Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Manito, IL
![Photo of Sierra Larson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43462567-f5d8-46f8-be7b-9ba70e2d69ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am Sierra Larson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with all age groups in areas such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress. I use a variety of treatments such as CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, Play, Solution-Focused, and Strength-Based Practices to help you become who you want to become. I believe in growth, change, and that anyone is capable of making their life what they want it to be with some help.
Hi! I am Sierra Larson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with all age groups in areas such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress. I use a variety of treatments such as CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, Play, Solution-Focused, and Strength-Based Practices to help you become who you want to become. I believe in growth, change, and that anyone is capable of making their life what they want it to be with some help.
![Photo of Gaelle Vernet, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d62d767e-d81c-4142-b3f2-3949b892dd36/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Gaëlle Vernet and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about taking on the journey with people to assist them with identifying the interconnections of different parts of their lives. I have worked as a case manager as well as a mental health specialist, which allowed me to interact with individuals of eclectic backgrounds, including, but not limited to homeless, parolees, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, dual diagnosis), and people with other life maladjustments.
My name is Gaëlle Vernet and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about taking on the journey with people to assist them with identifying the interconnections of different parts of their lives. I have worked as a case manager as well as a mental health specialist, which allowed me to interact with individuals of eclectic backgrounds, including, but not limited to homeless, parolees, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, dual diagnosis), and people with other life maladjustments.
![Photo of Jessica Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e61cfd50-784f-411f-adf5-5701b288d5b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Thomas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with a Master's of Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Each person is impacted by unique challenges and empowered by individual strengths. Jessica finds it a privilege to support clients as they discover the best version of themselves and unlock their potential. Outside of work, Jessica is married and has two children that make her laugh endlessly. She loves being home, spending time outdoors, and getting together with her extended family.
Jessica Thomas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with a Master's of Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Each person is impacted by unique challenges and empowered by individual strengths. Jessica finds it a privilege to support clients as they discover the best version of themselves and unlock their potential. Outside of work, Jessica is married and has two children that make her laugh endlessly. She loves being home, spending time outdoors, and getting together with her extended family.
![Photo of Anthony Brooks, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/198ab0f6-7db7-47b1-bfe3-065c530f24a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a 3rd generation social services worker, I often joke that I was born into this field. I cannot imagine myself in any other profession. This is all I have ever wanted to do. With that being said, I was also born into a society that often refuses to accept the necessity for therapy. Especially for men and people of color. Part of my aim as a clinician is to dispel some of the bias towards seeking help for mental health issues. If you had an injured limb, you would seek out help. If you had contracted a virus, you would seek out help. Why should seeking out help for emotional and mental illness be any different? It should not!
As a 3rd generation social services worker, I often joke that I was born into this field. I cannot imagine myself in any other profession. This is all I have ever wanted to do. With that being said, I was also born into a society that often refuses to accept the necessity for therapy. Especially for men and people of color. Part of my aim as a clinician is to dispel some of the bias towards seeking help for mental health issues. If you had an injured limb, you would seek out help. If you had contracted a virus, you would seek out help. Why should seeking out help for emotional and mental illness be any different? It should not!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Sarah Basler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51747022-a5a7-4624-9627-d671c1e836f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Amr Kireem, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd27b753-d9bd-4c58-afd2-5e565e49adc7/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Shyann Etnier, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d789edc-b660-4cb9-a902-a3fdc6efacee/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach may include the incorporation of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Play Therapy.
My approach is not just about providing therapy, but about creating a collaborative and empowering space. Together, we will navigate life’s challenges, setting treatment goals that are unique to your needs and desires. It would be a privilege to support you on this journey. I often support a diverse range of individuals, including: -those who have experienced trauma -parents -children aged 10 to 17 with various needs -young adults navigating life transitions
My approach may include the incorporation of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Play Therapy.
My approach is not just about providing therapy, but about creating a collaborative and empowering space. Together, we will navigate life’s challenges, setting treatment goals that are unique to your needs and desires. It would be a privilege to support you on this journey. I often support a diverse range of individuals, including: -those who have experienced trauma -parents -children aged 10 to 17 with various needs -young adults navigating life transitions
![Photo of Sheila Brady Dalton - Sheila Dalton , LCPC, CADC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/089ed5c8-0dcd-4fce-af67-58116b5113e1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Dalton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704 (Online Only)
My approach is evidence based using CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
As a licensed professional counselor, I would like to assist you in a nonjudgmental, compassionate and safe environment for you to process daily struggles that are causing you to feel stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. I look forward to the opportunity to work alongside you and empower you to make the changes that you desire.
My approach is evidence based using CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
As a licensed professional counselor, I would like to assist you in a nonjudgmental, compassionate and safe environment for you to process daily struggles that are causing you to feel stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. I look forward to the opportunity to work alongside you and empower you to make the changes that you desire.
![Photo of Susan Wilhelm, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c663574-91bb-4c9c-bce7-72cc0104bb7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Susie Wilhelm and I am an LCSW located in Illinois. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, and client-centered. I believe in the process of building rapport and trust during the beginning phases of therapy so that my clients feel comfortable before sharing their concerns or struggles. I let my clients take the lead during our sessions, and I take an empathetic and non-judgmental stance while I listen and support. I commonly use therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).
My name is Susie Wilhelm and I am an LCSW located in Illinois. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, and client-centered. I believe in the process of building rapport and trust during the beginning phases of therapy so that my clients feel comfortable before sharing their concerns or struggles. I let my clients take the lead during our sessions, and I take an empathetic and non-judgmental stance while I listen and support. I commonly use therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).
![Photo of Alexandria E Poe, LCSW, MSW, MEd , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498ce4c0-3a87-4457-8453-c5cadc13a8a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandria E Poe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Sullivan, IL 61951
Therapy can be a life changing tool that opens the door to letting go of past frustrations, gaining insight into feeling more present, or securing the readiness to take on future hurdles. Allow me to help you maneuver through life's difficult moments. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion, and will work hard to help you reach your therapeutic goals. I specialize in providing therapy for women who work, or have worked, in the the field of education, the healthcare system, and other care giving professions. I utilize DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness practices.
Therapy can be a life changing tool that opens the door to letting go of past frustrations, gaining insight into feeling more present, or securing the readiness to take on future hurdles. Allow me to help you maneuver through life's difficult moments. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion, and will work hard to help you reach your therapeutic goals. I specialize in providing therapy for women who work, or have worked, in the the field of education, the healthcare system, and other care giving professions. I utilize DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness practices.
![Photo of Keith Brooks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b9c93f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been serving in the mental health field in various capacities since 2011 related to chronic mental illness and mental health crises. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor providing outpatient therapy since 2015 with a focus on anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, and relationship issues. I enjoy working with individual’s, couples, and teens. My interventions focus largely on Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, as well as portions of Motivational Interviewing skills. I am also willing to work through spiritual issues or provide Christian counseling where desired.
I have been serving in the mental health field in various capacities since 2011 related to chronic mental illness and mental health crises. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor providing outpatient therapy since 2015 with a focus on anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, and relationship issues. I enjoy working with individual’s, couples, and teens. My interventions focus largely on Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, as well as portions of Motivational Interviewing skills. I am also willing to work through spiritual issues or provide Christian counseling where desired.
![Photo of Sandy Shannon, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f2cfe7a-3a95-4854-90fb-d5684e19b88e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I borrow techniques from mindfulness and acceptance based therapy, mindful cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, Gottman approaches, and trauma-informed care practices.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work. I have over twenty years of experience working in the mental health field with adolescents and families in crisis. My core belief is that everyone is on a journey; everyone has inherent value; no one has a perfect life, and no one can do this life without support. My goal is to help you on your journey towards a happier, healthier you and navigate the challenges this world brings to your table. I strive to provide person-centered holistic counseling with an emphasis on mind, body and spirit.
I borrow techniques from mindfulness and acceptance based therapy, mindful cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, Gottman approaches, and trauma-informed care practices.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work. I have over twenty years of experience working in the mental health field with adolescents and families in crisis. My core belief is that everyone is on a journey; everyone has inherent value; no one has a perfect life, and no one can do this life without support. My goal is to help you on your journey towards a happier, healthier you and navigate the challenges this world brings to your table. I strive to provide person-centered holistic counseling with an emphasis on mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Corey Hopson, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/509cad58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
TBRI (Trust Based Relational Intervention), DBT (Dialect Behavior Therapy) and family systems theory to name a few.
The struggle is real but through hope, growth, faith and transformation we heal. We all have a story to tell. No persons story is any better or worse than anyone else's. I can attest to the struggle to reach out for help and the need to be vulnerable. I am someone who is there to help guide you through those tough times. The courage and strength that it takes to reach out for help is the first step and a critical component to healing. The willingness to seek help and be vulnerable is actually a sign of strength. Let me help you on that journey!
TBRI (Trust Based Relational Intervention), DBT (Dialect Behavior Therapy) and family systems theory to name a few.
The struggle is real but through hope, growth, faith and transformation we heal. We all have a story to tell. No persons story is any better or worse than anyone else's. I can attest to the struggle to reach out for help and the need to be vulnerable. I am someone who is there to help guide you through those tough times. The courage and strength that it takes to reach out for help is the first step and a critical component to healing. The willingness to seek help and be vulnerable is actually a sign of strength. Let me help you on that journey!
![Photo of Ray Bement- Creative Solutions Counseling Group, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a65ae13-efd4-44f4-b98e-7cf19648c0cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ray Bement- Creative Solutions Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
My training encompasses multiple therapeutic approaches such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
My passion creates an environment for expressive therapeutic experiences focusing on child and adolescent populations. I aim to create a collaborative, nonjudgmental therapeutic space where you and your child/teen feel heard, empowered, and safe. I will provide your child/teen tools to ready themselves as they navigate and transition toward a happier and healthier self. I aim to set therapeutic goals to which you and your family feel committed and create a unique treatment plan based on individual needs and abilities. I encourage feedback and collaboration throughout treatment.
My training encompasses multiple therapeutic approaches such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
My passion creates an environment for expressive therapeutic experiences focusing on child and adolescent populations. I aim to create a collaborative, nonjudgmental therapeutic space where you and your child/teen feel heard, empowered, and safe. I will provide your child/teen tools to ready themselves as they navigate and transition toward a happier and healthier self. I aim to set therapeutic goals to which you and your family feel committed and create a unique treatment plan based on individual needs and abilities. I encourage feedback and collaboration throughout treatment.
![Photo of Tom Miebach, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98dca574-e804-4abb-959d-bee8caa0d7bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use an integrated approach that includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic Therapy, and ACT.
The human experience is difficult for all of us and can leave us with deep wounds. The reassuring truth is that wounds can heal. In my practice of trauma-focused psychotherapy, I guide my clients toward reclaiming a sense of empowerment, placing them in the driver's seat of their own lives. Embracing each person's unique journey, I offer a safe space for deep listening while employing an eclectic blend of therapeutic approaches. Throughout our collaborative process, my clients learn to find freedom from destructive cycles of behavior and develop a foundational sense of self that they can trust, value, and like.
I use an integrated approach that includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic Therapy, and ACT.
The human experience is difficult for all of us and can leave us with deep wounds. The reassuring truth is that wounds can heal. In my practice of trauma-focused psychotherapy, I guide my clients toward reclaiming a sense of empowerment, placing them in the driver's seat of their own lives. Embracing each person's unique journey, I offer a safe space for deep listening while employing an eclectic blend of therapeutic approaches. Throughout our collaborative process, my clients learn to find freedom from destructive cycles of behavior and develop a foundational sense of self that they can trust, value, and like.
![Photo of Venus Evans-Winters, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f226213-bbf5-40ec-85f6-09167ba94320/1/320x400.jpeg)
Venus Evans-Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma expert, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g., cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip-hop generation, she helps clients from diverse backgrounds cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers on culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a significant influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma expert, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g., cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip-hop generation, she helps clients from diverse backgrounds cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers on culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a significant influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
![Photo of Jennifer Hamilton, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4190e056-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and DBT therapeutic techniques.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor I know the importance of providing a safe and encouraging environment to make important decisions and changes. Seeking help is an act of both courage and vulnerability, and I meet these strengths with compassion, warmth, and understanding. My approach to therapy emphasizes your personal values and views relationships as the most important aspect of our lives.
I incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and DBT therapeutic techniques.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor I know the importance of providing a safe and encouraging environment to make important decisions and changes. Seeking help is an act of both courage and vulnerability, and I meet these strengths with compassion, warmth, and understanding. My approach to therapy emphasizes your personal values and views relationships as the most important aspect of our lives.
![Photo of Denene King, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6abc5d33-199d-49b9-b20c-9297eb546a13/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities when working with clients, such as Person-centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical-Behavior Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in central Illinois. I worked for a community mental health agency for the last five years, two years being an outpatient counselor. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. While working at the community health center, I gained experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, I have experience working with depression, anxiety, and other adjustments or emotional concerns people struggle with within their daily lives.
I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities when working with clients, such as Person-centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical-Behavior Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in central Illinois. I worked for a community mental health agency for the last five years, two years being an outpatient counselor. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. While working at the community health center, I gained experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, I have experience working with depression, anxiety, and other adjustments or emotional concerns people struggle with within their daily lives.
![Photo of Jaymie McCammon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/283055db-6317-4514-ab6e-9a0e33e63230/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jaymie McCammon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, IL 62523
Waitlist for new clients
I use an eclectic approach to therapy, borrowing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and EMDR.
I work with tweens, teens, and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood issues, school issues, relationship issues, family problems, trauma, transitions and grief. I partner with clients to find solutions that work for them and support clients in making necessary changes to better their lives. Client input is necessary and valued in the treatment planning process. Feedback about the therapeutic process is welcome.
I use an eclectic approach to therapy, borrowing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and EMDR.
I work with tweens, teens, and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood issues, school issues, relationship issues, family problems, trauma, transitions and grief. I partner with clients to find solutions that work for them and support clients in making necessary changes to better their lives. Client input is necessary and valued in the treatment planning process. Feedback about the therapeutic process is welcome.
![Photo of Paulette M Selmi, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5250130d-676d-4adb-ae1c-b69b88ee257b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Solution-focused, targeted interventions such as CBT, BT, and DBT.
Dr. Selmi is a licensed psychology located in Sterling, Illinois, 61081. Behavioral health interventions, FOID evaluations, family court expertise. Mental health intervention used are evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Behavior Therapy (BT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Selmi is fully trained in these focused evidence and scientifically-based methods. A large array of presenting problems can be addressed, including depression, anxiety, panic-anxiety, behavioral problems (children and adolescents), couples, family, parenting and co-parenting difficulties with divorced or separated parents.
Solution-focused, targeted interventions such as CBT, BT, and DBT.
Dr. Selmi is a licensed psychology located in Sterling, Illinois, 61081. Behavioral health interventions, FOID evaluations, family court expertise. Mental health intervention used are evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Behavior Therapy (BT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Selmi is fully trained in these focused evidence and scientifically-based methods. A large array of presenting problems can be addressed, including depression, anxiety, panic-anxiety, behavioral problems (children and adolescents), couples, family, parenting and co-parenting difficulties with divorced or separated parents.
See more therapy options for Manito
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Manito
- Bloomington
- Chillicothe
- Dunlap
- East Peoria
- Heyworth
- Metamora
- Morton
- Normal
- Pekin
- Peoria
- Peoria Heights
- Washington
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.