Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Rachel Kennedy, MA, LMHC
Rachel Kennedy
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108
I also integrate models like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and DBT ( dialectical behavior therapy).
Therapy is about asking the question: What hurts and why? Together, we will spend time with this question - gently, slowly, carefully. Therapy is not only for those with "capital T" trauma or a mental health diagnosis, but for anyone who would like to get to know themselves, perhaps for the first time. To listen to what emerges when you pay kind, careful attention to yourself. You may be seeking more fulfilling relationships, relief from challenging feelings/behaviors, or deeper self-understanding.
I also integrate models like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and DBT ( dialectical behavior therapy).
Therapy is about asking the question: What hurts and why? Together, we will spend time with this question - gently, slowly, carefully. Therapy is not only for those with "capital T" trauma or a mental health diagnosis, but for anyone who would like to get to know themselves, perhaps for the first time. To listen to what emerges when you pay kind, careful attention to yourself. You may be seeking more fulfilling relationships, relief from challenging feelings/behaviors, or deeper self-understanding.
(425) 629-0904 View (425) 629-0904
Photo of Nancy E Cohen, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy E Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
ADULTS: I help adults in individual therapy - using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I can help you feel happier & less stressed, improve your relationships, and manage your health issues. If your child, teen, or young adult struggles, I can help them thrive at home, school, & work. I offer individual, family, and group parenting therapy. I've provided psychotherapy for 20 years, and trained at the UW (internship), UC Berkeley (PhD & MA), & Harvard (BA). I'm interactive, practical, and will tailor my approach to you. We'll sort issues, identify priorities, make plans, and achieve goals. I'll teach you effective, evidence-based tools that you can use to live with more ease and success.
ADULTS: I help adults in individual therapy - using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I can help you feel happier & less stressed, improve your relationships, and manage your health issues. If your child, teen, or young adult struggles, I can help them thrive at home, school, & work. I offer individual, family, and group parenting therapy. I've provided psychotherapy for 20 years, and trained at the UW (internship), UC Berkeley (PhD & MA), & Harvard (BA). I'm interactive, practical, and will tailor my approach to you. We'll sort issues, identify priorities, make plans, and achieve goals. I'll teach you effective, evidence-based tools that you can use to live with more ease and success.
(206) 329-1230 View (206) 329-1230
Photo of Kate Roscher, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Roscher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma through modalities including, but not limited to, DBT, DBT-Prolonged Exposure ( DBT-PE), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have experience working in outpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential programs. Through a collaborative, client-centered approach to treatment, I work with clients to identify their unique goals. My clinical foundation is in providing full-model Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). I work with patients experiencing pervasive emotional dysregulation to develop effective coping strategies geared toward more fully and joyfully engaging in their lives.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma through modalities including, but not limited to, DBT, DBT-Prolonged Exposure ( DBT-PE), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have experience working in outpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential programs. Through a collaborative, client-centered approach to treatment, I work with clients to identify their unique goals. My clinical foundation is in providing full-model Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). I work with patients experiencing pervasive emotional dysregulation to develop effective coping strategies geared toward more fully and joyfully engaging in their lives.
(206) 582-6649 View (206) 582-6649
Photo of Stace Nagle, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Stace Nagle
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily work with the LGBTQIA2S+ community and have worked with trans, nonbinary, and gender-questioning adolescents, adults, and their families for the last 10 years around gender identity exploration, gender dysphoria, medical transition, and treating trauma related to gender and sexuality. I'm trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and provided individual and group DBT treatment. I lead an LGBTQIA2S+ DBT adult group through NW DBT. I also specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, and trauma. I'm trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD/anxiety and DBT Prolonged Exposure for the treatment of trauma.
I primarily work with the LGBTQIA2S+ community and have worked with trans, nonbinary, and gender-questioning adolescents, adults, and their families for the last 10 years around gender identity exploration, gender dysphoria, medical transition, and treating trauma related to gender and sexuality. I'm trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and provided individual and group DBT treatment. I lead an LGBTQIA2S+ DBT adult group through NW DBT. I also specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, and trauma. I'm trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD/anxiety and DBT Prolonged Exposure for the treatment of trauma.
(206) 745-5040 View (206) 745-5040
Photo of Maria Elizabeth Uchytil - Maria E. Uchytil - Emerald City Counseling, PLLC, MA, LMHCA, MHP, SUDP, CC, Counselor
Maria E. Uchytil - Emerald City Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP, SUDP, CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Evidenced Based treatment, SMART Recovery, Trauma Focused, and Person Centered.
Be the author of your own story. I’m here to navigate the twists and turns of mental health with you. My approach to therapy is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can address their mental health needs without judgement. With the necessary tools and skills at our disposal it is easier to identify triggers, notice warning signs, and find ways to better prepare for oncoming stressors and challenges. Therapy looks different for all individuals, and we will work together to create a plan to reach your goals. I'm passionate about helping you achieve your best self through therapy and support.
I have extensive training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Evidenced Based treatment, SMART Recovery, Trauma Focused, and Person Centered.
Be the author of your own story. I’m here to navigate the twists and turns of mental health with you. My approach to therapy is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can address their mental health needs without judgement. With the necessary tools and skills at our disposal it is easier to identify triggers, notice warning signs, and find ways to better prepare for oncoming stressors and challenges. Therapy looks different for all individuals, and we will work together to create a plan to reach your goals. I'm passionate about helping you achieve your best self through therapy and support.
(206) 460-1622 View (206) 460-1622
Photo of Alexander Johnson, MA,  , LMHC, CDP, MHP, Counselor
Alexander Johnson
Counselor, MA, , LMHC, CDP, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Therapeutic approaches include Person-Centered, Narrative, Dialectical, Humanistic, Existential, CBT, Strength-Based +.
Congratulations, you have just found my profile on Psychology Today! I truly appreciate your choice in arriving at my profile. I am a duel credentialed clinician. Originally from Chicago, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional in the State of Washington. I completed my undergraduate psychology degree at the University Of San Francisco. Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Seattle University. I have been in the behavioral health field since 2007. I provide direct clinical service; intake evaluations; diagnosis; individual, group, and family psychotherapy,Psychoeducation
Therapeutic approaches include Person-Centered, Narrative, Dialectical, Humanistic, Existential, CBT, Strength-Based +.
Congratulations, you have just found my profile on Psychology Today! I truly appreciate your choice in arriving at my profile. I am a duel credentialed clinician. Originally from Chicago, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional in the State of Washington. I completed my undergraduate psychology degree at the University Of San Francisco. Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Seattle University. I have been in the behavioral health field since 2007. I provide direct clinical service; intake evaluations; diagnosis; individual, group, and family psychotherapy,Psychoeducation
(206) 984-3340 View (206) 984-3340
Photo of Belinda Fello, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Fello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have an extensive background providing services for young adults, families and individual therapy. I believe in emotional, mental and physical wellness through holistic healing.
I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have an extensive background providing services for young adults, families and individual therapy. I believe in emotional, mental and physical wellness through holistic healing.
(702) 903-2437 View (702) 903-2437
Photo of Emily Sniderman, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Emily Sniderman
Counselor, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98124  (Online Only)
I am fully trained in DBT and working toward certification.
I specialize in working with people who have found the way in which they're living their life is painful, even intolerable, and want to find a path of less resistance. I am experienced in helping with difficulty regulating emotions, interpersonal conflict, tolerating the present moment, and figuring out effective coping skills during times of distress. If you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety disorders, intense emotional states, trauma, attachment and other mood disorders I believe I may be helpful.
I am fully trained in DBT and working toward certification.
I specialize in working with people who have found the way in which they're living their life is painful, even intolerable, and want to find a path of less resistance. I am experienced in helping with difficulty regulating emotions, interpersonal conflict, tolerating the present moment, and figuring out effective coping skills during times of distress. If you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety disorders, intense emotional states, trauma, attachment and other mood disorders I believe I may be helpful.
(206) 944-3475 View (206) 944-3475
Photo of Kellsie Pence, MA, Counselor
Kellsie Pence
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
My approach with clients is trauma-informed and influenced by evidence-based therapies such as DBT.
Whatever you bring to the table, I begin each therapy journey by developing an understanding and warm relationship where I encourage imperfection to show up so that you can be deeply seen and known. Most importantly, I work to meet you where you are and tailor my approach and interventions to your individual needs. Together, we build a safe and compassionate space where you get to honor your story and find the healing you're seeking.
My approach with clients is trauma-informed and influenced by evidence-based therapies such as DBT.
Whatever you bring to the table, I begin each therapy journey by developing an understanding and warm relationship where I encourage imperfection to show up so that you can be deeply seen and known. Most importantly, I work to meet you where you are and tailor my approach and interventions to your individual needs. Together, we build a safe and compassionate space where you get to honor your story and find the healing you're seeking.
View
Photo of Stefanie Sorenson, MSW, LSWAIC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefanie Sorenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136
I am an experienced therapist specializing in trauma-informed care, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process, where you are empowered. I meet you where you are and provide a safe and non-judgmental space. Together, we will explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. Even if you don't know your goals, we can work together to figure out a place to start. I combine evidence-based techniques with a deep respect for your journey.
I am an experienced therapist specializing in trauma-informed care, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process, where you are empowered. I meet you where you are and provide a safe and non-judgmental space. Together, we will explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. Even if you don't know your goals, we can work together to figure out a place to start. I combine evidence-based techniques with a deep respect for your journey.
(206) 752-5793 View (206) 752-5793
Photo of Kathleen M. Pape - Pape Psychological Services, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Pape Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122
As a licensed psychologist, I have been providing therapy for over 20 years helping individuals and couples to heal, and to create joyful, meaningful lives. Informed by psychological theory and research-supported treatments, such as DBT, and EMDR, as well as alternative methods, such as yoga, spirituality, and mind-body approaches, I will help you access and utilize your own deep wisdom and understanding to address your unique struggles and needs. After treatment, my clients report not only a reduction of symptoms but also an increase in motivation, ease, purpose, and connection.
As a licensed psychologist, I have been providing therapy for over 20 years helping individuals and couples to heal, and to create joyful, meaningful lives. Informed by psychological theory and research-supported treatments, such as DBT, and EMDR, as well as alternative methods, such as yoga, spirituality, and mind-body approaches, I will help you access and utilize your own deep wisdom and understanding to address your unique struggles and needs. After treatment, my clients report not only a reduction of symptoms but also an increase in motivation, ease, purpose, and connection.
(253) 343-1088 View (253) 343-1088
Photo of Stephanie Michelle Taylor, LPC S, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Michelle Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC S, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
My approach draws influence from holistic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, and internal family systems.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, I have spent a great deal of time collaborating with clients to cultivate a tailored experience to provide a well-rounded scope for LPC Associates and Clients. I'm all for sharing my knowledge and expertise. In order to achieve this, a wide variety of assessments, scales, modules, and life lessons stay in rotation. Along with having proper Communication, Concern, & Consideration for one another.
My approach draws influence from holistic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, and internal family systems.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, I have spent a great deal of time collaborating with clients to cultivate a tailored experience to provide a well-rounded scope for LPC Associates and Clients. I'm all for sharing my knowledge and expertise. In order to achieve this, a wide variety of assessments, scales, modules, and life lessons stay in rotation. Along with having proper Communication, Concern, & Consideration for one another.
(713) 597-3688 View (713) 597-3688
Photo of Jessica Anthony - Conduit Counseling PLLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Conduit Counseling PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I'm trained in CBT Plus, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Prolonged-Exposure Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Polyvagal, including the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
My ideal client is interested in diving into deeper work to further gain insight and awareness to underlying issues creating dysregulation and overwhelm. I'm passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals to better understand their needs and strengths when navigating a neurotypical world. I enjoy supporting individuals with single-incident or chronic stress and trauma. Mostly, I enjoy supporting people on their healing journey and feel it is an honor to walk the path alongside them.
I'm trained in CBT Plus, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Prolonged-Exposure Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Polyvagal, including the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
My ideal client is interested in diving into deeper work to further gain insight and awareness to underlying issues creating dysregulation and overwhelm. I'm passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals to better understand their needs and strengths when navigating a neurotypical world. I enjoy supporting individuals with single-incident or chronic stress and trauma. Mostly, I enjoy supporting people on their healing journey and feel it is an honor to walk the path alongside them.
(253) 204-3171 View (253) 204-3171
Photo of Kimberly Shea, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
Wait list as of Sept 2024 for afternoon/evening appts. I offer treatment and support for all anxiety and mood-related issues such as depression and bipolar. I utilize my advanced training as a DBT and EMDR therapist for those with a history of trauma, and I also work with clients who may have co-occurring issues such as substance abuse or addiction. My practice profile is generally 50% trauma, 25% anxiety and mood-related issues, and 25% substance abuse and chemical dependency. Clients and colleagues describe me as easy to talk to and genuine, with an interactive approach; my style is to balance listening with effective feedback.
Wait list as of Sept 2024 for afternoon/evening appts. I offer treatment and support for all anxiety and mood-related issues such as depression and bipolar. I utilize my advanced training as a DBT and EMDR therapist for those with a history of trauma, and I also work with clients who may have co-occurring issues such as substance abuse or addiction. My practice profile is generally 50% trauma, 25% anxiety and mood-related issues, and 25% substance abuse and chemical dependency. Clients and colleagues describe me as easy to talk to and genuine, with an interactive approach; my style is to balance listening with effective feedback.
(206) 208-2644 View (206) 208-2644
Photo of Anthony Mucci, LMHC, Counselor
Anthony Mucci
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Anthony Mucci. I am passionate about helping and serving others! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, chronic pain, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and utilize EMDR therapy along with CBT/ DBT/Existential therapy.
Hi, my name is Anthony Mucci. I am passionate about helping and serving others! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, chronic pain, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and utilize EMDR therapy along with CBT/ DBT/Existential therapy.
(509) 581-4282 View (509) 581-4282
Photo of Joseph David Williams, LSWAIC
Joseph David Williams
Social Worker Associate, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I am primarily trained in DBT, CBT, CBTp, and MI.
I work with individuals aged 13 to 65 who are struggling with anxiety, depression, psychosis, personality disorders, chronic health conditions, grief and loss, and suicidality. I seek to help people who are dealing with these issues create a place of peace and safety within themselves so that they might learn to love life and endure loss.
I am primarily trained in DBT, CBT, CBTp, and MI.
I work with individuals aged 13 to 65 who are struggling with anxiety, depression, psychosis, personality disorders, chronic health conditions, grief and loss, and suicidality. I seek to help people who are dealing with these issues create a place of peace and safety within themselves so that they might learn to love life and endure loss.
(206) 496-0687 View (206) 496-0687
Photo of Katie Roskilly, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Katie Roskilly
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I utilize skills and techniques from CBT and DBT alongside Gottman-style work in relationship sessions.
Life can be isolating at times. This is especially true when you add in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, chronic illness, and Queerness, cultural, and relationship issues. We hold so many identities and struggles that influence who we are and how we move through our place in the world. It is essential to find yourself among those identities and move into the whole version of yourself that finds comfort in the here and now. This includes finding your community and support through all that life throws at us.
I utilize skills and techniques from CBT and DBT alongside Gottman-style work in relationship sessions.
Life can be isolating at times. This is especially true when you add in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, chronic illness, and Queerness, cultural, and relationship issues. We hold so many identities and struggles that influence who we are and how we move through our place in the world. It is essential to find yourself among those identities and move into the whole version of yourself that finds comfort in the here and now. This includes finding your community and support through all that life throws at us.
(425) 521-6691 View (425) 521-6691
Photo of Aqssa Chaudhry, LMHC, NCC, MS, MHP, Counselor
Aqssa Chaudhry
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MS, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I practice dialectical behavioral therapy and existential therapy designed to allow my clients to tell me who they are honestly without fear of judgment.
Your subconscious wiring is creating your current life. Let us gently rewire and recode. You may feel trapped in your own mind or feeling stuck. The therapeutic relationship between a client and a therapist allows for authentic, honest communication that can feel like a breath of fresh air after going through life telling people we are “fine” when we aren't. We all have a complex and emotional story to tell. I want to help you align with your true desires and values so that you can create the life you want. You get to have abundance, ease, grace, and peace.
I practice dialectical behavioral therapy and existential therapy designed to allow my clients to tell me who they are honestly without fear of judgment.
Your subconscious wiring is creating your current life. Let us gently rewire and recode. You may feel trapped in your own mind or feeling stuck. The therapeutic relationship between a client and a therapist allows for authentic, honest communication that can feel like a breath of fresh air after going through life telling people we are “fine” when we aren't. We all have a complex and emotional story to tell. I want to help you align with your true desires and values so that you can create the life you want. You get to have abundance, ease, grace, and peace.
(206) 208-9677 View (206) 208-9677
Photo of Justin Talkish - Justin Talkish Counseling , LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Justin Talkish Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98178  (Online Only)
Struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma? Let's navigate these challenges together. I'm Justin, a dedicated licensed therapist specializing in DBT and TF-CBT. As a Black male therapist, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, fostering an empathetic, secure environment for adults and teens. Our sessions integrate mental, physical, and emotional wellness for holistic healing. We'll explore your story, tackle your struggles, and work together to cultivate a more fulfilling, balanced life. Ready to start your journey? Reach out to me.
Struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma? Let's navigate these challenges together. I'm Justin, a dedicated licensed therapist specializing in DBT and TF-CBT. As a Black male therapist, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, fostering an empathetic, secure environment for adults and teens. Our sessions integrate mental, physical, and emotional wellness for holistic healing. We'll explore your story, tackle your struggles, and work together to cultivate a more fulfilling, balanced life. Ready to start your journey? Reach out to me.
(425) 217-1702 View (425) 217-1702
Photo of Tally K, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tally K
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Informed from Generative Somatics, DBT and CBT, my therapeutic practice works towards embodied healing and care.
Hi! I'm currently accepting new clients! My name is Tally (she/her), I’m a queer white trans woman therapist in so-called seattle, washington on Occupied Duwamish Lands. I work to create gender-affirming, trauma-informed care for teens + adults under a liberation framework. I approach my work shaped by mutual aid and anti-imperialist organizations. Abolition and Decolonization are deeply structured parts of my work here and elsewhere. Sliding Scale available!
Informed from Generative Somatics, DBT and CBT, my therapeutic practice works towards embodied healing and care.
Hi! I'm currently accepting new clients! My name is Tally (she/her), I’m a queer white trans woman therapist in so-called seattle, washington on Occupied Duwamish Lands. I work to create gender-affirming, trauma-informed care for teens + adults under a liberation framework. I approach my work shaped by mutual aid and anti-imperialist organizations. Abolition and Decolonization are deeply structured parts of my work here and elsewhere. Sliding Scale available!
(425) 475-2096 View (425) 475-2096
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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.