Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Hadley, MA

Photo of Ellen J Carlino - Ellen J Carlino, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen J Carlino, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Skills training, including DBT, supports effective management of intense emotional experiences and relationship challenges.
There's a delicate balance between accepting oneself as you are and making the changes you deeply desire. Cultivating quiet and stillness allows you to listen to your inner knowing and the answers you are seeking. My own spiritual practice informs me as I honor and support your personal journey. What's most essential for healing is the relationship between client and therapist. Clients have described their experience with me as open, deeply caring, respectful, irreverent, collaborative, both gentle and direct, grounding and real.
Skills training, including DBT, supports effective management of intense emotional experiences and relationship challenges.
There's a delicate balance between accepting oneself as you are and making the changes you deeply desire. Cultivating quiet and stillness allows you to listen to your inner knowing and the answers you are seeking. My own spiritual practice informs me as I honor and support your personal journey. What's most essential for healing is the relationship between client and therapist. Clients have described their experience with me as open, deeply caring, respectful, irreverent, collaborative, both gentle and direct, grounding and real.
(413) 241-6712 View (413) 241-6712
Photo of Allison Wilcox, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Allison Wilcox
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hadley, MA 01035  (Online Only)
I use a holistic perspective and am proficient in multiple evidenced based modalities including CBT, DBT, Solution focused, MI, and ACT.
Feeling stuck is natural and finding your way out may seem like an impossible goal. I meet clients where they are at building upon their strengths to move forward and achieve greater quality of life. My passion is working with motivated clients managing depressive symptoms, anxious symptoms, issues stemming from trauma, problems with addiction, issues of sexuality and sexual orientation, and challenges related to life transitions. I support individuals with achieving their personal goals. I focus on the whole person physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I enjoy working with clients from varied cultures and backgrounds.
I use a holistic perspective and am proficient in multiple evidenced based modalities including CBT, DBT, Solution focused, MI, and ACT.
Feeling stuck is natural and finding your way out may seem like an impossible goal. I meet clients where they are at building upon their strengths to move forward and achieve greater quality of life. My passion is working with motivated clients managing depressive symptoms, anxious symptoms, issues stemming from trauma, problems with addiction, issues of sexuality and sexual orientation, and challenges related to life transitions. I support individuals with achieving their personal goals. I focus on the whole person physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I enjoy working with clients from varied cultures and backgrounds.
(413) 289-5024 View (413) 289-5024
Photo of Maxwell Leon Swenson, MSW, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maxwell Leon Swenson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
For several years Max devoted his time to Outdoor Recreation and enjoyed bringing others into nature. With time Max realized he wanted to blend the two worlds of nature and mental health, which led him to Springfield College, where he completed his MSW. Taking what he gained in the outdoor industry, he began his journey into social work. Max has a creative and out of the box approach to strength-based therapy working from CBT and DBT modalities. He has experience working with individuals with diverse learning disabilities and ADHD. He enjoys helping his clients reframe their mind to their relationship with their diagnosis.
For several years Max devoted his time to Outdoor Recreation and enjoyed bringing others into nature. With time Max realized he wanted to blend the two worlds of nature and mental health, which led him to Springfield College, where he completed his MSW. Taking what he gained in the outdoor industry, he began his journey into social work. Max has a creative and out of the box approach to strength-based therapy working from CBT and DBT modalities. He has experience working with individuals with diverse learning disabilities and ADHD. He enjoys helping his clients reframe their mind to their relationship with their diagnosis.
(413) 307-8097 View (413) 307-8097
Photo of Bengisu Yanmaz - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Amherst, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Amherst
Counselor
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Jaime Devins, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Devins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in mindfulness, attachment, trauma, individual and family therapy, relationship issues, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Polyvagal Theory.
I now reside and practice in CT, and am working on accepting CT clients. I'm excited to partner with you as you take the brave step in seeking help. Many struggle with isolation, depression, anxiety, attention, identity, change of life, toxic stress, grief, trauma, relationships, or work. Do you feel alone and overwhelmed in these issues? I offer a compassionate space in which to help you take a look at these issues in an empowering, strengths-based way. I specialize in using creativity, art, mind-body strategies, and self-empowerment in relationships. We will take an in-depth look at your concerns in a holistic way.
I have experience in mindfulness, attachment, trauma, individual and family therapy, relationship issues, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Polyvagal Theory.
I now reside and practice in CT, and am working on accepting CT clients. I'm excited to partner with you as you take the brave step in seeking help. Many struggle with isolation, depression, anxiety, attention, identity, change of life, toxic stress, grief, trauma, relationships, or work. Do you feel alone and overwhelmed in these issues? I offer a compassionate space in which to help you take a look at these issues in an empowering, strengths-based way. I specialize in using creativity, art, mind-body strategies, and self-empowerment in relationships. We will take an in-depth look at your concerns in a holistic way.
(207) 203-9293 View (207) 203-9293
Photo of Kourtney Roy, LMHC, Counselor
Kourtney Roy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hadley, MA 01035
I understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process, as different types of approaches are effective for each person’s needs. Within my work, I strive to create a safe space for clients to feel seen and heard. I take into account the importance of looking at the whole person and the range of aspects that contribute to who you are. Everyone has their own unique journey, and my goal is to assist you with fostering a life rooted in self-empowerment. As you nourish your body, mind, and spirit, you can unlock your capacity to flourish in every area of life.
I understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process, as different types of approaches are effective for each person’s needs. Within my work, I strive to create a safe space for clients to feel seen and heard. I take into account the importance of looking at the whole person and the range of aspects that contribute to who you are. Everyone has their own unique journey, and my goal is to assist you with fostering a life rooted in self-empowerment. As you nourish your body, mind, and spirit, you can unlock your capacity to flourish in every area of life.
(413) 206-6525 View (413) 206-6525
Photo of Aidza Y Mckenzie, PhD, Psychologist
Aidza Y Mckenzie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Are you experiencing overwhelming stress, depression, trauma, anxiety, fears, or panic attacks? Are you struggling with sense-of-self or self-worth? Are you looking to regain control of your life? Or are you just in need of having a provider that will listen to you in a mindful and non-judgmental way? If you are, call me to discuss effective ways to guide you in the process of overcoming these and other life challenges. I am a caring, gentle, compassionate, and sensitive to cultural, racial, and religious diversity psychologist. I am fluent in English and Spanish.
Are you experiencing overwhelming stress, depression, trauma, anxiety, fears, or panic attacks? Are you struggling with sense-of-self or self-worth? Are you looking to regain control of your life? Or are you just in need of having a provider that will listen to you in a mindful and non-judgmental way? If you are, call me to discuss effective ways to guide you in the process of overcoming these and other life challenges. I am a caring, gentle, compassionate, and sensitive to cultural, racial, and religious diversity psychologist. I am fluent in English and Spanish.
(413) 269-8645 x4 View (413) 269-8645 x4
Photo of Jan Weiss, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jan Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Imagine sharing your most private thoughts and feelings, safely, and without risk, so that you get to know yourself more deeply. Neuroscience teaches us how emotions affect our behavior, how they are stored in the body, and how negative emotions can be healed. In my work, I utilize techniques that focus on the relationship and the feedback mechanisms between the mind and the body in order to promote deeper and more complete healing. I also help couples and families recognize patterns of behavior that contribute to misunderstanding, tension and conflict. My intention is to create a safe space that is non-judgmental, welcoming and warm.
Imagine sharing your most private thoughts and feelings, safely, and without risk, so that you get to know yourself more deeply. Neuroscience teaches us how emotions affect our behavior, how they are stored in the body, and how negative emotions can be healed. In my work, I utilize techniques that focus on the relationship and the feedback mechanisms between the mind and the body in order to promote deeper and more complete healing. I also help couples and families recognize patterns of behavior that contribute to misunderstanding, tension and conflict. My intention is to create a safe space that is non-judgmental, welcoming and warm.
(413) 251-6018 View (413) 251-6018
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Jordan, LMHC, EdD, Counselor
Dr. Stephanie Jordan
Counselor, LMHC, EdD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hadley, MA 01035  (Online Only)
Sometimes when life is difficult, we try to take on everything ourselves. I am here to let you know that you do not have to do it all alone.When the pain become too heavy, I will be here for you as you speak your truth.I believe that we are the experts of our own lives and story. I will provide validation, where you can become your own catalyst for change.Our therapeutic work will be an empowering safe place for healing, self-discovery and navigating life’s challenges. I use therapeutic modalities specific to a client’s individual needs.
Sometimes when life is difficult, we try to take on everything ourselves. I am here to let you know that you do not have to do it all alone.When the pain become too heavy, I will be here for you as you speak your truth.I believe that we are the experts of our own lives and story. I will provide validation, where you can become your own catalyst for change.Our therapeutic work will be an empowering safe place for healing, self-discovery and navigating life’s challenges. I use therapeutic modalities specific to a client’s individual needs.
(413) 636-3829 View (413) 636-3829
Photo of Whole Child And Parent: Family Coaching And Therapy ~Julie B. Rosenshein, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whole Child And Parent: Family Coaching And Therapy ~Julie B. Rosenshein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
I have been working with parents, children and families for over 25 years. I specialize in elementary school age children. My book: “Parenting the Highly Sensitive Child” has been a resource for many parents. I offer tools and strategies for children struggling with emotional regulation, anger issues, ADHD, anxiety, oppositional defiant/challenging behaviors, learning difficulties and social skills. I help families regain a sense of balance by helping to resolve conflict and enhance communication....bringing enjoyment to your family once again.
I have been working with parents, children and families for over 25 years. I specialize in elementary school age children. My book: “Parenting the Highly Sensitive Child” has been a resource for many parents. I offer tools and strategies for children struggling with emotional regulation, anger issues, ADHD, anxiety, oppositional defiant/challenging behaviors, learning difficulties and social skills. I help families regain a sense of balance by helping to resolve conflict and enhance communication....bringing enjoyment to your family once again.
(413) 307-3651 View (413) 307-3651
Photo of Debra Lucey-Maynard, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Lucey-Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035  (Online Only)
I am honored to support individuals/families that have struggles that they are motivated to overcome. It is normal for us all to struggle from time to time. Many of us have endured trauma in the past and it can be a challenge to feel peace and/or joy again. Trauma focused therapy can provide a safe outlet for you to explore your concerns and learn or strengthen coping skills as you continue to find healing. I believe that everyone has struggles in their lives. Many of us are touched by trauma and work hard to get through necessary activities during our day to day life. I feel we can all change and grow at any point in our life.
I am honored to support individuals/families that have struggles that they are motivated to overcome. It is normal for us all to struggle from time to time. Many of us have endured trauma in the past and it can be a challenge to feel peace and/or joy again. Trauma focused therapy can provide a safe outlet for you to explore your concerns and learn or strengthen coping skills as you continue to find healing. I believe that everyone has struggles in their lives. Many of us are touched by trauma and work hard to get through necessary activities during our day to day life. I feel we can all change and grow at any point in our life.
(978) 341-3859 View (978) 341-3859
Photo of Sev Kolysko, MA, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sev Kolysko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hadley, MA 01035
We all encounter times in life when we just feel stuck and overwhelmed, sometimes unsure of why we feel this way and unable to move forward. Psychotherapy helps us to achieve a sense of well-being and make changes in our lives. My hope is to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, which will allow you to achieve personal growth. I utilize a combination of psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapies with components of mindfulness and solution-focused approaches. I work with adults of all ages and older adolescents.
We all encounter times in life when we just feel stuck and overwhelmed, sometimes unsure of why we feel this way and unable to move forward. Psychotherapy helps us to achieve a sense of well-being and make changes in our lives. My hope is to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, which will allow you to achieve personal growth. I utilize a combination of psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapies with components of mindfulness and solution-focused approaches. I work with adults of all ages and older adolescents.
(413) 362-7658 View (413) 362-7658
Photo of Michael Chunyk - Advance Psychotherapy Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Advance Psychotherapy Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
We have immediate openings, across the lifespan, for the following insurances: Blue Cross Blue Shield Optum and Optum products: Allways, Harvard Pilgrim, Oxford, Connecticare TUFTS Medicare Private Pay ($100/session) Become a client on our website: www.advancepsychotherapy.org. Those who are interested in receiving services from us should fill out the following form:
We have immediate openings, across the lifespan, for the following insurances: Blue Cross Blue Shield Optum and Optum products: Allways, Harvard Pilgrim, Oxford, Connecticare TUFTS Medicare Private Pay ($100/session) Become a client on our website: www.advancepsychotherapy.org. Those who are interested in receiving services from us should fill out the following form:
(413) 259-0478 View (413) 259-0478
Photo of Christine Catania-Rachlin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Catania-Rachlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hadley, MA 01035
Not accepting new clients
I incorporate mindfulness, EFT, and breath work to reduce anxiety and promote emotional safety along with CBT and DBT skills to improve emotional coping.
Life can be extraordinarily challenging and finding a therapist that "fits" can be intimidating. I enjoy working with diverse clients from varied backgrounds. My passion is working with motivated clients to address trauma, anxiety, and various life transitions. I also enjoy working with teenagers navigating the road to adulthood. My role as a therapist is to nurture the innate healing process by teaching the needed skills and utilizing tailored interventions so clients may achieve goals related to improved emotional coping, satisfying relationships, and better quality of life.
I incorporate mindfulness, EFT, and breath work to reduce anxiety and promote emotional safety along with CBT and DBT skills to improve emotional coping.
Life can be extraordinarily challenging and finding a therapist that "fits" can be intimidating. I enjoy working with diverse clients from varied backgrounds. My passion is working with motivated clients to address trauma, anxiety, and various life transitions. I also enjoy working with teenagers navigating the road to adulthood. My role as a therapist is to nurture the innate healing process by teaching the needed skills and utilizing tailored interventions so clients may achieve goals related to improved emotional coping, satisfying relationships, and better quality of life.
(413) 359-6925 View (413) 359-6925
Photo of Coralee Chase, MEd, LMHC, CADC, Counselor
Coralee Chase
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Not accepting new clients
My name is Coralee (Cora for short). I have been a professional in the valley for 30 plus years. I believe we all have beliefs, a story that prevents us from living to our greater good. I am here and open to supporting that journey into wellness. My field of expertise is Substance Disorders, Mental Health issues. I also work with individuals around the loss of loved ones, jobs, homes. I am particularly open to working with families that have lost a family member to substance use, ie overdose, alcohol side affects. I also work with families around dealing with an afflicted family member. I look forward to helping with your journey.
My name is Coralee (Cora for short). I have been a professional in the valley for 30 plus years. I believe we all have beliefs, a story that prevents us from living to our greater good. I am here and open to supporting that journey into wellness. My field of expertise is Substance Disorders, Mental Health issues. I also work with individuals around the loss of loved ones, jobs, homes. I am particularly open to working with families that have lost a family member to substance use, ie overdose, alcohol side affects. I also work with families around dealing with an afflicted family member. I look forward to helping with your journey.
(413) 200-3567 View (413) 200-3567

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amanda Sipiczky, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda Sipiczky
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
The modalities I have experience with consist of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing.
My name is Amanda, I am a Master's level therapist that has been in the field for 5 years. I have experience in addictions counseling, worked as a domestic violence advocate, and now as a therapist. I have a background working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders.
The modalities I have experience with consist of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing.
My name is Amanda, I am a Master's level therapist that has been in the field for 5 years. I have experience in addictions counseling, worked as a domestic violence advocate, and now as a therapist. I have a background working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders.
(857) 675-4645 View (857) 675-4645
Photo of Sandra L Kelly, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra L Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01004  (Online Only)
My approach is collaborative but informed by Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT).
Do you want to make change but are feeling unmotivated, stuck, anxious, unfilled, or depressed? Change is both challenging and rewarding. My role is to help you identify these feelings and to help provide additional perspective, support, and help you to live a more fulfilling, authentic existence. Using a variety of therapeutic approaches, I can help you to clarify and connect with your core values (what matters most), and take action to move in the direction of fulfillment.
My approach is collaborative but informed by Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT).
Do you want to make change but are feeling unmotivated, stuck, anxious, unfilled, or depressed? Change is both challenging and rewarding. My role is to help you identify these feelings and to help provide additional perspective, support, and help you to live a more fulfilling, authentic existence. Using a variety of therapeutic approaches, I can help you to clarify and connect with your core values (what matters most), and take action to move in the direction of fulfillment.
(413) 842-8500 View (413) 842-8500
Photo of Sarah Bleichfeld, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Bleichfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
I work from a psychodynamic perspective, and utilize many approaches, including dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based practices, among others.
We all deserve to live our lives as fully and authentically as we can, and therapy can be a great support in that. I aim to create an open and safe space in which you can explore the patterns, behaviors, and beliefs that you may feel stuck in, and that are no longer serving you. As we build a trusting, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic relationship, we’ll work together to identify concrete goals and utilize evidence-based practices to achieve them.
I work from a psychodynamic perspective, and utilize many approaches, including dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based practices, among others.
We all deserve to live our lives as fully and authentically as we can, and therapy can be a great support in that. I aim to create an open and safe space in which you can explore the patterns, behaviors, and beliefs that you may feel stuck in, and that are no longer serving you. As we build a trusting, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic relationship, we’ll work together to identify concrete goals and utilize evidence-based practices to achieve them.
(413) 416-1439 View (413) 416-1439
Photo of Sarah Anyanwu, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Anyanwu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
With a focus on DBT, CBT and trauma focused therapy, I support my clients in finding the person that they have needed all along; themselves.
I have enjoyed my extensive work with individuals that have struggled with substance misuse and/or poly substance use, in addition to various mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety and PTSD. I genuinely look up to my clients as they are open to implementing new skills and ideas into their already established perspectives in life. It is my belief that the opposite of addiction is connection to healthy individuals, as we are social beings by nature. We long to be wanted, loved and needed, and sometimes seek that longing through maladaptive ways that end up hurting us.
With a focus on DBT, CBT and trauma focused therapy, I support my clients in finding the person that they have needed all along; themselves.
I have enjoyed my extensive work with individuals that have struggled with substance misuse and/or poly substance use, in addition to various mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety and PTSD. I genuinely look up to my clients as they are open to implementing new skills and ideas into their already established perspectives in life. It is my belief that the opposite of addiction is connection to healthy individuals, as we are social beings by nature. We long to be wanted, loved and needed, and sometimes seek that longing through maladaptive ways that end up hurting us.
(978) 878-3827 View (978) 878-3827
Photo of Elizabeth Imelio, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Imelio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Elizabeth is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who utilizes a trauma informed, person centered approach to therapy. Elizabeth provides a warm, empathetic, safe and affirming space to all individuals. She is committed to helping individuals identify their goals and create a life worth living. Elizabeth utilizes aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Solution Focused Therapy with an easy going style to help individuals reach their full potential.
Elizabeth is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who utilizes a trauma informed, person centered approach to therapy. Elizabeth provides a warm, empathetic, safe and affirming space to all individuals. She is committed to helping individuals identify their goals and create a life worth living. Elizabeth utilizes aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Solution Focused Therapy with an easy going style to help individuals reach their full potential.
(413) 216-3989 View (413) 216-3989
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.