy won't be effective? Beginning treatment is a big decision and finding an effective and compassionate therapist that can ease your transition into therapy is very important. I have a warm, genuine and direct approach and believe you will find our work together will be deeply effective and the results positive and lasting.
Do you struggle with motivation, decision-making, shame/guilt or direction? Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious? Do you struggle with substance abuse? Are you going through transition and struggling to find your own genuine direction? Are you nervous to ask for help? Are you concerned therapy won't be effective? Beginning treatment is a big decision and finding an effective and compassionate therapist that can ease your transition into therapy is very important. I have a warm, genuine and direct approach and believe you will find our work together will be deeply effective and the results positive and lasting.
(720) 358-0869 View (720) 358-0869
Photo of Jana Toledo, LPC, LAC, NCC
Jana Toledo
Licensed Addiction Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80228
It is important to find the right therapist that you can connect with and establish a trusting relationship. I believe that when people come to therapy, they allow themselves opportunities for self-exploration and growth. It is my goal to create a safe space where you can make positive changes to live a more fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Addiction Treatment Therapist who has been practicing for over 6 years.
It is important to find the right therapist that you can connect with and establish a trusting relationship. I believe that when people come to therapy, they allow themselves opportunities for self-exploration and growth. It is my goal to create a safe space where you can make positive changes to live a more fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Addiction Treatment Therapist who has been practicing for over 6 years.
(720) 649-4997 View (720) 649-4997
Photo of August Alvarado, PhD, LP, NCSP, Psychologist
August Alvarado
Psychologist, PhD, LP, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Not accepting new clients
“I hate school. I have no friends. My parents don’t get me. I’m always in trouble. I can’t do anything right. Life just sucks.” Every morning you put on a mask just to get through your day. No one understands what you are going through, and you feel alone in the world. Maybe you can’t remember the last time you truly felt happy or yourself. Or, something bad happened, and your memories continue to hold you captive. You want to feel better, but you’re scared to let someone into the dark places. Parents, you see your child’s pain and all you want for them is to be happy. You want your care-free kid back.
“I hate school. I have no friends. My parents don’t get me. I’m always in trouble. I can’t do anything right. Life just sucks.” Every morning you put on a mask just to get through your day. No one understands what you are going through, and you feel alone in the world. Maybe you can’t remember the last time you truly felt happy or yourself. Or, something bad happened, and your memories continue to hold you captive. You want to feel better, but you’re scared to let someone into the dark places. Parents, you see your child’s pain and all you want for them is to be happy. You want your care-free kid back.
(970) 444-1040 View (970) 444-1040
Photo of Amy Hackmeier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Hackmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301
Hey, my name is Amy and I've been a trauma therapist for over 15 years, and have been helping individuals/adolescents/couples/families/parents for over 25 years. I also conduct diagnostic autism evaluations. I have a wide range of specialties and I will meet you wherever you are. "I will always follow your lead." If you prefer to just chat casually or for me to name your negative patterns directly - I'm in! Life can be stressful so let me help. Our minds are a powerful tool. Awareness is KEY. I love the human mind and promise to be sincere and genuine in my care throughout our relationship.
Hey, my name is Amy and I've been a trauma therapist for over 15 years, and have been helping individuals/adolescents/couples/families/parents for over 25 years. I also conduct diagnostic autism evaluations. I have a wide range of specialties and I will meet you wherever you are. "I will always follow your lead." If you prefer to just chat casually or for me to name your negative patterns directly - I'm in! Life can be stressful so let me help. Our minds are a powerful tool. Awareness is KEY. I love the human mind and promise to be sincere and genuine in my care throughout our relationship.
(970) 238-2935 View (970) 238-2935
1
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.