Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Rockford, IL

Photo of Kirsten Ivy
Kirsten Ivy
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I am trained in several specialized approaches including EMDR, DBT and Clinical Mental Health Nutrition.
Therapy is not reserved only for those in crisis at “rock bottom”. If you find yourself wondering if your struggles are important enough to be acknowledged, give yourself permission to reach out for support.
I am trained in several specialized approaches including EMDR, DBT and Clinical Mental Health Nutrition.
Therapy is not reserved only for those in crisis at “rock bottom”. If you find yourself wondering if your struggles are important enough to be acknowledged, give yourself permission to reach out for support.
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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 Adam Figlewicz, MSEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam Figlewicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
This approach is eclectic; building off Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Approaches and more, to work towards discovering issues and promoting lasting growth.
The need to adapt, to learn, and grow can often be a difficult one, but I am here to be able to help guide your journey to rediscovering the best you. Your therapy will be shaped to you, as a unique individual, and you will have the opportunity to share in a space that is open with empathy, warmth, and unconditional positive regard. Here, we can learn about ourselves, where our fears and stressors lie, build our self-esteem and communication, and overcome the barriers that have shifted us away from the center of our own universes.
This approach is eclectic; building off Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Approaches and more, to work towards discovering issues and promoting lasting growth.
The need to adapt, to learn, and grow can often be a difficult one, but I am here to be able to help guide your journey to rediscovering the best you. Your therapy will be shaped to you, as a unique individual, and you will have the opportunity to share in a space that is open with empathy, warmth, and unconditional positive regard. Here, we can learn about ourselves, where our fears and stressors lie, build our self-esteem and communication, and overcome the barriers that have shifted us away from the center of our own universes.
(779) 204-7865 View (779) 204-7865
Photo of Cristina Gloria, LCPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina Gloria
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
The therapeutic techniques practiced during the sessions are practical and easy if you have the determination to improve your life! I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy just to mention a few.
Life isn't easy and we are not born all knowing. Throughout our life span, we face exciting and terrifying situations that impact the way we function every day and how we interact with others. Then, we feel like we are the only ones suffering, and feelings of loneliness emerge. Our first reaction is to hide and portray that we are doing fine. Then we try dealing with the problem on our own. Later, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed. We start experiencing extreme difficulties just trying to deal with simple daily life tasks. This is where I come in!
The therapeutic techniques practiced during the sessions are practical and easy if you have the determination to improve your life! I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy just to mention a few.
Life isn't easy and we are not born all knowing. Throughout our life span, we face exciting and terrifying situations that impact the way we function every day and how we interact with others. Then, we feel like we are the only ones suffering, and feelings of loneliness emerge. Our first reaction is to hide and portray that we are doing fine. Then we try dealing with the problem on our own. Later, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed. We start experiencing extreme difficulties just trying to deal with simple daily life tasks. This is where I come in!
(815) 281-5273 View (815) 281-5273
Photo of Mary Muehlenbein Petro, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Muehlenbein Petro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
The tools we use (CBT, DBT, ACT) and the reasons we use them (anxiety, anger, ADHD, depressed mood, phase of life) vary.
As a library administrator, I help people find information and manage projects. As a social worker, I connect people with the information they need to set goals and make their projects successful. Clients who are looking for a mature social worker with an understanding of how thoughts, feelings and behaviors impact us are encouraged to schedule a time to meet with me and give my friendly, professional, coaching style a try. I offer early morning, weekend, and evening meeting times to fit your needs, flexible billing options, and professional support navigating life changes and the feelings that come with them.
The tools we use (CBT, DBT, ACT) and the reasons we use them (anxiety, anger, ADHD, depressed mood, phase of life) vary.
As a library administrator, I help people find information and manage projects. As a social worker, I connect people with the information they need to set goals and make their projects successful. Clients who are looking for a mature social worker with an understanding of how thoughts, feelings and behaviors impact us are encouraged to schedule a time to meet with me and give my friendly, professional, coaching style a try. I offer early morning, weekend, and evening meeting times to fit your needs, flexible billing options, and professional support navigating life changes and the feelings that come with them.
(815) 957-6254 View (815) 957-6254
Photo of J Scott Nelson - Transformations Counseling PLLC, EdD, NCC, LCPC, CRADC, Counselor
Transformations Counseling PLLC
Counselor, EdD, NCC, LCPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61114
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
(815) 324-3979 View (815) 324-3979
Photo of Beth Drennen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Drennen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
I draw from DBT training in treating my adult and adolescent clients struggling with depression, mood regulation, and relational difficulties.
Are you exhausted by the challenges you face - be that domestic violence, navigating the foster care system, a child with special needs such as Autism or ADHD, or with your own special needs? Maybe you struggle with a mood disorder, depression, or self injury. Or perhaps you are seeking a therapist who shares an understanding of your struggle from a Christian perspective. Allow me to support you in your journey. I encourage involvement of family members and others in your support system in treatment when possible and appropriate. And there is no situation I consider too challenging.
I draw from DBT training in treating my adult and adolescent clients struggling with depression, mood regulation, and relational difficulties.
Are you exhausted by the challenges you face - be that domestic violence, navigating the foster care system, a child with special needs such as Autism or ADHD, or with your own special needs? Maybe you struggle with a mood disorder, depression, or self injury. Or perhaps you are seeking a therapist who shares an understanding of your struggle from a Christian perspective. Allow me to support you in your journey. I encourage involvement of family members and others in your support system in treatment when possible and appropriate. And there is no situation I consider too challenging.
(815) 516-5007 View (815) 516-5007
Photo of Jennifer Mary Wilson-Bimrose, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Mary Wilson-Bimrose
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (trauma and various DSM-IV diagnoses), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Borderline Personality Disorder and other diagnoses), and psychological assessment (to clarify appropriate diagnosis given current symptoms).
I work with clients of all ages. I feel that it is very important for prospective clients to get the correct diagnosis the first time in order to develop a well suited treatment plan. If psychological testing is warranted, I am an effective and efficient evaluator that will focus on the appropriate treatment to get you on your way faster. My goal is to empower each person I come in contact with and to help them realize their potential.
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (trauma and various DSM-IV diagnoses), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Borderline Personality Disorder and other diagnoses), and psychological assessment (to clarify appropriate diagnosis given current symptoms).
I work with clients of all ages. I feel that it is very important for prospective clients to get the correct diagnosis the first time in order to develop a well suited treatment plan. If psychological testing is warranted, I am an effective and efficient evaluator that will focus on the appropriate treatment to get you on your way faster. My goal is to empower each person I come in contact with and to help them realize their potential.
(815) 975-3291 View (815) 975-3291
Photo of Erin Grenke, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Erin Grenke
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
The good news is you do not have to worry or struggle alone. Let's work together to create positive changes in your life that can endure even when times get tough. Using evidence-based treatments, including EMDR and DBT, I can help you work through trauma and PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, and family or relationship issues. I am also trained to use the developmental needs meeting psychotherapy approach (DNMS).
The good news is you do not have to worry or struggle alone. Let's work together to create positive changes in your life that can endure even when times get tough. Using evidence-based treatments, including EMDR and DBT, I can help you work through trauma and PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, and family or relationship issues. I am also trained to use the developmental needs meeting psychotherapy approach (DNMS).
(815) 317-5014 View (815) 317-5014
Photo of Kimberly Spencer, LCPC, Counselor
Kimberly Spencer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Understanding how our thoughts influence our lives is a key part to my approach to therapy, but although a cognitive behavioral approach may be appropriate for one person, a dialectical approach may be more appropriate for another.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and have been a mental health provider since 2004. I have worked with clients with chronic diagnosis such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder, but my passion is to work with those attempting to manage trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life stressors, relationships, and those who are trying to identify the root causes of pain, trauma, stress, and overall unhappiness. My approach to therapy is that there is No One Way to do anything.
Understanding how our thoughts influence our lives is a key part to my approach to therapy, but although a cognitive behavioral approach may be appropriate for one person, a dialectical approach may be more appropriate for another.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and have been a mental health provider since 2004. I have worked with clients with chronic diagnosis such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder, but my passion is to work with those attempting to manage trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life stressors, relationships, and those who are trying to identify the root causes of pain, trauma, stress, and overall unhappiness. My approach to therapy is that there is No One Way to do anything.
(815) 345-5178 View (815) 345-5178
Photo of Kathleen Brewer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
I am experienced with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and grief/loss issues.
Sometimes it can be difficult to find a person you really feel safe to help you navigate through life that is challenging. This is where I come in. I work with people who would like to utilize my expertise in trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, play therapy techniques, and personality disorders. When you feel like you do not know where to turn to next, I will work with you to help you understand that you are not alone, and what your next steps might be.
I am experienced with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and grief/loss issues.
Sometimes it can be difficult to find a person you really feel safe to help you navigate through life that is challenging. This is where I come in. I work with people who would like to utilize my expertise in trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, play therapy techniques, and personality disorders. When you feel like you do not know where to turn to next, I will work with you to help you understand that you are not alone, and what your next steps might be.
(815) 205-0756 View (815) 205-0756
Photo of Jay Swanson, MA, MEd, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jay Swanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
My theoretical roots lie in psychodynamic, humanistic, and narrative approaches, and I incorporate more skills-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based therapy.
Every individual holds many intricate, intersecting identities that influence our experiences and journeys through life. These identities shape who we are, how we see ourselves, and how others see us. Navigating the challenges and stresses of life, especially through the pandemic and amidst all of the political turmoil going on has only become more challenging. When we are able to understand ourselves and channel our strengths, we are able to make more positive, healthy changes. I work with clients to identify personalized goals for therapy and a clear path to gaining self-insight and feeling empowered to lead a healthier life.
My theoretical roots lie in psychodynamic, humanistic, and narrative approaches, and I incorporate more skills-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based therapy.
Every individual holds many intricate, intersecting identities that influence our experiences and journeys through life. These identities shape who we are, how we see ourselves, and how others see us. Navigating the challenges and stresses of life, especially through the pandemic and amidst all of the political turmoil going on has only become more challenging. When we are able to understand ourselves and channel our strengths, we are able to make more positive, healthy changes. I work with clients to identify personalized goals for therapy and a clear path to gaining self-insight and feeling empowered to lead a healthier life.
(815) 396-5003 View (815) 396-5003
Photo of Jess Muir, LCPC, Counselor
Jess Muir
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist based in Illinois. I received my Master's Degree from Lewis University and have been practicing for five years.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist based in Illinois. I received my Master's Degree from Lewis University and have been practicing for five years.
(872) 266-3454 View (872) 266-3454
Photo of Kelly Burke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Autism Specialist and have training in IFS, DBT, CBT, MBSR, DIR, trauma informed care and enjoy incorporating art of all kinds.
Welcome! I’m so glad you have found your way here. Often we get swept up in the competing demands around us and forgo what we need. We can lose ourselves without even realizing it or maybe we never even had the chance in the first place. Before we know it, we are stuck thinking, "Why can’t I seem to do what’s most important to me? What is most important to me anyway?" My hope is that together we can find the way through to heal and create a life you want to live. I think of my role as a guide offering a new perspective. A light in the dark. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and grief.
I am a Certified Autism Specialist and have training in IFS, DBT, CBT, MBSR, DIR, trauma informed care and enjoy incorporating art of all kinds.
Welcome! I’m so glad you have found your way here. Often we get swept up in the competing demands around us and forgo what we need. We can lose ourselves without even realizing it or maybe we never even had the chance in the first place. Before we know it, we are stuck thinking, "Why can’t I seem to do what’s most important to me? What is most important to me anyway?" My hope is that together we can find the way through to heal and create a life you want to live. I think of my role as a guide offering a new perspective. A light in the dark. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and grief.
(224) 243-4989 View (224) 243-4989
Photo of Michelle Maddalozzo, DSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Maddalozzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Michelle Maddalozzo is an LCSW in private practice in Illinois, Alaska, North Carolina and Virginia. She holds a Masters in Social Work from the University of Chicago and a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Tennessee. Michelle has been working with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma for over the past ten years while specializing in military mental health. She incorporates different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, EMDR, solution focused) into her work, with an emphasis on body-oriented techniques. Michelle sees adults and adolescents for individual therapy.
Michelle Maddalozzo is an LCSW in private practice in Illinois, Alaska, North Carolina and Virginia. She holds a Masters in Social Work from the University of Chicago and a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Tennessee. Michelle has been working with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma for over the past ten years while specializing in military mental health. She incorporates different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, EMDR, solution focused) into her work, with an emphasis on body-oriented techniques. Michelle sees adults and adolescents for individual therapy.
(312) 548-8985 View (312) 548-8985
Photo of Hannah Noel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Noel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
I am versed in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and several other modalities.
Hello! I’m Hannah, a clinical social worker licensed in Illinois with 9 years of experience.
I am versed in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and several other modalities.
Hello! I’m Hannah, a clinical social worker licensed in Illinois with 9 years of experience.
(872) 250-5473 View (872) 250-5473
Photo of J Scott Nelson - Transformations Counseling PLLC, EdD, LCPC, NCC, CRADC, Counselor
Transformations Counseling PLLC
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, NCC, CRADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61114
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
(847) 802-9236 View (847) 802-9236
Photo of Sara Marie Pottinger, LCPC, Counselor
Sara Marie Pottinger
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107  (Online Only)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Talk Therapy, Psychosomatic Therapy and Client Centered Therapy are just some of the modalities that I incorporate into my practice.
I have worked as a counselor for almost 18 years and enjoy working with a wide variety of clients. I am a trauma informed therapist and specialize in CBT and DBT as well as psychosomatic therapy. I am a Level II Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Telehealth can be a bit scary at times for some people, however I utilize all of the technology that I have available to make it seem like we are connected and in the same room while in session. You will always receive compassion and empathy as you embark on the journey of healing.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Talk Therapy, Psychosomatic Therapy and Client Centered Therapy are just some of the modalities that I incorporate into my practice.
I have worked as a counselor for almost 18 years and enjoy working with a wide variety of clients. I am a trauma informed therapist and specialize in CBT and DBT as well as psychosomatic therapy. I am a Level II Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Telehealth can be a bit scary at times for some people, however I utilize all of the technology that I have available to make it seem like we are connected and in the same room while in session. You will always receive compassion and empathy as you embark on the journey of healing.
(779) 258-3385 View (779) 258-3385
Photo of Diana Kotis-Harber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Kotis-Harber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, and Family Systems Therapy, and I am comfortable with utilizing any spiritual practice in our collaborative work.
Hello, my name is Diana Kotis-Harber, LCSW. I have over 21 years of providing mental health services, including all areas of practice. I prefer to build rapport with my clients by allowing them to share what their treatment goals and focuses are while reminding them they are the experts and partners in our therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to helping people grow and become their most successful and authentic selves.
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, and Family Systems Therapy, and I am comfortable with utilizing any spiritual practice in our collaborative work.
Hello, my name is Diana Kotis-Harber, LCSW. I have over 21 years of providing mental health services, including all areas of practice. I prefer to build rapport with my clients by allowing them to share what their treatment goals and focuses are while reminding them they are the experts and partners in our therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to helping people grow and become their most successful and authentic selves.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Scott Zimber, MS, LCPC, DBTC
Scott Zimber
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
Our DBT services are open to adolescents and adults using individual and group settings.
I am experienced in treating those struggling with emotional instability, self-harm, low self-esteem, self-judgment, relationship discord, anxiety, depression, personal trauma and loss, grief, and career transition. I have been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and am certified thru the DBTNCAA. I focus on using evidence-based therapies without judgment to assist people to effectively manage life's challenges and transitions.
Our DBT services are open to adolescents and adults using individual and group settings.
I am experienced in treating those struggling with emotional instability, self-harm, low self-esteem, self-judgment, relationship discord, anxiety, depression, personal trauma and loss, grief, and career transition. I have been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and am certified thru the DBTNCAA. I focus on using evidence-based therapies without judgment to assist people to effectively manage life's challenges and transitions.
(815) 475-9641 View (815) 475-9641
1
Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.