Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Middletown, KY

Photo of Laura Duke, MBA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Duke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Laura is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Christian Counseling, and Solution Focused modalities and uses an integrationist (eclectic) model of therapy with an emphasis on the client’s gaining the tools and insights necessary for sustained, positive outcomes.
Laura Duke, MSC, LMFT, graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a minor in religion and philosophy. She completed her Master of counseling degree at Campbellsville University in Louisville, Kentucky. Ms. Duke has provided counseling services and/or training and supervision for over 10 years in a variety of settings including therapeutic foster care, community counseling, substance abuse treatment and homelessness facilities, EAP, and private practice settings serving children, adults, groups, and individuals, and families for a myriad of problems.
Laura is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Christian Counseling, and Solution Focused modalities and uses an integrationist (eclectic) model of therapy with an emphasis on the client’s gaining the tools and insights necessary for sustained, positive outcomes.
Laura Duke, MSC, LMFT, graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a minor in religion and philosophy. She completed her Master of counseling degree at Campbellsville University in Louisville, Kentucky. Ms. Duke has provided counseling services and/or training and supervision for over 10 years in a variety of settings including therapeutic foster care, community counseling, substance abuse treatment and homelessness facilities, EAP, and private practice settings serving children, adults, groups, and individuals, and families for a myriad of problems.
(502) 747-1114 View (502) 747-1114
Photo of Cheri Alicia Levinson - Louisville OCD Clinic, PhD, Psychologist
Louisville OCD Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
We specialize in the assessment and treatment of OCD and OCD-related disorders across all ages. Treatment consists of evidence-based approaches that help our patients to weaken the cycle of worry and improve overall life satisfaction. We currently provide two levels of care at LOCD: outpatient & intensive outpatient programming. Evidence-based approaches utilized in the provision of OCD treatment include exposure with response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindful self-compassion. Individual and group options are available for care.
We specialize in the assessment and treatment of OCD and OCD-related disorders across all ages. Treatment consists of evidence-based approaches that help our patients to weaken the cycle of worry and improve overall life satisfaction. We currently provide two levels of care at LOCD: outpatient & intensive outpatient programming. Evidence-based approaches utilized in the provision of OCD treatment include exposure with response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindful self-compassion. Individual and group options are available for care.
(502) 237-8234 View (502) 237-8234
Photo of Street Russell, PsyD, HSSP, Psychologist
Street Russell
Psychologist, PsyD, HSSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, KY 40243
Are you tired of your struggle with anxiety? Do you worry or obsess excessively? I specialize in providing treatment for anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety, and phobias to children, teens, and adults. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, tic-related disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and skin-picking disorder (excoriation). I specialize in using the gold standard treatment for OCD: exposure with response prevention (ERP). I specialize in using Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to treat OCD & the above-mentioned conditions.
Are you tired of your struggle with anxiety? Do you worry or obsess excessively? I specialize in providing treatment for anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety, and phobias to children, teens, and adults. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, tic-related disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and skin-picking disorder (excoriation). I specialize in using the gold standard treatment for OCD: exposure with response prevention (ERP). I specialize in using Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to treat OCD & the above-mentioned conditions.
(502) 443-1196 View (502) 443-1196
Photo of Chelsey Gorham - Innovative Family Therapy, MSc, LMFT, GC-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Innovative Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, GC-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middletown, KY 40243
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
(502) 612-9129 View (502) 612-9129
Photo of Terry Hagan - Psychotherapy at Hagan Health, LCSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Psychotherapy at Hagan Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Welcome to Empowering Encounters—the psychotherapy department at Hagan Health! We have a team of excellent mental health providers who see a wide variety of diagnoses and issues. Our therapists, Colleen, Vern, Suzy, Sheana, & Ervina are trained in a variety of backgrounds including social worker & marriage & family therapy. They are experienced in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, among other diagnosis. We offer individual, couple and family sessions.
Welcome to Empowering Encounters—the psychotherapy department at Hagan Health! We have a team of excellent mental health providers who see a wide variety of diagnoses and issues. Our therapists, Colleen, Vern, Suzy, Sheana, & Ervina are trained in a variety of backgrounds including social worker & marriage & family therapy. They are experienced in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, among other diagnosis. We offer individual, couple and family sessions.
(502) 547-9656 View (502) 547-9656
Photo of Emily Bray O'Brien, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Emily Bray O'Brien
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Not accepting new clients
Emily is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories and other negative life experiences to bring these to a more adaptive conclusion. Emily is also informed in Internal Family Systems (IFS), and utilizes CBT, Interpersonal, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Person-Centered, REBT, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-Focused therapy.
Emily is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories and other negative life experiences to bring these to a more adaptive conclusion. Emily is also informed in Internal Family Systems (IFS), and utilizes CBT, Interpersonal, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Person-Centered, REBT, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-Focused therapy.
(502) 804-2674 View (502) 804-2674

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Teal Hewlett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teal Hewlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
I specialize in CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
My approach to therapy is founded on respect and compassion for my clients, meeting them wherever they may be in their journey. Life can be filled with so many challenging moments and uncertainties, and as a therapist it's my top priority to provide a safe, comfortable and judgement-free space for clients to express themselves.
I specialize in CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
My approach to therapy is founded on respect and compassion for my clients, meeting them wherever they may be in their journey. Life can be filled with so many challenging moments and uncertainties, and as a therapist it's my top priority to provide a safe, comfortable and judgement-free space for clients to express themselves.
(502) 469-1895 View (502) 469-1895
Photo of Laura Cassidy, MS, LPCC-S, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Cassidy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, C-DBT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Anchorage, KY 40223  (Online Only)
I am certified in both EMDR and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Now enrolling for Fall 2024 Adolescent DBT Groups - Navigating the ups and downs of life can be challenging. It helps to have genuine and nonjudgmental support along the way. If you encounter a fork in the road of life and feel unsure of which path to take, counseling may help you explore personal growth and positive change. In our busy lives, it can be difficult to slow down and truly connect with ourselves, our values, and our understanding of the world around us. I believe therapeutic change occurs when we let go of perceived pressures and expectations so that we may seek a better understanding of our authentic selves.
I am certified in both EMDR and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Now enrolling for Fall 2024 Adolescent DBT Groups - Navigating the ups and downs of life can be challenging. It helps to have genuine and nonjudgmental support along the way. If you encounter a fork in the road of life and feel unsure of which path to take, counseling may help you explore personal growth and positive change. In our busy lives, it can be difficult to slow down and truly connect with ourselves, our values, and our understanding of the world around us. I believe therapeutic change occurs when we let go of perceived pressures and expectations so that we may seek a better understanding of our authentic selves.
(502) 427-1877 View (502) 427-1877
Photo of Mendy Mason, LPCC, Counselor
Mendy Mason
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40243
In individual therapy, I utilize evidence-based me methods such as EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I specialize in couples counseling, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, and women’s issues. For those who desire it, I can integrate Christian counseling into the sessions. My approach enables me to support you in a way that respects your values and beliefs while also making use of the best practices in mental health care. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while using evidence-based therapy.
In individual therapy, I utilize evidence-based me methods such as EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I specialize in couples counseling, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, and women’s issues. For those who desire it, I can integrate Christian counseling into the sessions. My approach enables me to support you in a way that respects your values and beliefs while also making use of the best practices in mental health care. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while using evidence-based therapy.
(502) 503-5490 View (502) 503-5490
Photo of Latrenia Somone Moore, LPCC, Counselor
Latrenia Somone Moore
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223  (Online Only)
I incorporate Cognitive Behavior and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, as well as Mindfulness.
Congratulations! Seeking professional help is not always easy, but you did it! Life can be full of many challenges, resulting in increased levels of stress and anxiety. During our sessions clients are encouraged to be vulnerable in Identifying their stressors within a safe, non judgemental therapeutic environment in which being vulnerable is encouraged. I welcome the opportunity to work with you on your path towared healing. If you are ready to schedule an appointment I am credentialed with Sondermind. Please reach out to Sondermind Support to set up your account , so that we may schedule your first session .
I incorporate Cognitive Behavior and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, as well as Mindfulness.
Congratulations! Seeking professional help is not always easy, but you did it! Life can be full of many challenges, resulting in increased levels of stress and anxiety. During our sessions clients are encouraged to be vulnerable in Identifying their stressors within a safe, non judgemental therapeutic environment in which being vulnerable is encouraged. I welcome the opportunity to work with you on your path towared healing. If you are ready to schedule an appointment I am credentialed with Sondermind. Please reach out to Sondermind Support to set up your account , so that we may schedule your first session .
(931) 342-4065 View (931) 342-4065
Photo of Adam Thompson Berry, LPCC
Adam Thompson Berry
LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
People are often held captive by their emotions and thoughts, which prevents them from reaching their full potential. My practice is informed by blending mindfulness with other modalities to alleviate this state of distraction and fully experience the present moment. To best treat my clients, I use an integrative approach that draws from many different modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, humanistic, and existential modalities. I am also trained and experienced in EMDR.
People are often held captive by their emotions and thoughts, which prevents them from reaching their full potential. My practice is informed by blending mindfulness with other modalities to alleviate this state of distraction and fully experience the present moment. To best treat my clients, I use an integrative approach that draws from many different modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, humanistic, and existential modalities. I am also trained and experienced in EMDR.
(502) 747-9149 View (502) 747-9149
Photo of Stephanie Barnes - Goldenrod Mental Health, LLC , MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Goldenrod Mental Health, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40243  (Online Only)
I use a variety of evidence-based practices that I have been trained in, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, all from a trauma informed perspective, to address behavioral, cognitive, and emotional issues in a collaborative way to best meet each client's needs.
I am a strong believer that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is the biggest contributor to client success. Therefore I work very hard to create a safe, non-judgemental environment with unconditional positive regard for my clients. I really enjoy helping individuals and couples cope and process with many issues and diagnosis. Most of my experience post-graduate has been working with trauma and severe mental illness. I am LGBTQ+ allied, gender-affirming, and kink and poly-friendly.
I use a variety of evidence-based practices that I have been trained in, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, all from a trauma informed perspective, to address behavioral, cognitive, and emotional issues in a collaborative way to best meet each client's needs.
I am a strong believer that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is the biggest contributor to client success. Therefore I work very hard to create a safe, non-judgemental environment with unconditional positive regard for my clients. I really enjoy helping individuals and couples cope and process with many issues and diagnosis. Most of my experience post-graduate has been working with trauma and severe mental illness. I am LGBTQ+ allied, gender-affirming, and kink and poly-friendly.
(502) 586-4464 View (502) 586-4464
Photo of Derek Stegner, LPCC
Derek Stegner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
(502) 829-7564 View (502) 829-7564
Photo of Shannon W Reynolds, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shannon W Reynolds
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Campbellsville University and have been trained in EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Gottman Couples Therapy.
I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Campbellsville University and have been trained in EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Gottman Couples Therapy.
(502) 405-9721 View (502) 405-9721
Photo of Maggie Sweeney, LPCC
Maggie Sweeney
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223  (Online Only)
I take a client-centered and strength-based approach, utilizing a variety of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, systems therapy, narrative, and attachment theory.
I am Maggie Sweeney. I grew up poor in Brooklyn, I spent 23 years in the Navy, I have lived all over the world and retired in 2014. I earned my bachelor’s degree in liberal arts in science in 2009 and my MS in Mental Health Counseling in March 2017. My ex was active-duty Army and in July 2017 we got stationed at Fort Knox, KY. I earned my PhD in May 2022 and today I live Elizabethtown, KY.
I take a client-centered and strength-based approach, utilizing a variety of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, systems therapy, narrative, and attachment theory.
I am Maggie Sweeney. I grew up poor in Brooklyn, I spent 23 years in the Navy, I have lived all over the world and retired in 2014. I earned my bachelor’s degree in liberal arts in science in 2009 and my MS in Mental Health Counseling in March 2017. My ex was active-duty Army and in July 2017 we got stationed at Fort Knox, KY. I earned my PhD in May 2022 and today I live Elizabethtown, KY.
(270) 606-7829 View (270) 606-7829
Photo of Stephanie Hurst, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Hurst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, KY 40223
I take a multi-modal approach, pulling from CBT, DBT, ACT, REBT, IFS, and Family Systems.
I am a well-rounded therapist that takes a person-centered approach. I have worked with all ages (4-75 years old), but believe that I work best with young adults to middle age. I enjoy helping individuals learn what it means to take care of themselves and build resiliency to fight through life's struggles. I aspire to help people reach their full potential and live happier, more fulfilled lives.
I take a multi-modal approach, pulling from CBT, DBT, ACT, REBT, IFS, and Family Systems.
I am a well-rounded therapist that takes a person-centered approach. I have worked with all ages (4-75 years old), but believe that I work best with young adults to middle age. I enjoy helping individuals learn what it means to take care of themselves and build resiliency to fight through life's struggles. I aspire to help people reach their full potential and live happier, more fulfilled lives.
(520) 337-1719 View (520) 337-1719
Photo of Callie Ernspiker, MEd, LPA, Psychologist
Callie Ernspiker
Psychologist, MEd, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40243
Callie has experience in various empirically supported interventions such as TF-CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Callie graduated from the University of Louisville in 2022 with a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology. During her graduate studies, she provided therapy for underserved teens and adults in both school and community-based settings. She also worked with individuals in the department of juvenile justice. In addition to her clinical training, Callie was involved in two different research labs where she presented research projects at local conferences. Her research interests included disordered eating among pregnant women, as well as social inequities in health.
Callie has experience in various empirically supported interventions such as TF-CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Callie graduated from the University of Louisville in 2022 with a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology. During her graduate studies, she provided therapy for underserved teens and adults in both school and community-based settings. She also worked with individuals in the department of juvenile justice. In addition to her clinical training, Callie was involved in two different research labs where she presented research projects at local conferences. Her research interests included disordered eating among pregnant women, as well as social inequities in health.
(502) 673-1418 View (502) 673-1418
Photo of Carol Lozier, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Lozier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
I specialize in treating adopted and foster children and their families, and those who have experienced trauma. I graduated from Florida State University in 1989 with a Masters in Clinical Social Work. I am the author of five books: " DBT Therapeutic Activity Ideas for Working with Teens", "The Adoptive & Foster Parent Guide", "Devotions of Comfort and Hope for Adoptive & Foster Moms", and "Clothed In Armor: Spiritual Warfare for Adopted and Foster Kids", and "Clothed In Armor: Spiritual Warfare for Kids." All books can be found on Amazon or my website, www.carollozierlcsw.com.
I specialize in treating adopted and foster children and their families, and those who have experienced trauma. I graduated from Florida State University in 1989 with a Masters in Clinical Social Work. I am the author of five books: " DBT Therapeutic Activity Ideas for Working with Teens", "The Adoptive & Foster Parent Guide", "Devotions of Comfort and Hope for Adoptive & Foster Moms", and "Clothed In Armor: Spiritual Warfare for Adopted and Foster Kids", and "Clothed In Armor: Spiritual Warfare for Kids." All books can be found on Amazon or my website, www.carollozierlcsw.com.
(502) 257-8621 View (502) 257-8621
Photo of Kristi Collier Thompson, MS, LMHC, LPCC
Kristi Collier Thompson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma-informed, licensed counselor specializing in children, teenagers, adults and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, relational trauma (adoption, foster care, chronic illness, abuse or neglect), chronic illness and chronic pain. With over 20 years of experience, I am certified in EMDR, and trained in Theraplay, internal family systems (IFS), DBT, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, solution-focused brief counseling, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Prepare-Enrich and mindfulness.
I am a trauma-informed, licensed counselor specializing in children, teenagers, adults and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, relational trauma (adoption, foster care, chronic illness, abuse or neglect), chronic illness and chronic pain. With over 20 years of experience, I am certified in EMDR, and trained in Theraplay, internal family systems (IFS), DBT, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, solution-focused brief counseling, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Prepare-Enrich and mindfulness.
(502) 287-0133 View (502) 287-0133
Photo of Ashley Logsdon, MSSW, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Logsdon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, CSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
I also offer DBT, psychodynamic therapy, and ACT so that I can tailor services to meet your needs.
I provide both in-person and telehealth sessions. I specialize in working with youth, adolescents, and young adults in areas of anxiety, depression, school issues, trauma, conflict/decision making, and life transitions. I have extensive experience with at-risk youth and families and psychoeducational programs across multiple topics, including mental health, relationship issues, substance use, LGBTQ needs, trauma, and others.
I also offer DBT, psychodynamic therapy, and ACT so that I can tailor services to meet your needs.
I provide both in-person and telehealth sessions. I specialize in working with youth, adolescents, and young adults in areas of anxiety, depression, school issues, trauma, conflict/decision making, and life transitions. I have extensive experience with at-risk youth and families and psychoeducational programs across multiple topics, including mental health, relationship issues, substance use, LGBTQ needs, trauma, and others.
(502) 469-1853 View (502) 469-1853

See more therapy options for Middletown

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.