Photo of Deborah S Hulien, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah S Hulien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Lebanon, CT 06249
Deborah S. Hulien is a CT. State Licensed Professional Counselor in Hebron, CT. Her career spans 25+ years, guiding adults, adolescents and individuals , single parents, and couples who struggle with the emotions of life's challenges. Additionally, she provides information/education for individuals and parents of Autistic children to bridge communication gaps. Furthermore, adults who seek divorce will learn that the process is complicated and emotionally disruptive. An experienced therapist can help families achieve a peaceful and successful resolution to this challenging process.
Deborah S. Hulien is a CT. State Licensed Professional Counselor in Hebron, CT. Her career spans 25+ years, guiding adults, adolescents and individuals , single parents, and couples who struggle with the emotions of life's challenges. Additionally, she provides information/education for individuals and parents of Autistic children to bridge communication gaps. Furthermore, adults who seek divorce will learn that the process is complicated and emotionally disruptive. An experienced therapist can help families achieve a peaceful and successful resolution to this challenging process.
(860) 808-9177 View (860) 808-9177

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael Kromidas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Kromidas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360  (Online Only)
My focus is strength based, person centered, CBT, and DBT, specializing in trauma treatment.
Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, conflict, affect everyone regardless of their background or identity. I am a LCSW with over 18 plus years of professional experience, working with individuals, couples, and families, impacted by life’s challenges. While we are all doing the best we can, there is healing and growth, that sometimes requires a partner in this process. My practice is open to people ages 18 plus years, for individual, and couples. I am currently accepting Husky, self-pay, and out-of-network referrals.
My focus is strength based, person centered, CBT, and DBT, specializing in trauma treatment.
Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, conflict, affect everyone regardless of their background or identity. I am a LCSW with over 18 plus years of professional experience, working with individuals, couples, and families, impacted by life’s challenges. While we are all doing the best we can, there is healing and growth, that sometimes requires a partner in this process. My practice is open to people ages 18 plus years, for individual, and couples. I am currently accepting Husky, self-pay, and out-of-network referrals.
(860) 300-3597 View (860) 300-3597
Photo of Penny Tavar, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penny Tavar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities, which include CBT, DBT, EFT, EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
As the founder and clinical director of Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, I am here to provide you with the support you deserve. We have a talented and compassionate team of clinical psychotherapists that have worked extensively with individuals, couples and families. The majority of individuals we help are working on managing anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss. Meridian Psychotherapy Associates strives to provide a compassionate, safe and judgement-free space to talk and heal. Whether it is relationship difficulty or the stressors of day to day life, your lived experience should and will be heard.
I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities, which include CBT, DBT, EFT, EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
As the founder and clinical director of Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, I am here to provide you with the support you deserve. We have a talented and compassionate team of clinical psychotherapists that have worked extensively with individuals, couples and families. The majority of individuals we help are working on managing anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss. Meridian Psychotherapy Associates strives to provide a compassionate, safe and judgement-free space to talk and heal. Whether it is relationship difficulty or the stressors of day to day life, your lived experience should and will be heard.
(203) 988-6900 View (203) 988-6900
Photo of Deborah Manzano, Psy D, Psychologist
Deborah Manzano
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hebron, CT 06248  (Online Only)
I have been trained in different evidence-based treatment modalities such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), DBT, and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
An ideal client for my practice will be someone older than 30 y/o who is dealing with anxiety, depression and any trauma related issues (mistrust, PTSD, somatic complaints, nightmares, sexual dysfunction, low self-esteem just to mention a few). Potential clients should be committed to change as they have realized that avoidance has not gotten them anywhere. This person values the therapeutic relationship, is looking for someone that not only listen but also and most importantly, helps them to overcome their problems in a collaborative effort. Recognizing the importance of the mind-body connection in the healing process is a plus.
I have been trained in different evidence-based treatment modalities such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), DBT, and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
An ideal client for my practice will be someone older than 30 y/o who is dealing with anxiety, depression and any trauma related issues (mistrust, PTSD, somatic complaints, nightmares, sexual dysfunction, low self-esteem just to mention a few). Potential clients should be committed to change as they have realized that avoidance has not gotten them anywhere. This person values the therapeutic relationship, is looking for someone that not only listen but also and most importantly, helps them to overcome their problems in a collaborative effort. Recognizing the importance of the mind-body connection in the healing process is a plus.
(860) 815-8360 View (860) 815-8360
Photo of Kirsten Burdick, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kirsten Burdick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colchester, CT 06415
Waitlist for new clients
You deserve to be happy. You deserve to have fulfilling and authentic relationships. Seeking therapy is the first step to healing so you can live your life to the fullest. And I thank you for considering me to be a part of your journey. So many factors in life can lead us to feeling unfulfilled in our lives and/or our relationships. Life transitions, relational challenges, low self esteem, anxiety, depression, work stress, traumatic experiences, multi generational cycles and not to mention the inevitable curve balls life throws at us. These are just a few of the many factors that impact every single one of us.
You deserve to be happy. You deserve to have fulfilling and authentic relationships. Seeking therapy is the first step to healing so you can live your life to the fullest. And I thank you for considering me to be a part of your journey. So many factors in life can lead us to feeling unfulfilled in our lives and/or our relationships. Life transitions, relational challenges, low self esteem, anxiety, depression, work stress, traumatic experiences, multi generational cycles and not to mention the inevitable curve balls life throws at us. These are just a few of the many factors that impact every single one of us.
(860) 362-2593 View (860) 362-2593
Photo of Mara DuToit, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mara DuToit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360  (Online Only)
Mara's philosophy is all about unleashing your full potential! With the right tools in hand, she believes everyone can achieve anything they set their minds to… They just need to acquire the skills to do so! Together we will identify your emotional strengths & needs. You can expect relief by the conclusion of our first session, as you will not leave without a set of tangible coping mechanisms & supports that you can utilize immediately.
Mara's philosophy is all about unleashing your full potential! With the right tools in hand, she believes everyone can achieve anything they set their minds to… They just need to acquire the skills to do so! Together we will identify your emotional strengths & needs. You can expect relief by the conclusion of our first session, as you will not leave without a set of tangible coping mechanisms & supports that you can utilize immediately.
(203) 383-0275 View (203) 383-0275
Photo of Kim Lynn Abram, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Lynn Abram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozrah, CT 06334
Not accepting new clients
*currently not accepting new clients* Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling a lack of control, depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, misunderstood, or incapable of actively engaging with your environment? Therapy should assist you in regaining a sense of control and allow you to develop the skills to reengage with your environment in a positive and hopeful manner. My goal is to provide a safe space to process your thoughts and learn effective skills to work through the memories and images you may experience on a daily basis.
*currently not accepting new clients* Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling a lack of control, depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, misunderstood, or incapable of actively engaging with your environment? Therapy should assist you in regaining a sense of control and allow you to develop the skills to reengage with your environment in a positive and hopeful manner. My goal is to provide a safe space to process your thoughts and learn effective skills to work through the memories and images you may experience on a daily basis.
(860) 492-0503 View (860) 492-0503
Photo of Karin Griffin, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Karin Griffin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hebron, CT 06248
Not accepting new clients
Hi I am Karin, a Licensed Master Social Worker and I believe in a holistic strengths-based approach to help children, adolescents and adults navigate their unique journeys with both sensitivity and compassion. With over 25 years of experience, I have worked with youth and adults in various settings including residential, private special education and public-school environments.
Hi I am Karin, a Licensed Master Social Worker and I believe in a holistic strengths-based approach to help children, adolescents and adults navigate their unique journeys with both sensitivity and compassion. With over 25 years of experience, I have worked with youth and adults in various settings including residential, private special education and public-school environments.
(860) 891-2698 View (860) 891-2698
Photo of Susan M Cohen, LCSW, MSW, BS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan M Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Working with college students, couples, gender issues, individuals, parenting. If you are a Veteran about to deploy/post deployment- I am a provider for the MilitaryOne program. I incorporate trauma work/yoga, mind-body connections ElderCare throughout the life span and working with caregivers is also provided for the sandwiched baby boomer. Addictions/family problems are difficult & an area of specialization. If you seek a therapeutic alliance to work out problems in a compassionate & empowering environment, call me: 860 450-6267. In-office, Telephone and video sessions are possible for all CT residents. Thank-you.
Working with college students, couples, gender issues, individuals, parenting. If you are a Veteran about to deploy/post deployment- I am a provider for the MilitaryOne program. I incorporate trauma work/yoga, mind-body connections ElderCare throughout the life span and working with caregivers is also provided for the sandwiched baby boomer. Addictions/family problems are difficult & an area of specialization. If you seek a therapeutic alliance to work out problems in a compassionate & empowering environment, call me: 860 450-6267. In-office, Telephone and video sessions are possible for all CT residents. Thank-you.
(860) 322-5084 View (860) 322-5084

Online Therapists

Photo of Yasmin Fabian, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yasmin Fabian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Groton, CT 06340
I take a holistic approach to treatment and integrate Humanistic principles, person-in-environment framework, and techniques from several treatment modalities such as Mindfulness, CBT, and DBT to mention a few.
I believe everyone deserves to live the most whole versions of themselves, whatever they define that as. I therefore do my best to help individuals become clear about what it is they want out of this phase of their life and support them in taking the steps towards achieving it. I see therapy as a collaborative process, where together therapist and client create a safe, non-judgmental, brave and honest space to move towards change. As a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety and depressive related symptoms as well as processing and healing from traumatic event(s) and life experiences.
I take a holistic approach to treatment and integrate Humanistic principles, person-in-environment framework, and techniques from several treatment modalities such as Mindfulness, CBT, and DBT to mention a few.
I believe everyone deserves to live the most whole versions of themselves, whatever they define that as. I therefore do my best to help individuals become clear about what it is they want out of this phase of their life and support them in taking the steps towards achieving it. I see therapy as a collaborative process, where together therapist and client create a safe, non-judgmental, brave and honest space to move towards change. As a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety and depressive related symptoms as well as processing and healing from traumatic event(s) and life experiences.
(860) 855-3433 View (860) 855-3433
Photo of Rachel Z Baumann, MA, SYC, NCSP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Z Baumann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, SYC, NCSP, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824  (Online Only)
We will use a variety of techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
In an ever-changing world, we need mental health care that doesn’t offer a false promise of a quick fix. It is difficult to pick up the phone to call a therapist — especially if you’ve never been to therapy before, or if you’re depressed, and you just ... can’t. I understand that and am here to walk you through. I believe that taking care of our mental health should be an ongoing and sustained practice that is celebrated instead of stigmatized. Instead of viewing therapy as only necessary when you are in a crisis, my hope is to break the mold and remind you that you deserve mental health support.
We will use a variety of techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
In an ever-changing world, we need mental health care that doesn’t offer a false promise of a quick fix. It is difficult to pick up the phone to call a therapist — especially if you’ve never been to therapy before, or if you’re depressed, and you just ... can’t. I understand that and am here to walk you through. I believe that taking care of our mental health should be an ongoing and sustained practice that is celebrated instead of stigmatized. Instead of viewing therapy as only necessary when you are in a crisis, my hope is to break the mold and remind you that you deserve mental health support.
(475) 252-9434 View (475) 252-9434
Photo of Emily Midwood, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Midwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeville, CT 06039
I use CBT, DBT, ACT and EMDR modalities.
Seeking out therapy is a brave step to creating a life that you want. My style is warm, kind, and direct. I believe in meeting you where you are. Every person brings in different life experiences and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. For me, the purpose of therapy is to create a relationship where you can feel safe and supported while developing new skills. I am offering virtual sessions across both Connecticut and Massachusetts. I am offering in person sessions in my office in Lakeville, Connecticut.
I use CBT, DBT, ACT and EMDR modalities.
Seeking out therapy is a brave step to creating a life that you want. My style is warm, kind, and direct. I believe in meeting you where you are. Every person brings in different life experiences and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. For me, the purpose of therapy is to create a relationship where you can feel safe and supported while developing new skills. I am offering virtual sessions across both Connecticut and Massachusetts. I am offering in person sessions in my office in Lakeville, Connecticut.
(860) 846-3303 View (860) 846-3303
Photo of Donna Tanganelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Tanganelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southbury, CT 06488
I specialize in trauma specific treatment such as EMDR, DBT and TREM.
"I am not what has happened to me. I am what I choose to become" ~ Carl Jung I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years in clinical practice. I believe therapy is a tool to empower us to find balance in our mind, body and soul. I take a holistic approach in helping individuals and families to make changes. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, personality disorders and trauma related issues. My goal is to empower & support you in achieving your optimum state of wellness.
I specialize in trauma specific treatment such as EMDR, DBT and TREM.
"I am not what has happened to me. I am what I choose to become" ~ Carl Jung I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years in clinical practice. I believe therapy is a tool to empower us to find balance in our mind, body and soul. I take a holistic approach in helping individuals and families to make changes. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, personality disorders and trauma related issues. My goal is to empower & support you in achieving your optimum state of wellness.
(203) 592-6205 View (203) 592-6205
Photo of Dr. Jim Sullivan, PhD, LPC, NBCC, ACS, NAFC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jim Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NBCC, ACS, NAFC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, CT 06804
One size never fits all. Each person and issue needs its own caring approach. Therapy includes: DBT, cognitive-behavioral, family systems, internal family systems, and trauma work, all with acceptance, warmth, and healing. Gains rely on maximum challenge with maximum support. I have successfully struggled in my life as a son, husband, and father of four. I know the pain of being wounded and the rewards of healing. For over 50 years I have helped kids and families as a teacher, school counselor, therapist, and supervising professor in three graduate counseling programs, including the Captains' Masters at the USMA at West Point.
One size never fits all. Each person and issue needs its own caring approach. Therapy includes: DBT, cognitive-behavioral, family systems, internal family systems, and trauma work, all with acceptance, warmth, and healing. Gains rely on maximum challenge with maximum support. I have successfully struggled in my life as a son, husband, and father of four. I know the pain of being wounded and the rewards of healing. For over 50 years I have helped kids and families as a teacher, school counselor, therapist, and supervising professor in three graduate counseling programs, including the Captains' Masters at the USMA at West Point.
(203) 590-8873 View (203) 590-8873
Photo of Chelsea Graham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437
My practice is focused on creating meaningful lives through positive change and growth, I practice client centered therapy using approaches that meet the unique needs of the individual. I have over 14 years of experience in a number of settings including private practice, clinical supervision, teaching at ECSU, schools and towns. During difficult times, we can feel stuck and limited in our options and feel overwhelmed, I use evidence based best practices and therapeutic methods such as solution focused techniques, mindfulness, CBT, DBT, tapping and many more to assure clients have a wraparound approach that is individualized.
My practice is focused on creating meaningful lives through positive change and growth, I practice client centered therapy using approaches that meet the unique needs of the individual. I have over 14 years of experience in a number of settings including private practice, clinical supervision, teaching at ECSU, schools and towns. During difficult times, we can feel stuck and limited in our options and feel overwhelmed, I use evidence based best practices and therapeutic methods such as solution focused techniques, mindfulness, CBT, DBT, tapping and many more to assure clients have a wraparound approach that is individualized.
(475) 265-5774 View (475) 265-5774
Photo of Erin Forler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Forler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenwich, CT 06830  (Online Only)
I draw from a variety of evidence-based skills including CBT and DBT to help you get symptom reduction and the results you desire.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by emotions or are reeling from a significant life event or trauma, therapy can help you navigate these challenges and grow in meaningful ways. I offer a safe space for you to heal, learn about yourself and move forward. We will work together to understand your unique history and develop customized goals that enhance your strengths and increase your ability to cope with stress.
I draw from a variety of evidence-based skills including CBT and DBT to help you get symptom reduction and the results you desire.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by emotions or are reeling from a significant life event or trauma, therapy can help you navigate these challenges and grow in meaningful ways. I offer a safe space for you to heal, learn about yourself and move forward. We will work together to understand your unique history and develop customized goals that enhance your strengths and increase your ability to cope with stress.
(475) 219-7035 View (475) 219-7035
Photo of Nellie Rivera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nellie Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525
To name a few, my approach is eclectic applying person-centered, Rational Emotive behavior therapy, Trauma focus, strength base approach, cognitive behavioral, and Dialectical behavior therapy.
Making the decision to seek therapy is the start of your journey in finding the calmness within you. I will guide you towards exploring the challenges that prevent you from moving forward in achieving your personal growth and healing. My role as a therapist is to help you access those parts of yourself that are hurt, lost or confused. I am here to support, and guide you through what feels impossible to do alone. Sessions will include self reflection, and exploration to help you gain better insight into the underlying cause of your symptoms. I provide a supportive environment based on preserving and respecting my client's culture.
To name a few, my approach is eclectic applying person-centered, Rational Emotive behavior therapy, Trauma focus, strength base approach, cognitive behavioral, and Dialectical behavior therapy.
Making the decision to seek therapy is the start of your journey in finding the calmness within you. I will guide you towards exploring the challenges that prevent you from moving forward in achieving your personal growth and healing. My role as a therapist is to help you access those parts of yourself that are hurt, lost or confused. I am here to support, and guide you through what feels impossible to do alone. Sessions will include self reflection, and exploration to help you gain better insight into the underlying cause of your symptoms. I provide a supportive environment based on preserving and respecting my client's culture.
(203) 538-7017 View (203) 538-7017
Photo of Brendan Stack, LPC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brendan Stack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Southbury, CT 06488
I am trained in the use of EMDR, DBT, CBT, and Relapse Prevention.
If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, panic attacks, or substance use, feel free to contact me via phone call, text, or email. I’ll respond back within 2 hours, Monday – Sunday. My office hours are 8am EST to 5pm EST. Struggling through serious relationship problems? I’ve helped dozens of couples and perhaps I can help you. Is your teen son or daughter having difficulties adjusting to the school year and feeling down? Call me anytime at 518-610-4528 and we can schedule a free consultation to discuss your individual needs.
I am trained in the use of EMDR, DBT, CBT, and Relapse Prevention.
If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, panic attacks, or substance use, feel free to contact me via phone call, text, or email. I’ll respond back within 2 hours, Monday – Sunday. My office hours are 8am EST to 5pm EST. Struggling through serious relationship problems? I’ve helped dozens of couples and perhaps I can help you. Is your teen son or daughter having difficulties adjusting to the school year and feeling down? Call me anytime at 518-610-4528 and we can schedule a free consultation to discuss your individual needs.
(203) 601-7438 View (203) 601-7438
Photo of Marcy S Puklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcy S Puklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, CT 06461
I believe in starting where you are and helping you find your path to healing, success, and recovery. I have extensive experience working with all populations successfully. Life can be tough – but you can be tougher! My work with clients is client centered and goal directed. My therapy style is eclectic. I integrate all different types of therapies, including but not limited to: CBT, DBT, Exposure, Mindfulness, Strategic, Solution-Focused, MI, psychodynamic, and person-centered.
I believe in starting where you are and helping you find your path to healing, success, and recovery. I have extensive experience working with all populations successfully. Life can be tough – but you can be tougher! My work with clients is client centered and goal directed. My therapy style is eclectic. I integrate all different types of therapies, including but not limited to: CBT, DBT, Exposure, Mindfulness, Strategic, Solution-Focused, MI, psychodynamic, and person-centered.
(475) 253-5729 View (475) 253-5729
Photo of Ian Friedrich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ian Friedrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119
Ian has been intensively trained in foundational DBT, DBT prolonged exposure, and DBT for couples and families.
Ian Friedrich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in various mental health settings. He is passionate about providing effective and competent care to support his clients in achieving their personal and clinical goals. He specializes in working with clients who struggle with traits of borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and concerns regarding sexuality and gender expression. Ian obtained his Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut.
Ian has been intensively trained in foundational DBT, DBT prolonged exposure, and DBT for couples and families.
Ian Friedrich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in various mental health settings. He is passionate about providing effective and competent care to support his clients in achieving their personal and clinical goals. He specializes in working with clients who struggle with traits of borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and concerns regarding sexuality and gender expression. Ian obtained his Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut.
(860) 901-1669 View (860) 901-1669

See more therapy options for Lebanon

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.