Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Long Island City, NY

Photo of Gloria Choi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gloria Choi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
I integrate therapeutic modalities like dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), CBT, EMDR, Somatic experiencing and mindfulness to help my clients become more aware and better equipped to manage problems with relationships, trauma, stress and emotional dysregulation.
I am a warm and dedicated therapist interested in helping you cope with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma and acculturation issues. I am also interested in helping you adjust to a new struggle or stage of life. I have been working in mental health for 20+ years and I am down to earth and solution-focused. I will help you identify a goal and work with you step-by-step to achieve that goal.
I integrate therapeutic modalities like dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), CBT, EMDR, Somatic experiencing and mindfulness to help my clients become more aware and better equipped to manage problems with relationships, trauma, stress and emotional dysregulation.
I am a warm and dedicated therapist interested in helping you cope with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma and acculturation issues. I am also interested in helping you adjust to a new struggle or stage of life. I have been working in mental health for 20+ years and I am down to earth and solution-focused. I will help you identify a goal and work with you step-by-step to achieve that goal.
(917) 746-0593 View (917) 746-0593
Photo of Tara Loftus, MSW, LMSW
Tara Loftus
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Together, we’ll craft a unique path using therapies like CBT, DBT, and trauma-focused approaches, all tailored to your strengths.
Whether you're navigating past traumas, looking for clarity during life's changes, or longing for deeper connections, you deserve a therapeutic experience that truly resonates with you. As your therapist, I'm here to create a safe, nurturing space where we can work together to enhance your mental well-being, strengthen your relationships, and discover more purpose and joy in your life. We'll go at a pace that feels right for you, honoring your needs and comfort every step of the way.
Together, we’ll craft a unique path using therapies like CBT, DBT, and trauma-focused approaches, all tailored to your strengths.
Whether you're navigating past traumas, looking for clarity during life's changes, or longing for deeper connections, you deserve a therapeutic experience that truly resonates with you. As your therapist, I'm here to create a safe, nurturing space where we can work together to enhance your mental well-being, strengthen your relationships, and discover more purpose and joy in your life. We'll go at a pace that feels right for you, honoring your needs and comfort every step of the way.
(332) 529-6843 View (332) 529-6843
Photo of Moorea Colby, LCSW, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moorea Colby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I utilize a psychodynamic approach, pulling from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I have extensive experience working with young/emerging adults, the LGBTQ+ population, and women. My work has focused on people experiencing depression/anxiety, people considering or in early recovery from substance use disorders, and coping with trauma.
I utilize a psychodynamic approach, pulling from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I have extensive experience working with young/emerging adults, the LGBTQ+ population, and women. My work has focused on people experiencing depression/anxiety, people considering or in early recovery from substance use disorders, and coping with trauma.
(929) 556-2425 View (929) 556-2425
Photo of Jessica Hazard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Hazard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a caring, eclectic, and nonjudgmental therapist who specializes in working with adolescents, ages 12-24. I come from a place of empowerment and am trained in CBT, DBT, talk therapy, motivational interviewing, and superhero therapy. I am also in the process of getting certified in TF-CBT. I start where the person I am working with is and get to know them! I try different things with clients and see what they like and don't like, and we go from there. I don't believe therapy is one-size-fits-all. I love helping young people work toward their goals and feel better about themselves!
I am a caring, eclectic, and nonjudgmental therapist who specializes in working with adolescents, ages 12-24. I come from a place of empowerment and am trained in CBT, DBT, talk therapy, motivational interviewing, and superhero therapy. I am also in the process of getting certified in TF-CBT. I start where the person I am working with is and get to know them! I try different things with clients and see what they like and don't like, and we go from there. I don't believe therapy is one-size-fits-all. I love helping young people work toward their goals and feel better about themselves!
(347) 586-0529 View (347) 586-0529
Photo of Eryka Sajek, PsyD, Psychologist
Eryka Sajek
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11103  (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where your journey to greater meaning and connection begins. Life's transitions can feel daunting, yet they offer profound opportunities for growth and self-discovery. At the heart of my practice is a deep commitment to helping individuals like you explore and embrace these transformative moments. With a foundation in evidence-based therapies such as DBT, CBT, and EMDR, we'll explore your goals, unpack the barriers holding you back, and unearth the strengths that will propel you forward. I strive to bring warmth and approachability into our work together, creating a space where all identities are celebrated.
Welcome to a space where your journey to greater meaning and connection begins. Life's transitions can feel daunting, yet they offer profound opportunities for growth and self-discovery. At the heart of my practice is a deep commitment to helping individuals like you explore and embrace these transformative moments. With a foundation in evidence-based therapies such as DBT, CBT, and EMDR, we'll explore your goals, unpack the barriers holding you back, and unearth the strengths that will propel you forward. I strive to bring warmth and approachability into our work together, creating a space where all identities are celebrated.
(929) 641-0062 View (929) 641-0062
Photo of Isabella Rosatone, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Isabella Rosatone
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have incorporated approaches such as CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and person-centered therapy into my practice.
Addressing life's difficulties can be overwhelming, and looking for someone to talk to can be even more daunting. Taking the step to begin therapy is brave, and is one of the best ways to better understand yourself. As a therapist, my approach is empathetic, understanding, and non-judgemental. I aim to create a safe space with my clients where you can process your emotions comfortably and address any uncertainties, anxieties, and unwanted thoughts. Inside the safe space of therapy, we will work to address the things you want to- learning new coping strategies, meeting a goal, processing life changes, or discussing daily stressors.
I have incorporated approaches such as CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and person-centered therapy into my practice.
Addressing life's difficulties can be overwhelming, and looking for someone to talk to can be even more daunting. Taking the step to begin therapy is brave, and is one of the best ways to better understand yourself. As a therapist, my approach is empathetic, understanding, and non-judgemental. I aim to create a safe space with my clients where you can process your emotions comfortably and address any uncertainties, anxieties, and unwanted thoughts. Inside the safe space of therapy, we will work to address the things you want to- learning new coping strategies, meeting a goal, processing life changes, or discussing daily stressors.
(718) 550-7784 View (718) 550-7784
Photo of Lauren B. Wohl, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren B. Wohl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101
I utilize evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, but I also incorporate other treatment modalities.
Do you or your adolescent child feel anxious, depressed, unmotivated or in need of greater self-confidence? Are you suffering from the death of a loved one, chronic illness, divorce, and/or other kinds of trauma? Perhaps you are struggling with fear or uncertainty regarding a life transition, infertility, your relationship, and/or feel you are not living the life you envisioned for yourself. As a licensed psychotherapist, I will help you navigate these challenges as you strengthen your coping skills, and improve your well-being with proven tools for leading a balanced, satisfying life.
I utilize evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, but I also incorporate other treatment modalities.
Do you or your adolescent child feel anxious, depressed, unmotivated or in need of greater self-confidence? Are you suffering from the death of a loved one, chronic illness, divorce, and/or other kinds of trauma? Perhaps you are struggling with fear or uncertainty regarding a life transition, infertility, your relationship, and/or feel you are not living the life you envisioned for yourself. As a licensed psychotherapist, I will help you navigate these challenges as you strengthen your coping skills, and improve your well-being with proven tools for leading a balanced, satisfying life.
(347) 846-2423 View (347) 846-2423
Photo of Veronica Green, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I frequently use EMDR and draw from psychodynamic, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Therapy is a chance to discover more about yourself - everyone deserves this opportunity. In our sessions, we will identify ways to overcome your challenges and help you become more self-aware and empowered in your decision-making, to build the life you want. Together, we can seek what motivates you while you develop coping skills and learn how to perspective-take, to reframe negative beliefs.
I frequently use EMDR and draw from psychodynamic, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Therapy is a chance to discover more about yourself - everyone deserves this opportunity. In our sessions, we will identify ways to overcome your challenges and help you become more self-aware and empowered in your decision-making, to build the life you want. Together, we can seek what motivates you while you develop coping skills and learn how to perspective-take, to reframe negative beliefs.
(516) 400-4665 View (516) 400-4665
Photo of Bianca Hormaza Pesola, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bianca Hormaza Pesola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I have over nine years of direct practice experience in the field of mental health. I am committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults achieve mental wellness and overcome challenges in their lives. I have honed my skills in providing evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral difficulties to gain awareness and autonomy. We will discuss your feelings, examine behavioral patterns, and life events that impact your current functioning and enhance your inner resources to achieve your goals.
I have over nine years of direct practice experience in the field of mental health. I am committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults achieve mental wellness and overcome challenges in their lives. I have honed my skills in providing evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral difficulties to gain awareness and autonomy. We will discuss your feelings, examine behavioral patterns, and life events that impact your current functioning and enhance your inner resources to achieve your goals.
(347) 236-3581 View (347) 236-3581
Photo of Sarvin Azizgolshani, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Sarvin Azizgolshani
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I develop an individualized approach for each client and have been trained in psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Have you felt stuck in familiar patterns or felt unfulfilled in your relationships? I understand that starting therapy can be a difficult decision and I aim to provide a supportive environment to empower clients to be able to live a more meaningful life. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Each stage in life comes with own unique challenges, which can have a deep impact on how one views the world. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and work with clients to develop better ways to cope with their struggles.
I develop an individualized approach for each client and have been trained in psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Have you felt stuck in familiar patterns or felt unfulfilled in your relationships? I understand that starting therapy can be a difficult decision and I aim to provide a supportive environment to empower clients to be able to live a more meaningful life. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Each stage in life comes with own unique challenges, which can have a deep impact on how one views the world. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and work with clients to develop better ways to cope with their struggles.
(516) 518-9560 View (516) 518-9560
Photo of Shayne Snyder, MHC-LP
Shayne Snyder
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
Shayne's approach is an eclectic application of Dialectical Behavior Therapy with influences from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Feminist Theory, and Positive Psychology. She believes clients are the experts on their lives and strives to provide an empathetic environment to process life’s difficult moments. Her personable and enthusiastic nature creates a solid therapeutic alliance. The safe space is built with the rapport developed to make positive change.
Shayne's approach is an eclectic application of Dialectical Behavior Therapy with influences from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Feminist Theory, and Positive Psychology. She believes clients are the experts on their lives and strives to provide an empathetic environment to process life’s difficult moments. Her personable and enthusiastic nature creates a solid therapeutic alliance. The safe space is built with the rapport developed to make positive change.
(929) 470-1452 View (929) 470-1452
Photo of Dr. Courtney Deleasa, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Courtney Deleasa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11109  (Online Only)
I completed comprehensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, a mindfulness-based CBT treatment, training in Behavioral Activation, and certification in Parent Management Training from Yale Parenting Center.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Perfectionism, and Anxiety Disorders. I have expertise in and passion for treating Purely Obsessional subtypes of OCD. I received extensive training from an internationally-renowned expert on Pure-O and OCD and gained significant experience using Exposure & Response Prevention to treat OCD, anxiety, and Pure-O in both national and international populations. I work with clients to build creative, individualized treatment plans that incorporate research-based methods, and take into account a client’s unique needs, circumstances, culture, & values.
I completed comprehensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, a mindfulness-based CBT treatment, training in Behavioral Activation, and certification in Parent Management Training from Yale Parenting Center.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Perfectionism, and Anxiety Disorders. I have expertise in and passion for treating Purely Obsessional subtypes of OCD. I received extensive training from an internationally-renowned expert on Pure-O and OCD and gained significant experience using Exposure & Response Prevention to treat OCD, anxiety, and Pure-O in both national and international populations. I work with clients to build creative, individualized treatment plans that incorporate research-based methods, and take into account a client’s unique needs, circumstances, culture, & values.
(332) 239-2491 View (332) 239-2491
Photo of Stephanie Spielberger, PhD, Counselor
Stephanie Spielberger
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
Dr. Stephanie Spielberger is a Licensed Psychologist who specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults as well as conducting psychological and educational assessments. She takes a warm, collaborative, non-judgmental, and individualized approach that incorporates empirical research and evidence-based practice. Dr. Spielberger's therapeutic orientation is primarily Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral (CBT and DBT), as well as solution-focused and insight-oriented.
Dr. Stephanie Spielberger is a Licensed Psychologist who specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults as well as conducting psychological and educational assessments. She takes a warm, collaborative, non-judgmental, and individualized approach that incorporates empirical research and evidence-based practice. Dr. Spielberger's therapeutic orientation is primarily Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral (CBT and DBT), as well as solution-focused and insight-oriented.
(646) 502-7457 View (646) 502-7457
Photo of Neal Santacruz, LCSW, r, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neal Santacruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, r
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101
I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Family Therapy.
You are unique. Using a client-centered approach, I work with your individual needs and focus for therapy. Sometimes a person may seek change in their lives or want to process their unresolved experiences and understand themselves better. Whether you are sad about the past or worried about the future, I am well versed in multiple therapeutic modalities to be able to help.
I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Family Therapy.
You are unique. Using a client-centered approach, I work with your individual needs and focus for therapy. Sometimes a person may seek change in their lives or want to process their unresolved experiences and understand themselves better. Whether you are sad about the past or worried about the future, I am well versed in multiple therapeutic modalities to be able to help.
(917) 765-0047 View (917) 765-0047
Photo of David Martin, PhD, Psychologist
David Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Accepting Teletherapy Appointments Only. I work collaboratively with my clients, empowering them to find balance, wholeness, and greater happiness in life. My broad experience both in a variety of psychological treatment modalities (Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy), as well as in working with a wide range of clients, enables me to provide therapy that is both deeply compassionate and well-rooted in psychological science. I’m here to help you create stronger, more fulfilling relationships, make peace with yourself, and start living a life of fulfillment and connection.
Accepting Teletherapy Appointments Only. I work collaboratively with my clients, empowering them to find balance, wholeness, and greater happiness in life. My broad experience both in a variety of psychological treatment modalities (Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy), as well as in working with a wide range of clients, enables me to provide therapy that is both deeply compassionate and well-rooted in psychological science. I’m here to help you create stronger, more fulfilling relationships, make peace with yourself, and start living a life of fulfillment and connection.
(516) 715-3461 View (516) 715-3461
Photo of Erica K Rosenthal, PhD, Psychologist
Erica K Rosenthal
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
As a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in New York City with many years of clinical training and experience, I conduct psychotherapy with adults and adolescents who are looking to make significant and lasting changes in their lives. I work from a psychodynamic foundation and utilize CBT and DBT techniques to target symptoms and improve overall well-being.
As a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in New York City with many years of clinical training and experience, I conduct psychotherapy with adults and adolescents who are looking to make significant and lasting changes in their lives. I work from a psychodynamic foundation and utilize CBT and DBT techniques to target symptoms and improve overall well-being.
(347) 482-0745 View (347) 482-0745
Photo of Rachel Jacobs, LCSW, CASAC, Trauma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC, Trauma
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
My extensive clinical training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, and DBT will inform our work together.
No matter how "together" you may appear on the outside, when you are hurting on the inside, life can feel overwhelming. If you are ready to work through your struggles, I would love to help guide you. My belief is that you have the capacity to face the challenges in your life and be the best version of yourself you can be. I am here to help you find your inner wisdom and to feel better. I am passionate about working with the following issues: complex trauma and PTSD, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, chronic illness, and career challenges. I also have extensive history working with substance abuse and codependency.
My extensive clinical training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, and DBT will inform our work together.
No matter how "together" you may appear on the outside, when you are hurting on the inside, life can feel overwhelming. If you are ready to work through your struggles, I would love to help guide you. My belief is that you have the capacity to face the challenges in your life and be the best version of yourself you can be. I am here to help you find your inner wisdom and to feel better. I am passionate about working with the following issues: complex trauma and PTSD, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, chronic illness, and career challenges. I also have extensive history working with substance abuse and codependency.
(929) 930-4928 View (929) 930-4928
Photo of Dr. Vivi Wei-Chun Hua, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Vivi Wei-Chun Hua
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
My treatment grounds in psychodynamic theory and incorporates modalities including CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and non-violent communication, to help you confidently navigate stressors in life.
Do you feel like you've achieved some success in your education or career yet still find yourself struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, romantic relationships, family conflicts, cultural identity, or wanting to connect with your innermost desire? These things can often make people feel lost or unfulfilled. I'm dedicated to providing quality services to each client and helping them effectively resolve their problems, so they can build a meaningful and fulfilling life.
My treatment grounds in psychodynamic theory and incorporates modalities including CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and non-violent communication, to help you confidently navigate stressors in life.
Do you feel like you've achieved some success in your education or career yet still find yourself struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, romantic relationships, family conflicts, cultural identity, or wanting to connect with your innermost desire? These things can often make people feel lost or unfulfilled. I'm dedicated to providing quality services to each client and helping them effectively resolve their problems, so they can build a meaningful and fulfilling life.
(347) 308-6340 View (347) 308-6340
Photo of Maggie Schweppe, LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maggie Schweppe
Pre-Licensed Professional, LP
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11105
I draw from CBT, ACT, DBT, Mindfulness, Gestalt, and Psychodynamic modalities depending on what you need.
Tired of feeling stuck with the same unhelpful thoughts? Want to feel more confident while learning about yourself and why you feel the way you do? Together, we can navigate your anxiety, OCD, depression, questioning identity, life transitions, or anything else you’re experiencing. As a bisexual/queer clinician, I have a focus working with the LGBTQ+ community and welcome adult clients of different experiences.
I draw from CBT, ACT, DBT, Mindfulness, Gestalt, and Psychodynamic modalities depending on what you need.
Tired of feeling stuck with the same unhelpful thoughts? Want to feel more confident while learning about yourself and why you feel the way you do? Together, we can navigate your anxiety, OCD, depression, questioning identity, life transitions, or anything else you’re experiencing. As a bisexual/queer clinician, I have a focus working with the LGBTQ+ community and welcome adult clients of different experiences.
(332) 286-1832 View (332) 286-1832
Photo of Dr. Kalli Feldman (Women's Issues And Couples- Maternal Mental Health), PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Kalli Feldman (Women's Issues And Couples- Maternal Mental Health)
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based interventions such as DBT, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, internal family systems, and relational therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist passionate about helping women, parents, and couples learn how to meet their genuine needs, care for themselves, and build a life that feels authentic and joyful. My practice focuses on breaking distressing cycles and patterns where one learned to disconnect from their own needs and emotions often to prioritize the needs of others. I work with individuals who may be struggling in relationships or life transitions, self-critical, unsure of next steps in building the life they want, feeling triggered and overwhelmed by parenting, or couples stuck in cycles of arguing and feeling disconnected.
I utilize evidence-based interventions such as DBT, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, internal family systems, and relational therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist passionate about helping women, parents, and couples learn how to meet their genuine needs, care for themselves, and build a life that feels authentic and joyful. My practice focuses on breaking distressing cycles and patterns where one learned to disconnect from their own needs and emotions often to prioritize the needs of others. I work with individuals who may be struggling in relationships or life transitions, self-critical, unsure of next steps in building the life they want, feeling triggered and overwhelmed by parenting, or couples stuck in cycles of arguing and feeling disconnected.
(929) 732-7432 View (929) 732-7432
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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.