Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Bloomington, IL

Photo of Shyann Etnier, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shyann Etnier
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
I use an integrated approach that may include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I am a graduate student at the University of the Cumberlands pursuing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a former public school teacher. My approach is not just about providing therapy, but about creating a collaborative and empowering space. Together, we will navigate life’s challenges, setting treatment goals that are unique to your needs and wants. It would be a privilege to support you on this journey.
I use an integrated approach that may include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I am a graduate student at the University of the Cumberlands pursuing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a former public school teacher. My approach is not just about providing therapy, but about creating a collaborative and empowering space. Together, we will navigate life’s challenges, setting treatment goals that are unique to your needs and wants. It would be a privilege to support you on this journey.
(309) 220-5657 View (309) 220-5657
Photo of Alison Kerrn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Kerrn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
I provide CBT (cognitive behavioral) and DBT (dialectical behavial) along with client-centered therapy.
Hi there, Whether it's for yourself, your kid, or your family, it takes strength to both reach out for counseling and to be open to receiving help. Having some nervousness is normal, even if it isn't your first time. Is your child isolating, refusing to go to school, or overthinking? Does your family have troubles connecting, communicating, or resolving conflict? If so, seeking counseling with me may be beneficial for you. I have years of experience working with children and adolescents with different backgrounds, including LGBTQ+, and different mental health concerns, including trauma, depression, and anxiety.
I provide CBT (cognitive behavioral) and DBT (dialectical behavial) along with client-centered therapy.
Hi there, Whether it's for yourself, your kid, or your family, it takes strength to both reach out for counseling and to be open to receiving help. Having some nervousness is normal, even if it isn't your first time. Is your child isolating, refusing to go to school, or overthinking? Does your family have troubles connecting, communicating, or resolving conflict? If so, seeking counseling with me may be beneficial for you. I have years of experience working with children and adolescents with different backgrounds, including LGBTQ+, and different mental health concerns, including trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(309) 305-3802 View (309) 305-3802
Photo of Angi Chasensky, LPC, CTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angi Chasensky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
I use an integrated approach to therapy which may include trauma-informed techniques from various counseling approaches, including (but not limited to), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Therapy, Polyvagal Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and Humanistic Psychology.
My empathetic approach meets the individual where they are, to explore their concerns without shame, guilt, or judgment. Everyone faces challenges and difficult times in their life. The way we receive information from the people, places, and things in our environment is rooted in experience, belief systems, and our personality. We respond and interact with others based on our defined relationship with ourselves and our experiences. My goal is to create a safe environment, to cultivate an authentic relationship with yourself. We will work together to develop attainable treatment goals based on your needs and wants.
I use an integrated approach to therapy which may include trauma-informed techniques from various counseling approaches, including (but not limited to), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Therapy, Polyvagal Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and Humanistic Psychology.
My empathetic approach meets the individual where they are, to explore their concerns without shame, guilt, or judgment. Everyone faces challenges and difficult times in their life. The way we receive information from the people, places, and things in our environment is rooted in experience, belief systems, and our personality. We respond and interact with others based on our defined relationship with ourselves and our experiences. My goal is to create a safe environment, to cultivate an authentic relationship with yourself. We will work together to develop attainable treatment goals based on your needs and wants.
(309) 869-8033 View (309) 869-8033
Photo of Erin Wold, LPCC
Erin Wold
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
Erin has experience working with clients to address: trauma, addiction, grief, ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, borderline personality disorders, co-dependence, and relationship conflict by teaching CBT, DBT, coping, and communication skills using Adlerian, Choice, Existential, Rogerian, and Solution-Focused Theories.
Erin has 5 years of clinical counseling experience, from residential, inpatient and outpatient care. Erin has passion to work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples as healthy relationships are the foundation for support to overcome hardships and trauma to create a more meaningful life. I prefer to work with adults and children who have past trauma experiences who need to develop coping and communication skills to express needs, set boundaries and manage emotions.
Erin has experience working with clients to address: trauma, addiction, grief, ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, borderline personality disorders, co-dependence, and relationship conflict by teaching CBT, DBT, coping, and communication skills using Adlerian, Choice, Existential, Rogerian, and Solution-Focused Theories.
Erin has 5 years of clinical counseling experience, from residential, inpatient and outpatient care. Erin has passion to work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples as healthy relationships are the foundation for support to overcome hardships and trauma to create a more meaningful life. I prefer to work with adults and children who have past trauma experiences who need to develop coping and communication skills to express needs, set boundaries and manage emotions.
(708) 847-9732 View (708) 847-9732
Photo of Caroline Van Aman, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Caroline Van Aman
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Not accepting new clients
My masters program trained me in cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Life can bring about overwhelming emotional experiences that make us feel out of touch with our ourselves. Healing is possible. Neuroscience has shown us that our brains have the ability to make new connections and heal throughout our entire lives. We can restore our balance and find ourselves again. I love helping my clients to make new healthy connections. I am committed to the clients that I serve. I use a structured approach and have clear plan of action.
My masters program trained me in cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Life can bring about overwhelming emotional experiences that make us feel out of touch with our ourselves. Healing is possible. Neuroscience has shown us that our brains have the ability to make new connections and heal throughout our entire lives. We can restore our balance and find ourselves again. I love helping my clients to make new healthy connections. I am committed to the clients that I serve. I use a structured approach and have clear plan of action.
(309) 220-3953 View (309) 220-3953
Photo of Victoria Fetter, LCPC
Victoria Fetter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
Victoria Fetter is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Illinois State University with a Masters in Clinical-Counseling Psychology. Victoria has significant training in dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy. Sessions are focused on figuring out how to make the present function and then find the causes in the past, because we live each day in the real world. Her main areas of focus include ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
Victoria Fetter is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Illinois State University with a Masters in Clinical-Counseling Psychology. Victoria has significant training in dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy. Sessions are focused on figuring out how to make the present function and then find the causes in the past, because we live each day in the real world. Her main areas of focus include ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
(309) 305-3127 View (309) 305-3127
Photo of Ashley Frizzell, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Frizzell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to pulling from her own experiences in marriage, motherhood, life, and 15 years of counseling, Ashley uses theories of Christian Counseling, CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Taking the first step reaching out to a counselor can be difficult, however, Ashley loves meeting new people and quickly is able to put people at ease. She finds great enjoyment hearing other people’s stories. Her approach with children and teens includes a lot of humor and is lighthearted with lots of play and silliness. Her approach with adults is unconditional positive regard seeing them through the lens of grace. She always offers encouragement and hope with a side of gentle challenging of unhealthy patterns.
In addition to pulling from her own experiences in marriage, motherhood, life, and 15 years of counseling, Ashley uses theories of Christian Counseling, CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Taking the first step reaching out to a counselor can be difficult, however, Ashley loves meeting new people and quickly is able to put people at ease. She finds great enjoyment hearing other people’s stories. Her approach with children and teens includes a lot of humor and is lighthearted with lots of play and silliness. Her approach with adults is unconditional positive regard seeing them through the lens of grace. She always offers encouragement and hope with a side of gentle challenging of unhealthy patterns.
(309) 928-0466 View (309) 928-0466
Photo of Jennifer Hamilton, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer Hamilton
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61702
I incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and DBT therapeutic techniques.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor I know the importance of providing a safe and encouraging environment to make important decisions and changes. Seeking help is an act of both courage and vulnerability, and I meet these strengths with compassion, warmth, and understanding. My approach to therapy emphasizes your personal values and views relationships as the most important aspect of our lives.
I incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and DBT therapeutic techniques.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor I know the importance of providing a safe and encouraging environment to make important decisions and changes. Seeking help is an act of both courage and vulnerability, and I meet these strengths with compassion, warmth, and understanding. My approach to therapy emphasizes your personal values and views relationships as the most important aspect of our lives.
(309) 588-4304 View (309) 588-4304
Photo of Venus Evans-Winters, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Venus Evans-Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma professional, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g. cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip hop generation, she helps culturally and linguistically diverse clients cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a major influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma professional, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g. cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip hop generation, she helps culturally and linguistically diverse clients cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a major influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
(309) 362-0501 View (309) 362-0501
Emily Breitweiser
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
I support my clients through an integrative approach using experiential and attachment-based therapies (EFT & AEDP), neurocounseling, DBT, and ACT.
Now accepting new clients! I am passionate about walking with adults and couples on their healing journeys. Additionally, I specialize in working with college students and emerging adults facing anxiety, grief, chronic stress, and life transitions. As an existentially based therapist, I do not view myself as an expert on my clients. Instead, I see myself as a fellow traveler in life, who knows that ultimately, we all need a safe place to talk about our experiences, thoughts, feelings, and fears. I provide this safety for my clients through my warm, compassionate, and culturally sensitive trauma-informed approach.
I support my clients through an integrative approach using experiential and attachment-based therapies (EFT & AEDP), neurocounseling, DBT, and ACT.
Now accepting new clients! I am passionate about walking with adults and couples on their healing journeys. Additionally, I specialize in working with college students and emerging adults facing anxiety, grief, chronic stress, and life transitions. As an existentially based therapist, I do not view myself as an expert on my clients. Instead, I see myself as a fellow traveler in life, who knows that ultimately, we all need a safe place to talk about our experiences, thoughts, feelings, and fears. I provide this safety for my clients through my warm, compassionate, and culturally sensitive trauma-informed approach.
(309) 448-4307 View (309) 448-4307
Photo of Alya Abbed, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alya Abbed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
Alya Abbed is a licensed therapist specializing in trauma treatment. Al has over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in mental health. Her clinical expertise is treating complex trauma including childhood abuse/neglect in addition to physical/sexual/emotional abuse and sexual assault. She is formally trained in EMDR, ITR, Theraplay, and trauma-informed sexual assault. Al's therapeutic modality of choice is talk therapy alongside EMDR, CBT, and DBT. She received her Bachelor's degree in Pyschology and her Master's degree in Community Counseling from Oakland University in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
Alya Abbed is a licensed therapist specializing in trauma treatment. Al has over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in mental health. Her clinical expertise is treating complex trauma including childhood abuse/neglect in addition to physical/sexual/emotional abuse and sexual assault. She is formally trained in EMDR, ITR, Theraplay, and trauma-informed sexual assault. Al's therapeutic modality of choice is talk therapy alongside EMDR, CBT, and DBT. She received her Bachelor's degree in Pyschology and her Master's degree in Community Counseling from Oakland University in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
(309) 226-4516 View (309) 226-4516
Photo of Jessica McClellan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica McClellan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
I am a Certified First Responder Counselor, and I utilize DBT, CBT, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and take a strengths based approach during sessions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, with many differing experiences in the field of mental health and emotional well-being. I have experience working with families, couples, and individuals of all ages. I am passionate about supporting First Responders, Veterans, and their families. My goal is to help First Responders and their families in reducing stress, processing compounded trauma, and live a productive life that is not overshadowed by their professions. I also work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
I am a Certified First Responder Counselor, and I utilize DBT, CBT, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and take a strengths based approach during sessions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, with many differing experiences in the field of mental health and emotional well-being. I have experience working with families, couples, and individuals of all ages. I am passionate about supporting First Responders, Veterans, and their families. My goal is to help First Responders and their families in reducing stress, processing compounded trauma, and live a productive life that is not overshadowed by their professions. I also work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
(217) 712-4190 View (217) 712-4190
Photo of Natasha Nuss, LCSW, C, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natasha Nuss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C, S, W
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 10 years of experience working in mental health in several capacities: community mental health, adult residential, crisis stabilization, outpatient case management, and inpatient psychiatric case management with adults, adolescents, and children. I work with a variety of age groups using a variety of therapy styles, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I see myself as a partner to you on your journey, walking alongside you as you grow stronger and shed negativity.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 10 years of experience working in mental health in several capacities: community mental health, adult residential, crisis stabilization, outpatient case management, and inpatient psychiatric case management with adults, adolescents, and children. I work with a variety of age groups using a variety of therapy styles, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I see myself as a partner to you on your journey, walking alongside you as you grow stronger and shed negativity.
(217) 203-4132 View (217) 203-4132
Photo of Chris Venezia, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Venezia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
I utilize many types of therapy including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative Therapy.
I graduated from the University of Illinois with a Masters Degree in Social Work. I take a person-centered approach to therapy, recognizing that people are the experts of their own life and experiences. It is my goal to help people grow, become more confident, and to advocate for themselves to receive the care that they want to receive. I empower clients to make their own choices in life, and to trust themselves to make decisions. After working with me, it is my hope that clients will see that they have the ability to make changes in their own lives, set and achieve goals, and grow in ways that may have previously seemed impossible.
I utilize many types of therapy including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative Therapy.
I graduated from the University of Illinois with a Masters Degree in Social Work. I take a person-centered approach to therapy, recognizing that people are the experts of their own life and experiences. It is my goal to help people grow, become more confident, and to advocate for themselves to receive the care that they want to receive. I empower clients to make their own choices in life, and to trust themselves to make decisions. After working with me, it is my hope that clients will see that they have the ability to make changes in their own lives, set and achieve goals, and grow in ways that may have previously seemed impossible.
(217) 859-8413 View (217) 859-8413
Photo of Shelley M Johnson, MA, CCMHC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley M Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701  (Online Only)
REBT, CBT, DBT are all techniques that I use in my practice.
If you are looking for someone to be your number one ally, but also call you on your stuff... that's me! Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other serious mental illness- I can help. If you are just struggling to find direction and need some outside voice- I can help with that too.
REBT, CBT, DBT are all techniques that I use in my practice.
If you are looking for someone to be your number one ally, but also call you on your stuff... that's me! Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other serious mental illness- I can help. If you are just struggling to find direction and need some outside voice- I can help with that too.
(815) 396-8250 View (815) 396-8250
Photo of Julie Ann Peloza, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Ann Peloza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61705
I have training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and use different ways to support you, like talking about thoughts and behaviors (CBT), understanding emotions (DBT), exploring through play and art, focusing on personal growth (humanistic psychology), and sharing helpful information (psychoeducation).
Welcome! As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am passionate about supporting individuals facing various challenges, with a special focus on trauma, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum. I am committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for adolescents to explore and overcome their unique struggles, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being. Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment.
I have training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and use different ways to support you, like talking about thoughts and behaviors (CBT), understanding emotions (DBT), exploring through play and art, focusing on personal growth (humanistic psychology), and sharing helpful information (psychoeducation).
Welcome! As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am passionate about supporting individuals facing various challenges, with a special focus on trauma, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum. I am committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for adolescents to explore and overcome their unique struggles, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being. Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment.
(309) 245-0460 View (309) 245-0460
Photo of Shaniqua Tomlin, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shaniqua Tomlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
I utilize evidence based practices such as DBT, CBT, and TF-CBT.
Do you have anxiety about your career, or your relationships? Maybe you have had some bad experiences in past relationships or past workplace environments that has led to you experiencing anxiety. Or maybe you experience anxiety in other areas of your life? Anxiety can manifest in intrusive thoughts, fear, avoidance, or other unhealthy behaviors. Many people carry the burden of anxiety in which anxiety can manifest in different ways and in specific environments for every individual. However, we can find "rest" without being burdened by anxiety if we do the work to address our "triggers" while managing our anxiety symptoms.
I utilize evidence based practices such as DBT, CBT, and TF-CBT.
Do you have anxiety about your career, or your relationships? Maybe you have had some bad experiences in past relationships or past workplace environments that has led to you experiencing anxiety. Or maybe you experience anxiety in other areas of your life? Anxiety can manifest in intrusive thoughts, fear, avoidance, or other unhealthy behaviors. Many people carry the burden of anxiety in which anxiety can manifest in different ways and in specific environments for every individual. However, we can find "rest" without being burdened by anxiety if we do the work to address our "triggers" while managing our anxiety symptoms.
(217) 673-0159 View (217) 673-0159
Photo of Sarah Cain, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Cain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
I am currently accepting new clients! My experience includes providing mental health services to people across the lifespan. I have worked in a variety of settings including a residential treatment center for youth, a nonprofit agency that specializes in counseling for children and families impacted by sexual abuse, and a multidisciplinary group practice. I am capable of treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief.
I am currently accepting new clients! My experience includes providing mental health services to people across the lifespan. I have worked in a variety of settings including a residential treatment center for youth, a nonprofit agency that specializes in counseling for children and families impacted by sexual abuse, and a multidisciplinary group practice. I am capable of treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief.
(309) 315-4709 View (309) 315-4709
Photo of Nigel Turk, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nigel Turk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
Nigel Turk is Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Nigel is able to offer empathy and support while collaborating with clients on the journey to meeting personal goals, using an appreciation for theme and a keen eye for recognizing patterns to help clients find a deeper understanding, grounded in a holistic, strength-based, and systems-oriented approach to client care. Outside of work, Nigel enjoys creative writing, knitting and crocheting, almost all kinds of games, and spending time with their three cats.
Nigel Turk is Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Nigel is able to offer empathy and support while collaborating with clients on the journey to meeting personal goals, using an appreciation for theme and a keen eye for recognizing patterns to help clients find a deeper understanding, grounded in a holistic, strength-based, and systems-oriented approach to client care. Outside of work, Nigel enjoys creative writing, knitting and crocheting, almost all kinds of games, and spending time with their three cats.
(309) 240-9920 View (309) 240-9920
Photo of Jojo M Mitchell, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Jojo M Mitchell
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
Not accepting new clients
All of us at some point in our lives struggle. Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, ashamed, afraid, etc. Whether you are currently feeling stuck or simply want to improve the way you cope, I am here to help. We can work together to improve your emotional health and mental well-being.
All of us at some point in our lives struggle. Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, ashamed, afraid, etc. Whether you are currently feeling stuck or simply want to improve the way you cope, I am here to help. We can work together to improve your emotional health and mental well-being.
(309) 518-1262 View (309) 518-1262

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.