Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Manchester, CT
I love using DBT, mindfulness, and play and art therapy to help people heal from trauma.
It’s been one of those days. One thing after another after another. I am so overwhelmed so frustrated, mad, distraught - everything negative you can think of. Why does everyone make life out to be so fun and easy? Its not! I literally feel like I’m sinking… like no matter how hard I try to be positive, to think happy thoughts, to try affirmations…it’s all such a joke. And time after time after time I hear: “You’re so much smarter than that. You could do so much better." Where's the compassion for me? I feel alone and I really need some support.
I love using DBT, mindfulness, and play and art therapy to help people heal from trauma.
It’s been one of those days. One thing after another after another. I am so overwhelmed so frustrated, mad, distraught - everything negative you can think of. Why does everyone make life out to be so fun and easy? Its not! I literally feel like I’m sinking… like no matter how hard I try to be positive, to think happy thoughts, to try affirmations…it’s all such a joke. And time after time after time I hear: “You’re so much smarter than that. You could do so much better." Where's the compassion for me? I feel alone and I really need some support.
Melody Poitras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06042 (Online Only)
Melody uses multiple treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy (SFT), and more.
Melody Poitras is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience. She has worked in a variety of settings including residential group homes, court programs and adult outpatient clinics. She is passionate about helping adult clients to navigate the many challenges they experience. Melody specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, substance use and major life transitions.
Melody uses multiple treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy (SFT), and more.
Melody Poitras is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience. She has worked in a variety of settings including residential group homes, court programs and adult outpatient clinics. She is passionate about helping adult clients to navigate the many challenges they experience. Melody specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, substance use and major life transitions.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Whether through talk therapy, expressive arts, CBT, DBT, play therapy, or other methods, we'll find the best approach for you.
Living with mental illness can feel like a relentless battle, draining your energy and making hope seem distant. You might feel trapped, alone in a world that doesn’t understand your pain. But even in the darkest moments, change is possible. Imagine feeling in control, your heart lighter, and joy within reach. With the right support and tools, you can reclaim your life and find strength in your story. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where your voice is heard, your journey is honored, and your healing is possible. Together, we can find a way forward.
Whether through talk therapy, expressive arts, CBT, DBT, play therapy, or other methods, we'll find the best approach for you.
Living with mental illness can feel like a relentless battle, draining your energy and making hope seem distant. You might feel trapped, alone in a world that doesn’t understand your pain. But even in the darkest moments, change is possible. Imagine feeling in control, your heart lighter, and joy within reach. With the right support and tools, you can reclaim your life and find strength in your story. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where your voice is heard, your journey is honored, and your healing is possible. Together, we can find a way forward.
Carolyn D. Frye, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040
I have extensive training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT).
I empower adults to overcome personal obstacles so their overall health and well-being improve. My experience includes working as a clinician, group facilitator, and administrator with children, adults, and families encountering significant and often debilitating behavioral health struggles. I work with a lot of individuals suffering from trauma, mood disorders, as well as developmental disabilities.
I have extensive training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT).
I empower adults to overcome personal obstacles so their overall health and well-being improve. My experience includes working as a clinician, group facilitator, and administrator with children, adults, and families encountering significant and often debilitating behavioral health struggles. I work with a lot of individuals suffering from trauma, mood disorders, as well as developmental disabilities.
T.R.U.E. Self Counseling LLC (Kristy Messier)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06042 (Online Only)
My approach consists of meeting you where you are at while using a combination of skills based in DBT, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I am here to offer support and guidance while you work through your thoughts, feelings and emotions as you move towards becoming your best self. I have 20 years of experience working with adults 18+ who are experiencing behavioral issues, emotional distress, substance use, or issues that may call for a safe space to discuss and work through. I have had the pleasure of working with a diverse population within various settings; I.e. individual, outpatient, group, inpatient, as well as with those utilizing MOUD and MAT.
My approach consists of meeting you where you are at while using a combination of skills based in DBT, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I am here to offer support and guidance while you work through your thoughts, feelings and emotions as you move towards becoming your best self. I have 20 years of experience working with adults 18+ who are experiencing behavioral issues, emotional distress, substance use, or issues that may call for a safe space to discuss and work through. I have had the pleasure of working with a diverse population within various settings; I.e. individual, outpatient, group, inpatient, as well as with those utilizing MOUD and MAT.
I utilize CBT, DBT, and trauma focused approaches.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in CT. I have 10+ years of experience working with individuals in a counseling capacity. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including individuals struggling with addiction, trauma, and mood disorders. My approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a genuine desire to empower individuals to overcome their challenges. I am skilled in conducting assessments, developing personalized treatment plans, and implementing evidence-based therapeutic techniques to facilitate growth and healing.
I utilize CBT, DBT, and trauma focused approaches.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in CT. I have 10+ years of experience working with individuals in a counseling capacity. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including individuals struggling with addiction, trauma, and mood disorders. My approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a genuine desire to empower individuals to overcome their challenges. I am skilled in conducting assessments, developing personalized treatment plans, and implementing evidence-based therapeutic techniques to facilitate growth and healing.
Meghan Slomcinsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06042
I utilize evidence based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
"Without change there would be no butterflies" Maya Angelou. I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute to the healing process of those impacted by mental illness. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for healing through understanding and support. Working in diverse settings, including crisis intervention and community mental health, I've encountered individuals whose lives were deeply affected by their mental illness. These experiences taught me the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental, empathetic environment where folks feel heard and validated.
I utilize evidence based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
"Without change there would be no butterflies" Maya Angelou. I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute to the healing process of those impacted by mental illness. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for healing through understanding and support. Working in diverse settings, including crisis intervention and community mental health, I've encountered individuals whose lives were deeply affected by their mental illness. These experiences taught me the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental, empathetic environment where folks feel heard and validated.
Audie Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients and Have Weekend Appointments Available! As a therapist, I help you navigate through experiences and develop coping techniques to manage challenges. Using various therapeutic modalities, from mindfulness to solution focused approaches. We will determine the best method for you. Grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), we can also incorporate expressive art. Working with me, you may find we talk through a challenge, learn a coping skill, maybe listen to a song, draw a picture, read a book, write something and then explore the feelings associated with the work.
Accepting New Clients and Have Weekend Appointments Available! As a therapist, I help you navigate through experiences and develop coping techniques to manage challenges. Using various therapeutic modalities, from mindfulness to solution focused approaches. We will determine the best method for you. Grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), we can also incorporate expressive art. Working with me, you may find we talk through a challenge, learn a coping skill, maybe listen to a song, draw a picture, read a book, write something and then explore the feelings associated with the work.
Therapeutic Approaches: strengths perspective, solution focused, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), psychodynamic approaches, motivational interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I’m Aaron Burgess, PhD, LMSW. I’m glad you’re starting your journey toward mental health recovery and joy. With over 20 years of experience, I offer affirming psychotherapy for adults dealing with various challenges. My trauma-informed, person-centered approach integrates mindfulness, values identification, and radical acceptance. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and parts-work for a solution-focused treatment. My extensive training, including at Duke Divinity School, supports those with spiritual trauma. I proudly support LGBTQ individuals and those living with HIV.
Therapeutic Approaches: strengths perspective, solution focused, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), psychodynamic approaches, motivational interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I’m Aaron Burgess, PhD, LMSW. I’m glad you’re starting your journey toward mental health recovery and joy. With over 20 years of experience, I offer affirming psychotherapy for adults dealing with various challenges. My trauma-informed, person-centered approach integrates mindfulness, values identification, and radical acceptance. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and parts-work for a solution-focused treatment. My extensive training, including at Duke Divinity School, supports those with spiritual trauma. I proudly support LGBTQ individuals and those living with HIV.
DBT has demonstrated efficacious treatment of a wide variety of mental health conditions including; self-harm, suicidal behaviors, Borderline personality disorder, and substance abuse.
I am a Linehan trained Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) therapist . My priority is in providing the utmost quality of care by closely following evidence-based practices within the standard DBT protocol and consultation with other trained DBT professionals. I am also trained in a multitude of interventions geared towards treating PTSD as well as CBT interventions.
DBT has demonstrated efficacious treatment of a wide variety of mental health conditions including; self-harm, suicidal behaviors, Borderline personality disorder, and substance abuse.
I am a Linehan trained Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) therapist . My priority is in providing the utmost quality of care by closely following evidence-based practices within the standard DBT protocol and consultation with other trained DBT professionals. I am also trained in a multitude of interventions geared towards treating PTSD as well as CBT interventions.
15 Second Videos
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Manchester
Aliya Jasensky
SMPsychotherapyandcounselingservices
Rebecca Cote
Lourie C Bonsu
I Witness Counseling
E. Lawrence Blackwell
Tiffany Roberts
Katie Grabowski
Idena Maynard-Epps
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Danika Okasia
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Brandi Kennedy Roman
Tools for Success Counseling
Pursuing Metamorphosis LLC
Dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT) is a therapy designed to help people change patterns of behavior that are not helpful.
I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years and licensed in Connecticut as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2000. I specialize in adult individual and family counseling and I have worked in CT for years. I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, or DBT, a highly effective treatment model used by quality programs around the world. I also use tools which target the unhealthy, self-sabotaging, and destructive thoughts and behaviors that have outlived their usefulness and tend to persistently result in sustained misery. A recent addition of spirituality has led to dramatic results in my patients
Dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT) is a therapy designed to help people change patterns of behavior that are not helpful.
I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years and licensed in Connecticut as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2000. I specialize in adult individual and family counseling and I have worked in CT for years. I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, or DBT, a highly effective treatment model used by quality programs around the world. I also use tools which target the unhealthy, self-sabotaging, and destructive thoughts and behaviors that have outlived their usefulness and tend to persistently result in sustained misery. A recent addition of spirituality has led to dramatic results in my patients
Therapeutic training and practice include a person-centered approach using CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
*Email is best contact- Currently accepting* I am passionate about supporting others on their journey to wellness. I believe in the uniqueness of an individual's experience and tailor my treatment approach accordingly. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, judgement free space, where individuals will feel empathy and acceptance just as they are. I seek to draw out the strengths I observe, while also providing new tools that will encourage pursuing the life desired. My desire is to help individuals find meaning in the past and hope for the future. I have 17 years of experience working with individuals in a variety of settings.
Therapeutic training and practice include a person-centered approach using CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
*Email is best contact- Currently accepting* I am passionate about supporting others on their journey to wellness. I believe in the uniqueness of an individual's experience and tailor my treatment approach accordingly. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, judgement free space, where individuals will feel empathy and acceptance just as they are. I seek to draw out the strengths I observe, while also providing new tools that will encourage pursuing the life desired. My desire is to help individuals find meaning in the past and hope for the future. I have 17 years of experience working with individuals in a variety of settings.
Aliya Jasensky, LMSW, offers person-centered therapy utilizing art, play, narrative therapy, and more traditional DBT and CBT.
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from engaging with life as you want to? Are your relationships suffering because of communication issues or mental health problems? Have you tried therapy in the past but stopped because it felt impersonal or formulaic? Dealing with mental health issues affects how you think about yourself, interact with loved ones, and how much effort you can use to chase your goals. If you’re ready to find positive solutions to your mental health and relationship issues, therapy with a person-centered approach may help.
Aliya Jasensky, LMSW, offers person-centered therapy utilizing art, play, narrative therapy, and more traditional DBT and CBT.
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from engaging with life as you want to? Are your relationships suffering because of communication issues or mental health problems? Have you tried therapy in the past but stopped because it felt impersonal or formulaic? Dealing with mental health issues affects how you think about yourself, interact with loved ones, and how much effort you can use to chase your goals. If you’re ready to find positive solutions to your mental health and relationship issues, therapy with a person-centered approach may help.
I incorporate CBT, DBT, mindfulness, radical acceptance, compassion, and motivational interviewing, while keeping a multicultural lens in session.
Are you looking for extra support navigating life, in this ever-changing world? Are you looking to make positive life changes and work towards your goals? From everyday life stressors to big life transitions, the challenges of life can get to us. As your therapist, I will strive to build a collaborative therapeutic relationship through compassion, empathy and trust. I aim to meet clients where they are at, by tailoring my therapeutic approach based on each individual and providing a safe, nonjudgmental space. You do not have to be alone on this journey.
I incorporate CBT, DBT, mindfulness, radical acceptance, compassion, and motivational interviewing, while keeping a multicultural lens in session.
Are you looking for extra support navigating life, in this ever-changing world? Are you looking to make positive life changes and work towards your goals? From everyday life stressors to big life transitions, the challenges of life can get to us. As your therapist, I will strive to build a collaborative therapeutic relationship through compassion, empathy and trust. I aim to meet clients where they are at, by tailoring my therapeutic approach based on each individual and providing a safe, nonjudgmental space. You do not have to be alone on this journey.
Let’s face it, it’s hard for all of us at one time or another! I have been trained in perinatal mood disorders, EMDR, CBT and DBT.
Not accepting new clients “Trust yourself enough to let go, shift, and uproot. Give yourself permission to shed who you used to be. You are allowed to start over and find new ways to bloom into your best self.” Alex Elle I would be honored to offer you my open heart and mind, as well as the skills and education I’ve grown to acquire over the 15+ years in the field of social work. Losses, interpersonal difficulties at home or work, mood issues (anxiety/depression), self-esteem, family challenges- they affect us ALL; regardless of profession or social status.
Let’s face it, it’s hard for all of us at one time or another! I have been trained in perinatal mood disorders, EMDR, CBT and DBT.
Not accepting new clients “Trust yourself enough to let go, shift, and uproot. Give yourself permission to shed who you used to be. You are allowed to start over and find new ways to bloom into your best self.” Alex Elle I would be honored to offer you my open heart and mind, as well as the skills and education I’ve grown to acquire over the 15+ years in the field of social work. Losses, interpersonal difficulties at home or work, mood issues (anxiety/depression), self-esteem, family challenges- they affect us ALL; regardless of profession or social status.
SMPsychotherapyandcounselingservices
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06041
We believe in a patient-centered approach that integrates CBT, DBT, and interpersonal techniques to address mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and behavioral issues.
Is substance use casting a shadow over your family dynamic? Are you a parent struggling to navigate the complexities of the court system? Are you finding it difficult to support your adolescent's challenges in life, or do you have a teen heading down a scary path of gang activity? Perhaps you have tried therapy in the past with someone you felt no compassion or connection with or you weren’t seeing positive results. If you're seeking compassionate support and meaningful change for yourself and your family, don’t wait any longer. SMPsychotherapy is here to guide you through the hard challenges and heal for a better, happier life.
We believe in a patient-centered approach that integrates CBT, DBT, and interpersonal techniques to address mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and behavioral issues.
Is substance use casting a shadow over your family dynamic? Are you a parent struggling to navigate the complexities of the court system? Are you finding it difficult to support your adolescent's challenges in life, or do you have a teen heading down a scary path of gang activity? Perhaps you have tried therapy in the past with someone you felt no compassion or connection with or you weren’t seeing positive results. If you're seeking compassionate support and meaningful change for yourself and your family, don’t wait any longer. SMPsychotherapy is here to guide you through the hard challenges and heal for a better, happier life.
Valarie L Williams Lpc (Accepting New Clients)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040 (Online Only)
I utilize some skills from DBT in the work that I do.
Your overall well-being is important to having a meaningful life. Having someone who understands that should be important to you. I have over 20 years of experience providing mental health services to individuals, children, adolescents and families. I understand there are many variables that impact a persons life causing depression, anxiety and stress. Working through those issues will need to occur in order for you to have greater functioning.
I utilize some skills from DBT in the work that I do.
Your overall well-being is important to having a meaningful life. Having someone who understands that should be important to you. I have over 20 years of experience providing mental health services to individuals, children, adolescents and families. I understand there are many variables that impact a persons life causing depression, anxiety and stress. Working through those issues will need to occur in order for you to have greater functioning.
Rebecca Cote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06045 (Online Only)
Together, we will use therapy approaches that are proven to work! I provide both Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) informed treatment.
I am accepting new clients and provide therapy online. Do you feel emotions that are intense or long-lasting? Maybe you have challenges identifying emotions, or you may not feel any at all. We will work together to enhance your life by finding a balance between your emotions and behaviors. I have significant experience working with those that are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-harm, and thoughts of suicide. My experience includes developing skills to manage challenging situations, family conflict, and parenting issues.
Together, we will use therapy approaches that are proven to work! I provide both Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) informed treatment.
I am accepting new clients and provide therapy online. Do you feel emotions that are intense or long-lasting? Maybe you have challenges identifying emotions, or you may not feel any at all. We will work together to enhance your life by finding a balance between your emotions and behaviors. I have significant experience working with those that are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-harm, and thoughts of suicide. My experience includes developing skills to manage challenging situations, family conflict, and parenting issues.
Treatment Specialization includes: Trauma (including early childhood trauma), Foster & Adoption, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Play Therapy, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Family Counseling, Parenting Support, Grief Counseling Work, Stress Management and Conflict Resolution.
Currently I have no availability for new clients. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked with children (4+), adolescents, and families for the past 13 years. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI), and Risking Connections. My work has focused on trauma including early childhood trauma, foster and adoption, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I utilize the above training as well as play therapy, sand therapy, and a strength-based approach. I offer in person & telehealth services.
Treatment Specialization includes: Trauma (including early childhood trauma), Foster & Adoption, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Play Therapy, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Family Counseling, Parenting Support, Grief Counseling Work, Stress Management and Conflict Resolution.
Currently I have no availability for new clients. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked with children (4+), adolescents, and families for the past 13 years. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI), and Risking Connections. My work has focused on trauma including early childhood trauma, foster and adoption, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I utilize the above training as well as play therapy, sand therapy, and a strength-based approach. I offer in person & telehealth services.
See more therapy options for Manchester
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Manchester
- Coventry
- East Hartford
- East Windsor
- Ellington
- Glastonbury
- Hartford
- Hebron
- South Glastonbury
- South Windsor
- Vernon
- Wethersfield
- Windsor
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.