Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Alpharetta, GA

Photo of Robert Smith, MS, LAPC, Counselor
Robert Smith
Counselor, MS, LAPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
As an agent for change, transforming the stigma of therapy is very important to me. I have brought years of personal and professional experience to counseling. I have interacted with people from many diverse backgrounds, cultures, and belief systems. My approach to counseling, using cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy recognizes and respects the uniqueness of every individual I work with within a safe, non-judgmental environment. My goal is to have my client be better than they were yesterday, for themselves, their families, and their community in discussing anxiety, depression, or the stressors of life.
As an agent for change, transforming the stigma of therapy is very important to me. I have brought years of personal and professional experience to counseling. I have interacted with people from many diverse backgrounds, cultures, and belief systems. My approach to counseling, using cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy recognizes and respects the uniqueness of every individual I work with within a safe, non-judgmental environment. My goal is to have my client be better than they were yesterday, for themselves, their families, and their community in discussing anxiety, depression, or the stressors of life.
(678) 736-5880 View (678) 736-5880
Photo of Debbie Kolbrener, MA, LPC, CCATP, IOCD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debbie Kolbrener
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP, IOCD
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009
DK Counseling Center for Anxiety & Emotional Management is here to provide the highest level of treatment for all ages with a speciality in anxiety, OCD and DBT focused modalities to help individuals, adults, families, children and teens. Our treatment approaches are evidence based with a goal of giving our clients the strategies & tools they can immediate put into use to begin feeling a sense of relief and control. While we love to see our clients and we also love to see them reach their treatment goals and maintain the skills independently to assist them throughout their lives and through the challenges life throws us.
DK Counseling Center for Anxiety & Emotional Management is here to provide the highest level of treatment for all ages with a speciality in anxiety, OCD and DBT focused modalities to help individuals, adults, families, children and teens. Our treatment approaches are evidence based with a goal of giving our clients the strategies & tools they can immediate put into use to begin feeling a sense of relief and control. While we love to see our clients and we also love to see them reach their treatment goals and maintain the skills independently to assist them throughout their lives and through the challenges life throws us.
(678) 403-6434 View (678) 403-6434
Photo of Zach Kissell, LAPC, MS, MEd, Counselor
Zach Kissell
Counselor, LAPC, MS, MEd
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Zach values an honest and wholehearted relationship with his clients and believes, in that context, lasting trust and growth occurs. He uses Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help couples and individuals cope with distress, learn to modulate their emotions in adaptive ways while improving interpersonal relationships. Zach has worked in a variety of mental health and school settings and blends that experiences and his insights into a holistic approach to suit each client.
Zach values an honest and wholehearted relationship with his clients and believes, in that context, lasting trust and growth occurs. He uses Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help couples and individuals cope with distress, learn to modulate their emotions in adaptive ways while improving interpersonal relationships. Zach has worked in a variety of mental health and school settings and blends that experiences and his insights into a holistic approach to suit each client.
(678) 737-6182 View (678) 737-6182
Photo of Breanna Curtin, MS, NCC, APC, Counselor
Breanna Curtin
Counselor, MS, NCC, APC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
With a Bachelors of Science in Alternative Medicine and a Masters of Science in Counselor Education from East Carolina University, I bring a holistic perspective to the therapeutic process. I have experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, and executive functioning impairments. I provide individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, and adults utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, "Executive Functioning" skills building, Play Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
With a Bachelors of Science in Alternative Medicine and a Masters of Science in Counselor Education from East Carolina University, I bring a holistic perspective to the therapeutic process. I have experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, and executive functioning impairments. I provide individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, and adults utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, "Executive Functioning" skills building, Play Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
(470) 613-8320 View (470) 613-8320
Photo of Lyla Mills, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyla Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I incorporate modalities like ACT, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic theory, narrative therapy, family systems, IFS, CPT, and attachment work into my therapeutic toolkit.
I want to applaud you for taking a step towards healing, growth, and discovery of self. I’m a Licensed Master Social Worker that weaves creativity, an integrative approach to therapeutic modalities, and, most importantly, compassion, into my therapeutic practice. My mission is to guide clients on a transformative journey, fostering comfort, safety, and acceptance.
I incorporate modalities like ACT, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic theory, narrative therapy, family systems, IFS, CPT, and attachment work into my therapeutic toolkit.
I want to applaud you for taking a step towards healing, growth, and discovery of self. I’m a Licensed Master Social Worker that weaves creativity, an integrative approach to therapeutic modalities, and, most importantly, compassion, into my therapeutic practice. My mission is to guide clients on a transformative journey, fostering comfort, safety, and acceptance.
(470) 634-8811 View (470) 634-8811
Photo of Megan McKinney, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I offer a holistic, strengths-based approach to therapy using modalities such as Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solutions-Focused Therapy.
My name is Megan and I am a Licensed Master of Social Work. I am passionate about assisting clients connect with their authentic selves and create a more fulfilling life. I believe in the healing power of connection and helping individuals feel empowered. I have experience working with teens and adults who struggle with eating disorders, trauma, relationships, depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
I offer a holistic, strengths-based approach to therapy using modalities such as Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solutions-Focused Therapy.
My name is Megan and I am a Licensed Master of Social Work. I am passionate about assisting clients connect with their authentic selves and create a more fulfilling life. I believe in the healing power of connection and helping individuals feel empowered. I have experience working with teens and adults who struggle with eating disorders, trauma, relationships, depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
(678) 730-7100 View (678) 730-7100
Photo of Leigh Fisher, LMSW, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I am also trained in additional therapeutic modalities including MBSR, CBT, DBT, Somatic-based interventions, EMDR (Theratapper), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for Trauma (SFBT), and Restorative Retelling.
I am a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) who works with Adults and Teens struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Stress (Relationships, Work, Lifestyle), Life Transitions, Self-Esteem Issues, Body Image, Disordered Eating, and the impact of Trauma. I also provide Career & Life Skills Coaching. I believe the goal of therapy is not to push away or deny our thoughts and feelings, but to mindfully allow for their presence, change the way we relate to our environment, learn to heal our hurt, and move towards what we value so we can lead a life filled with meaning and purpose.
I am also trained in additional therapeutic modalities including MBSR, CBT, DBT, Somatic-based interventions, EMDR (Theratapper), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for Trauma (SFBT), and Restorative Retelling.
I am a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) who works with Adults and Teens struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Stress (Relationships, Work, Lifestyle), Life Transitions, Self-Esteem Issues, Body Image, Disordered Eating, and the impact of Trauma. I also provide Career & Life Skills Coaching. I believe the goal of therapy is not to push away or deny our thoughts and feelings, but to mindfully allow for their presence, change the way we relate to our environment, learn to heal our hurt, and move towards what we value so we can lead a life filled with meaning and purpose.
(678) 929-6138 View (678) 929-6138
Photo of Andrea Gwyn - Attento Counseling, MA, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Gwyn - Attento Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience and success using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I believe that each person deserves the opportunity to thrive in life! This has guided my therapeutic engagement over the past 10 years. My ideal client is either individuals or families. I specialize in working with women, those struggling with personal empowerment. I love meeting and helping those who are looking to make positive changes in their lives!
I have extensive experience and success using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I believe that each person deserves the opportunity to thrive in life! This has guided my therapeutic engagement over the past 10 years. My ideal client is either individuals or families. I specialize in working with women, those struggling with personal empowerment. I love meeting and helping those who are looking to make positive changes in their lives!
(470) 999-7452 View (470) 999-7452
Photo of Becca Samelson Webb, BS, MA, LAPC, NCC
Becca Samelson Webb
Associate Professional Counselor, BS, MA, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy, we'll build tools to increase emotional stability and build healthy relationships.
Are you fully content with your life? My guess is probably not. You probably wish something in your life is different or better. You might want to throw in the towel, give up on life, and avoid the pain altogether. It feels impossible for things to change, so why bother? Maybe you're struggling with intense emotional outbursts, the desire to hurt yourself, or unstable relationships. Or, maybe you find it easier to push away your emotions, avoid triggers, and exert control wherever you can. You don't want to feel the pain. So what can we do about it?
Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy, we'll build tools to increase emotional stability and build healthy relationships.
Are you fully content with your life? My guess is probably not. You probably wish something in your life is different or better. You might want to throw in the towel, give up on life, and avoid the pain altogether. It feels impossible for things to change, so why bother? Maybe you're struggling with intense emotional outbursts, the desire to hurt yourself, or unstable relationships. Or, maybe you find it easier to push away your emotions, avoid triggers, and exert control wherever you can. You don't want to feel the pain. So what can we do about it?
(770) 762-6158 View (770) 762-6158
Photo of Cristina Lázaro, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, CAMS-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina Lázaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022  (Online Only)
I strive to be the best advocate for my clients through person-centered therapy by creating an environment where humility, open dialogue, and empathy prevail. I provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to treat anxiety, depression, anger management, trauma, and suicide/self-harm for adolescents and adults. I am also a Certified Anger Management Specialist (CAMS-II). My main goal is to increase happiness, emphasize resilience, and foster assertiveness in my clients' lives. Through research, application of theory, and knowledge of clinical skills, I aim to provide the best service possible.
I strive to be the best advocate for my clients through person-centered therapy by creating an environment where humility, open dialogue, and empathy prevail. I provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to treat anxiety, depression, anger management, trauma, and suicide/self-harm for adolescents and adults. I am also a Certified Anger Management Specialist (CAMS-II). My main goal is to increase happiness, emphasize resilience, and foster assertiveness in my clients' lives. Through research, application of theory, and knowledge of clinical skills, I aim to provide the best service possible.
(336) 864-6242 View (336) 864-6242
Photo of Kirsten L Moore, PsyD, Psychologist
Kirsten L Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I can help with CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) or DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), in which I am Intensively-trained, and I use play therapy with my younger clients.
Are you a parent, adult, or teen who has faced anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, obsessions, attention problems, or impulsivity? You or your loved one may have had urges to harm themselves or had difficulty making or keeping healthy relationships. I help clients live a Life they experience as Worth Living, learning coping skills to deal with life’s stressors and solve problems one moment at a time. Find peace of mind and live your best life!
I can help with CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) or DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), in which I am Intensively-trained, and I use play therapy with my younger clients.
Are you a parent, adult, or teen who has faced anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, obsessions, attention problems, or impulsivity? You or your loved one may have had urges to harm themselves or had difficulty making or keeping healthy relationships. I help clients live a Life they experience as Worth Living, learning coping skills to deal with life’s stressors and solve problems one moment at a time. Find peace of mind and live your best life!
(678) 264-3991 View (678) 264-3991
Photo of Jamie Lippincott - Attento Counseling, LPC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Lippincott - Attento Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I am a certified DBT therapist who utilizes the different skills and techniques to help manage difficult emotions.
Are you feeling sad, down, depressed, anxious or even moody? Work with me to help you find inner peace and allow yourself to alleviate those difficult emotions. Our lives are stressful enough! Take care of yourself and come talk things out.
I am a certified DBT therapist who utilizes the different skills and techniques to help manage difficult emotions.
Are you feeling sad, down, depressed, anxious or even moody? Work with me to help you find inner peace and allow yourself to alleviate those difficult emotions. Our lives are stressful enough! Take care of yourself and come talk things out.
(470) 664-4400 View (470) 664-4400
Photo of Krista Smith, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Krista Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I am a pre-licensed counselor providing therapeutic services to tweens, teens, and young adults. My area of specialty is the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, dysthymia, and adjustment disorder. My approach to therapy is grounded in a person-centered framework, allowing me to tailor the modality of therapy to best fit the individual needs of each client. With this integrative approach, I find myself drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Experiential Therapy.
I am a pre-licensed counselor providing therapeutic services to tweens, teens, and young adults. My area of specialty is the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, dysthymia, and adjustment disorder. My approach to therapy is grounded in a person-centered framework, allowing me to tailor the modality of therapy to best fit the individual needs of each client. With this integrative approach, I find myself drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Experiential Therapy.
(470) 688-5502 View (470) 688-5502
Photo of Christine Bunyan, MS, LAPC, Counselor
Christine Bunyan
Counselor, MS, LAPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022  (Online Only)
I utilize DBT and CBT skills to teach clients to cope with symptoms related to a wide variety of clinical concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, self-harm, eating disorders, and addiction.
Whatever circumstances you are coming from, I am here to validate your experience with non-judgmental support. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with many different issues, including relationship problems, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, and identity exploration. I began my career as a therapist at a counseling center where clients focused on recovery from sexual abuse, which led me to develop a passion for helping clients heal from traumatic experiences.
I utilize DBT and CBT skills to teach clients to cope with symptoms related to a wide variety of clinical concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, self-harm, eating disorders, and addiction.
Whatever circumstances you are coming from, I am here to validate your experience with non-judgmental support. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with many different issues, including relationship problems, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, and identity exploration. I began my career as a therapist at a counseling center where clients focused on recovery from sexual abuse, which led me to develop a passion for helping clients heal from traumatic experiences.
(678) 750-4666 View (678) 750-4666
Photo of Tiffany Britt, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Britt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
She has completed post-graduate training in CBT, DBT, Disordered Eating, EMDR, Intentional Living & Mind-Body-Wellness.
Reaching your highest potential begins with intentional and courageous living, even in the midst of significant challenges and disappointments. Yet many often operate from a place of fear and doubt, preventing them from moving toward wholeness, self-confidence and purposeful living. Living courageously from a place of balance, intention, and purpose allows her clients to achieve wellness and reach their highest potential. Tiffany’s passion is creating a supportive, safe place for clients to experience connection and understanding. She explores the fears, perceptions & assumptions her clients have relied on through-out their lives.
She has completed post-graduate training in CBT, DBT, Disordered Eating, EMDR, Intentional Living & Mind-Body-Wellness.
Reaching your highest potential begins with intentional and courageous living, even in the midst of significant challenges and disappointments. Yet many often operate from a place of fear and doubt, preventing them from moving toward wholeness, self-confidence and purposeful living. Living courageously from a place of balance, intention, and purpose allows her clients to achieve wellness and reach their highest potential. Tiffany’s passion is creating a supportive, safe place for clients to experience connection and understanding. She explores the fears, perceptions & assumptions her clients have relied on through-out their lives.
(770) 824-3031 View (770) 824-3031
Photo of Katie Beals Williams, M Ed, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Beals Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I use Interpersonal Process Therapy which focuses on the relationship between client and therapist as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I think we can all agree that the stages of life starting in middle school and going through young adulthood are difficult and often very confusing. I would love to work with you and help guide you through any of these stages as you make decisions about your future, your friendships, and your relationships.
I use Interpersonal Process Therapy which focuses on the relationship between client and therapist as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I think we can all agree that the stages of life starting in middle school and going through young adulthood are difficult and often very confusing. I would love to work with you and help guide you through any of these stages as you make decisions about your future, your friendships, and your relationships.
(678) 535-2464 View (678) 535-2464
Photo of Hailey Whitley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hailey Whitley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I utilize CBT, DBT, EMDR, Person-Centered and Family Systems to assist in reaching your goals.
Life is challenging, messy and painful. Life is exciting, joyful and healing. Life is life. No matter where you are in life’s journey, the journey of life is always changing. Whichever type of change you believe is best for you, I do believe is best accomplished with others, in collaboration, not in isolation. I feel privileged to walk alongside individuals navigating the inevitable difficulties of life. My goal is to provide you with a safe space in which to sort through these difficulties, while working toward mutually agreed upon goals.
I utilize CBT, DBT, EMDR, Person-Centered and Family Systems to assist in reaching your goals.
Life is challenging, messy and painful. Life is exciting, joyful and healing. Life is life. No matter where you are in life’s journey, the journey of life is always changing. Whichever type of change you believe is best for you, I do believe is best accomplished with others, in collaboration, not in isolation. I feel privileged to walk alongside individuals navigating the inevitable difficulties of life. My goal is to provide you with a safe space in which to sort through these difficulties, while working toward mutually agreed upon goals.
(678) 730-0935 View (678) 730-0935
Photo of Claire S Parker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire S Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I pull from orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness approaches, and EMDR.
Hello, I am Claire Parker, a licensed therapist in Alpharetta, Georgia. As a therapist, I take an active role in listening, empowering, and supporting my client’s own unique experience. I place great importance on authenticity, and infuse humor into my therapeutic style. I am devoted to provide a non-judgment, accepting environment in which you will feel comfortable to do the remarkable work of psychotherapy.
I pull from orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness approaches, and EMDR.
Hello, I am Claire Parker, a licensed therapist in Alpharetta, Georgia. As a therapist, I take an active role in listening, empowering, and supporting my client’s own unique experience. I place great importance on authenticity, and infuse humor into my therapeutic style. I am devoted to provide a non-judgment, accepting environment in which you will feel comfortable to do the remarkable work of psychotherapy.
(678) 853-7480 View (678) 853-7480
Photo of Michele Price, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
I primarily treat adults with functional neurological disorders, specifically functional seizures (PNES). I treat a wide range of mental health disorders, grief, and chronic illness. I have worked with clients and families who have neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, dementia, and movement disorders. It's my goal to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable, be your authentic self, and can share openly without fear. You'll find our work together to be supportive and encouraging.
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
I primarily treat adults with functional neurological disorders, specifically functional seizures (PNES). I treat a wide range of mental health disorders, grief, and chronic illness. I have worked with clients and families who have neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, dementia, and movement disorders. It's my goal to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable, be your authentic self, and can share openly without fear. You'll find our work together to be supportive and encouraging.
(404) 531-7270 View (404) 531-7270
Photo of Brooke Knowles, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Brooke Knowles
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009  (Online Only)
I utilize many modatlies and tailor treatment to each individual, but I do tend to favor CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR.
Welcome! If you're reading this, chances are you're no stranger to the overwhelming weight of anxiety, the suffocating grip of self-doubt, or the relentless cycle of worry that seems to have taken over your life. You're not alone. I know all too well the feeling of anxiety creeping in at the most inconvenient times, leaving you paralyzed with fear and uncertainty. You may struggle with low self-esteem, constantly questioning your worth and capabilities, or perhaps you battle with imposter syndrome, feeling like a fraud in your own life. Some days, even the simplest tasks feel like climbing mountains.
I utilize many modatlies and tailor treatment to each individual, but I do tend to favor CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR.
Welcome! If you're reading this, chances are you're no stranger to the overwhelming weight of anxiety, the suffocating grip of self-doubt, or the relentless cycle of worry that seems to have taken over your life. You're not alone. I know all too well the feeling of anxiety creeping in at the most inconvenient times, leaving you paralyzed with fear and uncertainty. You may struggle with low self-esteem, constantly questioning your worth and capabilities, or perhaps you battle with imposter syndrome, feeling like a fraud in your own life. Some days, even the simplest tasks feel like climbing mountains.
(352) 290-7922 View (352) 290-7922
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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.