Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Leesburg, FL

Photo of Lynnell Moss, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynnell Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34748
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
(407) 449-8255 View (407) 449-8255
Photo of Mark Zauss, LPC, NCC, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMC, Counselor
Mark Zauss
Counselor, LPC, NCC, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMC
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34788  (Online Only)
Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectica Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and ADHD, Mark brings a deep understanding of the powerful connection between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
As a double-board-certified licensed clinical psychotherapist with over 17 years of experience, Mark approaches therapy with patience, non-judgment, and empathy, creating a safe space for you to be heard. Utilizing his expertise as a cognitive behavioral therapist, he employs specific methods to help you challenge and navigate your thoughts and feelings, allowing for the successful resolution of your concerns. Mark is an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider - www.markzausstherapist.com. Licensed in Florida, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectica Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and ADHD, Mark brings a deep understanding of the powerful connection between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
As a double-board-certified licensed clinical psychotherapist with over 17 years of experience, Mark approaches therapy with patience, non-judgment, and empathy, creating a safe space for you to be heard. Utilizing his expertise as a cognitive behavioral therapist, he employs specific methods to help you challenge and navigate your thoughts and feelings, allowing for the successful resolution of your concerns. Mark is an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider - www.markzausstherapist.com. Licensed in Florida, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
(352) 717-6181 View (352) 717-6181
Photo of Beth Davalos - Sunshine Senior Counseling, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunshine Senior Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, FL 34748
I utilize evidence-based practice models, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Grief Counseling and Trauma Focused Therapy.
I am accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30 years of experience, specializing in working with the adult and senior population. I have a deep understanding of individuals and families facing various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, trauma, mental illness, loss, and grief, hospice, later life out of home moves and adjustments, independent and assisted living transitions (elder life), domestic violence, chronic and terminal illness.
I utilize evidence-based practice models, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Grief Counseling and Trauma Focused Therapy.
I am accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30 years of experience, specializing in working with the adult and senior population. I have a deep understanding of individuals and families facing various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, trauma, mental illness, loss, and grief, hospice, later life out of home moves and adjustments, independent and assisted living transitions (elder life), domestic violence, chronic and terminal illness.
(813) 638-0646 View (813) 638-0646
Photo of Nicole Kleiman, LMHC, Counselor
Nicole Kleiman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34788  (Online Only)
I draw on several treatment modalities (including, but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy) to allow you to develop your strengths and help you meet all of your treatment plan goals at a speed that works best for you.
I have been practicing as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida for the past 22 years and am also a Licensed Therapist in Virginia, largely with a focus in the areas of depression, anxiety, thought disturbance, addiction, emotion regulation, relationship distress, and self-esteem. I feel many of the responses we struggle with are connected to a traumatic event (or perceived trauma) from the past. Currently, my primary focus has been in the individual/couples/relational therapy realm. I will encourage you to prioritize the areas you wish to address in therapy and then tailor my approach on an individual basis.
I draw on several treatment modalities (including, but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy) to allow you to develop your strengths and help you meet all of your treatment plan goals at a speed that works best for you.
I have been practicing as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida for the past 22 years and am also a Licensed Therapist in Virginia, largely with a focus in the areas of depression, anxiety, thought disturbance, addiction, emotion regulation, relationship distress, and self-esteem. I feel many of the responses we struggle with are connected to a traumatic event (or perceived trauma) from the past. Currently, my primary focus has been in the individual/couples/relational therapy realm. I will encourage you to prioritize the areas you wish to address in therapy and then tailor my approach on an individual basis.
(407) 305-3145 View (407) 305-3145
Photo of Karen Phillips, LMHC, Counselor
Karen Phillips
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leesburg, FL 34788  (Online Only)
My therapy style is collaborative and client centered. I believe each person is unique and has their own story, their own challenges and their own needs. I approach therapy from a humanistic perspective and use a variety of methods to help my clients. I have training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) as well as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I am open to working with my clients using the tools and methods they find most useful. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to help them find solutions to challenges, improve their well-being and support them in their journey.
My therapy style is collaborative and client centered. I believe each person is unique and has their own story, their own challenges and their own needs. I approach therapy from a humanistic perspective and use a variety of methods to help my clients. I have training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) as well as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I am open to working with my clients using the tools and methods they find most useful. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to help them find solutions to challenges, improve their well-being and support them in their journey.
(904) 822-1742 View (904) 822-1742
Photo of Faith Mostella-Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faith Mostella-Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34788  (Online Only)
As a LCSW I utilize evidenced based interventions such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Family Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Solution Focused Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
My ideal client is ready to see an improvement in their mood, self confidence and acceptance, self care, interpersonal relationships, family system, social skills and ability to adjust to life changes. They are ready to break free from the bond of an eating disorder, anxiety, depression or any other mental, emotional and/or spiritual stronghold they may be up against. They are looking for ways to increase healthy, effective coping strategies. They are ready to increase their self awareness and learn ways to effectively manage and regulate their emotions. My ideal client is ready to be honest, vulnerable and work hard in therapy.
As a LCSW I utilize evidenced based interventions such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Family Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Solution Focused Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
My ideal client is ready to see an improvement in their mood, self confidence and acceptance, self care, interpersonal relationships, family system, social skills and ability to adjust to life changes. They are ready to break free from the bond of an eating disorder, anxiety, depression or any other mental, emotional and/or spiritual stronghold they may be up against. They are looking for ways to increase healthy, effective coping strategies. They are ready to increase their self awareness and learn ways to effectively manage and regulate their emotions. My ideal client is ready to be honest, vulnerable and work hard in therapy.
(850) 312-4419 View (850) 312-4419
Photo of Maya Duffy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maya Duffy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34788
Greetings! My name is Maya Duffy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of clinical experience assisting various with Addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, and Depression through their journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. In sessions, I utilize active listening, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Person-Centered therapy to assist clients in breaking cognitive distortions, gaining emotional intelligence, and building healthy coping skills. I believe in meeting the client where they are in the process of their therapeutic journey.
Greetings! My name is Maya Duffy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of clinical experience assisting various with Addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, and Depression through their journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. In sessions, I utilize active listening, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Person-Centered therapy to assist clients in breaking cognitive distortions, gaining emotional intelligence, and building healthy coping skills. I believe in meeting the client where they are in the process of their therapeutic journey.
(904) 906-4932 View (904) 906-4932
Photo of Dr. Ivonne M Rodriguez-Santiago - Dr. Ivonne M. Rodriguez-Santiago   KoikA PCS, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Ivonne M. Rodriguez-Santiago KoikA PCS
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34748
I integrate several therapy approaches as CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, MI/MET, couples psychotherapy, among other approaches, to address your specific necessities.
Hola! I understand life is a journey, and definitely not a linear one. Through life, we go through experiences that can change the way we perceive our world. As a Clinical Psychologist, I am dedicated to help you learn how to develop a strong relationship with yourself and your environment. My work focuses on creating a person-centered approach, to target dysfunctional thoughts, feelings, behaviors and habits that might be the product of past or present experiences, trauma, grief, loss, and/or unhealthy habits or addictions, among a variety of reasons. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to help you achieve your goals.
I integrate several therapy approaches as CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, MI/MET, couples psychotherapy, among other approaches, to address your specific necessities.
Hola! I understand life is a journey, and definitely not a linear one. Through life, we go through experiences that can change the way we perceive our world. As a Clinical Psychologist, I am dedicated to help you learn how to develop a strong relationship with yourself and your environment. My work focuses on creating a person-centered approach, to target dysfunctional thoughts, feelings, behaviors and habits that might be the product of past or present experiences, trauma, grief, loss, and/or unhealthy habits or addictions, among a variety of reasons. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to help you achieve your goals.
(352) 254-3807 View (352) 254-3807
Photo of Alex Lopez, LMHC, QS/FL, Counselor
Alex Lopez
Counselor, LMHC, QS/FL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, FL 34788
I will use a variety of treatment methods and tools to address your needs such as Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, Mindfulness Techniques, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Psychoeducation, Person-centered therapy.
As a mental health counselor, I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, and improve their overall well-being. In our sessions, we'll use various therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness and relaxation exercises, to help you gain better control over your anxiety and depression symptoms. Our goal will be to work together to reduce depression and anxiety's impact on your life and foster a greater sense of calm and confidence. Your confidentiality is a top priority, and I'm here
I will use a variety of treatment methods and tools to address your needs such as Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, Mindfulness Techniques, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Psychoeducation, Person-centered therapy.
As a mental health counselor, I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, and improve their overall well-being. In our sessions, we'll use various therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness and relaxation exercises, to help you gain better control over your anxiety and depression symptoms. Our goal will be to work together to reduce depression and anxiety's impact on your life and foster a greater sense of calm and confidence. Your confidentiality is a top priority, and I'm here
(772) 413-0816 View (772) 413-0816
Photo of Dr. Susan M Andrews, PsyD, NCSP
Dr. Susan M Andrews
PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34748
Hello! I would love to have the opportunity to help you and/or your child! I offer a wide range of services, including comprehensive psychological assessments to help identify strengths, challenges, and provide valuable insights. These assessments will help empower you or your child to better understand yourselves and make informed decisions. Additionally, I provide counseling services for children and adolescents dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, attention problems, self-esteem, and life changes.
Hello! I would love to have the opportunity to help you and/or your child! I offer a wide range of services, including comprehensive psychological assessments to help identify strengths, challenges, and provide valuable insights. These assessments will help empower you or your child to better understand yourselves and make informed decisions. Additionally, I provide counseling services for children and adolescents dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, attention problems, self-esteem, and life changes.
(352) 320-4482 View (352) 320-4482
Photo of Dr. Melissa H Joyner, PsyD
Dr. Melissa H Joyner
PsyD
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34748
Hello and welcome! I am excited to help you or your child move forward in a positive direction! I specialize in providing comprehensive psychological assessments with the goal of identifying individual strengths and challenges. The results of these assessments will help you or your child be as successful as possible and will allow you to make informed decisions. I also provide individual counseling for children and adolescents dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, attention problems, trauma, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome! I am excited to help you or your child move forward in a positive direction! I specialize in providing comprehensive psychological assessments with the goal of identifying individual strengths and challenges. The results of these assessments will help you or your child be as successful as possible and will allow you to make informed decisions. I also provide individual counseling for children and adolescents dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, attention problems, trauma, and life transitions.
(352) 649-3277 View (352) 649-3277
Photo of Alice Parrott - Counseling the Heart, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling the Heart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34748
Thank you for reviewing my profile. I look forward to working with you and assisting you in gaining new skills and processes to improve your emotional health. Each person with a diagnosis responds differently and therapy is not a one-solution-fits-all. I incorporate therapeutic interventions that are evidence based, individualized and are person-centered. Interventions may include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness Practices. I utilize an eclectic approach based on the whole person such as current concerns, history, personal attributes, and supportive resources.
Thank you for reviewing my profile. I look forward to working with you and assisting you in gaining new skills and processes to improve your emotional health. Each person with a diagnosis responds differently and therapy is not a one-solution-fits-all. I incorporate therapeutic interventions that are evidence based, individualized and are person-centered. Interventions may include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness Practices. I utilize an eclectic approach based on the whole person such as current concerns, history, personal attributes, and supportive resources.
(352) 320-5755 View (352) 320-5755
Photo of Tiffany Concepcion, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tiffany Concepcion
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34748
Waitlist) My time in the field has given me the privilege to work with individuals facing a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, Adjustment disorder, Substance Use, and I continue to learn everyday from individuals like yourself. I utilize different therapeutic techniques such as mindfulness, open ended questions, summarizing and challenging thoughts to help manifest positive change and self improvement.
Waitlist) My time in the field has given me the privilege to work with individuals facing a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, Adjustment disorder, Substance Use, and I continue to learn everyday from individuals like yourself. I utilize different therapeutic techniques such as mindfulness, open ended questions, summarizing and challenging thoughts to help manifest positive change and self improvement.
(352) 644-9081 View (352) 644-9081
Photo of Melinda M Sowka - Sowka Psychotherapy & Consultation, LLC, LMHC, MCAP, C-IRT, LPC
Sowka Psychotherapy & Consultation, LLC
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, C-IRT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, FL 34748
Waitlist for new clients
One of the first things asked of me when creating this website profile was to describe my ideal client. I don't think I have an ideal client. To me that implies that I can pick and choose my client's problems, symptoms, relationships, and so forth, and it's that same individuality and variety of people and presenting concerns that I value. I wouldn't change that if I could. I meet a lot of people who don't really know what they need or cannot visualize/verbalize their true goals. Discovery can be a part of the therapeutic process.
One of the first things asked of me when creating this website profile was to describe my ideal client. I don't think I have an ideal client. To me that implies that I can pick and choose my client's problems, symptoms, relationships, and so forth, and it's that same individuality and variety of people and presenting concerns that I value. I wouldn't change that if I could. I meet a lot of people who don't really know what they need or cannot visualize/verbalize their true goals. Discovery can be a part of the therapeutic process.
(352) 922-3820 View (352) 922-3820
Photo of Julie L Stoneham, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie L Stoneham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34748
I am here to help navigate through the struggles you are facing. I specialize in working with couples to help build, repair, enjoy the relationship and challenges couples face. I offer a compassionate approach for adults and teens to overcome problems that can feel overwhelming at times, stress, anxiety, depression, grieving a loss that feels devastating, family concerns, relationship conflicts, job instability, and trauma among others. Perhaps there are family changes, difficulty in adjusting to where you are in life. Let's work together to improve, enhance and enrich your life, family, and relationships.
I am here to help navigate through the struggles you are facing. I specialize in working with couples to help build, repair, enjoy the relationship and challenges couples face. I offer a compassionate approach for adults and teens to overcome problems that can feel overwhelming at times, stress, anxiety, depression, grieving a loss that feels devastating, family concerns, relationship conflicts, job instability, and trauma among others. Perhaps there are family changes, difficulty in adjusting to where you are in life. Let's work together to improve, enhance and enrich your life, family, and relationships.
(352) 436-8910 View (352) 436-8910
Photo of Marcia LeBeau, LMHC, LPCMHSP, Counselor
Marcia LeBeau
Counselor, LMHC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, FL 34788  (Online Only)
Serving clients in Tennessee and Florida. Hi, I'm Marcia! Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or just not sure what direction to go? Is worry taking over and making it hard to find the peace and joy you're needing? Are you going through a big life transition and not sure how to navigate that change on your own? You aren't alone! A lot of us go through these things, and the good news is you don't have to go through it alone! As your therapist I want to provide you a supportive and non-judgmental space to help you find the change you want and that you have the capacity within you to achieve.
Serving clients in Tennessee and Florida. Hi, I'm Marcia! Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or just not sure what direction to go? Is worry taking over and making it hard to find the peace and joy you're needing? Are you going through a big life transition and not sure how to navigate that change on your own? You aren't alone! A lot of us go through these things, and the good news is you don't have to go through it alone! As your therapist I want to provide you a supportive and non-judgmental space to help you find the change you want and that you have the capacity within you to achieve.
(305) 680-3814 View (305) 680-3814
Photo of Dr. Kinnari Birla, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kinnari Birla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, FL 34788  (Online Only)
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
(281) 949-6371 View (281) 949-6371
Photo of Melissa Sosa-Miracolo, MS, LMHC, BCaBA, Counselor
Melissa Sosa-Miracolo
Counselor, MS, LMHC, BCaBA
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34788  (Online Only)
Melissa has learned the importance of making people feel safe, heard, and understood. With Melissa, you can expect to feel at ease with her approachable, relatable, and down-to-earth attitude. She has an innate understanding of the pain life can cause and how chronic pain can sometimes cause you to suffer enough to struggle to function. There is no judgment when you walk through her door. Melissa is honest and direct, and you can expect to receive authentic feedback. Her goal is always to help you uncover truths about yourself so that you can be the realest version of who you are.
Melissa has learned the importance of making people feel safe, heard, and understood. With Melissa, you can expect to feel at ease with her approachable, relatable, and down-to-earth attitude. She has an innate understanding of the pain life can cause and how chronic pain can sometimes cause you to suffer enough to struggle to function. There is no judgment when you walk through her door. Melissa is honest and direct, and you can expect to receive authentic feedback. Her goal is always to help you uncover truths about yourself so that you can be the realest version of who you are.
(561) 532-1041 View (561) 532-1041
Photo of Jenn Jacoby, LMHC, Counselor
Jenn Jacoby
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, FL 34788  (Online Only)
Looking for a safe place to heal and grow? Ready for change, but feel stuck on how or where to begin? Then you are in the right place.
Looking for a safe place to heal and grow? Ready for change, but feel stuck on how or where to begin? Then you are in the right place.
(786) 808-1430 View (786) 808-1430
Photo of Jiovanna Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jiovanna Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Leesburg, FL 34788  (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Jiovanna. Do you feel as though you want a more fulfilling life, picturing all the ways that may look, but questioning how to get there? Are you struggling in day-to-day life, or lacking the clarity needed to overcome your current or past struggles?
Hi there, my name is Jiovanna. Do you feel as though you want a more fulfilling life, picturing all the ways that may look, but questioning how to get there? Are you struggling in day-to-day life, or lacking the clarity needed to overcome your current or past struggles?
(754) 666-7484 View (754) 666-7484
1

See more therapy options for Leesburg

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.