Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Dekalb, IL

Photo of Jamie Lynn Henrikson, MS, LCPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Lynn Henrikson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as a foundation for services.
In life, when we deal with difficult relationships or toxic situations, it causes negative symptoms and stress in ourselves. Carrying this burden is stressful and unnecessary. Often, these symptoms can become permanent habits that are difficult to change. My role is to help you unload stress and replace this with helpful and healing tools, permanently. My approach involves helping you understand ways of maintaining life balance and living a fulfilling life.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as a foundation for services.
In life, when we deal with difficult relationships or toxic situations, it causes negative symptoms and stress in ourselves. Carrying this burden is stressful and unnecessary. Often, these symptoms can become permanent habits that are difficult to change. My role is to help you unload stress and replace this with helpful and healing tools, permanently. My approach involves helping you understand ways of maintaining life balance and living a fulfilling life.
(815) 427-4819 View (815) 427-4819
Photo of Katie Blum, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Blum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
My treatment approaches incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), as well as dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT).
I strive to walk alongside clients on their personal and unique journey of life, supporting each individual person while providing strategies, education, and insight into ongoing stressors. My approach to therapy focuses on meeting clients where they are at and helping them reach their self-determined goals. I help clients define their strengths while providing proven strategies to build resilience and strengthen everyday coping. My specialties include anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD/executive functioning, academic difficulties, interpersonal and relationship issues, self-esteem, and sleep troubles.
My treatment approaches incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), as well as dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT).
I strive to walk alongside clients on their personal and unique journey of life, supporting each individual person while providing strategies, education, and insight into ongoing stressors. My approach to therapy focuses on meeting clients where they are at and helping them reach their self-determined goals. I help clients define their strengths while providing proven strategies to build resilience and strengthen everyday coping. My specialties include anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD/executive functioning, academic difficulties, interpersonal and relationship issues, self-esteem, and sleep troubles.
(779) 246-4683 View (779) 246-4683
Photo of Candice Riles-Daniels - Healing Crown Counseling PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Crown Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Therapeutic treatment approaches include CBT, DBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, holistic therapy, and other client centered approaches.
Candice has worked with clients who have struggled with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, grief and loss, substance abuse, LGBTQ Issues, personality disorders, and PTSD. Her specialties include struggles with intimate and family relationships, personality disorders, criminal thinking, anger management, poor self image, depression, and trauma. Candice prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each of her clients. She is passionate about helping clients draw strength from their experiences; to live a better quality of life and reach personal fulfillment.
Therapeutic treatment approaches include CBT, DBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, holistic therapy, and other client centered approaches.
Candice has worked with clients who have struggled with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, grief and loss, substance abuse, LGBTQ Issues, personality disorders, and PTSD. Her specialties include struggles with intimate and family relationships, personality disorders, criminal thinking, anger management, poor self image, depression, and trauma. Candice prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each of her clients. She is passionate about helping clients draw strength from their experiences; to live a better quality of life and reach personal fulfillment.
(779) 252-7348 View (779) 252-7348
Photo of Amanda Ruppert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Ruppert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
The therapeutic approaches that I utilize include: CBT & DBT when appropriate, Bowenian/Transgenerational Therapy, Structural Therapy, Attachment Therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
The therapeutic approaches that I utilize include: CBT & DBT when appropriate, Bowenian/Transgenerational Therapy, Structural Therapy, Attachment Therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
(779) 222-2709 View (779) 222-2709
Photo of Shannon Pociecha, MA, LCPC
Shannon Pociecha
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
(815) 406-6057 View (815) 406-6057
Photo of Passion For Living Counseling Services Llc, LCSW, CADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Passion For Living Counseling Services Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
We have therapists trained in EMDR, brainspotting, CBT, DBT, IFS, ego state therapy, structural dissociation, mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and more.
Passion for Living Counseling Services was founded in 2018 by Lorre Hunter, LCSW, whose dream was to save the world one person at a time. Now with the help of five other social workers, we work side by side our clients to help them achieve the goals they desire in therapy. We believe in a person-centered approach and meet the client where they are in life. You are the expert of your life and we would love to be part of your journey.
We have therapists trained in EMDR, brainspotting, CBT, DBT, IFS, ego state therapy, structural dissociation, mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and more.
Passion for Living Counseling Services was founded in 2018 by Lorre Hunter, LCSW, whose dream was to save the world one person at a time. Now with the help of five other social workers, we work side by side our clients to help them achieve the goals they desire in therapy. We believe in a person-centered approach and meet the client where they are in life. You are the expert of your life and we would love to be part of your journey.
(815) 242-4735 View (815) 242-4735
Photo of Kevin Kloosterman, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin Kloosterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I use evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, and Standard DBT.
Immediate availability. Now accepting Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO. Asking for help is the first step, and I know how hard that can be. You're not alone! Having a therapist to help you through mental health challenges and/or difficult life circumstances is as important as having a primary care doctor or dentist. I have over 25 years experience as a therapist helping people with their mental health recovery. Whether it is depression, anxiety, or other challenges, I am here to help. I will engage in a collaborative manner to customize therapy for you and help you to move forward in your life.
I use evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, and Standard DBT.
Immediate availability. Now accepting Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO. Asking for help is the first step, and I know how hard that can be. You're not alone! Having a therapist to help you through mental health challenges and/or difficult life circumstances is as important as having a primary care doctor or dentist. I have over 25 years experience as a therapist helping people with their mental health recovery. Whether it is depression, anxiety, or other challenges, I am here to help. I will engage in a collaborative manner to customize therapy for you and help you to move forward in your life.
(815) 828-4398 View (815) 828-4398
Photo of Catherine Tiberi, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Catherine Tiberi
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), which looks at increasing emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships and tolerating distress.
Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders are just some of the diagnoses I have worked with. Through skill building, processing upsetting events, gaining insight into behaviors and allowing yourself to heal, the positive power of the therapy experience is rewarding. I take an approach that is welcoming, empathetic, and non judgmental to assist with creating a safe place for you.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), which looks at increasing emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships and tolerating distress.
Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders are just some of the diagnoses I have worked with. Through skill building, processing upsetting events, gaining insight into behaviors and allowing yourself to heal, the positive power of the therapy experience is rewarding. I take an approach that is welcoming, empathetic, and non judgmental to assist with creating a safe place for you.
(779) 222-2712 View (779) 222-2712
Photo of Megan Orr, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use an eclectic blend of evidence-based techniques such as mindfulness, CBT and DBT.
Whether you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. Whether these are issues that are impacting you personally or as a couple, you will have a non-judgmental space to work on them as we partner to find solutions for you. If you experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
I use an eclectic blend of evidence-based techniques such as mindfulness, CBT and DBT.
Whether you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. Whether these are issues that are impacting you personally or as a couple, you will have a non-judgmental space to work on them as we partner to find solutions for you. If you experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
(331) 276-6517 View (331) 276-6517
Photo of Raya Newman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raya Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
My therapy style is direct and skills-based through using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, DBT, Attachment Therapy, and Solution-focused interventions.
Building a trusting relationship in therapy is the foundation to making progress in treatment. I focus on compassion, validation, and acceptance throughout therapy to empower and encourage my clients to make the change in their life. My clinical experience from the last 10 years has helped me learn about a lot of different therapy styles. I pull from a lot of various different theoretical orientations depending on the needs of the person. I have experience working in the juvenile justice system, community mental health, and foster care system through DCFS.
My therapy style is direct and skills-based through using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, DBT, Attachment Therapy, and Solution-focused interventions.
Building a trusting relationship in therapy is the foundation to making progress in treatment. I focus on compassion, validation, and acceptance throughout therapy to empower and encourage my clients to make the change in their life. My clinical experience from the last 10 years has helped me learn about a lot of different therapy styles. I pull from a lot of various different theoretical orientations depending on the needs of the person. I have experience working in the juvenile justice system, community mental health, and foster care system through DCFS.
(815) 706-7781 View (815) 706-7781
Photo of Sabrina Washington, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
I borrow from the traditions of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Psychodynamic Theory, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing to give you concrete things to work on to move you toward your goals.
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
I borrow from the traditions of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Psychodynamic Theory, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing to give you concrete things to work on to move you toward your goals.
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
(708) 938-3148 View (708) 938-3148
Photo of Vanessa Osmer, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Vanessa Osmer
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
I often utilize techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Reaching out for help during difficult times in your life can feel vulnerable. The truth is healthy people ask for help when they need it. I know, not ideal, but it is what it is. Building a strong connection with your therapist is one of the largest predictors for therapy success. I want my clients to know that I take their care seriously. I am a little fiery and I like to tell it like it is. I have my client's best interest in mind while guiding them toward their goals. It won't be easy, but that is what I am here for! I am proud of the work I do and I feel honored when clients trust me to be part of their journey.
I often utilize techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Reaching out for help during difficult times in your life can feel vulnerable. The truth is healthy people ask for help when they need it. I know, not ideal, but it is what it is. Building a strong connection with your therapist is one of the largest predictors for therapy success. I want my clients to know that I take their care seriously. I am a little fiery and I like to tell it like it is. I have my client's best interest in mind while guiding them toward their goals. It won't be easy, but that is what I am here for! I am proud of the work I do and I feel honored when clients trust me to be part of their journey.
(331) 256-2767 View (331) 256-2767
Photo of Bridget Garrelts, LCPC, CADC, SUPR, Counselor
Bridget Garrelts
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, SUPR
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Others may prefer a more skills-based approach, and for them I will use DBT to assist in their ability to stop unhealthy and unhelpful behaviors.
Throughout my career, I’ve helped many individuals struggling with addiction and other mental health issues. I understand that addiction is a complex battle to overcome, but I’m passionate about helping people discover the root cause of their problems to ensure long-term healing and recovery. I believe that everyone has the strength to overcome their challenges, and I’m committed to helping people achieve their goals.
Others may prefer a more skills-based approach, and for them I will use DBT to assist in their ability to stop unhealthy and unhelpful behaviors.
Throughout my career, I’ve helped many individuals struggling with addiction and other mental health issues. I understand that addiction is a complex battle to overcome, but I’m passionate about helping people discover the root cause of their problems to ensure long-term healing and recovery. I believe that everyone has the strength to overcome their challenges, and I’m committed to helping people achieve their goals.
(815) 428-0170 View (815) 428-0170
Photo of Anxiety And Depression Counseling New Hope Counseling Center, LMFT, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anxiety And Depression Counseling New Hope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
Immediate openings at our DeKalb location! Is your marriage struggling to thrive? Are you worried about changes you've seen in your teenager? Have you experienced trauma that has left you unable to manage day to day life? Our therapists are here to provide a safe place for you to come ask questions, receive a listening ear, and walk with you through life's challenges.
Immediate openings at our DeKalb location! Is your marriage struggling to thrive? Are you worried about changes you've seen in your teenager? Have you experienced trauma that has left you unable to manage day to day life? Our therapists are here to provide a safe place for you to come ask questions, receive a listening ear, and walk with you through life's challenges.
(224) 302-6961 View (224) 302-6961
Photo of Amr Kireem, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amr Kireem
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
My name is Dr. Amr Kireem, a clinical psychologist and licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois. I have been working with clients since 2009 who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, OCD, PTSD/trauma, relationship issues, codependency, life transitions, and other symptoms. Applying evidence-based approaches, changing faulty assumptions, and finding HOPE are the keys to a successful outcome, while keeping the individual's culture and ethnicity in mind.
My name is Dr. Amr Kireem, a clinical psychologist and licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois. I have been working with clients since 2009 who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, OCD, PTSD/trauma, relationship issues, codependency, life transitions, and other symptoms. Applying evidence-based approaches, changing faulty assumptions, and finding HOPE are the keys to a successful outcome, while keeping the individual's culture and ethnicity in mind.
(773) 923-1873 View (773) 923-1873
Photo of Kate M Michels, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate M Michels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
Being seen and heard is an important part of the human experience, and the therapeutic space is valuable for discovering who you are and how you interact with the world. Counseling can help with common life challenges such as anxiety, depression, overwhelm, trauma, adjustments, loss/grief, family, and relationship issues. I like to foster the therapeutic relationship using empathy and compassion from a professional vantage point. Everyone has unique needs and experiences that need to be explored and validated, while gaining skills and knowledge to elicit the personal changes you are aiming for.
Being seen and heard is an important part of the human experience, and the therapeutic space is valuable for discovering who you are and how you interact with the world. Counseling can help with common life challenges such as anxiety, depression, overwhelm, trauma, adjustments, loss/grief, family, and relationship issues. I like to foster the therapeutic relationship using empathy and compassion from a professional vantage point. Everyone has unique needs and experiences that need to be explored and validated, while gaining skills and knowledge to elicit the personal changes you are aiming for.
(779) 548-6390 View (779) 548-6390
Photo of Maggie Milano, LCPC, CFLE, NCC, CHAIS, ACS, Counselor
Maggie Milano
Counselor, LCPC, CFLE, NCC, CHAIS, ACS
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Life involves stress; it's inevitable. Everyone struggles and needs support, yet many people have not found help. It's hard to figure everything out on our own. You deserve to be listened to objectively, kindly, and without interruption. Sometimes family and friends don't provide help the way we need (or they may make things worse). Psychotherapists can help provide unbiased support and interventions that research shows are pretty darn effective. Though it may not feel like it, lowering stress levels and resolving challenges is not as hard as it may seem. A little guidance could make a big difference!
Life involves stress; it's inevitable. Everyone struggles and needs support, yet many people have not found help. It's hard to figure everything out on our own. You deserve to be listened to objectively, kindly, and without interruption. Sometimes family and friends don't provide help the way we need (or they may make things worse). Psychotherapists can help provide unbiased support and interventions that research shows are pretty darn effective. Though it may not feel like it, lowering stress levels and resolving challenges is not as hard as it may seem. A little guidance could make a big difference!
(815) 286-4030 View (815) 286-4030
Photo of Lauren Laake DeVlieger, PhD, Psychologist
Lauren Laake DeVlieger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Lauren Laake DeVlieger is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with specializations in clinical child psychology and pediatric psychology. Dr. Laake DeVlieger works with children, adolescents and adults with a variety of presenting concerns. Her specialties include adjustment to and coping with acute and chronic medical illnesses, anxiety (including phobias, panic, and social anxiety), OCD, depression, somatic symptom disorder, conversion disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental disorders, and behavioral concerns across development stages.
Dr. Lauren Laake DeVlieger is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with specializations in clinical child psychology and pediatric psychology. Dr. Laake DeVlieger works with children, adolescents and adults with a variety of presenting concerns. Her specialties include adjustment to and coping with acute and chronic medical illnesses, anxiety (including phobias, panic, and social anxiety), OCD, depression, somatic symptom disorder, conversion disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental disorders, and behavioral concerns across development stages.
(779) 273-4231 View (779) 273-4231
Photo of Emma Youngquist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Youngquist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I have immediate openings! In person and online, evenings available, too! I work well with clients having depression or anxiety symptoms, but have experience with other issues as well. I like to get to know my clients as people. We are all special and unique individuals. My clients’ treatment plans are tailor-made to each individual’s needs.
I have immediate openings! In person and online, evenings available, too! I work well with clients having depression or anxiety symptoms, but have experience with other issues as well. I like to get to know my clients as people. We are all special and unique individuals. My clients’ treatment plans are tailor-made to each individual’s needs.
(815) 736-0976 View (815) 736-0976
Photo of Heather Ross - Life Solutions: Integrative Healing, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life Solutions: Integrative Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
I believe in building connections with clients that honor the therapeutic process and facilitate change. I provide a comfortable and supportive therapeutic relationship that fosters a positive experience. I believe you are the expert in your life and I respect the your right to choose your own path and create the change you want to see. If you need guidance and researched-based services to make those changes happen, I will partner with you to get the work done.
I believe in building connections with clients that honor the therapeutic process and facilitate change. I provide a comfortable and supportive therapeutic relationship that fosters a positive experience. I believe you are the expert in your life and I respect the your right to choose your own path and create the change you want to see. If you need guidance and researched-based services to make those changes happen, I will partner with you to get the work done.
(779) 223-5443 View (779) 223-5443
1
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.