Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Cocoa Beach, FL
![Photo of Shayla Felicien, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdad137-c120-433b-add9-a9ffcde68aca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shayla Felicien
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32932 (Online Only)
Her method integrates evidence-based techniques and therapeutic approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), tailored to serve the specific needs of each client.
Shayla brings a unique and empathetic perspective to her practice. As a psychotherapist, Shayla is committed to creating a foundation for successful therapy based on genuine concern for each individual's unique experiences. She employs a non-judgmental, strength-based approach, aiming to illuminate strengths in her clients that they may not yet recognize in themselves. She specializes in treating a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, narcissistic abuse, low self-esteem, career challenges, parenting skills, and boundary issues.
Her method integrates evidence-based techniques and therapeutic approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), tailored to serve the specific needs of each client.
Shayla brings a unique and empathetic perspective to her practice. As a psychotherapist, Shayla is committed to creating a foundation for successful therapy based on genuine concern for each individual's unique experiences. She employs a non-judgmental, strength-based approach, aiming to illuminate strengths in her clients that they may not yet recognize in themselves. She specializes in treating a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, narcissistic abuse, low self-esteem, career challenges, parenting skills, and boundary issues.
![Photo of Kelly Hunsaker, RMHCI, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99855c47-44fe-42e9-8a05-3104005de778/4/320x400.jpeg)
I will integrate various therapeutic techniques tailored to your unique needs, drawing from modalities such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based approaches, and narrative therapy.
Are you tired of feeling stuck and are ready to embrace a healthier and more fulfilling life? Are you desiring emotional support, effective coping strategies, healing, recovery, personal growth, and self-empowerment? You are at the right place. In counseling, I will help you regain control of your mental and emotional well-being. To achieve this I will guide you in healing from your past wounds and break free from destructive patterns. You will learn how to effectively manage your addiction, anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. You will finally feel empowered to break from the old habits and unhealthy relationships.
I will integrate various therapeutic techniques tailored to your unique needs, drawing from modalities such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based approaches, and narrative therapy.
Are you tired of feeling stuck and are ready to embrace a healthier and more fulfilling life? Are you desiring emotional support, effective coping strategies, healing, recovery, personal growth, and self-empowerment? You are at the right place. In counseling, I will help you regain control of your mental and emotional well-being. To achieve this I will guide you in healing from your past wounds and break free from destructive patterns. You will learn how to effectively manage your addiction, anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. You will finally feel empowered to break from the old habits and unhealthy relationships.
![Photo of Jennifer Schmanski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73fc124b-b3b7-43cd-a2af-fb730a717345/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Schmanski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 (Online Only)
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Additionally, I specialize in working with healthcare professionals who may be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, shame and even moral injury related to their jobs as first responders, doctors, nurses, CNAs, and other caregivers in a variety of settings. As a former paramedic, case manager, and nursing home administrator I have nearly 40 years working in these types of environments. I understand the complex cultures, language and challenges you face.
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Additionally, I specialize in working with healthcare professionals who may be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, shame and even moral injury related to their jobs as first responders, doctors, nurses, CNAs, and other caregivers in a variety of settings. As a former paramedic, case manager, and nursing home administrator I have nearly 40 years working in these types of environments. I understand the complex cultures, language and challenges you face.
![Photo of Roger J. LaVine, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff47072-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. LaVine's remedies are based on modern neuroscience, psychological techniques, cognitive mind body practices, clinical experience and spirituality. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety and neurological related issues such as TBI (brain injuries), MS, Parkinson's and Epilepsy. He is particularly effective with ADOLESCENTS. He is also uniquely qualified to deal with executives and their issues with over 30 years experience as an executive.
Dr. LaVine's remedies are based on modern neuroscience, psychological techniques, cognitive mind body practices, clinical experience and spirituality. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety and neurological related issues such as TBI (brain injuries), MS, Parkinson's and Epilepsy. He is particularly effective with ADOLESCENTS. He is also uniquely qualified to deal with executives and their issues with over 30 years experience as an executive.
![Photo of Amber Hartnett, MSW, LCSW, QS, MCAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/537d2629-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Hartnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS, MCAP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Food and weight have taken over your life. You're not even sure how it got this bad. Constantly comparing yourself to others and feeling like you are NOT ENOUGH makes it even worse. The battle in your head is relentless, from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed the inner voices are raging. Fighting against them is exhausting. It’s so hard holding it together when all you want is to be free of this burden. You don’t want to be a burden on others, so you smile and hold it in, all the while feeling shitty and overwhelmed. I get it I have been there, Eating disorders suck but recovery is possible! I am living proof.
Food and weight have taken over your life. You're not even sure how it got this bad. Constantly comparing yourself to others and feeling like you are NOT ENOUGH makes it even worse. The battle in your head is relentless, from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed the inner voices are raging. Fighting against them is exhausting. It’s so hard holding it together when all you want is to be free of this burden. You don’t want to be a burden on others, so you smile and hold it in, all the while feeling shitty and overwhelmed. I get it I have been there, Eating disorders suck but recovery is possible! I am living proof.
![Photo of Dr. Neuropsychology Concierge: Cristi Salinas, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38118bcc-16a8-4013-bd6e-14b8f3264339/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Neuropsychology Concierge: Cristi Salinas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e/ADHD son who has worked with 6,000 children and adults. Dr. Cristi specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Gifted, Brain Injury, and Epilepsy. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a practical roadmap of interventions/solutions.
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e/ADHD son who has worked with 6,000 children and adults. Dr. Cristi specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Gifted, Brain Injury, and Epilepsy. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a practical roadmap of interventions/solutions.
![Photo of Jacqueline Maple, LMHC, MCAP, QS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7bc5810-2c8e-4191-b204-ade47183c236/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Maple
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, QS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 (Online Only)
Do you feel different, misunderstood, judged, embarrassed and or ashamed? Do you know how to create and enforce healthy relationships/healthy boundaries? Do you engage in negative self talk and have self esteem issues? Are you struggling with relationships at home and or at work? Are you or is someone you care for abusing substances? Together we will explore the way you make sense of the world and how your thoughts impact your feelings and behaviors. With a deeper understanding of yourself we will work on forgiveness, acceptance and making positive changes.
Do you feel different, misunderstood, judged, embarrassed and or ashamed? Do you know how to create and enforce healthy relationships/healthy boundaries? Do you engage in negative self talk and have self esteem issues? Are you struggling with relationships at home and or at work? Are you or is someone you care for abusing substances? Together we will explore the way you make sense of the world and how your thoughts impact your feelings and behaviors. With a deeper understanding of yourself we will work on forgiveness, acceptance and making positive changes.
![Photo of Leticia Tye, MS, LPCC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1babb02-7ed6-41d1-b80e-2f21a0386d63/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leticia Tye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 (Online Only)
First off, congratulations for making the first step towards healing, self-love, and growth. That first step can be the hardest. Are you struggling with intrusive thoughts and memories? Crippling anxiety? Low motivation? Overwhelmed with thoughts of the future? Struggling with your relationship with food? Is self-doubt and shame keeping you from being your authentic self? Are you struggling with self-acceptance and the many challenges as an LGBTQ+ member? We can work together to overcome anything holding you back from being your authentic self. We can walk this walk together. You do not need to do it alone. Don't wait, call today!
First off, congratulations for making the first step towards healing, self-love, and growth. That first step can be the hardest. Are you struggling with intrusive thoughts and memories? Crippling anxiety? Low motivation? Overwhelmed with thoughts of the future? Struggling with your relationship with food? Is self-doubt and shame keeping you from being your authentic self? Are you struggling with self-acceptance and the many challenges as an LGBTQ+ member? We can work together to overcome anything holding you back from being your authentic self. We can walk this walk together. You do not need to do it alone. Don't wait, call today!
![Photo of Lori Perver, LMHC, EDTC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b641601a-e8ce-46e8-840c-cf1480b99eb4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lori has specialized in mood disorders and substance use in teens and young adults since 2016, and has since gained specialization in other addictive and manipulative behaviors such as personality disorders, parasuicidal tendencies, suicidal behaviors and eating disorders. Lori is currently only working with ages 13 and up, and is happy to offer a Christian counseling approach upon request. Special treatment approaches and accommodations will be necessary for those with a specific focus on disordered eating. Parent involvement with minors is required when necessary.
Lori has specialized in mood disorders and substance use in teens and young adults since 2016, and has since gained specialization in other addictive and manipulative behaviors such as personality disorders, parasuicidal tendencies, suicidal behaviors and eating disorders. Lori is currently only working with ages 13 and up, and is happy to offer a Christian counseling approach upon request. Special treatment approaches and accommodations will be necessary for those with a specific focus on disordered eating. Parent involvement with minors is required when necessary.
![Photo of Melissa Hanson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a9115c5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Not accepting new clients
I use CBT, DBT and SFBT approaches, with specialized focus on trauma, substance abuse and addictions.
Hello and welcome. I am Melissa Hanson and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I believe that each individual is a part of a larger system made up of friends and family, all of whom influence one another. I also believe that our therapeutic system should be collaborative, working to achieve the needs and goals of the individuals and their family. I will work to help you meet your therapeutic goals through proven theoretical approaches best suited for you, based on your unique life experiences and goals.
I use CBT, DBT and SFBT approaches, with specialized focus on trauma, substance abuse and addictions.
Hello and welcome. I am Melissa Hanson and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I believe that each individual is a part of a larger system made up of friends and family, all of whom influence one another. I also believe that our therapeutic system should be collaborative, working to achieve the needs and goals of the individuals and their family. I will work to help you meet your therapeutic goals through proven theoretical approaches best suited for you, based on your unique life experiences and goals.
![Photo of Martha Fay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a27f14-814c-4ddf-9ab5-e44edf130d60/3/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Fay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Not accepting new clients
Limiting self beliefs, broken communication patterns, nonexistent self-esteem, and unclear personal goals will affect the decisions you make and the actions you take. After working with hundreds of clients, I know what it takes to get real sustainable growth. My approach uses psychology, mindfulness, and coaching, for new perspectives that will create a sustainable framework for real lasting change. I'll show you exactly how to conquer limiting beliefs, gain self-confidence, and get the relationships you deserve. Over the past decade, I’ve worked with an array of people to reach their goals.
Limiting self beliefs, broken communication patterns, nonexistent self-esteem, and unclear personal goals will affect the decisions you make and the actions you take. After working with hundreds of clients, I know what it takes to get real sustainable growth. My approach uses psychology, mindfulness, and coaching, for new perspectives that will create a sustainable framework for real lasting change. I'll show you exactly how to conquer limiting beliefs, gain self-confidence, and get the relationships you deserve. Over the past decade, I’ve worked with an array of people to reach their goals.
![Photo of Dr. Azilde E Sanchez - Hope and Change Psychological Services, INC., PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/560a2cc1-31f5-457b-b7b4-3d2801899f54/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hope and Change Psychological Services, INC.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Not accepting new clients
For more than twenty years, I have worked with individuals and couples. I have helped clients navigate through challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I understand that life's journey is filled with challenges and that despite our best intentions, emotions can easily overpower our rational thoughts.
For more than twenty years, I have worked with individuals and couples. I have helped clients navigate through challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I understand that life's journey is filled with challenges and that despite our best intentions, emotions can easily overpower our rational thoughts.
![Photo of Denny Kolsch](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa2d8c73-a830-42f2-92e0-58da0f84afbf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Denny Kolsch
Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Not accepting new clients
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Marleigh Fallon, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5698aa4-6505-413d-8c70-4c511738e572/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I have experience with a variety of issues ranging from depressive symptoms, anxiety, inattentiveness, grief, irritability, psychotic symptoms, domestic violence, etc. I will assess your situation and create a treatment plan that will best fit your needs. I utilize various treatment modalities from cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solutions-focused therapy, etc to decrease negative symptoms and improve your quality of life. I offer in-person services as well as Telehealth options. I offer private-pay as well as accept various insurances through Ellie Mental Health.
Hi! I have experience with a variety of issues ranging from depressive symptoms, anxiety, inattentiveness, grief, irritability, psychotic symptoms, domestic violence, etc. I will assess your situation and create a treatment plan that will best fit your needs. I utilize various treatment modalities from cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solutions-focused therapy, etc to decrease negative symptoms and improve your quality of life. I offer in-person services as well as Telehealth options. I offer private-pay as well as accept various insurances through Ellie Mental Health.
![Photo of Victoria Hecht - Sol Counseling LLC, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90ae3464-186d-4fc3-81f1-5f77f6bebc88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sol Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940
I use an integrated approach that includes Structural Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and DBT.
Are you struggling to manage anxiety and stress? Are you feeling sad, and maybe frustrated with how you feel versus how you think you should be feeling? Is tension and distress with your partner(s) frequent, or do you feel like you need help to find common ground? When so much feels uncertain, I will be there to help and to listen, and to work with you to achieve what you need out of therapy. I provide an empathetic and secure therapy space for you to create compassion and security in relationships – even when that relationship is with yourself. I see life as a learning process, and believe that everyone can benefit from therapy.
I use an integrated approach that includes Structural Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and DBT.
Are you struggling to manage anxiety and stress? Are you feeling sad, and maybe frustrated with how you feel versus how you think you should be feeling? Is tension and distress with your partner(s) frequent, or do you feel like you need help to find common ground? When so much feels uncertain, I will be there to help and to listen, and to work with you to achieve what you need out of therapy. I provide an empathetic and secure therapy space for you to create compassion and security in relationships – even when that relationship is with yourself. I see life as a learning process, and believe that everyone can benefit from therapy.
![Photo of Keith Mattson, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b59978b-bb0a-4bbb-ae2a-78afcdb5f89e/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Keith Mattson and I am a Licensed Mental Counselor in the state of Florida. I have provided therapy services in various settings for over 10 years. My specialties include life transitions and adjustment, trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD. I utilize a mindfulness-based, solution focused, and person-centered approach, and incorporate several modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, amongst others.
Hello, my name is Keith Mattson and I am a Licensed Mental Counselor in the state of Florida. I have provided therapy services in various settings for over 10 years. My specialties include life transitions and adjustment, trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD. I utilize a mindfulness-based, solution focused, and person-centered approach, and incorporate several modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, amongst others.
![Photo of Erin V Barber, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/497c4673-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We all face unsettling experiences, difficult emotions, and use unhealthy coping skills or cycle in destructive patterns. I use empowerment approaches to help you find your path towards healing, integration, and leading a balanced lifestyle. I pull from various treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness practices, and effective interpersonal skills to create individual plans for better managing stress. I am also a trained EMDR therapist to help rewire traumatized brains. Whether adjusting to change, coping with mental illness, or dealing with traumatic events, you are not alone; it helps to talk.
We all face unsettling experiences, difficult emotions, and use unhealthy coping skills or cycle in destructive patterns. I use empowerment approaches to help you find your path towards healing, integration, and leading a balanced lifestyle. I pull from various treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness practices, and effective interpersonal skills to create individual plans for better managing stress. I am also a trained EMDR therapist to help rewire traumatized brains. Whether adjusting to change, coping with mental illness, or dealing with traumatic events, you are not alone; it helps to talk.
![Photo of Janae Gardner, MA, RMHCI, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5f01917-ae57-44c4-b58c-b0e1a1ffcd40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janae Gardner
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI, LPCC
Verified Verified
Satellite Beach, FL 32937
Her treatment approaches incorporate Brainspotting, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome! Janae Gardner is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern. She feels every human deserves the opportunity to process, heal, grow, and live their best life. Her counseling style is best described as non-judgmental, supportive, empathetic, and authentic. She helps clients manage behavior and learn how to identify and process emotions in a healthy way. She is passionate about supporting your journey in life and personal growth. Janae enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
Her treatment approaches incorporate Brainspotting, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome! Janae Gardner is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern. She feels every human deserves the opportunity to process, heal, grow, and live their best life. Her counseling style is best described as non-judgmental, supportive, empathetic, and authentic. She helps clients manage behavior and learn how to identify and process emotions in a healthy way. She is passionate about supporting your journey in life and personal growth. Janae enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
![Photo of Jerry Lawson, MA, LMHC, QS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488ad8ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jerry's approach uses EMDR, CBT/DBT, Solution Focused.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
Jerry's approach uses EMDR, CBT/DBT, Solution Focused.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
![Photo of Arielle Young, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02ce3cff-5a01-4735-8325-d9314dc7920a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in regulating the nervous system by utilizing holistic and integrative approaches such as: EMDR, mindfulness based CBT, DBT, and somatic work.
Living in this world involves facing twists and turns instead of a clear and steady path. This can make it difficult to know who to trust or where to go to get the healing you deserve. For a lot of us this may be depression and anxiety, complex trauma, or lack of a sense of identity. Trying to survive in a world where we are told to live and think a certain way, and feel like we have to mask who we truly are just to get through each day. I find it exceptionally important to implement compassionate and creative experiences to help you discover your true authentic self and become the main character of your story.
I specialize in regulating the nervous system by utilizing holistic and integrative approaches such as: EMDR, mindfulness based CBT, DBT, and somatic work.
Living in this world involves facing twists and turns instead of a clear and steady path. This can make it difficult to know who to trust or where to go to get the healing you deserve. For a lot of us this may be depression and anxiety, complex trauma, or lack of a sense of identity. Trying to survive in a world where we are told to live and think a certain way, and feel like we have to mask who we truly are just to get through each day. I find it exceptionally important to implement compassionate and creative experiences to help you discover your true authentic self and become the main character of your story.
See more therapy options for Cocoa Beach
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Cocoa Beach
- Alafaya
- Cocoa
- Indialantic
- Melbourne
- Melbourne Beach
- Merritt Island
- Palm Bay
- Rockledge
- Satellite Beach
- Titusville
- Viera
- West Melbourne
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.