Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Mansfield Center, CT

Photo of Aaron Burgess, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aaron Burgess
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
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.
(860) 981-0373 View (860) 981-0373
Photo of Lauriann Zane, MS, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Lauriann Zane
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LADC
Verified Verified
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice I use wholistic approaches including talk therapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Trauma therapy, ART (EMDR), and Somatic Experiencing.
On our path in life we all go through times of struggle. Sometimes from unresolved past issues or just problems in the present. I believe we can learn to know ourselves and move through difficulties when we have support from a trusted individual with whom we can process. I work in collaboration with clients to build on natural strengths, while addressing barriers to progress, so they can move toward their goals. I work from a wholistic perspective (mind/body) and create an emotionally supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can feel safe to share their stories and create insight for action and growth.
In my practice I use wholistic approaches including talk therapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Trauma therapy, ART (EMDR), and Somatic Experiencing.
On our path in life we all go through times of struggle. Sometimes from unresolved past issues or just problems in the present. I believe we can learn to know ourselves and move through difficulties when we have support from a trusted individual with whom we can process. I work in collaboration with clients to build on natural strengths, while addressing barriers to progress, so they can move toward their goals. I work from a wholistic perspective (mind/body) and create an emotionally supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can feel safe to share their stories and create insight for action and growth.
(860) 986-6547 View (860) 986-6547
Photo of Angela Morgan - Open Door Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Open Door Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
When you’ve experienced painful life events or struggle with mental health challenges, starting the healing process is not an easy task. In fact it is often easier to avoid it or numb the pain, to continue the same patterns and to repeat past experiences (the past experiences you always hoped you wouldn't repeat). Somehow we find ourselves in a life story and we wonder how we got there. We will never be able to re-write our stories until we can actually be present with the painful life experiences that have led us to where we are in life. Therapy gives us the space to start this process.
When you’ve experienced painful life events or struggle with mental health challenges, starting the healing process is not an easy task. In fact it is often easier to avoid it or numb the pain, to continue the same patterns and to repeat past experiences (the past experiences you always hoped you wouldn't repeat). Somehow we find ourselves in a life story and we wonder how we got there. We will never be able to re-write our stories until we can actually be present with the painful life experiences that have led us to where we are in life. Therapy gives us the space to start this process.
(860) 764-3660 View (860) 764-3660
Photo of Madelyn Straub, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madelyn Straub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
We are Change Counseling. Let us help you on your journey. We provide a holistic and non-judgmental approach to individual and couples therapy.
We are Change Counseling. Let us help you on your journey. We provide a holistic and non-judgmental approach to individual and couples therapy.
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Photo of Chip Frey, LCSW, MSOM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chip Frey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSOM
Verified Verified
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
It can be easy to rush through life without stopping to notice much. Paying more attention to the present, your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you can improve your mental well-being. I empower clients to gain the skills needed to reach their goals, understand and regulate their emotions, and improve mindfulness and acceptance through a nonjudgmental and collaborative approach. I treat clients with Depression, Anxiety and Panic related disorders, PTSD, Individual and Family transitions, Relationship Issues, Grief and loss, Substance use, Dual Diagnosis, Intrusive Symptoms, and Severe and Persistent Mental Illness.
It can be easy to rush through life without stopping to notice much. Paying more attention to the present, your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you can improve your mental well-being. I empower clients to gain the skills needed to reach their goals, understand and regulate their emotions, and improve mindfulness and acceptance through a nonjudgmental and collaborative approach. I treat clients with Depression, Anxiety and Panic related disorders, PTSD, Individual and Family transitions, Relationship Issues, Grief and loss, Substance use, Dual Diagnosis, Intrusive Symptoms, and Severe and Persistent Mental Illness.
(959) 208-4780 View (959) 208-4780
Photo of Ciro Anthony Massa, PsyD, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ciro Anthony Massa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
Welcome to creating positive change in your life. My goal is to help you identify the issues that have been the most challenging, and helping you work towards finding solutions that will move you towards achieving a more fulfilling life. Feel free to contact me via email or phone call so that we can discuss how I may be of help to you. Help is available. You have only to embrace it with hope, and a willingness to move forward with your life.
Welcome to creating positive change in your life. My goal is to help you identify the issues that have been the most challenging, and helping you work towards finding solutions that will move you towards achieving a more fulfilling life. Feel free to contact me via email or phone call so that we can discuss how I may be of help to you. Help is available. You have only to embrace it with hope, and a willingness to move forward with your life.
(860) 854-7524 View (860) 854-7524
Photo of Suzanne Schuster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Schuster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I can help your child explore their feelings, make sense of their experience, and develop their full potential. I can help your child become their own therapist by learning techniques and coping strategies to learn how to deal with their challenges in their lives. I work well with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, social issues, learning issues, attention deficit disorder, and body image issues. Clients often see improved well-being early on in therapy.
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I can help your child explore their feelings, make sense of their experience, and develop their full potential. I can help your child become their own therapist by learning techniques and coping strategies to learn how to deal with their challenges in their lives. I work well with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, social issues, learning issues, attention deficit disorder, and body image issues. Clients often see improved well-being early on in therapy.
(475) 242-0211 View (475) 242-0211
Photo of Melissa Pelletier, LCSW, LICSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Pelletier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Mansfield Center, CT 06250  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello and welcome! My work focuses on providing integrative therapy to young adult and adult women who are currently experiencing life transitions, stress, anxiety, problems within their relationships, and those who are seeking personal growth. I work with women who are looking to refine coping strategies and achieve overall wellness in order to live their most vibrant and optimal life.
Hello and welcome! My work focuses on providing integrative therapy to young adult and adult women who are currently experiencing life transitions, stress, anxiety, problems within their relationships, and those who are seeking personal growth. I work with women who are looking to refine coping strategies and achieve overall wellness in order to live their most vibrant and optimal life.
(860) 390-5746 View (860) 390-5746
Photo of Leah McGennis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah McGennis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
Not accepting new clients
I seek to come alongside people with empathy, respect, and validation as they seek to improve their mental health and relationships. I enjoy teaching them new coping skills that will better their lives in noticeable, lasting ways. I encourage them to explore how their emotions, thoughts, actions, physical health, spirituality, and relationships are interconnected and part of the healing process.
I seek to come alongside people with empathy, respect, and validation as they seek to improve their mental health and relationships. I enjoy teaching them new coping skills that will better their lives in noticeable, lasting ways. I encourage them to explore how their emotions, thoughts, actions, physical health, spirituality, and relationships are interconnected and part of the healing process.
(860) 744-5281 x114 View (860) 744-5281 x114

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael Probert, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Probert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Now Accepting New Patients! I specialize in treating people who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or desiring something better out of life. I have 20 years of experience treating people with depression, anxiety, and trauma as well as those struggling to have satisfying relationships with other people. I use a person-centered approach during treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and the therapeutic use of mindfulness.
Now Accepting New Patients! I specialize in treating people who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or desiring something better out of life. I have 20 years of experience treating people with depression, anxiety, and trauma as well as those struggling to have satisfying relationships with other people. I use a person-centered approach during treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and the therapeutic use of mindfulness.
(860) 854-4425 View (860) 854-4425
Photo of Lara Galazin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lara Galazin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06268  (Online Only)
I'm also trained in DBT which can help your gain control of your emotions and feel more stable.
I have immediate day & evening openings! Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or hopeless? Take a step towards healing today! I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGTBQ issues, and memories of upsetting experiences. My professional experience fuels my passion for working with folks with various identities and mental health issues. It can be difficult to imagine a life without struggling emotionally, but with the right support you can regain a sense of hope and inner peace.
I'm also trained in DBT which can help your gain control of your emotions and feel more stable.
I have immediate day & evening openings! Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or hopeless? Take a step towards healing today! I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGTBQ issues, and memories of upsetting experiences. My professional experience fuels my passion for working with folks with various identities and mental health issues. It can be difficult to imagine a life without struggling emotionally, but with the right support you can regain a sense of hope and inner peace.
(475) 405-1909 View (475) 405-1909
Photo of Kailey Bousquet, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kailey Bousquet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06269  (Online Only)
I utilize CBT and DBT interventions while also integrating elements of psychodynamic and humanistic therapy, as well as mindfulness, to help you gain insight into how your thoughts, relationships and environments all contribute to your experiences and wellbeing.
I am a strong believer that everyone can benefit from therapy. Life can be complicated to navigate, so let’s try to work through those challenges together! I am passionate about helping you work through anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. It can seem as though there are so many impossible standards to live up to in life, and it can be overwhelming to feel like you aren’t meeting those expectations – whether they be expectations you have for yourself or that others may have for you. Let’s discover together what YOU want your life to look like.
I utilize CBT and DBT interventions while also integrating elements of psychodynamic and humanistic therapy, as well as mindfulness, to help you gain insight into how your thoughts, relationships and environments all contribute to your experiences and wellbeing.
I am a strong believer that everyone can benefit from therapy. Life can be complicated to navigate, so let’s try to work through those challenges together! I am passionate about helping you work through anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. It can seem as though there are so many impossible standards to live up to in life, and it can be overwhelming to feel like you aren’t meeting those expectations – whether they be expectations you have for yourself or that others may have for you. Let’s discover together what YOU want your life to look like.
(571) 583-6314 View (571) 583-6314
Photo of Ashlie M Gionfriddo, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashlie M Gionfriddo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Storrs, CT 06268
My approach is: compassion-focused, ACT, holistic approach, DBT, & CBT.
Accepting new patients. My specialties: adolescents, mood issues, anxiety, grief, college students, relationships, vocational stress, coaching, parenting, and women's issues. I also have extensive experience working with eating disorders. My clients say I'm "real", "experienced", "insightful", "flexible" and "compassionate". I aim to create a safe space to navigate difficult topics. As we move along in our treatment, you will gain strategies to regulate mood/anxiety, reclaim your life, develop purpose and feel more skillful. I offer both remote and in person sessions. You are making a brave step and I am here to support you.
My approach is: compassion-focused, ACT, holistic approach, DBT, & CBT.
Accepting new patients. My specialties: adolescents, mood issues, anxiety, grief, college students, relationships, vocational stress, coaching, parenting, and women's issues. I also have extensive experience working with eating disorders. My clients say I'm "real", "experienced", "insightful", "flexible" and "compassionate". I aim to create a safe space to navigate difficult topics. As we move along in our treatment, you will gain strategies to regulate mood/anxiety, reclaim your life, develop purpose and feel more skillful. I offer both remote and in person sessions. You are making a brave step and I am here to support you.
(413) 397-2359 View (413) 397-2359
Photo of Julianne Kivlin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julianne Kivlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, CT 06237  (Online Only)
Julianne’s treatment approach utilizes strength-based, CBT, DBT, multi-systemic, Solution-focused and emotionally-focused therapy.
Accessing mental health support can empower you to regain control of your life and focus on the things that matter most. I offer virtual psychotherapy and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, trauma, life transition, divorce, parenting challenges and relationship/family conflict. I have experience conducting couples, family and group counseling, and have an affinity for the LGBTQIA+ community; I specifically have experience working with and supporting the trans community. I believe in the importance of inclusion and strive for my clients to feel safe, heard and validated during every session.
Julianne’s treatment approach utilizes strength-based, CBT, DBT, multi-systemic, Solution-focused and emotionally-focused therapy.
Accessing mental health support can empower you to regain control of your life and focus on the things that matter most. I offer virtual psychotherapy and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, trauma, life transition, divorce, parenting challenges and relationship/family conflict. I have experience conducting couples, family and group counseling, and have an affinity for the LGBTQIA+ community; I specifically have experience working with and supporting the trans community. I believe in the importance of inclusion and strive for my clients to feel safe, heard and validated during every session.
(959) 210-6800 View (959) 210-6800
Photo of Julian Finnegan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julian Finnegan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tolland, CT 06084
I use evidence based modalities such as DBT and CBT for depression and anxiety.
Are you tired of your struggle with anxiety? Do you worry or obsess excessively? I specialize in the treatment of all forms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) using exposure and response prevention (ERP). OCD treatment is short term, being complete in 17-20 sessions, so it does not require years of therapy. I offer treatment in person and online, and can service all areas of Connecticut. Wether your concerns are washing, checking, worries about harming people accidentally or on purpose, unwanted sexual thoughts, religious obsessions or more, I can help.
I use evidence based modalities such as DBT and CBT for depression and anxiety.
Are you tired of your struggle with anxiety? Do you worry or obsess excessively? I specialize in the treatment of all forms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) using exposure and response prevention (ERP). OCD treatment is short term, being complete in 17-20 sessions, so it does not require years of therapy. I offer treatment in person and online, and can service all areas of Connecticut. Wether your concerns are washing, checking, worries about harming people accidentally or on purpose, unwanted sexual thoughts, religious obsessions or more, I can help.
(860) 499-4511 View (860) 499-4511
Photo of Sherry L Michaud - Sherry Michaud, LLC, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry Michaud, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, CT 06232
I increase understanding of neuroscience to enhance my work and utilize the latest techniques in psychotherapy, including EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
All of us deserve to enjoy what life has to offer to the fullest extent possible. Many of us experience that journey as compromised by obstacles that threaten to rob us of our potential. These blockages may come from events in the present such as COVID-19, loss of a loved one or a deteriorating relationship, or they may result from earlier events that have left wounds and scars unhealed. I have been engaged in clinical work, helping people navigate difficulties, heal trauma, restore their lives to wholeness. I invite you to let me walk that journey with you
I increase understanding of neuroscience to enhance my work and utilize the latest techniques in psychotherapy, including EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
All of us deserve to enjoy what life has to offer to the fullest extent possible. Many of us experience that journey as compromised by obstacles that threaten to rob us of our potential. These blockages may come from events in the present such as COVID-19, loss of a loved one or a deteriorating relationship, or they may result from earlier events that have left wounds and scars unhealed. I have been engaged in clinical work, helping people navigate difficulties, heal trauma, restore their lives to wholeness. I invite you to let me walk that journey with you
(860) 866-5390 View (860) 866-5390
Photo of Jessica Parenteau, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Parenteau
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226  (Online Only)
I practice a variety of evidenced-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
I’m Jessica, a Licensed Professional Counselor that specializes in trauma, PTSD and grief. We all know that life can be hard, we can feel lost in it, or it can become chaotic. The journey to noticing that life has become unmanageable isn't easy, but having that understanding is important. I’m here to say congratulations on taking that first step in asking for help. I hope to aid you in your journey at a pace that is comfortable for you to meet your goals. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment for therapy sessions. I also focus on using a person-centered approach.
I practice a variety of evidenced-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
I’m Jessica, a Licensed Professional Counselor that specializes in trauma, PTSD and grief. We all know that life can be hard, we can feel lost in it, or it can become chaotic. The journey to noticing that life has become unmanageable isn't easy, but having that understanding is important. I’m here to say congratulations on taking that first step in asking for help. I hope to aid you in your journey at a pace that is comfortable for you to meet your goals. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment for therapy sessions. I also focus on using a person-centered approach.
(860) 530-6159 View (860) 530-6159
Photo of Christopher R Dumas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher R Dumas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Columbia, CT 06237
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
(860) 481-6786 View (860) 481-6786
Photo of Lauren Koldras, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Koldras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06269  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach consists of utilizing mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I currently have immediate evening virtual openings! Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or experiencing difficult feelings due to life transitions? If so, you’re in the right place and I’m so happy you’re here! I am client-centered and supportive of the LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience working with teens, college-students and adults.
My therapeutic approach consists of utilizing mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I currently have immediate evening virtual openings! Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or experiencing difficult feelings due to life transitions? If so, you’re in the right place and I’m so happy you’re here! I am client-centered and supportive of the LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience working with teens, college-students and adults.
(475) 263-4770 View (475) 263-4770
Photo of Rachel Walker, LMSW
Rachel Walker
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06268
My main modalities of treatment stem from CBT and DBT.
Are you struggling with the dating world and relationships? Transitioning from college to adulting? Or just need to talk? My ideal client is someone who acknowledges they need the space to process and learn new tools to achieve their personal goals. Someone who sees therapy as a means of self-care and be open to challenging their thoughts, behaviors, and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
My main modalities of treatment stem from CBT and DBT.
Are you struggling with the dating world and relationships? Transitioning from college to adulting? Or just need to talk? My ideal client is someone who acknowledges they need the space to process and learn new tools to achieve their personal goals. Someone who sees therapy as a means of self-care and be open to challenging their thoughts, behaviors, and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
(860) 419-1371 View (860) 419-1371

See more therapy options for Mansfield Center

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.