Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Forest Park, IL

Photo of Angelica Chrzascik, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angelica Chrzascik
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
I use client centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral theory (CBT), EMDR, attachment theory, and dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT).
As a therapist, my goal is to provide my clients with trauma-informed care to guide treatment and walk with them through the process of healing. My passion for mental health stems from the belief that every person is capable of changing their life for the better. I work with teens, adults, and couples with a range of concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and more. As we work together, I aim to build your toolbox of skills to reach for and increase your sense of peace as I provide a space to comfortably discuss any topic. It would be an honor to join you on your journey
I use client centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral theory (CBT), EMDR, attachment theory, and dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT).
As a therapist, my goal is to provide my clients with trauma-informed care to guide treatment and walk with them through the process of healing. My passion for mental health stems from the belief that every person is capable of changing their life for the better. I work with teens, adults, and couples with a range of concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and more. As we work together, I aim to build your toolbox of skills to reach for and increase your sense of peace as I provide a space to comfortably discuss any topic. It would be an honor to join you on your journey
(708) 934-8714 View (708) 934-8714
Photo of Elizabeth Einig, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Einig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
I often use a mix of evidence-based treatments including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and somatic-focused interventions.
Hi! I'm Elizabeth, a licensed social worker in Willowbrook and Forest Park, IL at Calm Mind Counseling Center. I see kids (7+), teens, and adults facing a variety of concerns, such as trauma, childhood abuse and/or neglect, anxiety, difficult family dynamics, depression, disordered eating, and low self-esteem. Through our work together, I hope to help you find a greater sense of peace, increase awareness of your needs and emotions, build your confidence and sense of autonomy, and offer helpful tools to manage stress. I'd be honored to support you on our journey towards growth!
I often use a mix of evidence-based treatments including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and somatic-focused interventions.
Hi! I'm Elizabeth, a licensed social worker in Willowbrook and Forest Park, IL at Calm Mind Counseling Center. I see kids (7+), teens, and adults facing a variety of concerns, such as trauma, childhood abuse and/or neglect, anxiety, difficult family dynamics, depression, disordered eating, and low self-esteem. Through our work together, I hope to help you find a greater sense of peace, increase awareness of your needs and emotions, build your confidence and sense of autonomy, and offer helpful tools to manage stress. I'd be honored to support you on our journey towards growth!
(331) 296-3494 View (331) 296-3494
Photo of Winona Desarmes, MS,  ALMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Winona Desarmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
Winona Desarmes is an Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. She has a Master's of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy. Winona is experienced in working with a range of issues including mental health disorders, substance use, family concerns, autism spectrum disorders, grief, trauma, and couple's conflicts. She specializes in working with families and couples. Winona is trained in Cognitive Behavior, Dialectical Behavior, Solution Focused, Structural and Systematic therapy. Before LifeStance, Winona was working in a program for substance abuse as a couple and family therapist.
Winona Desarmes is an Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. She has a Master's of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy. Winona is experienced in working with a range of issues including mental health disorders, substance use, family concerns, autism spectrum disorders, grief, trauma, and couple's conflicts. She specializes in working with families and couples. Winona is trained in Cognitive Behavior, Dialectical Behavior, Solution Focused, Structural and Systematic therapy. Before LifeStance, Winona was working in a program for substance abuse as a couple and family therapist.
(708) 627-9463 View (708) 627-9463
Photo of Jennifer F. Smith, PhD, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Jennifer F. Smith
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
I utilize a variety of clinical modalities such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Mindfulness.
Chicago native, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with clinical experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I work with those struggling with depression, phases of life challenges, and generational traumas. My extensive knowledge in organizational leadership and women's entrepreneurship, allows me to help others explore through the anxieties around leadership, workplace balance, and entrepreneurial stress.
I utilize a variety of clinical modalities such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Mindfulness.
Chicago native, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with clinical experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I work with those struggling with depression, phases of life challenges, and generational traumas. My extensive knowledge in organizational leadership and women's entrepreneurship, allows me to help others explore through the anxieties around leadership, workplace balance, and entrepreneurial stress.
(312) 629-5925 View (312) 629-5925
Photo of Amanda Connor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
I have training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Restorative Yoga, Reiki, and Sound Meditation.
I believe in a person-centered approach. Together, we can explore life’s obstacles without judgment, learn new ways to balance the inner self and create a more harmonious relationship with the world around us. Currently, I support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex trauma, grief, and adjustment difficulties. As a lover of learning and education, I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago in 2013. Since then, I have committed to learning new counseling techniques and skills that help me support individuals from diverse backgrounds and those with unique life experiences.
I have training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Restorative Yoga, Reiki, and Sound Meditation.
I believe in a person-centered approach. Together, we can explore life’s obstacles without judgment, learn new ways to balance the inner self and create a more harmonious relationship with the world around us. Currently, I support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex trauma, grief, and adjustment difficulties. As a lover of learning and education, I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago in 2013. Since then, I have committed to learning new counseling techniques and skills that help me support individuals from diverse backgrounds and those with unique life experiences.
(708) 726-8070 View (708) 726-8070
Photo of Emem Itiat, MA, LCPC, NCC, QMHP
Emem Itiat
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130  (Online Only)
I utilizes a variety of evidence-based therapies including the Person Centered approach to foster the trust building process and increase client autonomy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), liberation psychology, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Navigating life's set backs, challenges, and adversities can absolutely take a toll on our wellbeing and ability to function, which is why it is important to know that you do not have to work through these concerns alone. I believe in the power of healing through promoting self-awareness, autonomy and empowerment, and also in people's strength to move towards change. Though suffering is a part of life, something that all humans share, working to manifest helpful and sustainable coping mechanisms, and skills that will work to serve you long term makes a difference in the quality of life a person experiences.
I utilizes a variety of evidence-based therapies including the Person Centered approach to foster the trust building process and increase client autonomy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), liberation psychology, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Navigating life's set backs, challenges, and adversities can absolutely take a toll on our wellbeing and ability to function, which is why it is important to know that you do not have to work through these concerns alone. I believe in the power of healing through promoting self-awareness, autonomy and empowerment, and also in people's strength to move towards change. Though suffering is a part of life, something that all humans share, working to manifest helpful and sustainable coping mechanisms, and skills that will work to serve you long term makes a difference in the quality of life a person experiences.
(312) 626-7591 View (312) 626-7591
Photo of Jill Tregler, LCPC, Counselor
Jill Tregler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130  (Online Only)
I utilize CBT, DBT, RO DBT, CPT, and a splash of ACT to address addiction, disordered eating including binge eating disorder, body image/acceptance, trauma, mood disorders and OCD.
I approach my therapeutic work as my genuine self, incorporating humor, directness, and accountability in our sessions, to build rapport and challenge clients towards their identified goals. I recognize societal and other life-factors that impact/influence each individual, gaining understanding of each person’s unique framework for moving through the world. I believe a diagnosis defines a constellation of symptoms, it does not define a person. I also value and welcome feedback in order to provide the best possible clinical care - and it's a beautiful place to practice self-advocacy.
I utilize CBT, DBT, RO DBT, CPT, and a splash of ACT to address addiction, disordered eating including binge eating disorder, body image/acceptance, trauma, mood disorders and OCD.
I approach my therapeutic work as my genuine self, incorporating humor, directness, and accountability in our sessions, to build rapport and challenge clients towards their identified goals. I recognize societal and other life-factors that impact/influence each individual, gaining understanding of each person’s unique framework for moving through the world. I believe a diagnosis defines a constellation of symptoms, it does not define a person. I also value and welcome feedback in order to provide the best possible clinical care - and it's a beautiful place to practice self-advocacy.
(708) 740-2598 View (708) 740-2598
Photo of Jamie Tubbs, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Tubbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
My perspective is shaped by training and experience with ACT, CBT, DBT, CPT, EFT and Polyvagal Theory.
You make sense. Your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, sensations- they all make sense. Therapy is a great place to figure out how, and find ways you can change some of those things, or accept them and live with greater ease. In sessions with me, we will work to deepen your understanding of yourself, add skills for better tolerance of emotions and connection with others, and clarify your vision for what you want out of life. In my work with both individuals and couples, I enjoy bringing skills for better emotional awareness, communication, and values based action.
My perspective is shaped by training and experience with ACT, CBT, DBT, CPT, EFT and Polyvagal Theory.
You make sense. Your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, sensations- they all make sense. Therapy is a great place to figure out how, and find ways you can change some of those things, or accept them and live with greater ease. In sessions with me, we will work to deepen your understanding of yourself, add skills for better tolerance of emotions and connection with others, and clarify your vision for what you want out of life. In my work with both individuals and couples, I enjoy bringing skills for better emotional awareness, communication, and values based action.
(708) 726-4655 View (708) 726-4655
Photo of Lakeisha Banks, MSW, LSW, EMDR, BSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lakeisha Banks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Trauma-Focused-CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
As a therapist who lives with ADHD, I understand and feel the challenges of life from the point of view of a neurodivergent individual. There are so many difficulties we face every day, and we are not born knowing how to use coping skills and tools to manage them. As a result, the path you’ve been on may be scary, but I want you to know that you are not alone! This is where I come in. I am a trauma-informed therapist that specializes in working with adolescents and adults who experience ADHD, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQIA+, domestic violence, and sexual assault, or are in need of crisis intervention.
I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Trauma-Focused-CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
As a therapist who lives with ADHD, I understand and feel the challenges of life from the point of view of a neurodivergent individual. There are so many difficulties we face every day, and we are not born knowing how to use coping skills and tools to manage them. As a result, the path you’ve been on may be scary, but I want you to know that you are not alone! This is where I come in. I am a trauma-informed therapist that specializes in working with adolescents and adults who experience ADHD, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQIA+, domestic violence, and sexual assault, or are in need of crisis intervention.
(312) 300-2038 View (312) 300-2038
Photo of Tianna A Hammond, LCPC, Counselor
Tianna A Hammond
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
Therapeutic techniques used includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Mental Wellness is very important. With over 7 years of experience, I have worked with individuals and families in a variety of community, tele-health, and hospital settings. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University in Chicago, IL . My hopes are to assist you and your family in making changes for the better. The population I work in range from ages 6 to 64.
Therapeutic techniques used includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Mental Wellness is very important. With over 7 years of experience, I have worked with individuals and families in a variety of community, tele-health, and hospital settings. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University in Chicago, IL . My hopes are to assist you and your family in making changes for the better. The population I work in range from ages 6 to 64.
(708) 726-0539 View (708) 726-0539
Photo of Brittany Yelnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Yelnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of Illinois. I have experience working with individuals who face challenges with their mental health for the past 10 years. I enjoy serving a diverse range of clients and tailoring my expertise to address individual needs and challenges.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of Illinois. I have experience working with individuals who face challenges with their mental health for the past 10 years. I enjoy serving a diverse range of clients and tailoring my expertise to address individual needs and challenges.
(708) 316-9167 View (708) 316-9167
Photo of Amy Carbone, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Carbone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
One of Amy’s core strengths is her ability to work with diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, first responders, and individuals with developmental disabilities. She is also wellversed in treating childhood behavior issues, making her a valuable resource for families seeking guidance and support. Amy uses elements of play to connect with children as young as 8 years old. Her extensive experience allows her to offer a wide range of services, including individual, couples, and family therapy, ensuring that each client receives the most appropriate and effective care for their unique situation.
One of Amy’s core strengths is her ability to work with diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, first responders, and individuals with developmental disabilities. She is also wellversed in treating childhood behavior issues, making her a valuable resource for families seeking guidance and support. Amy uses elements of play to connect with children as young as 8 years old. Her extensive experience allows her to offer a wide range of services, including individual, couples, and family therapy, ensuring that each client receives the most appropriate and effective care for their unique situation.
(855) 641-1658 View (855) 641-1658
Photo of Julia Sostrin, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Sostrin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
Julia Sostrin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. Julia meets clients where they are at, with more than a decade working with multiple diagnoses and disorders. She uses integrative and eclectic approaches in order to help clients find resolutions to issues and identify patterns which may be causing them issues. Julia has worked at all levels of care and often will employ modalities and treatment approach which best fit for the client in front of her. She will do this to help them move at a speed they can feel comfortable and happy with to make the progress they hope to see.
Julia Sostrin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. Julia meets clients where they are at, with more than a decade working with multiple diagnoses and disorders. She uses integrative and eclectic approaches in order to help clients find resolutions to issues and identify patterns which may be causing them issues. Julia has worked at all levels of care and often will employ modalities and treatment approach which best fit for the client in front of her. She will do this to help them move at a speed they can feel comfortable and happy with to make the progress they hope to see.
(708) 766-8438 View (708) 766-8438
Photo of Kelley Brown, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelley Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
Kelley Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois with experience in both the clinical mental health field and school counseling field. Kelley supports clients in uncovering and breaking through life's obstacles and challenges to embrace and experience being their best self. Her goal is to mobilize her clients to have self-growth and self-agency through focusing on one's strengths, finding solutions to life's challenges, and supporting in altering one's perspective to uncover the lessons in all stages of life.
Kelley Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois with experience in both the clinical mental health field and school counseling field. Kelley supports clients in uncovering and breaking through life's obstacles and challenges to embrace and experience being their best self. Her goal is to mobilize her clients to have self-growth and self-agency through focusing on one's strengths, finding solutions to life's challenges, and supporting in altering one's perspective to uncover the lessons in all stages of life.
(708) 998-4138 View (708) 998-4138
Photo of Jessica Punzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica Punzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of trauma/PTSD as well as complex PTSD. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have worked in a wide variety of settings treating trauma from prisons/jails, to community mental health centers, to the VA and various outpatient settings. I have worked with all types of survivors with various different traumatic experiences and symptom presentations and utilize several types of treatment approaches.
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of trauma/PTSD as well as complex PTSD. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have worked in a wide variety of settings treating trauma from prisons/jails, to community mental health centers, to the VA and various outpatient settings. I have worked with all types of survivors with various different traumatic experiences and symptom presentations and utilize several types of treatment approaches.
(708) 613-8682 View (708) 613-8682
Photo of Julie (Mcgonigal) Cannell, LCPC, Counselor
Julie (Mcgonigal) Cannell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
You've always been a high achiever, but lately you're struggling to cope. Your to-do list is piling up, but you can't seem to accomplish things. You feel bogged down by "shoulds and have-to's." You want to do things "the right way," but feel unsure of yourself. Others see you as capable, but you worry they don't see the real you.
You've always been a high achiever, but lately you're struggling to cope. Your to-do list is piling up, but you can't seem to accomplish things. You feel bogged down by "shoulds and have-to's." You want to do things "the right way," but feel unsure of yourself. Others see you as capable, but you worry they don't see the real you.
(618) 765-4134 View (618) 765-4134
Photo of Kirsten Tesnar Svejda, PsyD, Psychologist
Kirsten Tesnar Svejda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering therapy services to adolescents and adults in Oak Park, IL. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In my treatment of complex issues, I provide both individual and family therapy and value collaborating with other healthcare providers for multidisciplinary care. I work from a mindfulness-based and trauma-informed lens, utilizing body-based, symptom-focused interventions and exploring interpersonal relationships as methods to encourage change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering therapy services to adolescents and adults in Oak Park, IL. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In my treatment of complex issues, I provide both individual and family therapy and value collaborating with other healthcare providers for multidisciplinary care. I work from a mindfulness-based and trauma-informed lens, utilizing body-based, symptom-focused interventions and exploring interpersonal relationships as methods to encourage change.
(708) 885-9939 View (708) 885-9939
Photo of Elisha-Rio Pineda Apilado, LCPC, ATR
Elisha-Rio Pineda Apilado
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical art therapist guiding individuals through their identity crises with confidence, helping them shed the weight of external expectations and embrace authenticity. Having earned dual master’s degrees in counseling and art therapy from Adler University in Chicago, I meet you where they are, offering encouragement as you discover and build upon your strengths. Clients seek me out because they’re tired of holding back in relationships and yearn for empowerment in shaping a life that truly reflects their own essence.
I am a clinical art therapist guiding individuals through their identity crises with confidence, helping them shed the weight of external expectations and embrace authenticity. Having earned dual master’s degrees in counseling and art therapy from Adler University in Chicago, I meet you where they are, offering encouragement as you discover and build upon your strengths. Clients seek me out because they’re tired of holding back in relationships and yearn for empowerment in shaping a life that truly reflects their own essence.
(630) 242-1787 View (630) 242-1787
Photo of Sareena Green - The Lighted Path Counseling LLC, LCPC, Counselor
The Lighted Path Counseling LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
When seeking the Lighted Path toward self acceptance, adjustment management and healing from the past or trauma it is important to find a knowledgable, motivated partner on the journey.
When seeking the Lighted Path toward self acceptance, adjustment management and healing from the past or trauma it is important to find a knowledgable, motivated partner on the journey.
(773) 900-7437 View (773) 900-7437
Photo of Tony D. Wilson - Therapy Health Clinic: Tony D. Wilson, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy Health Clinic: Tony D. Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
Through more than 20 years of experience, I have worked extensively with individuals, couples and multi-generational families providing treatment for a wide range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. I grew up in a large & humble home; learning and understanding the complexities of dealing with different types of personalities, sometimes in difficult circumstances at an early age. My goal is to see clients do amazing work in treatment by strengthening their coping skills, removing limiting beliefs, resolving conflicts, and lifestyle changes through a positive way of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
Through more than 20 years of experience, I have worked extensively with individuals, couples and multi-generational families providing treatment for a wide range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. I grew up in a large & humble home; learning and understanding the complexities of dealing with different types of personalities, sometimes in difficult circumstances at an early age. My goal is to see clients do amazing work in treatment by strengthening their coping skills, removing limiting beliefs, resolving conflicts, and lifestyle changes through a positive way of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
(708) 300-0261 View (708) 300-0261
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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.