Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Florida
Taking an integrative approach to counseling that allows me to tailor our sessions to your specific needs, my toolkit includes; EMDR, The Flash Technique, DBT, IFS, ERP, and The Gottman Method.
Does it feel like finding your place in this world has been a struggle? Many of us carry the weight of overwhelming past experiences that shape how we see ourselves and navigate life. I want you to know that you’re not alone in this journey, and together, we can explore a path towards healing and self-discovery. I believe that healing begins in a safe and supportive environment where you can share your thoughts and feelings without judgment, regardless of your background. Whether you're seeking a deeper understanding of yourself or struggling with coping; my goal is to empower you to embrace the fullest expression of who you are.
Taking an integrative approach to counseling that allows me to tailor our sessions to your specific needs, my toolkit includes; EMDR, The Flash Technique, DBT, IFS, ERP, and The Gottman Method.
Does it feel like finding your place in this world has been a struggle? Many of us carry the weight of overwhelming past experiences that shape how we see ourselves and navigate life. I want you to know that you’re not alone in this journey, and together, we can explore a path towards healing and self-discovery. I believe that healing begins in a safe and supportive environment where you can share your thoughts and feelings without judgment, regardless of your background. Whether you're seeking a deeper understanding of yourself or struggling with coping; my goal is to empower you to embrace the fullest expression of who you are.
Amy Nuñez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Mary, FL 32746
My specialized modalities are: Solution-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Certified.
I enjoy helping individuals who are experiencing anxieties and depression that come with everyday life. I also enjoy working with those seeking help with self-esteem and empowerment. I have 4 years of experience providing talk therapy to teens and adults. My goal is to assist people step by step to help them achieve their goals and reduce their stressors.
My specialized modalities are: Solution-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Certified.
I enjoy helping individuals who are experiencing anxieties and depression that come with everyday life. I also enjoy working with those seeking help with self-esteem and empowerment. I have 4 years of experience providing talk therapy to teens and adults. My goal is to assist people step by step to help them achieve their goals and reduce their stressors.
Cheryl Checkers
Counselor, MS, LMHC-QS, NCC, CCMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize strength-based therapeutic techniques and tools adapted to target the specific mental health needs of individuals with autism, including anxiety and depression protocols, CBT and DBT, emotion regulation tools, meltdown management, and autistic burnout prevention and recovery.
I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults on the autism spectrum and their families. I operate from a neurodiverse framework; my main goal is to help my clients thrive by living a life in harmony with their strengths, values, and goals. I believe my clients are expert in their own experience, and my mission is to assist them in discovering their strengths and to help them learn ways to effectively manage the challenges associated with being on the spectrum. My specialties include dual diagnosis of autism and a mental health condition, late diagnosis of autism, and adolescents and adults with a new diagnosis of autism.
I utilize strength-based therapeutic techniques and tools adapted to target the specific mental health needs of individuals with autism, including anxiety and depression protocols, CBT and DBT, emotion regulation tools, meltdown management, and autistic burnout prevention and recovery.
I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults on the autism spectrum and their families. I operate from a neurodiverse framework; my main goal is to help my clients thrive by living a life in harmony with their strengths, values, and goals. I believe my clients are expert in their own experience, and my mission is to assist them in discovering their strengths and to help them learn ways to effectively manage the challenges associated with being on the spectrum. My specialties include dual diagnosis of autism and a mental health condition, late diagnosis of autism, and adolescents and adults with a new diagnosis of autism.
Welcome! My name is Maren Pinder. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with experience working with children, adolescents, adults and couples struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, behavioral challenges, parenting, self-esteem, and trauma. I strive to create a warm and authentic atmosphere where my clients feel safe to explore and fulfill their mental health needs. Common practices I use include emotion-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness.
Welcome! My name is Maren Pinder. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with experience working with children, adolescents, adults and couples struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, behavioral challenges, parenting, self-esteem, and trauma. I strive to create a warm and authentic atmosphere where my clients feel safe to explore and fulfill their mental health needs. Common practices I use include emotion-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness.
Nadia C Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Davenport, FL 33837 (Online Only)
I practice a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to assist individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, schizophrenia, and various day-to-day issues.
I practice a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to assist individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, schizophrenia, and various day-to-day issues.
My main focus is working with clients and/or family who are struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder. I utilize DBT and EMDR, among other approaches, to help the client find a way to regulate their symptoms and utilize new ways of approaching issues. I believe in education about what is going on in the mind and body so the client can leave my office with information and skills that can be utilized on a daily basis in order to achieve real change.
My main focus is working with clients and/or family who are struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder. I utilize DBT and EMDR, among other approaches, to help the client find a way to regulate their symptoms and utilize new ways of approaching issues. I believe in education about what is going on in the mind and body so the client can leave my office with information and skills that can be utilized on a daily basis in order to achieve real change.
Amber Adams
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crestview, FL 32539 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with those who have trauma as well as utilizing ACT, CBT, DBT, and ERP.
As a counselor, my goal is to assist you in the development and achievement of your own goals. The way we are raised, the way we are taught how to behave, and how we experience life is what makes every one of us unique. My focus as your therapist is to help you process and grow through your experiences. In a session with me, we will work together to learn new and healthy ways of coping, identify and express emotions both past and present, and continue to make steps forward for a future worth living.
I specialize in working with those who have trauma as well as utilizing ACT, CBT, DBT, and ERP.
As a counselor, my goal is to assist you in the development and achievement of your own goals. The way we are raised, the way we are taught how to behave, and how we experience life is what makes every one of us unique. My focus as your therapist is to help you process and grow through your experiences. In a session with me, we will work together to learn new and healthy ways of coping, identify and express emotions both past and present, and continue to make steps forward for a future worth living.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Approach, Jumgian Approach and at times Gestalt therapy, Rational Emotive and Behavioral Therapy.
Gloria Gonzalez, PhD; LMHC. I am an eclectic practitioner of the healing arts. My focus is to provide alternative emotional and behavioral tools to clients and assist them on how to best handle daily life stressors, such as conflict, anxiety, trauma, unresolved grief issues, sadness and overall emotional liability. I work with teen-agers, adults, couples, families and elderly populations. I treat trauma, interpersonal and intra-personal conflict, anxiety, depression, career issues.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Approach, Jumgian Approach and at times Gestalt therapy, Rational Emotive and Behavioral Therapy.
Gloria Gonzalez, PhD; LMHC. I am an eclectic practitioner of the healing arts. My focus is to provide alternative emotional and behavioral tools to clients and assist them on how to best handle daily life stressors, such as conflict, anxiety, trauma, unresolved grief issues, sadness and overall emotional liability. I work with teen-agers, adults, couples, families and elderly populations. I treat trauma, interpersonal and intra-personal conflict, anxiety, depression, career issues.
Coming from a Christian worldview, she uses evidenced-based practices such as CBT, DBT, FFT, along with traditional talk therapy, to encourage each client’s personal growth, healing, and individual treatment goals.
There are so many ways trauma can come into our lives: abuse, death, divorce, infertility, miscarriage, and through losses of a loved one, a job, our security, or our stability. As humans, we are all susceptible to traumatic experiences and the ways they impact our bodies. But there is HOPE! I am confident that much healing comes from the experience of the therapeutic relationship, one of trust, encouragement, non-judgment, and professionalism. As I have done for so many clients in my career, let me walk alongside you and assist you on your personal path to healing.
Coming from a Christian worldview, she uses evidenced-based practices such as CBT, DBT, FFT, along with traditional talk therapy, to encourage each client’s personal growth, healing, and individual treatment goals.
There are so many ways trauma can come into our lives: abuse, death, divorce, infertility, miscarriage, and through losses of a loved one, a job, our security, or our stability. As humans, we are all susceptible to traumatic experiences and the ways they impact our bodies. But there is HOPE! I am confident that much healing comes from the experience of the therapeutic relationship, one of trust, encouragement, non-judgment, and professionalism. As I have done for so many clients in my career, let me walk alongside you and assist you on your personal path to healing.
Rebecca Cantor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33483 (Online Only)
From the beginning, Rebecca has always been focused on meeting the needs of kids to serve their best interests. She specializes in issues related to parenting, LGBTQIA+, gender identity, gender dysphoria, anxiety, panic disorder, life and marital issues. One of the first people to graduate Cornell University with a newly created minor in LGBT Studies, Rebecca has always been an advocate for and an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Rebecca utilizes tools from dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), solutions-focused behavioral therapy (SFBT), and a narrative approach in helping her clients.
From the beginning, Rebecca has always been focused on meeting the needs of kids to serve their best interests. She specializes in issues related to parenting, LGBTQIA+, gender identity, gender dysphoria, anxiety, panic disorder, life and marital issues. One of the first people to graduate Cornell University with a newly created minor in LGBT Studies, Rebecca has always been an advocate for and an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Rebecca utilizes tools from dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), solutions-focused behavioral therapy (SFBT), and a narrative approach in helping her clients.
In addition, Kalah has experience using Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Play therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Kalah's approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding of the complexities that individuals and families face in today’s world. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human services from Southern New Hampshire University, and a Masters of Social Work from the University of South Florida. Kalah is Trauma informed and ACT (adoption competency training) certified and has experience in working with individuals and families that have been exposed to trauma.
In addition, Kalah has experience using Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Play therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Kalah's approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding of the complexities that individuals and families face in today’s world. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human services from Southern New Hampshire University, and a Masters of Social Work from the University of South Florida. Kalah is Trauma informed and ACT (adoption competency training) certified and has experience in working with individuals and families that have been exposed to trauma.
15 Second Videos
Amy Nuñez
Julie Jakobi
Dana Renee O'Neill
Ericka Vargas
Surafel Tesfaye
Tracy Lynn Corsa Parker
Lindsey Epstein Webster
Haley Ferguson
Rebecca Colombo
Kendall Martin
Rebecca Crecraft
Kiesa DeSimone
Ashley Smith
Rachel Whipple Blogg
Gustavo Alberto Benejam
Joan M Lampkin
Charlie Health
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Davie
Josh Davis
Diana Cofsky
Dr Reeves VIP Therapy PLLC
Mason Mills
Jaime Dombrowski
Marla Ruth Starnes
Susel de la Cruz
Help Me to Help You Counseling LLC.
Pamela L Baker
Amanda Parker Boyer
Tania Alaby-Varma • Licensed Psychologist
Melissa Ludwig
James Eliot Nunez
Jasmine Lanier
Jennifer Grennell Therapy LLC
Stephanie Guise
Tasneem Campos Lcsw
Sophie Hans
Nena Tahil
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Gainesville
Jillian (Edelstein) Lepera
Liza Patchen
Julie Mergl
Richelle Direny
Sara Arter
Cc Criollo
Monika LaNuez
Diana Cofsky
Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Fort Lauderdale
Charlie JO Therapy
Kimberly Sebastiana Mallia
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Coral Springs
I have the DBT and mindfulness skills, which uses both mind and body exercises that will help you manage the crippling anxiety, love yourself better, be a more present and joyful mom, improve your relationships, and attract the life you want.
To others it may seem like you've got it all together, but on the inside you're spinning out of control. Panic randomly punches you in the chest, taking your breath away, and you can't focus on anything else other than how to make it stop. You are consumed by trying to keep up with everyone else since they seem to have it all together, but you can barely function through the day. You feel like an awful mom because you are lashing out on your kids and hating the daily monotony instead of "embracing the joy of motherhood." You feel like you are failing your partner because somewhere along this journey you just lost yourself.
I have the DBT and mindfulness skills, which uses both mind and body exercises that will help you manage the crippling anxiety, love yourself better, be a more present and joyful mom, improve your relationships, and attract the life you want.
To others it may seem like you've got it all together, but on the inside you're spinning out of control. Panic randomly punches you in the chest, taking your breath away, and you can't focus on anything else other than how to make it stop. You are consumed by trying to keep up with everyone else since they seem to have it all together, but you can barely function through the day. You feel like an awful mom because you are lashing out on your kids and hating the daily monotony instead of "embracing the joy of motherhood." You feel like you are failing your partner because somewhere along this journey you just lost yourself.
I utilize EMDR, Hypnosis, DBT, CBT and NLP aiding in overcoming traumatic experiences, clearing negative cognitive processing, help regulate emotions and prevention of self-destructive behaviors! Emotion Focused Therapy and Couples Collaborative Therapy is utilized to assist couples in identifying negative patterns of behavior, and restore emotional bond! .
Unprocessed traumatic events result in overwhelming emotions causing distress and impairment to both your personal and professional life. I assist individuals in reprocessing negative core beliefs i.e., (“I'm damaged; I cannot succeed”) proven to decrease anger, anxiety & depression. I assist couples in identifying the problematic root cause of emotional distance by utilizing proven strategies that increase emotional intimacy, decrease criticism, contempt, and defensiveness. In a safe, nonjudgmental environment, I equip both individuals and couples with the proper skillset needed to get unstuck and enjoy thriving life.
I utilize EMDR, Hypnosis, DBT, CBT and NLP aiding in overcoming traumatic experiences, clearing negative cognitive processing, help regulate emotions and prevention of self-destructive behaviors! Emotion Focused Therapy and Couples Collaborative Therapy is utilized to assist couples in identifying negative patterns of behavior, and restore emotional bond! .
Unprocessed traumatic events result in overwhelming emotions causing distress and impairment to both your personal and professional life. I assist individuals in reprocessing negative core beliefs i.e., (“I'm damaged; I cannot succeed”) proven to decrease anger, anxiety & depression. I assist couples in identifying the problematic root cause of emotional distance by utilizing proven strategies that increase emotional intimacy, decrease criticism, contempt, and defensiveness. In a safe, nonjudgmental environment, I equip both individuals and couples with the proper skillset needed to get unstuck and enjoy thriving life.
Michael Probert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients! I specialize in treating people who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or desiring something better out of life. I have over 15 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, psychodynamic approach during treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and 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 over 15 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, psychodynamic approach during treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness.
My Counseling style is client centered with utilization of CBT, DBT, Psycho-educational, and Psychodynamic therapy.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have a plethora of experience with in-patient and outpatient agencies which have allowed me to help clients overcome struggles with issues such as Substance use, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, LGBTQ, Ethical Non-Monogamy/lifestyle concerns, Homelessness, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders, and Trauma including sexual, emotional and physical abuse. My upbringing as the child of an immigrant Caribbean mother, and experience growing up in Brooklyn, NY allows me to bring a unique perspective to bring to the counseling experience.
My Counseling style is client centered with utilization of CBT, DBT, Psycho-educational, and Psychodynamic therapy.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have a plethora of experience with in-patient and outpatient agencies which have allowed me to help clients overcome struggles with issues such as Substance use, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, LGBTQ, Ethical Non-Monogamy/lifestyle concerns, Homelessness, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders, and Trauma including sexual, emotional and physical abuse. My upbringing as the child of an immigrant Caribbean mother, and experience growing up in Brooklyn, NY allows me to bring a unique perspective to bring to the counseling experience.
I have experience in cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, meditation, positive psychology, EMDR and yoga.
Phylice Kessler MH 20602 Phylice has more than 25 years of experience and uses her expertise to help others heal and transform. She creates individualized treatment plans utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, EMDR, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, meditation, positive psychology, and yoga. Phylice has an integrative approach and uses her counseling education and life-coaching skills to help her patients reach attainable goals. I typically work with individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. Many are unhappy with their current lives.
I have experience in cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, meditation, positive psychology, EMDR and yoga.
Phylice Kessler MH 20602 Phylice has more than 25 years of experience and uses her expertise to help others heal and transform. She creates individualized treatment plans utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, EMDR, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, meditation, positive psychology, and yoga. Phylice has an integrative approach and uses her counseling education and life-coaching skills to help her patients reach attainable goals. I typically work with individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. Many are unhappy with their current lives.
Dr. Koehn uses a holistic/systems approach to therapy. He incorporates the influence and support of family structure, school and work environment, as well as community when building a positive-wellness treatment plan Stylistically, Dr. Koehn utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), structural family therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy into interventions. Dr. Koehn also has extensive experience providing school and organizational psychology services. His therapy practice includes: eating disorders, marriage counseling, stress reduction, addiction, anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders and anger management. He is currently in the process of publishing a book entitled "Carpe Diem - A treatise of MH experiences.
Dr. Koehn uses a holistic/systems approach to therapy. He incorporates the influence and support of family structure, school and work environment, as well as community when building a positive-wellness treatment plan Stylistically, Dr. Koehn utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), structural family therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy into interventions. Dr. Koehn also has extensive experience providing school and organizational psychology services. His therapy practice includes: eating disorders, marriage counseling, stress reduction, addiction, anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders and anger management. He is currently in the process of publishing a book entitled "Carpe Diem - A treatise of MH experiences.
Joni Winstead
Counselor, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 (Online Only)
I am also trained in DBT and EMDR as additional therapeutic interventions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor committed to helping people learn how to have better relationships, cope with stress, and manage all areas of life. My work focuses on trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, and substance use with individuals, couples, and families. I work with adults of all ages and adolescents aged 16 and up. I often use art informed therapy, mindfulness strategies, role play, and imagery as a part of treatment. I am a solution-focused and mindfulness based therapist and I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.
I am also trained in DBT and EMDR as additional therapeutic interventions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor committed to helping people learn how to have better relationships, cope with stress, and manage all areas of life. My work focuses on trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, and substance use with individuals, couples, and families. I work with adults of all ages and adolescents aged 16 and up. I often use art informed therapy, mindfulness strategies, role play, and imagery as a part of treatment. I am a solution-focused and mindfulness based therapist and I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.
Marlene Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Certified in Dialectical Behavioral therapy.
Hi there. I’m Marlene, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and licensed in Florida and New York. I work with young and older adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, loneliness, family issues, relationship issues and loss.
Certified in Dialectical Behavioral therapy.
Hi there. I’m Marlene, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and licensed in Florida and New York. I work with young and older adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, loneliness, family issues, relationship issues and loss.
Commonly used therapeutic approaches I utilize are Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Therapy.
My name is Andrea Thomas, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida. I work with children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, grief/loss, parenting difficulties, and life changes using Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and couples.
Commonly used therapeutic approaches I utilize are Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Therapy.
My name is Andrea Thomas, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida. I work with children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, grief/loss, parenting difficulties, and life changes using Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and couples.
See more therapy options for Florida
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.