Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Manhattan, IL

Photo of Dr. Jaime Pac, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Dr. Jaime Pac
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan, IL 60442  (Online Only)
I strive to build a safe place where you feel welcome to be yourself and share your experiences. I believe that when we truly feel heard and validated that is when change will occur. Therapy is a collaborative process and I am dedicated to guiding you on your journey of wellness. My goal is to meet you where you are at and assist you in building your life worth living. I believe in fostering a safe and secure place through rapport building and allowing you to feel comfortable being yourself within the therapeutic relationship.
I strive to build a safe place where you feel welcome to be yourself and share your experiences. I believe that when we truly feel heard and validated that is when change will occur. Therapy is a collaborative process and I am dedicated to guiding you on your journey of wellness. My goal is to meet you where you are at and assist you in building your life worth living. I believe in fostering a safe and secure place through rapport building and allowing you to feel comfortable being yourself within the therapeutic relationship.
(815) 743-2178 View (815) 743-2178
Photo of Christine I Miller, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine I Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Manhattan, IL 60442  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with uncertainty? Are you a new parent and feeling overwhelmed? Co-Parenting? Change? There’s no need to hide; There is no shame in the struggle! I am a mother, a partner and a human being; I understand the struggles. You are doing yourself a great service by asking for support and assistance. I am here to help! I am passionate about assisting people in getting some relief from the pain or discomfort they are experiencing. I believe that it is imperative to treat the whole person in order to get long-term results and sustainable change. I am eager to assist patients in being able to restore balance in their lives.
Are you struggling with uncertainty? Are you a new parent and feeling overwhelmed? Co-Parenting? Change? There’s no need to hide; There is no shame in the struggle! I am a mother, a partner and a human being; I understand the struggles. You are doing yourself a great service by asking for support and assistance. I am here to help! I am passionate about assisting people in getting some relief from the pain or discomfort they are experiencing. I believe that it is imperative to treat the whole person in order to get long-term results and sustainable change. I am eager to assist patients in being able to restore balance in their lives.
(815) 367-8606 View (815) 367-8606
Photo of Grace Richards - Grace Counseling, LLC, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Manhattan, IL 60442  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a heartfelt passion for supporting women through the incredible, yet often challenging, journey of motherhood. Whether you’re preparing for a new arrival, adjusting to life with a little one, or navigating the ups and downs of motherhood, I’m here to help you find your way.
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a heartfelt passion for supporting women through the incredible, yet often challenging, journey of motherhood. Whether you’re preparing for a new arrival, adjusting to life with a little one, or navigating the ups and downs of motherhood, I’m here to help you find your way.
(815) 624-3466 View (815) 624-3466
Photo of Joaquimia Williams, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joaquimia Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Manhattan, IL 60442  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and experienced licensed social worker dedicated to empowering individuals through therapy. With over a decade of expertise, I specialize in working with diverse populations, embracing the richness of varied backgrounds and cultures.
I am a compassionate and experienced licensed social worker dedicated to empowering individuals through therapy. With over a decade of expertise, I specialize in working with diverse populations, embracing the richness of varied backgrounds and cultures.
(872) 814-6643 View (872) 814-6643
Photo of Patrice Patton-Campbell, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrice Patton-Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Manhattan, IL 60442
As a clinical therapist, I specialize in working with children and families using play therapy, and I assist couples navigating divorce and other challenges through Gottman's theory. With a focus on complex trauma, I am a Certified Trauma Professional with extensive experience in diverse and marginalized communities. Passionate about delivering high-quality services to individuals facing mental health and substance use disorders, my clinical vision is to create a secure space for clients and their families to explore vulnerabilities, share stories, and foster personal freedom and empowerment.
As a clinical therapist, I specialize in working with children and families using play therapy, and I assist couples navigating divorce and other challenges through Gottman's theory. With a focus on complex trauma, I am a Certified Trauma Professional with extensive experience in diverse and marginalized communities. Passionate about delivering high-quality services to individuals facing mental health and substance use disorders, my clinical vision is to create a secure space for clients and their families to explore vulnerabilities, share stories, and foster personal freedom and empowerment.
(708) 834-6518 View (708) 834-6518
Photo of Nicholas Barry, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Manhattan, IL 60442
Nicholas Barry is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry, double majoring in Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Studies, at Urshan College. After completing his undergraduate studies, Nicholas embarked on a bi-vocational journey through graduate school. He has earned a Master of Social Work through Florida State University and is completing a Master of Theological Studies at Urshan Graduate School of Theology. Nicholas takes a truly holistic approach to working with his clients. This means that he takes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment.
Nicholas Barry is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry, double majoring in Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Studies, at Urshan College. After completing his undergraduate studies, Nicholas embarked on a bi-vocational journey through graduate school. He has earned a Master of Social Work through Florida State University and is completing a Master of Theological Studies at Urshan Graduate School of Theology. Nicholas takes a truly holistic approach to working with his clients. This means that he takes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment.
(708) 381-1779 View (708) 381-1779
Photo of Bridget Craig, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Craig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan, IL 60442  (Online Only)
Bridget is a Licensed Social Worker and received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University. She is experienced in working with individuals with anxiety, depression, substance use, and stress management. Bridget currently works telehealth and virutal appointments only.
Bridget is a Licensed Social Worker and received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University. She is experienced in working with individuals with anxiety, depression, substance use, and stress management. Bridget currently works telehealth and virutal appointments only.
(708) 350-6715 View (708) 350-6715

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Heather Anne Dropski, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Heather Anne Dropski
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60467
I implement Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Relaxation Techniques, Mindfulness, CBT, and much more.
Feeling overwhelmed? Peace of mind is a holistic approach, a balance of mind, body and spirit. I am a clinician that facilitates therapy with emphasis on this philosophy. My dual career as counselor and psychology professor demands that I know all of the newest research and evidenced based treatments. I specialize in women, children and teens. Treating Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders including Depression, unhealthy relationship "detox", childhood trauma, CPTSD, survivors of abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more. I am vested to help you develop the ultimate self care plan to achieve your very best version of yourself!
I implement Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Relaxation Techniques, Mindfulness, CBT, and much more.
Feeling overwhelmed? Peace of mind is a holistic approach, a balance of mind, body and spirit. I am a clinician that facilitates therapy with emphasis on this philosophy. My dual career as counselor and psychology professor demands that I know all of the newest research and evidenced based treatments. I specialize in women, children and teens. Treating Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders including Depression, unhealthy relationship "detox", childhood trauma, CPTSD, survivors of abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more. I am vested to help you develop the ultimate self care plan to achieve your very best version of yourself!
(815) 401-0930 View (815) 401-0930
Photo of Taylor Kelly, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Taylor Kelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
My primary treatment approach is psychodynamic, although I utilize interventions and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Narrative Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Mindfulness to foster growth and healing during session.
I work with individuals ages 6-60 that are seeking treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Life Changes/Adjustments, Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Trauma/PTSD, and Women’s Issues. I take a collaborative approach in working with my clients toward their goals for treatment in order to lay the groundwork for coping skills to be utilized outside of session. I believe there is a deeply rooted connection between a person’s past experience in childhood and their current issues and mindset. I intend to meet my clients where they are at, while also being aware that their past played an important role in how they became the person they are today.
My primary treatment approach is psychodynamic, although I utilize interventions and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Narrative Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Mindfulness to foster growth and healing during session.
I work with individuals ages 6-60 that are seeking treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Life Changes/Adjustments, Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Trauma/PTSD, and Women’s Issues. I take a collaborative approach in working with my clients toward their goals for treatment in order to lay the groundwork for coping skills to be utilized outside of session. I believe there is a deeply rooted connection between a person’s past experience in childhood and their current issues and mindset. I intend to meet my clients where they are at, while also being aware that their past played an important role in how they became the person they are today.
(708) 412-6677 View (708) 412-6677
Photo of Michele Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60432
I employ an eclectic approach and draw from various treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques.
Hi, my name is Michele Clark and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over twenty years of experience working in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, private practices, and community programs. I have been a School Social Worker for 18 years and provide individual and group social work services to students in general education and special education program. I specialize in anxiety and depressive disorders and I assist my clients with managing life stressors that can cause emotional distress. I have a special interest in women’s issues and working with teenage girls.
I employ an eclectic approach and draw from various treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques.
Hi, my name is Michele Clark and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over twenty years of experience working in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, private practices, and community programs. I have been a School Social Worker for 18 years and provide individual and group social work services to students in general education and special education program. I specialize in anxiety and depressive disorders and I assist my clients with managing life stressors that can cause emotional distress. I have a special interest in women’s issues and working with teenage girls.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Kristin Low, LPC, LNHA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Low
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LNHA
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
Churchill famously said, “If you are going through hell, keep going.” As people, we sometimes forget that the difficult moments can be temporary. The best way to survive them is to get through them. The same goes for the variety of emotions we feel. Sometimes, we just have to accept the emotions and identify ways to cope with them and get through them. Helping others through these journeys has been a passion of mine. I have often found the use of DBT, CBT, and PCT to be highly effective in helping people work through trauma based, anxiety ridden, and mood dis-regulated human conditions. I provide complete and compassionate work.
Churchill famously said, “If you are going through hell, keep going.” As people, we sometimes forget that the difficult moments can be temporary. The best way to survive them is to get through them. The same goes for the variety of emotions we feel. Sometimes, we just have to accept the emotions and identify ways to cope with them and get through them. Helping others through these journeys has been a passion of mine. I have often found the use of DBT, CBT, and PCT to be highly effective in helping people work through trauma based, anxiety ridden, and mood dis-regulated human conditions. I provide complete and compassionate work.
(779) 246-3903 View (779) 246-3903
Photo of Jessica Young, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Young
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
My approach to psychotherapy blends cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance commitment therapy.
It can be difficult to navigate the challenges that life presents. Many life transitions seem to throw us off balance, and getting back on track can be challenging. Life can throw curve balls and unexpected experiences that we are not equipped to face alone. I am committed to guiding individuals, couples, and families through their journey toward self-healing, self-direction, and empowerment. Everyone possesses the innate ability to overcome and achieve inner peace. My approach is centered around your unique experiences, enabling you to overcome anxiety, depression, and other obstacles that come your way.
My approach to psychotherapy blends cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance commitment therapy.
It can be difficult to navigate the challenges that life presents. Many life transitions seem to throw us off balance, and getting back on track can be challenging. Life can throw curve balls and unexpected experiences that we are not equipped to face alone. I am committed to guiding individuals, couples, and families through their journey toward self-healing, self-direction, and empowerment. Everyone possesses the innate ability to overcome and achieve inner peace. My approach is centered around your unique experiences, enabling you to overcome anxiety, depression, and other obstacles that come your way.
(708) 726-5989 View (708) 726-5989
Photo of Maggie Mahoney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
Waitlist for new clients
Maggie is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and she has trained in several therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
Maggie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University, specializing in clinical mental health. She has extensive experience in providing therapy to those with trauma, grief and loss, transitional phases, anxiety, mood disorders, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and personality disorders.
Maggie is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and she has trained in several therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
Maggie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University, specializing in clinical mental health. She has extensive experience in providing therapy to those with trauma, grief and loss, transitional phases, anxiety, mood disorders, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and personality disorders.
(708) 745-6087 View (708) 745-6087
Photo of Lynn Panepinto, LCSW, CCTP-II, EMDR , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Panepinto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II, EMDR
Verified Verified
Mokena, IL 60448
I specialize in CBT, DBT ACT and am trained in EMDR and trauma-informed therapy.
If you’re struggling with difficult emotions, relationship/family issues, trauma, uncomfortable life transitions, or feeling stuck and overwhelmed, help is available. My passion is working with clients to develop self-awareness, inner strength, and coping skills so that true and lasting healing occurs. I believe that your overall sense of well-being and overall health includes mental and emotional wellness. My hope is that therapy will help you experience greater self-acceptance, understanding, and an ability to achieve your goals and increase your emotional wellness.
I specialize in CBT, DBT ACT and am trained in EMDR and trauma-informed therapy.
If you’re struggling with difficult emotions, relationship/family issues, trauma, uncomfortable life transitions, or feeling stuck and overwhelmed, help is available. My passion is working with clients to develop self-awareness, inner strength, and coping skills so that true and lasting healing occurs. I believe that your overall sense of well-being and overall health includes mental and emotional wellness. My hope is that therapy will help you experience greater self-acceptance, understanding, and an ability to achieve your goals and increase your emotional wellness.
(708) 316-9132 View (708) 316-9132
Photo of Sarah Hart, MA, LCPC, C-DBT, Counselor
Sarah Hart
Counselor, MA, LCPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
Sarah utilizes a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused and Person Centered Therapy.
Sarah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who obtained her Master's degree in Clinical Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Sarah provides individual, family and couples counseling to all age ranges. Sarah has had all-encompassing experience across therapeutic settings, including residential treatment settings, partial hospitalization, community based and on an outpatient basis. Sarah specializes in treating individuals who suffer from suicidal ideations, self-injuring behaviors, depression, anxiety/panic, personality disorders, trauma, loss, transitional phases, eating disorders and substance abuse/dependence.
Sarah utilizes a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused and Person Centered Therapy.
Sarah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who obtained her Master's degree in Clinical Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Sarah provides individual, family and couples counseling to all age ranges. Sarah has had all-encompassing experience across therapeutic settings, including residential treatment settings, partial hospitalization, community based and on an outpatient basis. Sarah specializes in treating individuals who suffer from suicidal ideations, self-injuring behaviors, depression, anxiety/panic, personality disorders, trauma, loss, transitional phases, eating disorders and substance abuse/dependence.
(708) 816-5495 View (708) 816-5495
Photo of Sarah Kelder, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist
Sarah Kelder
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
New Lenox, IL 60451
Kelder has advanced training in numerous modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Neuro-Affective RelationalModel (NARM), SE Touch Training for Therapists, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Guided Imagery, and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT).
Dr. Sarah Kelder is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience. She believes in a holistic, mind, body, and spirit approach to mental health and uses innovative and body-based methods to accelerate change and reduce distress. She is passionate about helping people relieve unnecessary suffering and find their joy, purpose, and meaning in life. Throughout her career she has provided individual, group, and family psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults and has provided psychotherapy and case management to children.
Kelder has advanced training in numerous modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Neuro-Affective RelationalModel (NARM), SE Touch Training for Therapists, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Guided Imagery, and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT).
Dr. Sarah Kelder is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience. She believes in a holistic, mind, body, and spirit approach to mental health and uses innovative and body-based methods to accelerate change and reduce distress. She is passionate about helping people relieve unnecessary suffering and find their joy, purpose, and meaning in life. Throughout her career she has provided individual, group, and family psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults and has provided psychotherapy and case management to children.
(779) 218-5637 View (779) 218-5637
Photo of Katie Kolinski, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Katie Kolinski
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mokena, IL 60448
Katie is certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, but is trained in several empirically based therapies, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused therapy.
Katie is a Licensed Professional Counselor who obtained her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Processional Psychology. Katie provides individual, family, and couples counseling to all ages. Katie has extensive experience in providing therapy to those with addictive behaviors, trauma, sexuality, anxiety, depression, self-injury behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and personality disorders.
Katie is certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, but is trained in several empirically based therapies, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused therapy.
Katie is a Licensed Professional Counselor who obtained her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Processional Psychology. Katie provides individual, family, and couples counseling to all ages. Katie has extensive experience in providing therapy to those with addictive behaviors, trauma, sexuality, anxiety, depression, self-injury behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and personality disorders.
(630) 349-4270 View (630) 349-4270
Photo of Samantha Maciaga, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Samantha Maciaga
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
I am fully trained in EMDR and I also utilize the treatment modalities of DBT and ACT.
Welcome! I am a licensed therapist at Lotus Therapy Group in Frankfort, IL. I have almost nine years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, I work with preteens, teens, and adults as well as with couples and families. If you are currently struggling with these issues, help is available.
I am fully trained in EMDR and I also utilize the treatment modalities of DBT and ACT.
Welcome! I am a licensed therapist at Lotus Therapy Group in Frankfort, IL. I have almost nine years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, I work with preteens, teens, and adults as well as with couples and families. If you are currently struggling with these issues, help is available.
(708) 928-8383 View (708) 928-8383
Photo of Emily McKenna - The Practice Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, LPC, LCPC, CHT, Counselor
The Practice Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mokena, IL 60448
By using techniques from mindfulness, hypnosis, DBT, SFBT, & attachment theory that helps to clear symptoms so you can feel good.
We specialize in helping people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life/relationship challenges or trauma to get to the root of their challenges so they can feel better for good.
By using techniques from mindfulness, hypnosis, DBT, SFBT, & attachment theory that helps to clear symptoms so you can feel good.
We specialize in helping people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life/relationship challenges or trauma to get to the root of their challenges so they can feel better for good.
(708) 390-6198 View (708) 390-6198
Photo of Michelle Conrad, LCPC, Counselor
Michelle Conrad
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New Lenox, IL 60451
Michelle has been trained in several therapeutic practices including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Michelle is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor whom received her degree and trained at Northwestern University. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in several different therapeutic environments. Michelle works to create a safe, warm, and enjoyable space for you to explore yourself and your life. Michelle has extensive experience working with self injuring behavior, suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety, and every day stress. While she is extensively trained in many practices, Michelle understand each person has the own preference for therapy. She will work with you to identify and focus on your strengths.
Michelle has been trained in several therapeutic practices including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Michelle is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor whom received her degree and trained at Northwestern University. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in several different therapeutic environments. Michelle works to create a safe, warm, and enjoyable space for you to explore yourself and your life. Michelle has extensive experience working with self injuring behavior, suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety, and every day stress. While she is extensively trained in many practices, Michelle understand each person has the own preference for therapy. She will work with you to identify and focus on your strengths.
(815) 496-6687 View (815) 496-6687

See more therapy options for Manhattan

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.