Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Pennsylvania

Kaitlin Castle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Shade Gap, PA 17255
We will incorporate elements of narrative therapy, DBT, and expressive therapies into sessions.
Throughout my work I have heard parents reiterate how often they have felt judged. Like they were not a good parent because they were falling short of their own expectations or the expectations of others. These parents have not needed to be fixed but to be heard and listened to. Neither do you. I have heard children tell stories of fear that they aren’t good enough. Unfortunately we live in a world where judgment is common. My parents see their children thrive with our empowerment. Which is why I am passionate about working with children and adolescents and families. This will be a safe place for your family.
We will incorporate elements of narrative therapy, DBT, and expressive therapies into sessions.
Throughout my work I have heard parents reiterate how often they have felt judged. Like they were not a good parent because they were falling short of their own expectations or the expectations of others. These parents have not needed to be fixed but to be heard and listened to. Neither do you. I have heard children tell stories of fear that they aren’t good enough. Unfortunately we live in a world where judgment is common. My parents see their children thrive with our empowerment. Which is why I am passionate about working with children and adolescents and families. This will be a safe place for your family.
(717) 489-2949 View (717) 489-2949
Photo of Julie Thompson, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie Thompson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
I have also received training in DBT skills and SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions).
I use a collaborative approach to assess your needs and create meaningful treatment goals. If you are struggling with emotions, life transitions, relationships, I can support you in improved functioning through increased awareness of your thoughts, emotions and behaviors. We can work together to identify barriers to accomplishing goals, such as distorted thought processes, negative emotions, or unhelpful behaviors. I approach therapy from a non-judgmental and compassionate stance; the work we do is to improve YOUR life, I am here to help you along the way.
I have also received training in DBT skills and SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions).
I use a collaborative approach to assess your needs and create meaningful treatment goals. If you are struggling with emotions, life transitions, relationships, I can support you in improved functioning through increased awareness of your thoughts, emotions and behaviors. We can work together to identify barriers to accomplishing goals, such as distorted thought processes, negative emotions, or unhelpful behaviors. I approach therapy from a non-judgmental and compassionate stance; the work we do is to improve YOUR life, I am here to help you along the way.
(484) 207-5422 View (484) 207-5422
Photo of Paula Rossi, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paula Rossi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
The interventions that I use are primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
I believe that therapy should feel like a conversation between two people, without a power imbalance or fears of being judged. I am a licensed professional counselor, but first and foremost, I’m a human being like you. If you choose to work together, I promise to be genuine, compassionate, and real. I specialize in treating adolescents through young adults, and I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, suicidality and self-injury, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
The interventions that I use are primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
I believe that therapy should feel like a conversation between two people, without a power imbalance or fears of being judged. I am a licensed professional counselor, but first and foremost, I’m a human being like you. If you choose to work together, I promise to be genuine, compassionate, and real. I specialize in treating adolescents through young adults, and I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, suicidality and self-injury, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
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Photo of Sara Weand, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Weand
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
As a DBT therapist, I know you don’t want to be this way.
Your relationships are falling apart, you’re anxious all of the time, and your life has become an out-of-control mess. You wonder why relationships have to be so hard and cause you so much pain. People just don’t get it. They don’t get that when you’re hurt, your emotions take over and consume you. You’d literally do anything to not feel that way. In fact, when you have, you ended up feeling even worse and pushing those very same people away. You’re so desperate for people’s approval and terrified that if they ever found out what you’re really like, they wouldn’t want you anymore.
As a DBT therapist, I know you don’t want to be this way.
Your relationships are falling apart, you’re anxious all of the time, and your life has become an out-of-control mess. You wonder why relationships have to be so hard and cause you so much pain. People just don’t get it. They don’t get that when you’re hurt, your emotions take over and consume you. You’d literally do anything to not feel that way. In fact, when you have, you ended up feeling even worse and pushing those very same people away. You’re so desperate for people’s approval and terrified that if they ever found out what you’re really like, they wouldn’t want you anymore.
(717) 899-8116 View (717) 899-8116
Photo of Julianne Wiebalk - Handspring Health (Insurance Accepted!), LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julianne Wiebalk - Handspring Health (Insurance Accepted!)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
Handspring is a modern mental health clinic that provides personalized, evidence-based behavioral care for children, adolescents, and young adults. We currently serve children (ages 8-17) and young adults (18 years and over) who are looking for treatment for anxiety, depression, or behavioral difficulties. Our therapeutic approaches include CBT, DBT, organizational skills training, behavior therapy, exposure & response prevention, and parent management training.
Handspring is a modern mental health clinic that provides personalized, evidence-based behavioral care for children, adolescents, and young adults. We currently serve children (ages 8-17) and young adults (18 years and over) who are looking for treatment for anxiety, depression, or behavioral difficulties. Our therapeutic approaches include CBT, DBT, organizational skills training, behavior therapy, exposure & response prevention, and parent management training.
(267) 651-9044 View (267) 651-9044
Photo of John Cappello, LPC, CAADC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Cappello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor, CBT-informed, and DBT-informed practitioner.
Currently accepting new clients with immediate availability for adults and adolescents, 12 years and older! Insurance is accepted. Beginning therapy can help you cope with life’s stressors and challenges in healthy and productive ways. Therapy offers a safe place to build meaningful skills you can use for the rest of your life. Working with people from all walks of life has given me a deep understanding of many issues and how difficult it can be to face those issues alone. I strive to create a strong rapport with my clients so we can effectively solve problems and increase happiness.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor, CBT-informed, and DBT-informed practitioner.
Currently accepting new clients with immediate availability for adults and adolescents, 12 years and older! Insurance is accepted. Beginning therapy can help you cope with life’s stressors and challenges in healthy and productive ways. Therapy offers a safe place to build meaningful skills you can use for the rest of your life. Working with people from all walks of life has given me a deep understanding of many issues and how difficult it can be to face those issues alone. I strive to create a strong rapport with my clients so we can effectively solve problems and increase happiness.
(215) 372-8321 View (215) 372-8321
Photo of Brianna Holste, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brianna Holste
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I strive to empower my clients to overcome obstacles, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. I have experience working with clients experiencing significant life changes, anxiety and panic disorders, depression, suicidality, and OCD. My go-to therapeutic theories are CBT, DBT, and ACT, working from a person-centered approach. If none of these strategies are your cup of tea, I am always open to learning new ways of helping others, so just reach out!
I strive to empower my clients to overcome obstacles, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. I have experience working with clients experiencing significant life changes, anxiety and panic disorders, depression, suicidality, and OCD. My go-to therapeutic theories are CBT, DBT, and ACT, working from a person-centered approach. If none of these strategies are your cup of tea, I am always open to learning new ways of helping others, so just reach out!
(412) 547-0481 View (412) 547-0481
Photo of Nancy Ure Douglass, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Ure Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
My client’s issues are extremely important to me. I do whatever I can to build trust and provide hope to improve their overall well being. i use CBT, DBT, and any interpersonal skills that have proven to be successful over my 25 years of practice .Hope and Health are my primary goals in any therapeutic setting.
My client’s issues are extremely important to me. I do whatever I can to build trust and provide hope to improve their overall well being. i use CBT, DBT, and any interpersonal skills that have proven to be successful over my 25 years of practice .Hope and Health are my primary goals in any therapeutic setting.
(412) 981-1112 View (412) 981-1112
Photo of Samantha Gibson, MA, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Samantha Gibson
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083  (Online Only)
I believe in incorporating different therapeutic techniques; such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, in order to meet you exactly where you are during each interaction.
I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology and hold credentials as both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I have been in the field for 11 years and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns; including depression, anxiety, identity formation, crisis management, addiction, and life transitions. I have also gravitated throughout the last few years towards the young adult population. I feel this phase of life can be so overwhelming and exhausting at times to navigate without proper supports in place!
I believe in incorporating different therapeutic techniques; such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, in order to meet you exactly where you are during each interaction.
I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology and hold credentials as both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I have been in the field for 11 years and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns; including depression, anxiety, identity formation, crisis management, addiction, and life transitions. I have also gravitated throughout the last few years towards the young adult population. I feel this phase of life can be so overwhelming and exhausting at times to navigate without proper supports in place!
(484) 760-0516 View (484) 760-0516
Photo of Hillary Ammon - Center for Anxiety & Women's Emotional Wellness, PsyD, Psychologist
Center for Anxiety & Women's Emotional Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
I also utilize skills from DBT and ACT.
Hi there! I'm Dr. Hillary Ammon. I founded the Center for Anxiety and Women’s Emotional Wellness to provide specialized, effective treatment to these populations. After years of working within hospital settings, most recently at the University of Pennsylvania, I decided to take my own advice and live a life that better aligns with my values, by striking a balance of work and family life and creating this private practice. I am passionate about working with women and clients with anxiety, both unique populations, and providing evidence-based, yet tailored-care, and a virtual space to reflect, approach, problem-solve, and change.
I also utilize skills from DBT and ACT.
Hi there! I'm Dr. Hillary Ammon. I founded the Center for Anxiety and Women’s Emotional Wellness to provide specialized, effective treatment to these populations. After years of working within hospital settings, most recently at the University of Pennsylvania, I decided to take my own advice and live a life that better aligns with my values, by striking a balance of work and family life and creating this private practice. I am passionate about working with women and clients with anxiety, both unique populations, and providing evidence-based, yet tailored-care, and a virtual space to reflect, approach, problem-solve, and change.
(484) 261-5044 View (484) 261-5044
Photo of Kylie Meyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kylie Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Collegeville, PA 19426  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Kylie and I am a PA Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm passionate about helping adolescents and adults learn how to regulate emotions, incorporate daily mindfulness, and challenge thoughts that keep them stuck. I also teach how to decrease the connection between feeling and doing, and how to maintain healthy relationships . The majority or my practice focuses on self-harm behavior, suicidal ideation, intense emotions, and impulsive behaviors. My approach is to utilize DBT throughout treatment while also incorporating CBT and trauma-focused care.
Hello! My name is Kylie and I am a PA Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm passionate about helping adolescents and adults learn how to regulate emotions, incorporate daily mindfulness, and challenge thoughts that keep them stuck. I also teach how to decrease the connection between feeling and doing, and how to maintain healthy relationships . The majority or my practice focuses on self-harm behavior, suicidal ideation, intense emotions, and impulsive behaviors. My approach is to utilize DBT throughout treatment while also incorporating CBT and trauma-focused care.
(484) 255-4371 View (484) 255-4371
Photo of Melanie Timbers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Timbers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My approach integrates person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), & Solution-Focused Therapy.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, past traumatic experiences, and currently feeling stuck in life? Do you need help managing these emotions to move forward in a more meaningful and productive life? Your goals would be to process these emotions and learn how your thoughts influence your feelings and, ultimately, your behavior. Additionally, you will learn coping skills to manage and/or reduce the debilitating effects of these emotions.
My approach integrates person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), & Solution-Focused Therapy.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, past traumatic experiences, and currently feeling stuck in life? Do you need help managing these emotions to move forward in a more meaningful and productive life? Your goals would be to process these emotions and learn how your thoughts influence your feelings and, ultimately, your behavior. Additionally, you will learn coping skills to manage and/or reduce the debilitating effects of these emotions.
(267) 317-4028 View (267) 317-4028
Photo of Margaret Swartz, PsyD, Psychologist
Margaret Swartz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402  (Online Only)
Dr. Swartz is a licensed psychologist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). She began her education at Alfred University's New York State College of Ceramics where she earned a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts in Ceramic Art. She continued her education with a Masters in Creative Arts in Therapy from Hahnemann Hospital Creative Arts program. She completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2008. Dr. Swartz provides therapy to patients with depression, anxiety and PTSD.
Dr. Swartz is a licensed psychologist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). She began her education at Alfred University's New York State College of Ceramics where she earned a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts in Ceramic Art. She continued her education with a Masters in Creative Arts in Therapy from Hahnemann Hospital Creative Arts program. She completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2008. Dr. Swartz provides therapy to patients with depression, anxiety and PTSD.
(717) 977-3969 View (717) 977-3969
Photo of Tali Vodovis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tali Vodovis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Then I would introduce the principles of CBT and DBT; specifically cognitive challenging and reframing of automatic negative thoughts .
Female, 20-40 years old, issues including stress, anxiety, depression (mood), and family (i.e. nuclear or family-of-origin) challenges. Interested in learning how to manage their symptoms, explore the origins and/or root cause of current stressors, and learn how to cope and resolve conflict/problem solve. To help improve their life satisfaction and overall quality of life
Then I would introduce the principles of CBT and DBT; specifically cognitive challenging and reframing of automatic negative thoughts .
Female, 20-40 years old, issues including stress, anxiety, depression (mood), and family (i.e. nuclear or family-of-origin) challenges. Interested in learning how to manage their symptoms, explore the origins and/or root cause of current stressors, and learn how to cope and resolve conflict/problem solve. To help improve their life satisfaction and overall quality of life
(856) 291-9856 View (856) 291-9856
Photo of Matthew Weiner, MS, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Weiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Furthermore, I obtained a certification in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques and have taken several courses in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
My goal is to guide people toward making meaningful change. My patients can vary from people who have experienced acute traumatic events, suffered from health-related problems, or are struggling with the problems of everyday life. Utilizing a trauma-informed treatment perspective, I invite my patients into a safe and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I have a decade-plus history of helping individuals experiencing issues ranging from social anxiety to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Furthermore, I obtained a certification in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques and have taken several courses in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
My goal is to guide people toward making meaningful change. My patients can vary from people who have experienced acute traumatic events, suffered from health-related problems, or are struggling with the problems of everyday life. Utilizing a trauma-informed treatment perspective, I invite my patients into a safe and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I have a decade-plus history of helping individuals experiencing issues ranging from social anxiety to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(484) 309-9424 View (484) 309-9424
Photo of Sierra Thompson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sierra Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I am CBT certified and I have experience using approaches such as DBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and a host of others.
Welcome, my name is Sierra Thompson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling, specializing in trauma. I have years of experience working with adult and adolescent populations. My experience in the field has been comprised of private practice and community behavioral settings.
I am CBT certified and I have experience using approaches such as DBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and a host of others.
Welcome, my name is Sierra Thompson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling, specializing in trauma. I have years of experience working with adult and adolescent populations. My experience in the field has been comprised of private practice and community behavioral settings.
(215) 798-5742 View (215) 798-5742
Photo of Grief Therapist Kelly Kowalchuk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grief Therapist Kelly Kowalchuk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newtown Square, PA 19073  (Online Only)
Your therapy care plan will use evidence-based interventions from mindfulness-based CBT and DBT, fostering resilience and well-being.
Grief can be an intricate and isolating experience for People Pleasers. The constant desire to please others adds a unique layer to the tasks faced during the grieving process, often leading individuals to disregard their own needs and emotions. You do not have to navigate this journey alone. We will embark on a compassionate and nonjudgmental narrative approach to address the tasks of grief. In our sessions, your goals to restore balance to your entire being—mind, body, and spirit—will be our focus, and one step at a time, we will work towards fostering healthy relationships and enhancing self-advocacy. Ask me about Walk & Talk!
Your therapy care plan will use evidence-based interventions from mindfulness-based CBT and DBT, fostering resilience and well-being.
Grief can be an intricate and isolating experience for People Pleasers. The constant desire to please others adds a unique layer to the tasks faced during the grieving process, often leading individuals to disregard their own needs and emotions. You do not have to navigate this journey alone. We will embark on a compassionate and nonjudgmental narrative approach to address the tasks of grief. In our sessions, your goals to restore balance to your entire being—mind, body, and spirit—will be our focus, and one step at a time, we will work towards fostering healthy relationships and enhancing self-advocacy. Ask me about Walk & Talk!
(484) 946-3989 View (484) 946-3989
Photo of Mara Kyzer, MHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mara Kyzer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
As a pre-licensed therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Psychoeducation, I offer a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being.
As someone dedicated to fostering a safe and supportive therapeutic space, I want my potential clients to know that beyond my professional qualifications and expertise, I bring a deep sense of empathy, understanding, and genuine care to every interaction. I understand that reaching out for help can sometimes feel daunting or intimidating, but I want to assure potential clients that they are not alone on their journey. Together, we can work collaboratively to explore their concerns, uncover strengths, and develop practical skills and strategies to navigate life's challenges more effectively.
As a pre-licensed therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Psychoeducation, I offer a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being.
As someone dedicated to fostering a safe and supportive therapeutic space, I want my potential clients to know that beyond my professional qualifications and expertise, I bring a deep sense of empathy, understanding, and genuine care to every interaction. I understand that reaching out for help can sometimes feel daunting or intimidating, but I want to assure potential clients that they are not alone on their journey. Together, we can work collaboratively to explore their concerns, uncover strengths, and develop practical skills and strategies to navigate life's challenges more effectively.
(412) 284-6788 View (412) 284-6788
Photo of Tali Vodovis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tali Vodovis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Levittown, PA 19057
Then I would introduce the principles of CBT and DBT; specifically cognitive challenging and reframing of automatic negative thoughts .
Female, 20-40 years old, issues including stress, anxiety, depression (mood), and family (i.e. nuclear or family-of-origin) challenges. Interested in learning how to manage their symptoms, explore the origins and/or root cause of current stressors, and learn how to cope and resolve conflict/problem solve. To help improve their life satisfaction and overall quality of life
Then I would introduce the principles of CBT and DBT; specifically cognitive challenging and reframing of automatic negative thoughts .
Female, 20-40 years old, issues including stress, anxiety, depression (mood), and family (i.e. nuclear or family-of-origin) challenges. Interested in learning how to manage their symptoms, explore the origins and/or root cause of current stressors, and learn how to cope and resolve conflict/problem solve. To help improve their life satisfaction and overall quality of life
(856) 291-9862 View (856) 291-9862
Photo of Peter Scoma, PsyD
Peter Scoma
PsyD
Verified Verified
Conshohocken, PA 19428
My passion for treating teens and adults with Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) comes from years of seeing clients genuinely heal from this incredibly effective approach to treatment and go on to live happy and productive lives more fulfilling than they ever thought possible. Difficulty managing strong emotions can negatively influence every aspect of a person's life from intimate relationships, to one's work environment, and family connections. By utilizing a combination of skills training (in an individual or group format) along with individual DBT sessions, my clients complete treatment armed with the skill-set and knowledge to reach their true potential.
My passion for treating teens and adults with Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) comes from years of seeing clients genuinely heal from this incredibly effective approach to treatment and go on to live happy and productive lives more fulfilling than they ever thought possible. Difficulty managing strong emotions can negatively influence every aspect of a person's life from intimate relationships, to one's work environment, and family connections. By utilizing a combination of skills training (in an individual or group format) along with individual DBT sessions, my clients complete treatment armed with the skill-set and knowledge to reach their true potential.
(215) 510-0628 View (215) 510-0628
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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.