Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Middleburg, FL

Photo of Tamela Mcdonald, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamela Mcdonald
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32068  (Online Only)
Greetings! I am Tamela R. McDonald; I am glad that you are here and look forward to working with you! I have over 10 years' experience as a therapist; over 20 years' experience as a sexuality educator and as a graduate of Troy University specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). In sexuality studies: I am currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among her areas of expertise are Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, and Sexual dysfunction.
Greetings! I am Tamela R. McDonald; I am glad that you are here and look forward to working with you! I have over 10 years' experience as a therapist; over 20 years' experience as a sexuality educator and as a graduate of Troy University specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). In sexuality studies: I am currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among her areas of expertise are Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, and Sexual dysfunction.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Michael di Salvo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael di Salvo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32068  (Online Only)
Michael J. di Salvo, (He/Him/His), Psychotherapist, LICSW, LCSW-IC, LCSW-QS, C- DBT, CTTP, C-GIP, CCATP, is a Nationally Board Certified Licensed Clinical Independent Social Worker with over thirty-year's experience. He is licensed and certified in multiple states and works with adults (18 Years +). He has several specialty care areas in mental health therapy, including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, Trauma-Focused, Grief and Loss Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Positive Psychology.
Michael J. di Salvo, (He/Him/His), Psychotherapist, LICSW, LCSW-IC, LCSW-QS, C- DBT, CTTP, C-GIP, CCATP, is a Nationally Board Certified Licensed Clinical Independent Social Worker with over thirty-year's experience. He is licensed and certified in multiple states and works with adults (18 Years +). He has several specialty care areas in mental health therapy, including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, Trauma-Focused, Grief and Loss Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Positive Psychology.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Mayela Llaurador-Castillo, PhD, Psychologist
Mayela Llaurador-Castillo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middleburg, FL 32068  (Online Only)
Llaurador-Castillo's therapy approach is holistic, combining Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Problem-Solving Skills.
Dr. Mayela Llaurador-Castillo is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Rhode Island, Florida and Puerto Rico. She received her Ph.D. degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Puerto Rico and has been uninterruptedly working on this field for over 25 years. She has worked with individuals, children, families and couples at multiple settings and levels of care: outpatient, inpatient and residential services, correctional facilities, foster care and, most recently, in the military.
Llaurador-Castillo's therapy approach is holistic, combining Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Problem-Solving Skills.
Dr. Mayela Llaurador-Castillo is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Rhode Island, Florida and Puerto Rico. She received her Ph.D. degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Puerto Rico and has been uninterruptedly working on this field for over 25 years. She has worked with individuals, children, families and couples at multiple settings and levels of care: outpatient, inpatient and residential services, correctional facilities, foster care and, most recently, in the military.
(401) 496-9147 View (401) 496-9147
Photo of Kristyn Burrows, Counselor
Kristyn Burrows
Counselor
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32068  (Online Only)
With over 4 years of experience in the field, I have assisted clients in building skills to effectively cope with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and relationship or family conflict. I have enjoyed working with children, adolescents, and their families, as well as young adults. I promote self-empowerment for my clients as well as self-compassion. Let’s work together to find grace for your mistakes and the strength to persevere despite them. In the words of Helen Keller, “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”
With over 4 years of experience in the field, I have assisted clients in building skills to effectively cope with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and relationship or family conflict. I have enjoyed working with children, adolescents, and their families, as well as young adults. I promote self-empowerment for my clients as well as self-compassion. Let’s work together to find grace for your mistakes and the strength to persevere despite them. In the words of Helen Keller, “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Vanessa Farnsworth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Farnsworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32068  (Online Only)
Welcome! I have been practicing counseling since 1997. I am licensed in Florida, New York, and Massachusetts; I received my first graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 1999 at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, and continued on to NYU's School of Social Work, receiving my MSW in 2003. My style is warm, attentive, collaborative and nonjudgmental. I am also able to be very active and directive and consider myself a good leader. I can be fair and not align with one person over the other and help lead you to new ways of being in relationship.
Welcome! I have been practicing counseling since 1997. I am licensed in Florida, New York, and Massachusetts; I received my first graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 1999 at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, and continued on to NYU's School of Social Work, receiving my MSW in 2003. My style is warm, attentive, collaborative and nonjudgmental. I am also able to be very active and directive and consider myself a good leader. I can be fair and not align with one person over the other and help lead you to new ways of being in relationship.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Michelle Lake, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Lake
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32068  (Online Only)
Dr. Michelle Lake is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor in Florida. She is also an Industrial Organizational Psychologist. She received her Master's Degree in Counselor Education with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling, and a Doctorate degree in Organizational Leadership with a Specialization in Human Resources. She has devoted her life to helping others make positive changes in their lives. We all face obstacles and sometimes feel like we do not have the strength to overcome these obstacles. However, within each human spirit, is the power to thrive and overcome life's challenges.
Dr. Michelle Lake is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor in Florida. She is also an Industrial Organizational Psychologist. She received her Master's Degree in Counselor Education with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling, and a Doctorate degree in Organizational Leadership with a Specialization in Human Resources. She has devoted her life to helping others make positive changes in their lives. We all face obstacles and sometimes feel like we do not have the strength to overcome these obstacles. However, within each human spirit, is the power to thrive and overcome life's challenges.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Abbey Knox, Counselor
Abbey Knox
Counselor
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32068  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi and welcome, let me share a bit of my philosophy with you… After several different career choices, true to the vocational model, at thirty-something I discovered the field of psychotherapy. I began my career in accounting, moving into the medical field, then the business world and found my true passion in the study of human behavior. I may be one of a few therapists with physics and organic chemistry as electives! I have three grown children and am Gaga to eight grandchildren and 0ne great grandchild (I have finally lived long enough to be great at something!).
Hi and welcome, let me share a bit of my philosophy with you… After several different career choices, true to the vocational model, at thirty-something I discovered the field of psychotherapy. I began my career in accounting, moving into the medical field, then the business world and found my true passion in the study of human behavior. I may be one of a few therapists with physics and organic chemistry as electives! I have three grown children and am Gaga to eight grandchildren and 0ne great grandchild (I have finally lived long enough to be great at something!).
(904) 906-2607 View (904) 906-2607
Photo of Charice Calloway, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charice Calloway
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32068
Hi! My name is Charice Calloway, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about helping clients through mental health challenges and unlocking inner strengths. My style and approach to therapy seems to be a good fit for adults who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or overall stress. I work to help my clients gain coping skills that lower symptoms and allows them to manage their mental health while also functioning in their preferred way. I work with clients to address unhelpful thought patterns and confidently operate from a version of themselves that they desire.
Hi! My name is Charice Calloway, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about helping clients through mental health challenges and unlocking inner strengths. My style and approach to therapy seems to be a good fit for adults who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or overall stress. I work to help my clients gain coping skills that lower symptoms and allows them to manage their mental health while also functioning in their preferred way. I work with clients to address unhelpful thought patterns and confidently operate from a version of themselves that they desire.
(786) 661-4169 View (786) 661-4169
Photo of Paul A Horn Lmhc, USNret, MA,  MS, CCTP, QS,  DCC, LMHC, Counselor
Paul A Horn Lmhc
Counselor, USNret, MA, MS, CCTP, QS, DCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32068
The journey to effective change begins where you are; and realizing this is only one chapter of your life; you have the choice how your future chapters are written. I truly believe real change is achieved when you recognize and accept your current situation, "It Is What It Is" (often a mixture of comfort/discontent). Our journey begins by identifying and utilizing your strengths as building blocks for change. My goal is to help you embrace and work through your struggle, be it mood/emotion, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, or simply identifying and cultivating a deeper happiness in life.
The journey to effective change begins where you are; and realizing this is only one chapter of your life; you have the choice how your future chapters are written. I truly believe real change is achieved when you recognize and accept your current situation, "It Is What It Is" (often a mixture of comfort/discontent). Our journey begins by identifying and utilizing your strengths as building blocks for change. My goal is to help you embrace and work through your struggle, be it mood/emotion, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, or simply identifying and cultivating a deeper happiness in life.
(904) 337-4826 View (904) 337-4826
Photo of Christina Tatum, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Christina Tatum
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32068
Do you feel like depression, anxiety, stress, life changes, or other mental health issues are blocking you from living the life you hoped for? I can help you reduce the impact on your mind, body, and emotions. These problems can be difficult to navigate alone, but there are ways to reduce your symptom severity and frequency, and improve the quality of your life. Together, we can discover, or rediscover, strengths and abilities you possess to bring about positive change in your life.
Do you feel like depression, anxiety, stress, life changes, or other mental health issues are blocking you from living the life you hoped for? I can help you reduce the impact on your mind, body, and emotions. These problems can be difficult to navigate alone, but there are ways to reduce your symptom severity and frequency, and improve the quality of your life. Together, we can discover, or rediscover, strengths and abilities you possess to bring about positive change in your life.
(904) 395-4373 View (904) 395-4373

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kathleen Roberts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orange Park, FL 32065  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a blend of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness-based interventions to target the root causes of anxiety.
As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety. I understand how overwhelming and isolating it can feel, and my goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to find clarity and relief. I’m here to provide personalized tools and strategies to help you regain control of your life.
I utilize a blend of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness-based interventions to target the root causes of anxiety.
As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety. I understand how overwhelming and isolating it can feel, and my goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to find clarity and relief. I’m here to provide personalized tools and strategies to help you regain control of your life.
(904) 320-1661 View (904) 320-1661
Photo of Jada Helmer - Keep Evolving Beyond Therapy, Inc., MS, LMHC, QS-MH, Counselor
Keep Evolving Beyond Therapy, Inc.
Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS-MH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32244
KEBT offers DBT Skills Classes, IOP for addiction, a Depression Group, a Yoga Group, Clinical Supervision for aspiring clinicians, and Individual, Family, & Couples Therapy.
We want treatment to be accessible to everyone! To accommodate, we have graduate-level clinicians who can provide discounted treatment rates starting at $45 per session. The rate for one of our more seasoned professionals begins at $105, to give you a point of reference. We have 5 Registered Mental Health Counselors and 2 LMHCs. We also accept most major insurances. We are so excited you are considering us as your psychotherapy treatment provider! Our main goal is to provide care that treats the whole self in a safe environment without judgment. We are here to help. Please visit our website for more information.
KEBT offers DBT Skills Classes, IOP for addiction, a Depression Group, a Yoga Group, Clinical Supervision for aspiring clinicians, and Individual, Family, & Couples Therapy.
We want treatment to be accessible to everyone! To accommodate, we have graduate-level clinicians who can provide discounted treatment rates starting at $45 per session. The rate for one of our more seasoned professionals begins at $105, to give you a point of reference. We have 5 Registered Mental Health Counselors and 2 LMHCs. We also accept most major insurances. We are so excited you are considering us as your psychotherapy treatment provider! Our main goal is to provide care that treats the whole self in a safe environment without judgment. We are here to help. Please visit our website for more information.
(904) 395-4886 View (904) 395-4886
Photo of Katie Westfall, MA, RMHCI, LPC Intern
Katie Westfall
LPC Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
With a focus in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and play therapy, I strive to tailor each client’s treatment plan to their individual needs.
As a previous teacher for students with learning differences, I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, and individuals struggling with life’s difficulties including anxiety, depression, learning disorders, and struggles adjusting to change.
With a focus in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and play therapy, I strive to tailor each client’s treatment plan to their individual needs.
As a previous teacher for students with learning differences, I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, and individuals struggling with life’s difficulties including anxiety, depression, learning disorders, and struggles adjusting to change.
(904) 560-8444 View (904) 560-8444
Photo of Crystal Adams, Lcsw , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Lcsw
Verified Verified
Orange Park, FL 32065
I use evidenced based treatments such as CBT, DBT, Solution Focused and Mindfulness.
Thank you for visiting my profile ! I look forward to connecting with you ! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with over 15 years of experience as a helping professional . In life we often face challenges that require help outside of ourselves. Problems like depression, anxiety, chronic illness, pre-marital issues, divorce, trauma, grief and many other types of problems life transitions that are sometimes difficult to overcome without professional help. My mission is to help you move through these problems to promote overall wellness, balance and contentment.
I use evidenced based treatments such as CBT, DBT, Solution Focused and Mindfulness.
Thank you for visiting my profile ! I look forward to connecting with you ! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with over 15 years of experience as a helping professional . In life we often face challenges that require help outside of ourselves. Problems like depression, anxiety, chronic illness, pre-marital issues, divorce, trauma, grief and many other types of problems life transitions that are sometimes difficult to overcome without professional help. My mission is to help you move through these problems to promote overall wellness, balance and contentment.
(904) 901-6962 View (904) 901-6962
Photo of Lauren Parrish, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Lauren Parrish
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Fleming Island, FL 32003
Within a person-centered framework, the therapeutic techniques used are based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Schema Therapy (ST).
Our goals and ambitions in life are forever changing. As values and priorities shift over time, what used to meet our needs, may no longer work for us in the here and now. In order to embrace personal growth, learning to first accept ourselves, just as we are, is key. For many, this can sound like the exact opposite of what change is all about, especially if we feel stuck, unfulfilled, embarrassed, or ashamed. If you feel like something is holding you back from living life as you envision it, therapy can be an empowering next step.
Within a person-centered framework, the therapeutic techniques used are based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Schema Therapy (ST).
Our goals and ambitions in life are forever changing. As values and priorities shift over time, what used to meet our needs, may no longer work for us in the here and now. In order to embrace personal growth, learning to first accept ourselves, just as we are, is key. For many, this can sound like the exact opposite of what change is all about, especially if we feel stuck, unfulfilled, embarrassed, or ashamed. If you feel like something is holding you back from living life as you envision it, therapy can be an empowering next step.
(904) 265-9139 View (904) 265-9139
Photo of Chatara Williams - A Butterfly and Beyond Counseling, PLLC, PhD, LCMHC, CASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Butterfly and Beyond Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, CASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange Park, FL 32065  (Online Only)
At a Butterfly and Beyond Counseling, Dr. Chatara Williams specializes in working with individuals, children and families using CBT, DBT, therapy through play activities, and client-centered techniques addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and DMDD among others. Dr. Williams is a also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist working with Autistic children and the neurodivergent population as well as providing therapy and support to their parents and families.
At a Butterfly and Beyond Counseling, Dr. Chatara Williams specializes in working with individuals, children and families using CBT, DBT, therapy through play activities, and client-centered techniques addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and DMDD among others. Dr. Williams is a also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist working with Autistic children and the neurodivergent population as well as providing therapy and support to their parents and families.
(910) 629-2722 View (910) 629-2722
Photo of Jada Helmer, MS, LMHC, QS-MH, Counselor
Jada Helmer
Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS-MH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32244
I am a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician.
Life is full of messy bits, sometimes these are unforeseen issues that pop up out of our control and sometimes they are a product of our own design. Regardless, in a culture where we must present as put together, in control, etc., it gets a little hard to trudge the water. If we aren’t careful this can lead to emotional, behavioral, interpersonal, and self dysregulation. At Just Keep Swimming Counseling, LLC, and my group practice Keep Evolving Beyond Therapy, I strive to create a healthy, safe space in order to set goals for growth, face challenges, and gain introspection to be a fuller, healthier you.
I am a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician.
Life is full of messy bits, sometimes these are unforeseen issues that pop up out of our control and sometimes they are a product of our own design. Regardless, in a culture where we must present as put together, in control, etc., it gets a little hard to trudge the water. If we aren’t careful this can lead to emotional, behavioral, interpersonal, and self dysregulation. At Just Keep Swimming Counseling, LLC, and my group practice Keep Evolving Beyond Therapy, I strive to create a healthy, safe space in order to set goals for growth, face challenges, and gain introspection to be a fuller, healthier you.
(904) 204-9730 View (904) 204-9730
Photo of Sabrina Ahmed, MS, RMHCI
Sabrina Ahmed
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32244
Welcome! My goal is to offer a compassionate space where you can feel heard and take steps to improve your mental well-being. I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), evidence-based therapies that help individuals work through past traumas and develop healthier coping mechanisms. As a trauma-informed clinician, my approach aims to help clients address current concerns while guiding them to explore the deeper, root causes. Together, we'll create a space where you can heal at your own pace and gain the tools you need for lasting growth and well-being.
Welcome! My goal is to offer a compassionate space where you can feel heard and take steps to improve your mental well-being. I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), evidence-based therapies that help individuals work through past traumas and develop healthier coping mechanisms. As a trauma-informed clinician, my approach aims to help clients address current concerns while guiding them to explore the deeper, root causes. Together, we'll create a space where you can heal at your own pace and gain the tools you need for lasting growth and well-being.
(904) 659-0989 View (904) 659-0989
Photo of Josh Pina, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Josh Pina
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32244
Welcome! I am Josh Pina, a registered mental health counseling intern. I obtained my masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Jacksonville University, and while there I received the clinical excellence award for my dedication to promoting wellness to populations served. My goal is to provide you a safe and welcoming space to navigate life’s obstacles, set goals, and to grow. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and I work with teens and adults that are seeking help with regulating emotions, strengthening relationship skills, tolerating stressful thoughts and situations, substance use disorders, etc.
Welcome! I am Josh Pina, a registered mental health counseling intern. I obtained my masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Jacksonville University, and while there I received the clinical excellence award for my dedication to promoting wellness to populations served. My goal is to provide you a safe and welcoming space to navigate life’s obstacles, set goals, and to grow. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and I work with teens and adults that are seeking help with regulating emotions, strengthening relationship skills, tolerating stressful thoughts and situations, substance use disorders, etc.
(904) 932-0835 View (904) 932-0835
Hydee Vanterpool
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orange Park, FL 32073
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with several years of experience. I've volunteered with several community agencies in the past in the areas of domestic violence, trauma, and family dynamic including improving familial relationships and communication. I have experiencing working with children, adolescents, adults and families in regards to mental health issues, trauma, domestic violence, substance abuse, parenting, marital/family conflict, stress management, school issues, communication, self-esteem in a healthy way using a cognitive behavioral approach.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with several years of experience. I've volunteered with several community agencies in the past in the areas of domestic violence, trauma, and family dynamic including improving familial relationships and communication. I have experiencing working with children, adolescents, adults and families in regards to mental health issues, trauma, domestic violence, substance abuse, parenting, marital/family conflict, stress management, school issues, communication, self-esteem in a healthy way using a cognitive behavioral approach.
(904) 615-8312 View (904) 615-8312

See more therapy options for Middleburg

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.