Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Hutchinson, MN

Photo of Katie Webster, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Webster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hutchinson, MN 55350
I use CBT and DBT-informed interventions to help clients develop healthier coping and communication strategies.
I recognize the importance of having a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment where you can freely express yourself. I work with adults experiencing a range of symptoms and life issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, co-dependency, and post-traumatic stress. I take special interest in working with parents. As a parent myself, I understand the joys and challenges faced when raising children and juggling work, a household, marriage, and self-care.
I use CBT and DBT-informed interventions to help clients develop healthier coping and communication strategies.
I recognize the importance of having a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment where you can freely express yourself. I work with adults experiencing a range of symptoms and life issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, co-dependency, and post-traumatic stress. I take special interest in working with parents. As a parent myself, I understand the joys and challenges faced when raising children and juggling work, a household, marriage, and self-care.
(320) 268-9600 View (320) 268-9600
Photo of Jacqui Theisen - Serenity Mental Health Services, MS, NCC, LPCC, Counselor
Serenity Mental Health Services
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hutchinson, MN 55350
Our therapists offer many different treatment strategies, including, but not limited to: Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), spirituality and holistic health approaches, Mindfulness, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Solutions Focused.
At Serenity Mental Health Services, we enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life. We are passionate about what we do, and feel great joy when we see individuals make positive changes towards their recovery goals. We have experience in treating many diagnoses, utilizing several different treatment modalities. We work with individuals, families, couples, and groups. We also offer ARMHS, and CTSS!
Our therapists offer many different treatment strategies, including, but not limited to: Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), spirituality and holistic health approaches, Mindfulness, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Solutions Focused.
At Serenity Mental Health Services, we enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life. We are passionate about what we do, and feel great joy when we see individuals make positive changes towards their recovery goals. We have experience in treating many diagnoses, utilizing several different treatment modalities. We work with individuals, families, couples, and groups. We also offer ARMHS, and CTSS!
(320) 313-1384 View (320) 313-1384
Photo of Andrew Larson - NorthStar Counseling Center, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
NorthStar Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hutchinson, MN 55350
At NorthStar Counseling Center, we understand everyone has internal and relationship struggles at times. We have a broad range of experience working with adolescents dealing with emotional or behavioral difficulties and with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, life cycle transitions, and trauma. We also provide counseling for relationship issues between parents and children, couples, families experiencing divorce, and blended families. Whatever challenges you or your loved ones might be facing, we're here to help you through them.
At NorthStar Counseling Center, we understand everyone has internal and relationship struggles at times. We have a broad range of experience working with adolescents dealing with emotional or behavioral difficulties and with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, life cycle transitions, and trauma. We also provide counseling for relationship issues between parents and children, couples, families experiencing divorce, and blended families. Whatever challenges you or your loved ones might be facing, we're here to help you through them.
(320) 234-3451 View (320) 234-3451
Photo of Jason D'Amour, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Jason D'Amour
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hutchinson, MN 55350
My counseling philosophy seeks to find the root of issues, rather than only focusing on managing surface-level symptoms. I incorporate positive psychology, Attachment theory, Family Systems, and Jungian analysis- including a focus on Personality Types, as identified by the Myers-Briggs (MBTI). I believe change occurs in therapy when the client is able to identify the things that are holding them back or distracting them from finding fulfillment in developing their true self. My work as a therapist is to partner with you on your journey toward wholeness as a safe, consistent, trustworthy listener and helper.
My counseling philosophy seeks to find the root of issues, rather than only focusing on managing surface-level symptoms. I incorporate positive psychology, Attachment theory, Family Systems, and Jungian analysis- including a focus on Personality Types, as identified by the Myers-Briggs (MBTI). I believe change occurs in therapy when the client is able to identify the things that are holding them back or distracting them from finding fulfillment in developing their true self. My work as a therapist is to partner with you on your journey toward wholeness as a safe, consistent, trustworthy listener and helper.
(320) 403-9319 View (320) 403-9319
Photo of Eileen Dummer, MA, PhD, LPCC
Eileen Dummer
MA, PhD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hutchinson, MN 55350
Not accepting new clients
Eileen is passionate about the whole, integrated health of the individual. With over 15 years of experience as a mental health provider and her training in wellness practices, Eileen applies a model of whole, integrated mental health to assist others in finding hope and healing using cognitive and experiential-based approaches. Eileen holds the following certifications that inform her professional practice: Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP); Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP), Certified Fitness Trainer, Certified Yoga Fitness instructor, and Certified Diet and Nutrition Coach.
Eileen is passionate about the whole, integrated health of the individual. With over 15 years of experience as a mental health provider and her training in wellness practices, Eileen applies a model of whole, integrated mental health to assist others in finding hope and healing using cognitive and experiential-based approaches. Eileen holds the following certifications that inform her professional practice: Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP); Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP), Certified Fitness Trainer, Certified Yoga Fitness instructor, and Certified Diet and Nutrition Coach.
(320) 396-8742 View (320) 396-8742

Online Therapists

Photo of Donald Boyer, Pre-Licensed Professional
Donald Boyer
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
My person-centered approach, which integrates elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and psychotherapy, ensures that all aspects of your unique self are considered.
I specialize in working with individuals facing a wide range of mental health disorders, including trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD, childhood disorders, severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI), poverty-related stress, LGBTQ+ issues, and life-altering events such as grief/loss. My experience also includes helping clients manage self-harm behaviors, suicidal thoughts, chronic stress, and low self-esteem. We will develop effective coping and adaptive skills to handle life's difficulties, resolve conflicts and heal from traumatic experiences, and overcome feelings of being stuck.
My person-centered approach, which integrates elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and psychotherapy, ensures that all aspects of your unique self are considered.
I specialize in working with individuals facing a wide range of mental health disorders, including trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD, childhood disorders, severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI), poverty-related stress, LGBTQ+ issues, and life-altering events such as grief/loss. My experience also includes helping clients manage self-harm behaviors, suicidal thoughts, chronic stress, and low self-esteem. We will develop effective coping and adaptive skills to handle life's difficulties, resolve conflicts and heal from traumatic experiences, and overcome feelings of being stuck.
(651) 313-8080 View (651) 313-8080
Photo of Dr. Uyanga Bayandalai, PhD, LPCC, LADC, CRC
Dr. Uyanga Bayandalai
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LADC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Circle Pines, MN 55014  (Online Only)
I specialize in assisting individuals who have anxiety, depression, and trauma using EMDR and IFS modalities, as these are the primary modalities I use in my practice. However, I personalize my approach to meet each client's specific needs and utilize tools from CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness therapy.
I specialize in assisting individuals who have anxiety, depression, and trauma using EMDR and IFS modalities, as these are the primary modalities I use in my practice. However, I personalize my approach to meet each client's specific needs and utilize tools from CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness therapy.
(763) 878-6789 View (763) 878-6789
Photo of Kaitlin L Lytle, MPH, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaitlin L Lytle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPH, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55416
My treatment approach is eclectic, including solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and evidence-based treatment approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavior therapy for ARFID (CBT-AR), and family-based treatment (FBT).
When life becomes messy and you need a compassionate, collaborative, non-judgmental, and experienced therapist, I am here for you. My primary focus is on medical family therapy, family therapy, and working with young adults and adolescents. I have an extensive background working with eating disorders, acute and chronic illness, anxiety, depression, learning disorders, perfectionism, parenting, and adjusting to life’s challenges.
My treatment approach is eclectic, including solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and evidence-based treatment approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavior therapy for ARFID (CBT-AR), and family-based treatment (FBT).
When life becomes messy and you need a compassionate, collaborative, non-judgmental, and experienced therapist, I am here for you. My primary focus is on medical family therapy, family therapy, and working with young adults and adolescents. I have an extensive background working with eating disorders, acute and chronic illness, anxiety, depression, learning disorders, perfectionism, parenting, and adjusting to life’s challenges.
(612) 682-1205 View (612) 682-1205
Photo of Brenden Ormsby, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenden Ormsby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
If you have struggled to find effective therapy and regulate your emotions I may be the therapist for you. I have a strong passion for intersectionality, trauma, minority experience, and people underserved or poorly served by our mental health systems. I am most interested working with folks at one of the intersections of LGBTQIA+ identity, neurodivergence, and trauma providing respectful, culturally humble and non-judgmental care.
I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
If you have struggled to find effective therapy and regulate your emotions I may be the therapist for you. I have a strong passion for intersectionality, trauma, minority experience, and people underserved or poorly served by our mental health systems. I am most interested working with folks at one of the intersections of LGBTQIA+ identity, neurodivergence, and trauma providing respectful, culturally humble and non-judgmental care.
(651) 419-5298 View (651) 419-5298
Photo of Jessica Backowski, MS, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Jessica Backowski
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
I utilize a strengths-based approach and work from a person-centered perspective incorporating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and insight-oriented techniques.
Life can present us with challenges and obstacles that we sometimes need help to overcome. I work with adults struggling with PTSD/trauma, addiction/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and mood disorders.
I utilize a strengths-based approach and work from a person-centered perspective incorporating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and insight-oriented techniques.
Life can present us with challenges and obstacles that we sometimes need help to overcome. I work with adults struggling with PTSD/trauma, addiction/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and mood disorders.
(952) 900-3764 View (952) 900-3764
Photo of Andrea Schroeder, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Andrea Schroeder
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55116
I'm also trained in EMDR and DBT.
You're very courageous for taking the first step in finding somebody to talk to. Together we'll navigate the challenges you're facing in your life such as depression, anxiety, body image concerns, identity issues, low-self esteem, transitions, and losses. As you share, I'll make sure you feel heard and understood.
I'm also trained in EMDR and DBT.
You're very courageous for taking the first step in finding somebody to talk to. Together we'll navigate the challenges you're facing in your life such as depression, anxiety, body image concerns, identity issues, low-self esteem, transitions, and losses. As you share, I'll make sure you feel heard and understood.
(763) 272-7946 View (763) 272-7946
Photo of Mel Day, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mel Day
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55425
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with clients through a range of therapeutic modalities, including DBT, EMDR, Attachment Theory, and Trauma-informed frameworks.
Tired of Educating Your Therapist on Your Gender and Sexuality? Do you feel like you've been trained to hide parts of yourself and conform to societal expectations? Have you lost sight of what you truly want after pleasing others for so long? Therapy should be a place to embrace and affirm your authenticity, not educate or conform to your therapist. If you're neurodivergent, struggling with anxiety or depression, or dealing with challenges related to your gender and sexual identities, I provide a safe, affirming space for you to process your emotions and gain insights into your true self.
I have experience working with clients through a range of therapeutic modalities, including DBT, EMDR, Attachment Theory, and Trauma-informed frameworks.
Tired of Educating Your Therapist on Your Gender and Sexuality? Do you feel like you've been trained to hide parts of yourself and conform to societal expectations? Have you lost sight of what you truly want after pleasing others for so long? Therapy should be a place to embrace and affirm your authenticity, not educate or conform to your therapist. If you're neurodivergent, struggling with anxiety or depression, or dealing with challenges related to your gender and sexual identities, I provide a safe, affirming space for you to process your emotions and gain insights into your true self.
(952) 592-1722 View (952) 592-1722
Photo of Roger Pollock, LICSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roger Pollock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Using evidence-based therapies like DBT, Prolonged Exposure, Trauma Focused CBT, EMDR, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, I address a range of clinical problems.
My mission is to genuinely share myself with others so that we can reach higher levels of understanding and experience acceptance, commitment, and hope. We are doing the best we can, with what we have, in this moment and we can do better, being more motivated to change. With a dialectical perspective, drawing from the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I focus on helping my clients achieve their goals and create a life worth living.In my work, I connect with adolescents, families, and young adults, offering a radically genuine relationship that helps them discover that hope and recovery are possible.
Using evidence-based therapies like DBT, Prolonged Exposure, Trauma Focused CBT, EMDR, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, I address a range of clinical problems.
My mission is to genuinely share myself with others so that we can reach higher levels of understanding and experience acceptance, commitment, and hope. We are doing the best we can, with what we have, in this moment and we can do better, being more motivated to change. With a dialectical perspective, drawing from the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I focus on helping my clients achieve their goals and create a life worth living.In my work, I connect with adolescents, families, and young adults, offering a radically genuine relationship that helps them discover that hope and recovery are possible.
(612) 662-5680 View (612) 662-5680
Photo of Sharon Rohde, LPCC
Sharon Rohde
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55106
My name is Sharon Rohde, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC 1906) and a licensed drug and alcohol counselor (LADC (303827). I work with adults and couples using evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies and acceptance and commitment therapy. My approach to therapy consists of evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies and acceptance and commitment therapy.
My name is Sharon Rohde, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC 1906) and a licensed drug and alcohol counselor (LADC (303827). I work with adults and couples using evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies and acceptance and commitment therapy. My approach to therapy consists of evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(651) 240-4163 View (651) 240-4163
Photo of Huda Badri, MA, LPCC
Huda Badri
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403
The modalities I use include holistic and culturally responsive approach, client-centered, psychodynamic, trauma-informed with emphasis on EMDR, Brainspotting, and DBT skills.
Hi! My name is Huda and I am based in Minneapolis, MN. I offer both Telehealth and in-person services. I am passionate about working with teenagers and adults who are navigating growth and change in their lives. My goal is to provide a respectful, genuine, safe, and accepting space in order to establish a strong therapeutic relationship. I believe the client is the expert in their life’s story. I am honored and excited  to partner together in order to create a space to slow down, explore, challenge, and move to a space of balance.
The modalities I use include holistic and culturally responsive approach, client-centered, psychodynamic, trauma-informed with emphasis on EMDR, Brainspotting, and DBT skills.
Hi! My name is Huda and I am based in Minneapolis, MN. I offer both Telehealth and in-person services. I am passionate about working with teenagers and adults who are navigating growth and change in their lives. My goal is to provide a respectful, genuine, safe, and accepting space in order to establish a strong therapeutic relationship. I believe the client is the expert in their life’s story. I am honored and excited  to partner together in order to create a space to slow down, explore, challenge, and move to a space of balance.
(612) 682-0901 View (612) 682-0901
Photo of Scott Grandt, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Grandt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55447
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help give individuals the skills needed to cope and thrive.
Scott is an individual therapist who sees teens (16+) and adults. Scott believes in meeting people where they are at in their mental health journey. His style of therapy would be described as warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help give individuals the skills needed to cope and thrive.
Scott is an individual therapist who sees teens (16+) and adults. Scott believes in meeting people where they are at in their mental health journey. His style of therapy would be described as warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
(507) 204-3446 View (507) 204-3446
Photo of Dr. Kabita Roy, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Kabita Roy
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114  (Online Only)
My integrative approach includes utilization of CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR; Mindfulness and Relaxation training, and incorporation of spirituality in the context of individual psychotherapy.
Your path to health and happiness emerges through nurturing body, mind, and spirit. As a licensed psychologist, I work with adult clients as they move toward healing from a variety of mental health and life concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges, self esteem issues, academic struggles, life transitions, and cross-cultural dilemmas. In a therapeutic environment of respect and dignity for my clients, I draw upon my clinical experiences in the mental health field as well as my knowledge of research-supported treatments to help individuals achieve the healing and life changes they seek.
My integrative approach includes utilization of CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR; Mindfulness and Relaxation training, and incorporation of spirituality in the context of individual psychotherapy.
Your path to health and happiness emerges through nurturing body, mind, and spirit. As a licensed psychologist, I work with adult clients as they move toward healing from a variety of mental health and life concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges, self esteem issues, academic struggles, life transitions, and cross-cultural dilemmas. In a therapeutic environment of respect and dignity for my clients, I draw upon my clinical experiences in the mental health field as well as my knowledge of research-supported treatments to help individuals achieve the healing and life changes they seek.
(651) 314-0997 View (651) 314-0997
Photo of Dr. Hannah L Flanery - Hannah Flanery, PhD , PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Flanery, PhD
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I have experience providing CBT, ACT, and DBT for depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and psychological evaluations.
Life can be hard and throw numerous obstacles in our way. Individuals I work with tend to experience stress and other symptoms that are getting in the way of their ultimate happiness and other important goals. I help others by building a strong foundation in the relationship between the therapist and the client. I tailor treatment with the client's goals in mind. To do this, I use evidence-based treatments as well as a blend of evidence-informed practices.
I have experience providing CBT, ACT, and DBT for depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and psychological evaluations.
Life can be hard and throw numerous obstacles in our way. Individuals I work with tend to experience stress and other symptoms that are getting in the way of their ultimate happiness and other important goals. I help others by building a strong foundation in the relationship between the therapist and the client. I tailor treatment with the client's goals in mind. To do this, I use evidence-based treatments as well as a blend of evidence-informed practices.
(651) 800-9985 View (651) 800-9985
Photo of Jessica Mcintosh, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Mcintosh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MN 55109
I provide virtual or in-person therapy sessions for adults ages 17 yrs & up and apply the following treatment approach: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy through Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Relational, Narrative, Solution Focused and Strength Based Therapy,.
Current openings for evenings or weekend sessions! Is your mental health wellness manageable on some days and at other times you feel over come by certain thoughts, emotions, past trauma response experiences, as well as interpersonal relationship conflicts? I will provide a safe space for you to process your concerns, empathize and validate your experiences. Our partnership will reflect how we work together as you cultivate the necessary skills to manage the areas of concern you have.
I provide virtual or in-person therapy sessions for adults ages 17 yrs & up and apply the following treatment approach: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy through Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Relational, Narrative, Solution Focused and Strength Based Therapy,.
Current openings for evenings or weekend sessions! Is your mental health wellness manageable on some days and at other times you feel over come by certain thoughts, emotions, past trauma response experiences, as well as interpersonal relationship conflicts? I will provide a safe space for you to process your concerns, empathize and validate your experiences. Our partnership will reflect how we work together as you cultivate the necessary skills to manage the areas of concern you have.
(612) 261-0346 View (612) 261-0346
Photo of Naomi Drenk, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Drenk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization-Reprocessing (EMDR), addressing trauma, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which can be helpful for those working through emotion regulation and relationship concerns.
Do you feel stuck? Maybe a little lost on taking your next steps? You are not alone. I enjoy working with people as they journey through their next steps, whether it's a stage of life change, relationship struggles or identifying and breaking through the barriers that seem to be holding them back from the life they want to live. My clients often find validation, encouragement and their own inner strength as we walk the path together.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization-Reprocessing (EMDR), addressing trauma, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which can be helpful for those working through emotion regulation and relationship concerns.
Do you feel stuck? Maybe a little lost on taking your next steps? You are not alone. I enjoy working with people as they journey through their next steps, whether it's a stage of life change, relationship struggles or identifying and breaking through the barriers that seem to be holding them back from the life they want to live. My clients often find validation, encouragement and their own inner strength as we walk the path together.
(651) 758-0172 View (651) 758-0172
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.