Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Willimantic, CT

Photo of Donna Nicolino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Nicolino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Not accepting new clients
Depending on your needs, I may use very concrete therapies such as CBT or DBT, explore issues of spirituality, or work with somatic therapies such as EMDR - or all of these.
I provide both brief and longer-term counseling to individuals grappling with a range of challenges, from life transitions, anxiety and depression to complex PTSD and dissociative disorders. Trauma is a particular focus of mine and I continually educate myself on the most helpful methods of healing. I am certified in EMDR, have 2 years training in Somatic Experiencing and have trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Internal Family Systems and other therapies. I take a holistic approach, and will work with you to explore how diet and nutrition, activity, sleep, belief systems and relationships impact your overall well-being.
Depending on your needs, I may use very concrete therapies such as CBT or DBT, explore issues of spirituality, or work with somatic therapies such as EMDR - or all of these.
I provide both brief and longer-term counseling to individuals grappling with a range of challenges, from life transitions, anxiety and depression to complex PTSD and dissociative disorders. Trauma is a particular focus of mine and I continually educate myself on the most helpful methods of healing. I am certified in EMDR, have 2 years training in Somatic Experiencing and have trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Internal Family Systems and other therapies. I take a holistic approach, and will work with you to explore how diet and nutrition, activity, sleep, belief systems and relationships impact your overall well-being.
(860) 544-2472 View (860) 544-2472
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 Joyce Johnson - Joyce Johnson @ Whispering Pines Therapy, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce Johnson @ Whispering Pines Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
I combine Animal Assisted Therapy with other evidence based techniques (DBT, CBT, Mindfulness and MI) to help adults heal from past trauma and learn to cope with anxiety and depression.
I am certified in Animal Assisted Therapy and together with my animal partners I offer a non traditional approach to treating anxiety, trauma and depression. Have you experienced trauma or loss? Are you struggling with stress, anxiety and/or depression? Is traditional talk therapy intimidating or not really your style? Maybe you just don't have the words to describe what you’re feeling. Well you have come to the right place.
I combine Animal Assisted Therapy with other evidence based techniques (DBT, CBT, Mindfulness and MI) to help adults heal from past trauma and learn to cope with anxiety and depression.
I am certified in Animal Assisted Therapy and together with my animal partners I offer a non traditional approach to treating anxiety, trauma and depression. Have you experienced trauma or loss? Are you struggling with stress, anxiety and/or depression? Is traditional talk therapy intimidating or not really your style? Maybe you just don't have the words to describe what you’re feeling. Well you have come to the right place.
(959) 201-9345 View (959) 201-9345
Photo of Hillary Stern, LCSW, ADTR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hillary Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADTR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
My therapeutic skills include Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Expressive Arts Therapy, family therapy, play therapy, healing visualization, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Groups, Divorce Support Groups, Imago Couple's Therapy and EMDR.
"Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion." -- Buddha. I utilize a gentle but direct approach to assist you in recovering from the pain and sorrow that can be a part of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Dance Movement Therapist. Using my creativity and diverse skill set I help my clients overcome depression, anxiety, eating disorders, traumas and loss. Working with the body, mind and spirit together, I will help you find the way to reconnect with your most authentic self and restore your relationships. My clients are adults, couples, children and adolecents.
My therapeutic skills include Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Expressive Arts Therapy, family therapy, play therapy, healing visualization, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Groups, Divorce Support Groups, Imago Couple's Therapy and EMDR.
"Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion." -- Buddha. I utilize a gentle but direct approach to assist you in recovering from the pain and sorrow that can be a part of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Dance Movement Therapist. Using my creativity and diverse skill set I help my clients overcome depression, anxiety, eating disorders, traumas and loss. Working with the body, mind and spirit together, I will help you find the way to reconnect with your most authentic self and restore your relationships. My clients are adults, couples, children and adolecents.
(860) 606-4278 View (860) 606-4278
Photo of Cami Little, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cami Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Waitlist for new clients
I use a strengths-based approach with a collection of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Are you feeling stuck? Are you finding it difficult to navigate life’s challenges? I am here to help you find self-understanding, peace, and the confidence to move forward. My name is Cami Little. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have over 8 years experience in the field. My specialties include treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, mood disorders, and adjustment to life’s stressors. I also have a passion in working with fertility challenges/women's issues and those undergoing assistive reproductive technology (ART).
I use a strengths-based approach with a collection of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Are you feeling stuck? Are you finding it difficult to navigate life’s challenges? I am here to help you find self-understanding, peace, and the confidence to move forward. My name is Cami Little. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have over 8 years experience in the field. My specialties include treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, mood disorders, and adjustment to life’s stressors. I also have a passion in working with fertility challenges/women's issues and those undergoing assistive reproductive technology (ART).
(860) 530-2391 View (860) 530-2391
Photo of Julianne Kivlin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julianne Kivlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226  (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 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 Laurie Mazzarella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Mazzarella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Waitlist for new clients
After almost 30 years in mental health, I'm still passionate about the work I do. With that said, I'm here to help with the problems that have brought you to therapy. Gathering information and developing our relationship, along with trust and creating a safe space to share are my strengths in helping others. I use various approaches to assist clients. Along with this, I enjoy educating about how we learn and form in an inter-generational family system and how we can transmit problems in that family system unconsciously. This can inform and empower growth and change.
After almost 30 years in mental health, I'm still passionate about the work I do. With that said, I'm here to help with the problems that have brought you to therapy. Gathering information and developing our relationship, along with trust and creating a safe space to share are my strengths in helping others. I use various approaches to assist clients. Along with this, I enjoy educating about how we learn and form in an inter-generational family system and how we can transmit problems in that family system unconsciously. This can inform and empower growth and change.
(959) 207-8416 View (959) 207-8416
Photo of Path Adult Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Path Adult Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Not Verified Not Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS-- CALL TODAY!!!*** At Perception Programs Behavioral Health Centers, it is our mission to provide you with compassionate, quality care in a supportive, safe, and open environment. We will help you to explore challenges, maximize strengths, and move towards the life you want. We offer holistic individual, family, and group therapy, as well as medication consultation and management. Currently offering services at at our Adult PATH Counseling Center in Willimantic at our new state of the art building. Contact us today!
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS-- CALL TODAY!!!*** At Perception Programs Behavioral Health Centers, it is our mission to provide you with compassionate, quality care in a supportive, safe, and open environment. We will help you to explore challenges, maximize strengths, and move towards the life you want. We offer holistic individual, family, and group therapy, as well as medication consultation and management. Currently offering services at at our Adult PATH Counseling Center in Willimantic at our new state of the art building. Contact us today!
(860) 450-0151 View (860) 450-0151
Photo of Tricia Baker, LCSW, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tricia Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Is something in your life unmanageable, a pattern that you can see but have no idea how to stop or change? Chronic stress can drain your emotional well-being, leaving you vulnerable to anxiety, depression, unhealthy habits, and many other self-destructive or compulsive behaviors. You might feel trapped, like life is out of control and there is no hope. What if your brain is tricking you into thoughts, feelings and behaviors that are not helpful? I believe it's possible to figure out how to think and act differently, find hope and manage what only feels unmanageable.
Is something in your life unmanageable, a pattern that you can see but have no idea how to stop or change? Chronic stress can drain your emotional well-being, leaving you vulnerable to anxiety, depression, unhealthy habits, and many other self-destructive or compulsive behaviors. You might feel trapped, like life is out of control and there is no hope. What if your brain is tricking you into thoughts, feelings and behaviors that are not helpful? I believe it's possible to figure out how to think and act differently, find hope and manage what only feels unmanageable.
(860) 924-7656 View (860) 924-7656
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
Photo of Michelle Allison, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Allison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226  (Online Only)
It's not easy reaching out for professional help with relationship, family or emotional problems, but I hope you choose to take this important first step toward changing your life for the better. In my 30 years of practice, I have never felt a greater sense of hope and optimism about what talk therapy can realistically offer to reduce suffering and improve our personal and family lives. I can present you with a "user friendly" path into treatment that will ease your very understandable anxiety and skepticism. My goals for you as a client are learning, growth, empowerment and customer satisfaction.
It's not easy reaching out for professional help with relationship, family or emotional problems, but I hope you choose to take this important first step toward changing your life for the better. In my 30 years of practice, I have never felt a greater sense of hope and optimism about what talk therapy can realistically offer to reduce suffering and improve our personal and family lives. I can present you with a "user friendly" path into treatment that will ease your very understandable anxiety and skepticism. My goals for you as a client are learning, growth, empowerment and customer satisfaction.
(860) 451-9910 View (860) 451-9910
Photo of Nick Yorio, LMSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nick Yorio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, JD
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
No one is given a life free of hardships, challenges or difficulties. Often the bravest thing a person can do is to acknowledge having such an experience and to ask for help to get to a better outcome. I have been humbled and honored to work with people as they have healed, grown and learned through therapy. I am a deeply empathic person who will offer you the safety to explore and know your experience, and then will structure your helping process around a holistic understanding of where you are now. Our work together focuses on your goals to get you to your version of personal wellness. Please call or email so we can talk more!
No one is given a life free of hardships, challenges or difficulties. Often the bravest thing a person can do is to acknowledge having such an experience and to ask for help to get to a better outcome. I have been humbled and honored to work with people as they have healed, grown and learned through therapy. I am a deeply empathic person who will offer you the safety to explore and know your experience, and then will structure your helping process around a holistic understanding of where you are now. Our work together focuses on your goals to get you to your version of personal wellness. Please call or email so we can talk more!
(860) 926-3372 View (860) 926-3372
Photo of Renee Cummings - Renee Cummings, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Cummings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226  (Online Only)
CT and FL LCSW with immediate openings for telehealth therapy. I often hear "I just want to have someone to talk to." My role in working with you is to be that person that you feel safe, secure, and connected with so that we can talk through whatever it may be that brings you to therapy. I value the therapeutic relationship and our connection as we move forward in meeting your goals.
CT and FL LCSW with immediate openings for telehealth therapy. I often hear "I just want to have someone to talk to." My role in working with you is to be that person that you feel safe, secure, and connected with so that we can talk through whatever it may be that brings you to therapy. I value the therapeutic relationship and our connection as we move forward in meeting your goals.
(352) 280-3450 View (352) 280-3450
Photo of Madelyn Straub, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madelyn Straub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
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.
View
Photo of Mary E Webb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary E Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
(860) 517-8643 View (860) 517-8643

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Allissa Tamiso, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allissa Tamiso
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windham, CT 06280
While I am formally trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, it’s important to me to build a connection with you.
I’m Allissa Tamiso, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling from Central Connecticut State University. I know that you’re just trying to be happy, and it feels like happiness is harder than it should be. You see other people who seem to understand how to navigate life seamlessly, while you feel like you don’t quite get it, or that there are endless obstacles in your way. This is where our work begins. I have worked with folks struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues and life transitions.
While I am formally trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, it’s important to me to build a connection with you.
I’m Allissa Tamiso, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling from Central Connecticut State University. I know that you’re just trying to be happy, and it feels like happiness is harder than it should be. You see other people who seem to understand how to navigate life seamlessly, while you feel like you don’t quite get it, or that there are endless obstacles in your way. This is where our work begins. I have worked with folks struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues and life transitions.
(860) 831-3347 View (860) 831-3347
Photo of Erin Joudrey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Joudrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hebron, CT 06248
Waitlist for new clients
As an alternative, I offer traditional talk therapy grounded in evidenced based interventions such as DBT and CBT.
I am a trauma-informed therapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR is a structured psychotherapy that primarily focuses on treating individuals who have experienced distressing, traumatic events. These experiences, when unprocessed, can become “stuck” in the brain, leading to a wide array of emotional and psychological difficulties. I have seen firsthand the transformative power of this modality and am thankful to have the knowledge and training to guide people on their healing journey.
As an alternative, I offer traditional talk therapy grounded in evidenced based interventions such as DBT and CBT.
I am a trauma-informed therapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR is a structured psychotherapy that primarily focuses on treating individuals who have experienced distressing, traumatic events. These experiences, when unprocessed, can become “stuck” in the brain, leading to a wide array of emotional and psychological difficulties. I have seen firsthand the transformative power of this modality and am thankful to have the knowledge and training to guide people on their healing journey.
(860) 943-4590 View (860) 943-4590
Photo of Meagan Mullen, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meagan Mullen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06268  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In sessions, I utilize components of CBT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems therapy to aid clients in identifying and responding to difficult emotions or thought patterns.
Welcome! In my practice, I work with adults and couples struggling with anxiety, parenthood transitions, eating disorders/body image issues, depression, or stressful life changes. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with self-esteem/perfectionism, and who are constantly battling the voice in their head that says they’re “not good enough." Through my warm and personable approach, I’ll help you understand your emotions and develop new coping skills to face life’s obstacles.
In sessions, I utilize components of CBT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems therapy to aid clients in identifying and responding to difficult emotions or thought patterns.
Welcome! In my practice, I work with adults and couples struggling with anxiety, parenthood transitions, eating disorders/body image issues, depression, or stressful life changes. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with self-esteem/perfectionism, and who are constantly battling the voice in their head that says they’re “not good enough." Through my warm and personable approach, I’ll help you understand your emotions and develop new coping skills to face life’s obstacles.
(860) 321-8614 View (860) 321-8614
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

See more therapy options for Willimantic

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.