Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Paris, KY

Photo of Della Guynn, LPCC
Della Guynn
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Paris, KY 40361
Della is certified in DBT Skills Training and typically utilizes modified techniques during individual therapy sessions to develop mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance skills for addressing various mental health disorders.
Della M. Guynn is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2017. She has an MS in Psychology from the University of Phoenix and an MA in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Della's gifts are connecting and bringing calm to crisis. Her greatest experiences are helping individuals with interpersonal, family relationship, and/or addiction/recovery issues. Seeing others reach their full potential is her passion, using holistic and eclectic techniques from evidence-based therapies with a person-centered style and spiritual worldview.
Della is certified in DBT Skills Training and typically utilizes modified techniques during individual therapy sessions to develop mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance skills for addressing various mental health disorders.
Della M. Guynn is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2017. She has an MS in Psychology from the University of Phoenix and an MA in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Della's gifts are connecting and bringing calm to crisis. Her greatest experiences are helping individuals with interpersonal, family relationship, and/or addiction/recovery issues. Seeing others reach their full potential is her passion, using holistic and eclectic techniques from evidence-based therapies with a person-centered style and spiritual worldview.
(502) 628-4437 View (502) 628-4437
Photo of Vicci Phillips, MS, LPCC
Vicci Phillips
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Paris, KY 40361
We all encounter problems in life, and seeking help to overcome these difficulties is smart, healthy, and courageous. As a counselor, I am passionate about helping people discover how to navigate life's obstacles. Together, we will work toward helping you achieve your goals, all in a confidential, accepting, and non-judgmental environment. We will explore the areas in your life that are not working as well as you would like and find avenues toward hope, health, and healing.
We all encounter problems in life, and seeking help to overcome these difficulties is smart, healthy, and courageous. As a counselor, I am passionate about helping people discover how to navigate life's obstacles. Together, we will work toward helping you achieve your goals, all in a confidential, accepting, and non-judgmental environment. We will explore the areas in your life that are not working as well as you would like and find avenues toward hope, health, and healing.
(859) 577-9349 View (859) 577-9349
Photo of Kenya Manley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenya Manley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paris, KY 40361
Kenya Manley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned a Bachelor of Social work from Morehead State University and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. Kenya has 8 years of experience working in the community and in corrections. She provides services to individuals via telehealth. As a neurodivergent person herself Kenya understands how draining it can be to find a therapist that is the right match for you. She believes individuals should be encouraged to advocate for themselves and their symptoms while being provided psychoeducation along the way.
Kenya Manley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned a Bachelor of Social work from Morehead State University and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. Kenya has 8 years of experience working in the community and in corrections. She provides services to individuals via telehealth. As a neurodivergent person herself Kenya understands how draining it can be to find a therapist that is the right match for you. She believes individuals should be encouraged to advocate for themselves and their symptoms while being provided psychoeducation along the way.
(502) 289-6547 View (502) 289-6547
Photo of Linda Combes, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Combes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paris, KY 40362
Now Accepting New Clients. Do you feel overwhelmed by intense emotions, painful thoughts, or unsatisfying relationships? Do you find yourself stuck in patterns that prevent you from living the life you want? I offer therapy for difficulties including anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. We can meet in my Lexington office, on Zoom, or in the peaceful setting of a private horse farm near Paris, where equine- and canine-assisted sessions are options.
Now Accepting New Clients. Do you feel overwhelmed by intense emotions, painful thoughts, or unsatisfying relationships? Do you find yourself stuck in patterns that prevent you from living the life you want? I offer therapy for difficulties including anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. We can meet in my Lexington office, on Zoom, or in the peaceful setting of a private horse farm near Paris, where equine- and canine-assisted sessions are options.
(859) 203-1279 View (859) 203-1279

Online Therapists

Photo of Sharla Mize, LPCC, MHSP
Sharla Mize
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40511  (Online Only)
I offer expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Neuro-Affective Relational therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
People seek me out because they find their current situation intolerable - they are sick and tired of experiencing shame, intense anger, depression and anxiety. Perhaps they want to work on their addiction - the thing they use to numb the painful experiences. Their relationships are suffering as a result of their behaviors, being closed off, or "too much" for others. Many struggle with feelings of inadequacy, perfectionism and a deep sense of futility, which prevents them from taking charge of their lives and confidently pursuing their heart's desire.
I offer expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Neuro-Affective Relational therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
People seek me out because they find their current situation intolerable - they are sick and tired of experiencing shame, intense anger, depression and anxiety. Perhaps they want to work on their addiction - the thing they use to numb the painful experiences. Their relationships are suffering as a result of their behaviors, being closed off, or "too much" for others. Many struggle with feelings of inadequacy, perfectionism and a deep sense of futility, which prevents them from taking charge of their lives and confidently pursuing their heart's desire.
(502) 443-9272 View (502) 443-9272
Photo of Liz Dubovsky, CSW, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Dubovsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Covington, KY 41011
Here are the specialized therapies I use regularly: EMDR, DBT, Motivational interviewing, Mindfulness based stress reduction, and psychotherapy.
First let me say I am glad you are here. Choosing to pursue therapy is a brave step. My goal for my clients is to help you build the inner strength and resources to address a multitude of life's problems. Are you stressed out over a difficult boss? Are you wanting to learn interpersonal skills to improve relationships at home and at work? Have you experienced a trauma that is negatively impacting your life? Are you curious about sobriety or wanting to find your own path to recovery? I can help. I will provide a safe and non judgmental space for you to gain insight into the problems that are affecting you.
Here are the specialized therapies I use regularly: EMDR, DBT, Motivational interviewing, Mindfulness based stress reduction, and psychotherapy.
First let me say I am glad you are here. Choosing to pursue therapy is a brave step. My goal for my clients is to help you build the inner strength and resources to address a multitude of life's problems. Are you stressed out over a difficult boss? Are you wanting to learn interpersonal skills to improve relationships at home and at work? Have you experienced a trauma that is negatively impacting your life? Are you curious about sobriety or wanting to find your own path to recovery? I can help. I will provide a safe and non judgmental space for you to gain insight into the problems that are affecting you.
(859) 695-3961 View (859) 695-3961
Photo of Brandi Whitaker, LPCC, Counselor
Brandi Whitaker
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Kentucky. I specialize in treating people struggling with anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I bring a comprehensive approach to my practice, seamlessly integrating evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. My goal is to empower individuals by providing tailored strategies to navigate challenges, foster resilience, and promote lasting positive change in their mental well-being.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Kentucky. I specialize in treating people struggling with anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I bring a comprehensive approach to my practice, seamlessly integrating evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. My goal is to empower individuals by providing tailored strategies to navigate challenges, foster resilience, and promote lasting positive change in their mental well-being.
(859) 762-2293 View (859) 762-2293
Photo of Matt Gilbert, PsyD, Psychologist
Matt Gilbert
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
Gilbert provides psychotherapy from a integrated and primarily interpersonally-based framework and provides treatments such as Dialectical Behavior and Cognitive Behavioral therapies and EMDR.
Dr. Gilbert specializes in difficulties associated with the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder. He is also a specialist in the treatment of complex psychological trauma and its associated impulsive behaviors and actions including self-harm, chronic suicidality and suicidal actions, dyscontrolled anger, and the quickly shifting mood states and interpersonal chaos that often accompany these struggles.  Additional areas of interest include mindfulness-based approaches to health and wellness, cycling mood disorders, depression, men’s issues, relationship concerns, and most general mental health difficulties.
Gilbert provides psychotherapy from a integrated and primarily interpersonally-based framework and provides treatments such as Dialectical Behavior and Cognitive Behavioral therapies and EMDR.
Dr. Gilbert specializes in difficulties associated with the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder. He is also a specialist in the treatment of complex psychological trauma and its associated impulsive behaviors and actions including self-harm, chronic suicidality and suicidal actions, dyscontrolled anger, and the quickly shifting mood states and interpersonal chaos that often accompany these struggles.  Additional areas of interest include mindfulness-based approaches to health and wellness, cycling mood disorders, depression, men’s issues, relationship concerns, and most general mental health difficulties.
(502) 871-4660 View (502) 871-4660
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 Karly Mitchell, LPCC, Counselor
Karly Mitchell
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
Hi, my name is Karly, and I'll help you figure out how to create a better life for yourself. Maybe you're trying to understand why you respond to things the way you do or maybe you're up against a lot and just need some support. I'll help you develop skills, strategies, and goals through evidenced-based collaborative approaches that are empathetic, practical, and action-oriented. I pull from multiple approaches including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Mindfulness and we'll collaborate together to figure out what works for you.
Hi, my name is Karly, and I'll help you figure out how to create a better life for yourself. Maybe you're trying to understand why you respond to things the way you do or maybe you're up against a lot and just need some support. I'll help you develop skills, strategies, and goals through evidenced-based collaborative approaches that are empathetic, practical, and action-oriented. I pull from multiple approaches including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Mindfulness and we'll collaborate together to figure out what works for you.
(859) 651-8026 View (859) 651-8026
Photo of Rachael Lastoff, LCMHC, LMHC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael Lastoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Newport, KY 41071
I come from a secular and humanistic background, utilizing DBT, CBT, humor, and reality-based therapy.
Whether you have experienced a recent setback or are trying to come to terms with an ongoing struggle, my goal is to be an unbiased listener providing reflective and direct feedback to help you gain insight and clarity. I am a gender-affirming therapist specializing in working with those in a life transition, struggling with their identity, or looking to evolve from the way they were raised. In couples counseling, I work with monogamous, open/poly, and kink relationships.
I come from a secular and humanistic background, utilizing DBT, CBT, humor, and reality-based therapy.
Whether you have experienced a recent setback or are trying to come to terms with an ongoing struggle, my goal is to be an unbiased listener providing reflective and direct feedback to help you gain insight and clarity. I am a gender-affirming therapist specializing in working with those in a life transition, struggling with their identity, or looking to evolve from the way they were raised. In couples counseling, I work with monogamous, open/poly, and kink relationships.
(859) 600-6738 View (859) 600-6738
Photo of Sara J Brewer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara J Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40206  (Online Only)
I specialize in CBT, DBT, MI, and EMDR, using these approaches to support clients in learning how to manage symptoms and stressors, improve emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, and improve self esteem.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Masters from University of Louisville in 2016. I have worked in community mental health for a number of years as well as in residential settings with teens and survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
I specialize in CBT, DBT, MI, and EMDR, using these approaches to support clients in learning how to manage symptoms and stressors, improve emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, and improve self esteem.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Masters from University of Louisville in 2016. I have worked in community mental health for a number of years as well as in residential settings with teens and survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
(502) 317-1021 View (502) 317-1021
Photo of Joanna Rodes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Rodes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
I offer individual psychotherapy with an emphasis on clinical hypnosis. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice seeking a positive approach to addressing anxiety, depression, irrational beliefs, fears, and other limiting thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My goal is to guide you towards a deeper understanding of your own internal resources that when accessed, can help you make the changes you want for yourself. In addition to clinical hypnosis, my approach is influenced by solution-focussed, cognitive-behavioral, attachment, mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) practices.
I offer individual psychotherapy with an emphasis on clinical hypnosis. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice seeking a positive approach to addressing anxiety, depression, irrational beliefs, fears, and other limiting thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My goal is to guide you towards a deeper understanding of your own internal resources that when accessed, can help you make the changes you want for yourself. In addition to clinical hypnosis, my approach is influenced by solution-focussed, cognitive-behavioral, attachment, mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) practices.
(859) 712-7464 View (859) 712-7464
Photo of Madison Mckenzie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison Mckenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
Common modalities of treatment include Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Reality Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques.
Madison McKenzie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her master's degree of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. She has a demonstrated history of working with children, teenagers, and adults with a variety of life challenges, and is accepting clients ages 8+. Her special interests include Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, eating disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, anxiety/depression, life transitions, dual diagnosis, and post-partum depression.
Common modalities of treatment include Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Reality Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques.
Madison McKenzie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her master's degree of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. She has a demonstrated history of working with children, teenagers, and adults with a variety of life challenges, and is accepting clients ages 8+. Her special interests include Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, eating disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, anxiety/depression, life transitions, dual diagnosis, and post-partum depression.
(859) 374-7004 View (859) 374-7004
Photo of Jennifer Lynn Henson, LPCA, TCADC, Counselor
Jennifer Lynn Henson
Counselor, LPCA, TCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barbourville, KY 40906
I also use person-centered, DBT, elements of Play Therapy and Art Therapy, among others.
I received a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Addictions Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. I have been practicing for 2 years. I am licensed in Kentucky to provide mental health and substance abuse services as an LPCA and a TCADC. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them establish and maintain emotional stability. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families.
I also use person-centered, DBT, elements of Play Therapy and Art Therapy, among others.
I received a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Addictions Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. I have been practicing for 2 years. I am licensed in Kentucky to provide mental health and substance abuse services as an LPCA and a TCADC. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them establish and maintain emotional stability. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families.
(606) 766-1344 View (606) 766-1344
Photo of Zoë Oldham, MSW, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoë Oldham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
Waitlist for new clients
While drawing from evidence-based techniques and modalities, such as EMDR and DBT, my focus is always on tailoring our sessions to meet your unique needs and aspirations.
Are you feeling stuck in life's challenges or longing for a deeper sense of connection and purpose? I am dedicated to guiding individuals through their unique journeys of self-discovery and healing, I offer a compassionate and collaborative space for growth and transformation. Navigating the complexities of life can often feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with past traumas or struggles with boundaries. You don't have to face these challenges alone - my approach to therapy is rooted in fostering a supportive and empowering environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.
While drawing from evidence-based techniques and modalities, such as EMDR and DBT, my focus is always on tailoring our sessions to meet your unique needs and aspirations.
Are you feeling stuck in life's challenges or longing for a deeper sense of connection and purpose? I am dedicated to guiding individuals through their unique journeys of self-discovery and healing, I offer a compassionate and collaborative space for growth and transformation. Navigating the complexities of life can often feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with past traumas or struggles with boundaries. You don't have to face these challenges alone - my approach to therapy is rooted in fostering a supportive and empowering environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.
(859) 340-3105 View (859) 340-3105
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 Kasey Teasley, LCPC, Counselor
Kasey Teasley
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475
Integrating components of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, and motivational interviewing allows me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of every individual client.
My name is Kasey Teasley. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. I focus on the wellness approach which emphasizes the overall well-being and functioning of the client, going beyond just addressing symptoms to help clients achieve a higher quality of life. By identifying specific area in a client’s life that are hindering their daily functioning and collaboratively working on manageable tasks to improve these areas, I empower my clients to take active steps towards positive change.
Integrating components of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, and motivational interviewing allows me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of every individual client.
My name is Kasey Teasley. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. I focus on the wellness approach which emphasizes the overall well-being and functioning of the client, going beyond just addressing symptoms to help clients achieve a higher quality of life. By identifying specific area in a client’s life that are hindering their daily functioning and collaboratively working on manageable tasks to improve these areas, I empower my clients to take active steps towards positive change.
(859) 666-6810 View (859) 666-6810
Photo of Lynn Supple, PsyD, Psychologist
Lynn Supple
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
I treat eating disorders with strategies that have been clinically researched including Family Based Treatment (FBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Do you feel like food controls you? Are you tired of constantly thinking about your weight, food, or exercise? Do you feel like you've lost a sense of what matters most? You are not alone in this! An eating disorder can take away your passion, strength, and relationships. I want to help you through the recovery process so you can live the life you desire! We will work together to reset the way you think about food and your body, with the goal of living your best life. To learn more, visit aspirewellnessky.com.
I treat eating disorders with strategies that have been clinically researched including Family Based Treatment (FBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Do you feel like food controls you? Are you tired of constantly thinking about your weight, food, or exercise? Do you feel like you've lost a sense of what matters most? You are not alone in this! An eating disorder can take away your passion, strength, and relationships. I want to help you through the recovery process so you can live the life you desire! We will work together to reset the way you think about food and your body, with the goal of living your best life. To learn more, visit aspirewellnessky.com.
(502) 305-5206 View (502) 305-5206
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

See more therapy options for Paris

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.