Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Lena, IL

Photo of Heidi Lobdell, MA, LCPC, CAADC, LPC, CSAC
Heidi Lobdell
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CAADC, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lena, IL 61048
We feel that a consistent and honest approach are both key factors when fostering lasting positive changes in each individual's life. We provide support, guidance, and evidence-based interventions to help clients overcome challenges, develop new skills, and achieve their personal goals. Sincerely Therapy, PLLC provides adults (17-65yrs of age) with individual therapy services via our online Telehealth Sessions or In-Person Sessions located in downtown Lena, IL. Head to our website and click on the Client Portal section to get started today!
We feel that a consistent and honest approach are both key factors when fostering lasting positive changes in each individual's life. We provide support, guidance, and evidence-based interventions to help clients overcome challenges, develop new skills, and achieve their personal goals. Sincerely Therapy, PLLC provides adults (17-65yrs of age) with individual therapy services via our online Telehealth Sessions or In-Person Sessions located in downtown Lena, IL. Head to our website and click on the Client Portal section to get started today!
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Photo of Julieann Robinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julieann Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lena, IL 61048
I have been working with families and individual clients of all ages for 10 plus years. I am motivated by helping others work through their unique life experiences. When we struggle, sometimes we need help navigating through life's challenges. Finding healthy ways to express ourselves, and communicate our needs is crucial to our well-being. I am particularly skilled in counseling people with behavioral issues, impulse control, depression, self esteem, anxiety, identity, relationships, and conflict resolution.
I have been working with families and individual clients of all ages for 10 plus years. I am motivated by helping others work through their unique life experiences. When we struggle, sometimes we need help navigating through life's challenges. Finding healthy ways to express ourselves, and communicate our needs is crucial to our well-being. I am particularly skilled in counseling people with behavioral issues, impulse control, depression, self esteem, anxiety, identity, relationships, and conflict resolution.
(815) 908-5264 View (815) 908-5264
Photo of Sarah Basler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Basler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lena, IL 61048
My name is Sarah Basler, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. Therapy is a big step. I am happy you are looking for a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I have over 20 years of experience providing counseling to adolescents and adults. I have experience treating substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. My goal is to help you on your path to healing. I like to meet you where you are and help you be the best version of yourself. Transitions and life can be hard. I am here to guide you through life's challenges.
My name is Sarah Basler, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. Therapy is a big step. I am happy you are looking for a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I have over 20 years of experience providing counseling to adolescents and adults. I have experience treating substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. My goal is to help you on your path to healing. I like to meet you where you are and help you be the best version of yourself. Transitions and life can be hard. I am here to guide you through life's challenges.
(773) 694-4991 View (773) 694-4991
Photo of Amr Kireem, LPCC, Counselor
Amr Kireem
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lena, IL 61048
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.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Trevor Gregerson, LPC, Counselor
Trevor Gregerson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Stockton, IL 61085
I have experience working with a wide range of different diagnoses including; Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, and ASPD. I work with clients from ages 12 and up. I have helped clients manage major life transitions, relationship problems, grief and loss, and other life challenges. I use a multicultural lens when working with each client. I see each client as an expert of their lived experience. For me, therapy as a collaborative process in which I help clients achieve their own goals.
I have experience working with a wide range of different diagnoses including; Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, and ASPD. I work with clients from ages 12 and up. I have helped clients manage major life transitions, relationship problems, grief and loss, and other life challenges. I use a multicultural lens when working with each client. I see each client as an expert of their lived experience. For me, therapy as a collaborative process in which I help clients achieve their own goals.
(708) 866-1491 View (708) 866-1491

Online Therapists

Photo of Morissa Green, MSW,  LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morissa Green
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
In therapy, Morissa applies DBT and CBT informed therapeutic techniques.
Morissa Green is a licensed mental health therapist, who takes a holistic approach to client care. Her goal is to meet the client where they are and create a calming therapeutic experience. Morissa received her undergraduate degree in psychology from Southern Illinois University, and a Masters in social work focused on advanced clinical social practice. Morissa has over eight years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field, providing services in inpatient hospital settings, residential care, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, as well as private practice.
In therapy, Morissa applies DBT and CBT informed therapeutic techniques.
Morissa Green is a licensed mental health therapist, who takes a holistic approach to client care. Her goal is to meet the client where they are and create a calming therapeutic experience. Morissa received her undergraduate degree in psychology from Southern Illinois University, and a Masters in social work focused on advanced clinical social practice. Morissa has over eight years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field, providing services in inpatient hospital settings, residential care, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, as well as private practice.
(779) 243-5454 View (779) 243-5454
Photo of Krupa Desai, LCPC
Krupa Desai
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
I draw from CBT, DBT and mindfulness-based strategies to equip you for lasting change.
I work with children ages 10+, adolescents and adults. Whether you're feeling low in mood, anxious all the time, overwhelmed with life changes, unhappy in your relationships, struggling with grief, or just want to prioritize yourself more and heal your relationship with YOU, I am here to support you! People come to me because they are tired of feeling the same way and dealing with the same patterns. They yearn to feel aligned and hopeful again, feeling better and living a meaningful life.
I draw from CBT, DBT and mindfulness-based strategies to equip you for lasting change.
I work with children ages 10+, adolescents and adults. Whether you're feeling low in mood, anxious all the time, overwhelmed with life changes, unhappy in your relationships, struggling with grief, or just want to prioritize yourself more and heal your relationship with YOU, I am here to support you! People come to me because they are tired of feeling the same way and dealing with the same patterns. They yearn to feel aligned and hopeful again, feeling better and living a meaningful life.
(224) 490-2230 View (224) 490-2230
Photo of Erin Terada, PsyD, LCP, CEDS-S, Psychologist
Erin Terada
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Roselle, IL 60172
Additionally, I have trained in CBT-based therapies such as DBT, ACT, I-CBT, ERP, HRT, CPT/PE and self-regulation models of intervention.
Hello, my name is Dr. Erin Terada. I obtained both my Psy.D. Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology and have over 13 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and their families. I currently specialize in the treatment of Eating Disorders, OCD Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and Trauma-related issues. I have had the privilege to work in a variety of settings, from inpatient units addressing critical mental health issues as well as outpatient and residential settings assisting individuals in their longer-term recovery process.
Additionally, I have trained in CBT-based therapies such as DBT, ACT, I-CBT, ERP, HRT, CPT/PE and self-regulation models of intervention.
Hello, my name is Dr. Erin Terada. I obtained both my Psy.D. Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology and have over 13 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and their families. I currently specialize in the treatment of Eating Disorders, OCD Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and Trauma-related issues. I have had the privilege to work in a variety of settings, from inpatient units addressing critical mental health issues as well as outpatient and residential settings assisting individuals in their longer-term recovery process.
(630) 345-4298 View (630) 345-4298
Photo of Bethanie Lee, MA, LPC, Counselor
Bethanie Lee
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
My objective is to help each person to reach their goal utilizing effective and practical therapeutic techniques including CBT and DBT.
I welcome you and acknowledge the courageous step in considering seeking counseling. Life can feel difficult or hopeless at various seasons or crossroads of our lives. It has been a privilege to collaborate with individuals on addressing their needs and areas of personal growth and would be a privilege to walk with you on your journey. My clinical work has included inpatient and outpatient care settings addressing a variety of mental health concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Psychosis, Adjustment issues, Trauma, Substance/Alcohol Abuse and Grief/Bereavement.
My objective is to help each person to reach their goal utilizing effective and practical therapeutic techniques including CBT and DBT.
I welcome you and acknowledge the courageous step in considering seeking counseling. Life can feel difficult or hopeless at various seasons or crossroads of our lives. It has been a privilege to collaborate with individuals on addressing their needs and areas of personal growth and would be a privilege to walk with you on your journey. My clinical work has included inpatient and outpatient care settings addressing a variety of mental health concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Psychosis, Adjustment issues, Trauma, Substance/Alcohol Abuse and Grief/Bereavement.
(847) 584-1731 View (847) 584-1731
Photo of Lindsay Sher, LCPC
Lindsay Sher
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
I also incorporate modalities based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Are you ready to take on the new year? Has seeking therapy been on your mind? Today is your day to start working on what matters most. As a counselor, I serve the individual needs of adolescents and adults throughout their various walks of life. I meet my clients where they are in their emotional journey and help them build solutions and skills to live the life they imagine.
I also incorporate modalities based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Are you ready to take on the new year? Has seeking therapy been on your mind? Today is your day to start working on what matters most. As a counselor, I serve the individual needs of adolescents and adults throughout their various walks of life. I meet my clients where they are in their emotional journey and help them build solutions and skills to live the life they imagine.
(630) 749-9297 View (630) 749-9297
Photo of Marina Cotsilis, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marina Cotsilis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
She employs a tailored approach to therapy, drawing from modalities such as play therapy, creative expression through art and music, as well as evidence-based practices like Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and exposure therapy.
Marina Cotsilis is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with a profound history of clinical experience and a compassionate approach to therapy. With a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver and dual Bachelor's degrees in Fine Art Photography from Columbia College Chicago and Clinical Psychology from Loyola University of Chicago, Marina combines creativity with clinical expertise in her therapeutic practice. Marina's professional journey encompasses a diverse range of experiences across various healthcare settings, including adult and pediatric inpatient and outpatient care, medical surgeries, and psychiatric care.
She employs a tailored approach to therapy, drawing from modalities such as play therapy, creative expression through art and music, as well as evidence-based practices like Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and exposure therapy.
Marina Cotsilis is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with a profound history of clinical experience and a compassionate approach to therapy. With a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver and dual Bachelor's degrees in Fine Art Photography from Columbia College Chicago and Clinical Psychology from Loyola University of Chicago, Marina combines creativity with clinical expertise in her therapeutic practice. Marina's professional journey encompasses a diverse range of experiences across various healthcare settings, including adult and pediatric inpatient and outpatient care, medical surgeries, and psychiatric care.
(331) 267-7362 View (331) 267-7362
Photo of Regina Weber, MA,  LCPC
Regina Weber
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Gina Weber, LCPC, is dedicated to helping individuals in Illinois navigate life's challenges by providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each client's unique needs. With a focus on skillbuilding and practical strategies, Gina utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Motivational Interviewing to help clients develop emotional regulation and achieve their personal goals. Gina’s approach is rooted in creating a warm, welcoming environment infused with humor, making therapy both supportive and engaging.
Gina Weber, LCPC, is dedicated to helping individuals in Illinois navigate life's challenges by providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each client's unique needs. With a focus on skillbuilding and practical strategies, Gina utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Motivational Interviewing to help clients develop emotional regulation and achieve their personal goals. Gina’s approach is rooted in creating a warm, welcoming environment infused with humor, making therapy both supportive and engaging.
(855) 641-1658 View (855) 641-1658
Photo of Amber Beebe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Beebe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
Waitlist for new clients
I use techniques such as Trauma Informed Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, earning a Masters Degree in Social Work from Aurora University. I have provided therapy services in a variety of community, inpatient, and outpatient settings to children and adolescents experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, ADHD, trauma recovery, and self-injury.
I use techniques such as Trauma Informed Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, earning a Masters Degree in Social Work from Aurora University. I have provided therapy services in a variety of community, inpatient, and outpatient settings to children and adolescents experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, ADHD, trauma recovery, and self-injury.
(331) 254-4601 x128 View (331) 254-4601 x128
Photo of Dr. Glenn Sample, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Dr. Glenn Sample
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107  (Online Only)
Using CBT and DBT modalities, I assist with recognizing what works well, and what areas have opportunity for improvement.
Success of therapeutic change begins with the relationship between you and your therapist. I believe effective change grows from a foundation of trust, respect, and the understanding of your desire for self-improvement. I work with you collaboratively to identify areas of concern while providing support throughout the counseling process. You have unique experiences that shape who you are, and how you respond to situations. I believe in helping others understand how these experiences influence their responses in the present.
Using CBT and DBT modalities, I assist with recognizing what works well, and what areas have opportunity for improvement.
Success of therapeutic change begins with the relationship between you and your therapist. I believe effective change grows from a foundation of trust, respect, and the understanding of your desire for self-improvement. I work with you collaboratively to identify areas of concern while providing support throughout the counseling process. You have unique experiences that shape who you are, and how you respond to situations. I believe in helping others understand how these experiences influence their responses in the present.
(815) 248-5107 View (815) 248-5107
Photo of Bridgette Koukos, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Bridgette Koukos
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
I often utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Stress is inevitable, we all struggle with it, and at some point we all need support. Stress can look like anxiety, irritability, sadness, and conflict. When an individual feels safe, supported, and understood in the therapeutic relationship they are more likely to reach their goals. I provide a calm, laid-back atmosphere that allows you to be vulnerable to your experiences. You will be provided with guidance and positive support. Counseling has proven to be an effective way to manage stressors and you deserve the benefits of this hard-work!
I often utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Stress is inevitable, we all struggle with it, and at some point we all need support. Stress can look like anxiety, irritability, sadness, and conflict. When an individual feels safe, supported, and understood in the therapeutic relationship they are more likely to reach their goals. I provide a calm, laid-back atmosphere that allows you to be vulnerable to your experiences. You will be provided with guidance and positive support. Counseling has proven to be an effective way to manage stressors and you deserve the benefits of this hard-work!
(630) 590-0207 View (630) 590-0207
Photo of Krista Mueller, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krista Mueller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
You deserve to be heard & I am eager to listen! It takes a great deal of courage to stand up and reach out for help. Many life situations can be overwhelming & it is easy to let that become an obstacle stopping you from reaching new heights in life. To assist with these challenges, I utilize mostly Dialectical Behavioral Therapy & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as incorporating a great deal of mindfulness into treatment plans. I enjoy exploring exercises, like skill-building techniques or meditation, to provide clients with daily practices to use outside of the therapy room to continue their process of growth & development.
You deserve to be heard & I am eager to listen! It takes a great deal of courage to stand up and reach out for help. Many life situations can be overwhelming & it is easy to let that become an obstacle stopping you from reaching new heights in life. To assist with these challenges, I utilize mostly Dialectical Behavioral Therapy & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as incorporating a great deal of mindfulness into treatment plans. I enjoy exploring exercises, like skill-building techniques or meditation, to provide clients with daily practices to use outside of the therapy room to continue their process of growth & development.
(847) 443-9228 x3014 View (847) 443-9228 x3014
Photo of Amanda Worth, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda Worth
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Roselle, IL 60172
I will pull from my training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy to better support your connection with mind, body, and soul.
I have had the privilege of working with clients of all different backgrounds and walks of life both in outpatient and residential level of care. I have immense gratitude towards utilizing my background and knowledge to guide individuals in accomplishing their goals by establishing values, exploring pieces of their past that are still impactful and rediscovering themselves. As a counselor I believe in awareness, acknowledgement and acceptance to create growth. I am here to guide you to reach your goals and passions in life. I will always be a listening ear as you are the expert of you and your life.
I will pull from my training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy to better support your connection with mind, body, and soul.
I have had the privilege of working with clients of all different backgrounds and walks of life both in outpatient and residential level of care. I have immense gratitude towards utilizing my background and knowledge to guide individuals in accomplishing their goals by establishing values, exploring pieces of their past that are still impactful and rediscovering themselves. As a counselor I believe in awareness, acknowledgement and acceptance to create growth. I am here to guide you to reach your goals and passions in life. I will always be a listening ear as you are the expert of you and your life.
(630) 626-8336 View (630) 626-8336
Photo of Gina Tomich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Tomich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Yorkville, IL 60560
Training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems informed approach, building a connection to all the parts of you, through a lens of the 8 C's.
In today's world there can be many conflicting thoughts and feelings; my hope is to meet each client where they are in the confusion. Let's build a plan together to address the needs and struggles that have brought you to my Bio. I strive to model grace, and compassion first. No matter what brings you to Compassion Connection Counseling, I hope to help by building a plan that facilitates compassion, clarity, calm, bringing into focus your creativity and connectedness for change! It is my heart to encourage others to see change as less threatening, as life can be full of them. I have experience working with all ages and stages.
Training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems informed approach, building a connection to all the parts of you, through a lens of the 8 C's.
In today's world there can be many conflicting thoughts and feelings; my hope is to meet each client where they are in the confusion. Let's build a plan together to address the needs and struggles that have brought you to my Bio. I strive to model grace, and compassion first. No matter what brings you to Compassion Connection Counseling, I hope to help by building a plan that facilitates compassion, clarity, calm, bringing into focus your creativity and connectedness for change! It is my heart to encourage others to see change as less threatening, as life can be full of them. I have experience working with all ages and stages.
(630) 534-9683 View (630) 534-9683
Photo of Jennifer Allen, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Jennifer is skilled and trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and grief.
Are you looking to bloom in your current season of life? Do you feel stuck, confused, or disconnected and can’t figure out how to take the next step? Jennifer would love to support you and nurture your growth! Jennifer is a mother to four children, and is a Marine Spouse. As a military spouse and mother, she understands life has many transitions; some unpredictable. Jennifer embraces a growth mindset and uses a whole person approach when establishing relationships with her clients. She believes by validating our experiences and understanding our environment, we can seek out our best self.
Jennifer is skilled and trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and grief.
Are you looking to bloom in your current season of life? Do you feel stuck, confused, or disconnected and can’t figure out how to take the next step? Jennifer would love to support you and nurture your growth! Jennifer is a mother to four children, and is a Marine Spouse. As a military spouse and mother, she understands life has many transitions; some unpredictable. Jennifer embraces a growth mindset and uses a whole person approach when establishing relationships with her clients. She believes by validating our experiences and understanding our environment, we can seek out our best self.
(847) 693-3120 View (847) 693-3120
Photo of Lauren Hanninen, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lauren Hanninen
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my treatment approach.
As the founder and president of Eunoia Counseling, I embrace working with many different types of clients. I am versatile and customized in the individual, couples, teen, and family psychotherapy approach I use. It is my calling, my passion and my purpose to help people move forward. I enjoy meeting different people from all walks of life and different philosophies. I meet my clients where they are and we take the next steps towards their goals together.
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my treatment approach.
As the founder and president of Eunoia Counseling, I embrace working with many different types of clients. I am versatile and customized in the individual, couples, teen, and family psychotherapy approach I use. It is my calling, my passion and my purpose to help people move forward. I enjoy meeting different people from all walks of life and different philosophies. I meet my clients where they are and we take the next steps towards their goals together.
(630) 360-8156 View (630) 360-8156

See more therapy options for Lena

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.