Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Kim Woynowskie, PsyD, Psychologist
Kim Woynowskie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
I am trained in a number of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapies.
Welcome. I am a licensed therapist with 8 years of professional experience. Therapy is a journey tailored to your needs and goals. My pragmatic, evidence-based approach combines compassion and candor to facilitate meaningful progress. Together, we will explore old patterns, discover new perspectives, and engage in exercises to enhance your well-being.
I am trained in a number of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapies.
Welcome. I am a licensed therapist with 8 years of professional experience. Therapy is a journey tailored to your needs and goals. My pragmatic, evidence-based approach combines compassion and candor to facilitate meaningful progress. Together, we will explore old patterns, discover new perspectives, and engage in exercises to enhance your well-being.
(215) 770-9021 View (215) 770-9021
Photo of Honora Feinberg, Pre-Licensed Professional
Honora Feinberg
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
My counseling approach incorporates modalities like Attachment theory, DBT ( Dialectical Behavior Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and IFS (Internal Family Systems) to create an environment that honors your lived experience and allows for non-judgemental self-exploration.
My specialities include, but are not limited to working with queer folks, individuals exploring alternative lifestyles, and individuals looking to develop healthy relationship skills. I am a firm believer that healing begins with getting to know yourself. That can mean identifying attachment wounds, exploring the impacts of the systems that inform you, and disassembling worn-out patterns that no longer serve you. My goal is to help you build a foundation of intimacy with the self that unlocks your ability to be more present in your relationships and more connected with your values.
My counseling approach incorporates modalities like Attachment theory, DBT ( Dialectical Behavior Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and IFS (Internal Family Systems) to create an environment that honors your lived experience and allows for non-judgemental self-exploration.
My specialities include, but are not limited to working with queer folks, individuals exploring alternative lifestyles, and individuals looking to develop healthy relationship skills. I am a firm believer that healing begins with getting to know yourself. That can mean identifying attachment wounds, exploring the impacts of the systems that inform you, and disassembling worn-out patterns that no longer serve you. My goal is to help you build a foundation of intimacy with the self that unlocks your ability to be more present in your relationships and more connected with your values.
(215) 621-8493 View (215) 621-8493
Photo of Karla Pazzi, LCSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Pazzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
While I use a variety of styles of therapy, I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) as well as more traditional "talk" therapy.
As a therapist, my passion is helping clients develop a greater ability to understand themselves and handle what happens to them. I use an integrative approach which is grounded in research and shows that the most effective healing occurs in the context of a strong client-therapist relationship. Beginning therapy can be intimidating so I try to create a warm, safe space by using an empathic, nonjudgmental, and, at times, humorous approach. Clients have described my style as compassionate and supportive while also being honest and direct.
While I use a variety of styles of therapy, I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) as well as more traditional "talk" therapy.
As a therapist, my passion is helping clients develop a greater ability to understand themselves and handle what happens to them. I use an integrative approach which is grounded in research and shows that the most effective healing occurs in the context of a strong client-therapist relationship. Beginning therapy can be intimidating so I try to create a warm, safe space by using an empathic, nonjudgmental, and, at times, humorous approach. Clients have described my style as compassionate and supportive while also being honest and direct.
(484) 380-9227 View (484) 380-9227
Photo of David Goneau, LPC, EMDR, Counselor
David Goneau
Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
I am trained in DBT, EMDR and Prepare Enrich training for marriage.
I primarily work with clients who struggle with their emotional and spiritual identity. This includes people working through addictions, abuse, anxiety and depression. I am trained in DBT and EMDR. My hope with counseling is to help empower people to confidently engage the challenges of their lives. I also work with married couples or those who are preparing for marriage.
I am trained in DBT, EMDR and Prepare Enrich training for marriage.
I primarily work with clients who struggle with their emotional and spiritual identity. This includes people working through addictions, abuse, anxiety and depression. I am trained in DBT and EMDR. My hope with counseling is to help empower people to confidently engage the challenges of their lives. I also work with married couples or those who are preparing for marriage.
(610) 665-3672 View (610) 665-3672
Photo of Christine Gehringer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Gehringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In our work together, I will draw upon your innate strengths, psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapies including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Problem Solving Therapy.
If you are experiencing difficulty resolving the current challenges in your life, I am here to help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has spent over a decade working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences, treating issues of trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship conflict. As a social worker, I believe that seeing, hearing and serving those who are oppressed is crucial to addressing the injustices within our society. My practice with you will be respectful and non-judgmental as we all struggle at times, and it is critical to have a source of support with whom we feel safe and can be open.
In our work together, I will draw upon your innate strengths, psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapies including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Problem Solving Therapy.
If you are experiencing difficulty resolving the current challenges in your life, I am here to help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has spent over a decade working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences, treating issues of trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship conflict. As a social worker, I believe that seeing, hearing and serving those who are oppressed is crucial to addressing the injustices within our society. My practice with you will be respectful and non-judgmental as we all struggle at times, and it is critical to have a source of support with whom we feel safe and can be open.
(267) 609-8586 View (267) 609-8586
Photo of Brian Mullan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Mullan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Hey there! I'm Brian Mullan, a licensed professional counselor. I believe firmly in client empowerment and autonomy, and I work with individuals to overcome challenges in order to achieve their maximum possible growth. My approach is client-centered and emphasizes holistic wellness. My preferred theoretical approaches include dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), acceptance and commitment (ACT), and solution-focused therapy, utilizing a feminist and multicultural lens.
Hey there! I'm Brian Mullan, a licensed professional counselor. I believe firmly in client empowerment and autonomy, and I work with individuals to overcome challenges in order to achieve their maximum possible growth. My approach is client-centered and emphasizes holistic wellness. My preferred theoretical approaches include dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), acceptance and commitment (ACT), and solution-focused therapy, utilizing a feminist and multicultural lens.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Laura Moyer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Moyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Laura Moyer, I am a licensed professional counselor. I bring compassion, honesty, understanding, and a direct approach to the therapeutic relationship. I focus my practice on assisting adolescents and adults to develop coping skills, build strengths, and overcome the challenges that we all face in life. My therapeutic approach is integrative and trauma-informed. I enjoy using a range of treatment modalities to best meet your unique needs including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and other relational and mindfulness-based approaches.
Hello, I am Laura Moyer, I am a licensed professional counselor. I bring compassion, honesty, understanding, and a direct approach to the therapeutic relationship. I focus my practice on assisting adolescents and adults to develop coping skills, build strengths, and overcome the challenges that we all face in life. My therapeutic approach is integrative and trauma-informed. I enjoy using a range of treatment modalities to best meet your unique needs including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and other relational and mindfulness-based approaches.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Tammy McAdoo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammy McAdoo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I use cognitive behavioral therapy along with dialectical skills and mindfulness.
Hello! I am Tammy McAdoo, LCSW. I am located in a rural town in PA. I have worked in case management, substance abuse disorders, in schools, and as an outpatient therapist. I truly enjoy helping others make improvements to their life. I like the client to set their goals and work toward them at their pace. I use a client-centered approach and simply provide guide rails to help them reach their goals.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy along with dialectical skills and mindfulness.
Hello! I am Tammy McAdoo, LCSW. I am located in a rural town in PA. I have worked in case management, substance abuse disorders, in schools, and as an outpatient therapist. I truly enjoy helping others make improvements to their life. I like the client to set their goals and work toward them at their pace. I use a client-centered approach and simply provide guide rails to help them reach their goals.
(267) 544-1216 View (267) 544-1216
Photo of Catherine Sechrist, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Sechrist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I utilize CBT, DBT, SFBT as well as trauma-informed based approaches.
I am Kate Sechrist, a Licensed Professional Counselor in PA. I approach therapy from a nonjudgmental way of being and meet you where you are. I specialize in trauma, grief, mood disorders, and panic disorder. Regardless of the reason for seeking therapy, the therapeutic relationship is of the utmost importance. I co-journey with those I work with in helping them to find the best version of themselves that they can be.
I utilize CBT, DBT, SFBT as well as trauma-informed based approaches.
I am Kate Sechrist, a Licensed Professional Counselor in PA. I approach therapy from a nonjudgmental way of being and meet you where you are. I specialize in trauma, grief, mood disorders, and panic disorder. Regardless of the reason for seeking therapy, the therapeutic relationship is of the utmost importance. I co-journey with those I work with in helping them to find the best version of themselves that they can be.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Loretta Gephart, LCP, Psychologist
Loretta Gephart
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Please call me Lori. I am a Licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania. I offer therapeutic tools and a safe space to focus on healing. I often use an eclectic mix of therapy tools and techniques that I have found helpful in working with clients over the past 34 years. These include primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, Mindfulness-Based and Psychodynamic Therapy. I frequently work with clients who are struggling with the limitations of past traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts.
Please call me Lori. I am a Licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania. I offer therapeutic tools and a safe space to focus on healing. I often use an eclectic mix of therapy tools and techniques that I have found helpful in working with clients over the past 34 years. These include primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, Mindfulness-Based and Psychodynamic Therapy. I frequently work with clients who are struggling with the limitations of past traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts.
(267) 651-0143 View (267) 651-0143
Photo of Tammy McAdoo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammy McAdoo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I use cognitive behavioral therapy along with dialectical skills and mindfulness.
Hello! I am Tammy McAdoo, LCSW. I am located in a rural town in PA. I have worked in case management, substance abuse disorders, in schools, and as an outpatient therapist. I truly enjoy helping others make improvements to their life. I like the client to set their goals and work toward them at their pace. I use a client-centered approach and simply provide guide rails to help them reach their goals.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy along with dialectical skills and mindfulness.
Hello! I am Tammy McAdoo, LCSW. I am located in a rural town in PA. I have worked in case management, substance abuse disorders, in schools, and as an outpatient therapist. I truly enjoy helping others make improvements to their life. I like the client to set their goals and work toward them at their pace. I use a client-centered approach and simply provide guide rails to help them reach their goals.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Khalilah Yadullah, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Khalilah Yadullah
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Welcome everyone! My name is Khalilah Yadullah. I am a psychotherapist. I believe in providing each person with a safe and judgement-free space, when in a therapeutic session. I use techniques from different therapeutic schools of thought to assist in the therapeutic journey with each person. I am grounded in DBT. I believe in providing each person with a safe and judgement-free space, when in a therapeutic session. I will validate your feelings, challenge cognitive distortions, encourage and explore physical wellness, and set SMART goals for each troubled area identified.
Welcome everyone! My name is Khalilah Yadullah. I am a psychotherapist. I believe in providing each person with a safe and judgement-free space, when in a therapeutic session. I use techniques from different therapeutic schools of thought to assist in the therapeutic journey with each person. I am grounded in DBT. I believe in providing each person with a safe and judgement-free space, when in a therapeutic session. I will validate your feelings, challenge cognitive distortions, encourage and explore physical wellness, and set SMART goals for each troubled area identified.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Elisabeth Henriques, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Elisabeth Henriques
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Throughout treatment, I utilize different approaches and skills such as dialectical and cognitive behavioral interventions, parts work, feminist theory in relation to marginalized identities, and narrative techniques to ensure that you feel empowered to tell your story and hold agency over its meaning.
My name is Liz Henriques, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 4 years of experience in a variety of mental health settings. My role as your therapist is joining you on your journey to self-improvement and understanding while being fully present and actively listening to ensure you feel heard and understood. First and foremost, my work is always person-centered; empathy and collaboration are the core of my therapeutic approach. My communication style is direct, but warm. I also enjoy bringing some light humor into the therapy room.
Throughout treatment, I utilize different approaches and skills such as dialectical and cognitive behavioral interventions, parts work, feminist theory in relation to marginalized identities, and narrative techniques to ensure that you feel empowered to tell your story and hold agency over its meaning.
My name is Liz Henriques, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 4 years of experience in a variety of mental health settings. My role as your therapist is joining you on your journey to self-improvement and understanding while being fully present and actively listening to ensure you feel heard and understood. First and foremost, my work is always person-centered; empathy and collaboration are the core of my therapeutic approach. My communication style is direct, but warm. I also enjoy bringing some light humor into the therapy room.
(717) 402-8972 View (717) 402-8972
Photo of Joelle Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joelle Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I also like to use dialectical behavioral techniques in combination with CBT.
Hello, I'm Joelle Jones and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I'm a strong believer in developing awareness to help empower people to make changes in their lives when and where they want to.
I also like to use dialectical behavioral techniques in combination with CBT.
Hello, I'm Joelle Jones and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I'm a strong believer in developing awareness to help empower people to make changes in their lives when and where they want to.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Joy Rosenthal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I’m a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience, currently seeing Individuals, Couples, and Families in Pennsylvania. I use multiple modalities in my therapeutic approach including CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Brief, and Family Systems. I have counseled clients in all areas of mental health, specializing in treating anxiety, depression, stress, spectrum of mood disorders, addiction and recovery, eating disorders, chronic health issues and issues of trauma and grief. Clients have described my communication style as warm, compassionate and honest with a sense of humor
I’m a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience, currently seeing Individuals, Couples, and Families in Pennsylvania. I use multiple modalities in my therapeutic approach including CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Brief, and Family Systems. I have counseled clients in all areas of mental health, specializing in treating anxiety, depression, stress, spectrum of mood disorders, addiction and recovery, eating disorders, chronic health issues and issues of trauma and grief. Clients have described my communication style as warm, compassionate and honest with a sense of humor
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Sarah Hairston, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Hairston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
It takes a lot of strength and self-kindness to seek support and therapy–thank you for being here and for considering me as part of your process. My aim is to help understand where folx are, as well as what their hopes and goals may be. We work together to find growth and change in the ways that work best for you. I operate from a feminist, abolitionist lens and adapt evidence-based modalities, including TF-CBT, DBT, and CPT to fit each individual as needed. I am here to hold space for you, help you find understanding, and work through the many-faceted aspects of adulthood.
It takes a lot of strength and self-kindness to seek support and therapy–thank you for being here and for considering me as part of your process. My aim is to help understand where folx are, as well as what their hopes and goals may be. We work together to find growth and change in the ways that work best for you. I operate from a feminist, abolitionist lens and adapt evidence-based modalities, including TF-CBT, DBT, and CPT to fit each individual as needed. I am here to hold space for you, help you find understanding, and work through the many-faceted aspects of adulthood.
(717) 973-8907 View (717) 973-8907
Photo of Michelle Cotter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Cotter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
My name is Michele Cotter, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I work with clients of all ages statewide via telehealth. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Informed care to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I use an integrated approach depending on the type of client that I work with. Not every theory fits everyone perfectly; so the ability to shift to different perspectives allows a holistic approach to healing.
I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
My name is Michele Cotter, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I work with clients of all ages statewide via telehealth. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Informed care to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I use an integrated approach depending on the type of client that I work with. Not every theory fits everyone perfectly; so the ability to shift to different perspectives allows a holistic approach to healing.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Maureen Zdanis, PhD, Psychologist
Maureen Zdanis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
For children and teens I draw from CBT, DBT and play therapy.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am seeing patients both in-person and online. These winter months can be difficult for many reasons- reach out before you feel stuck in a rut!
For children and teens I draw from CBT, DBT and play therapy.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am seeing patients both in-person and online. These winter months can be difficult for many reasons- reach out before you feel stuck in a rut!
(267) 376-8313 View (267) 376-8313
Photo of Elizabeth Polovina, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Polovina
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I draw from various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, mindfulness, and humanistic approaches to tailor our sessions to your specific needs.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Polovina, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My approach to therapy is centered around creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I believe in the power of collaboration, and I aim to work together with you to identify your goals and challenges. My practice focuses on a holistic understanding of each individual, recognizing that everyone has unique experiences and perspectives.
I draw from various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, mindfulness, and humanistic approaches to tailor our sessions to your specific needs.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Polovina, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My approach to therapy is centered around creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I believe in the power of collaboration, and I aim to work together with you to identify your goals and challenges. My practice focuses on a holistic understanding of each individual, recognizing that everyone has unique experiences and perspectives.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Nitasha Strait - The Better You Institute, PhD, MEd, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Better You Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Ready to take the next step? Our eclectic approach blends CBT, Trauma-Focused therapy, EFT, Gottman, IFS, DBT, and more to ensure that your treatment plan is tailored specifically to you.
You are successful, yet something is missing. You may feel stuck in a cycle of constant conflict, self-doubt, and unrelenting stress, yearning for the calm confidence that always feels just out of reach. You’re exhausted and frustrated because you’ve tried everything, but it doesn’t work. If you're here for your child or teen, you're concerned that they grapple with issues they can’t always articulate. They seem stuck, and you feel powerless to support them. You both recognize the need for change, but it’s difficult to know where to begin. Now is the moment to take the first step.
Ready to take the next step? Our eclectic approach blends CBT, Trauma-Focused therapy, EFT, Gottman, IFS, DBT, and more to ensure that your treatment plan is tailored specifically to you.
You are successful, yet something is missing. You may feel stuck in a cycle of constant conflict, self-doubt, and unrelenting stress, yearning for the calm confidence that always feels just out of reach. You’re exhausted and frustrated because you’ve tried everything, but it doesn’t work. If you're here for your child or teen, you're concerned that they grapple with issues they can’t always articulate. They seem stuck, and you feel powerless to support them. You both recognize the need for change, but it’s difficult to know where to begin. Now is the moment to take the first step.
(267) 390-4604 View (267) 390-4604
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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.