Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Roxbury, MA
![Photo of Dr. Lillian Audette, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52bb77d7-2b7b-4dc2-bfcc-c22c951ef47d/1/320x400.jpeg)
With a relational-cultural foundation, I draw on techniques from interpersonal, narrative, insight, and dialectical behavioral therapies.
Life can be hard – it brings us times of feeling alone, scared, sad, ashamed, and uncertain. This can hurt our self, our loved ones, and our ability to lead a fulfilling life. Therapy can provide us with more choices and more control when life becomes hard. As a counseling psychologist, I am deeply committed to providing an affirming and compassionate therapy space where you can explore who you are, where your life is, and take steps towards the life you would like to lead.
With a relational-cultural foundation, I draw on techniques from interpersonal, narrative, insight, and dialectical behavioral therapies.
Life can be hard – it brings us times of feeling alone, scared, sad, ashamed, and uncertain. This can hurt our self, our loved ones, and our ability to lead a fulfilling life. Therapy can provide us with more choices and more control when life becomes hard. As a counseling psychologist, I am deeply committed to providing an affirming and compassionate therapy space where you can explore who you are, where your life is, and take steps towards the life you would like to lead.
![Photo of Julie Lerner, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acf30ebf-6d64-4db9-a1fc-d3e26c190580/2/320x400.png)
Julie utilizes a variety of treatment approaches including mindfulness-based stress reduction, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Julie Lerner is a Licensed Psychotherapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. She is dedicated to her work with folks who identify as LGBTQ+ and/or have experienced trauma, depression, and anxiety. Julie has been fortunate to work with a diverse group of individuals holding intersectional identities, various diagnoses, sexual orientations, gender identities, and cultural backgrounds. She holds herself to a high standard to provide an inclusive, culturally competent, eclectic, and fun approach to psychotherapy. Julie completed her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology at William James College.
Julie utilizes a variety of treatment approaches including mindfulness-based stress reduction, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Julie Lerner is a Licensed Psychotherapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. She is dedicated to her work with folks who identify as LGBTQ+ and/or have experienced trauma, depression, and anxiety. Julie has been fortunate to work with a diverse group of individuals holding intersectional identities, various diagnoses, sexual orientations, gender identities, and cultural backgrounds. She holds herself to a high standard to provide an inclusive, culturally competent, eclectic, and fun approach to psychotherapy. Julie completed her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology at William James College.
![Photo of Sabiha Zaman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/519d51f4-7272-4473-8001-7eb19c35e88d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sabiha Zaman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Roxbury, MA 02119 (Online Only)
Navigating mental health can be intimidating, confusing, and exhausting. I commend you for taking the first steps and am here to support you along the way! Therapy is not one-size fits all— my approach is culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and collaborative to prioritize each client's specific needs. I believe in the importance of building genuine therapeutic-relationships with clients to help them feel understood and empowered. I value your feedback to make sure we are working towards your goals. I hope to create a space that is warm, inviting, and celebrates your authentic self.
Navigating mental health can be intimidating, confusing, and exhausting. I commend you for taking the first steps and am here to support you along the way! Therapy is not one-size fits all— my approach is culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and collaborative to prioritize each client's specific needs. I believe in the importance of building genuine therapeutic-relationships with clients to help them feel understood and empowered. I value your feedback to make sure we are working towards your goals. I hope to create a space that is warm, inviting, and celebrates your authentic self.
![Photo of Valerie Pierre - Valerie Pierre, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42bdfaf1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As an independent licensed mental health counselor, who has full knowledge and experience working in the field throughout the lifespan, I am determined that I will be a great asset to clients who are in need of mental health support. I provide all clients with empathic support and encourage their internal exploration. My practice is a judgment free zone. I provide clients an environment where they will feel safe to discuss and express what they are feeling and coping with.
As an independent licensed mental health counselor, who has full knowledge and experience working in the field throughout the lifespan, I am determined that I will be a great asset to clients who are in need of mental health support. I provide all clients with empathic support and encourage their internal exploration. My practice is a judgment free zone. I provide clients an environment where they will feel safe to discuss and express what they are feeling and coping with.
![Photo of Felicha Laforest - Through the Forest Counseling Inc., LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45489d56-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Through the Forest Counseling Inc.
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roxbury, MA 02120 (Online Only)
Yes, we are accepting new clients please email for an appointment!!! Phone calls will be returned Friday and Saturdays! Life is a journey that we are all on. While on this journey we can sometimes get turned around. This happens to many of us at one point or another. Sometimes it feels like a rut other times it feels overwhelming but clarity is ahead! At Through The Forest Counseling, we specialize in brief solution focus therapies that will assist you in getting to the root of the issue and start healing.
Yes, we are accepting new clients please email for an appointment!!! Phone calls will be returned Friday and Saturdays! Life is a journey that we are all on. While on this journey we can sometimes get turned around. This happens to many of us at one point or another. Sometimes it feels like a rut other times it feels overwhelming but clarity is ahead! At Through The Forest Counseling, we specialize in brief solution focus therapies that will assist you in getting to the root of the issue and start healing.
![Photo of Gordonia Tawanda Cundiff - No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc. , MEd, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20177086-99f9-45e2-be7c-b8832949c82d/1/320x400.jpeg)
No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc.
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Roxbury, MA 02119 (Online Only)
No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc., was formed in 2022 to address the needs of BIPOC families living in the City of Boston to help decrease the stigmas associated with therapy. We are interested in supporting clients with processing complex trauma, mental issues, and healing in non traditional environments that promote healing and recovery. Clients will have the opportunity to choose their in office experience, telehealth, or in-home therapy.
No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc., was formed in 2022 to address the needs of BIPOC families living in the City of Boston to help decrease the stigmas associated with therapy. We are interested in supporting clients with processing complex trauma, mental issues, and healing in non traditional environments that promote healing and recovery. Clients will have the opportunity to choose their in office experience, telehealth, or in-home therapy.
![Photo of Baran Kamyab, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d54a4f6-31cb-4c6d-894b-97e3a56e0873/1/320x400.jpeg)
Baran Kamyab is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 6 years of experience. She specializes in treating women's issues, stress, depression, anxiety, family issues, work-life balance issues, grief, addiction, behavioral issues, and much more.
Baran Kamyab is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 6 years of experience. She specializes in treating women's issues, stress, depression, anxiety, family issues, work-life balance issues, grief, addiction, behavioral issues, and much more.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Lyvia Chriki, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d43a1f7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am highly trained in providing treatment for individuals who have had traumatic experiences and am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and evidence based treatments for PTSD (PE and CPT).
I am licensed in MA and NY. I am straightforward, helping clients achieve behavioral change towards living in line with their values and priorities. I provide treatment that is founded on evidence based principles, meaning that I base treatment on knowledge gleaned from research and science while allowing for flexibility to accommodate to the individuals with whom I work. I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities and work from within an acceptance based cognitive behavior therapy framework. Balancing acceptance of our experiences and channeling our strengths towards behavior change is, I find, the most useful path forward.
I am highly trained in providing treatment for individuals who have had traumatic experiences and am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and evidence based treatments for PTSD (PE and CPT).
I am licensed in MA and NY. I am straightforward, helping clients achieve behavioral change towards living in line with their values and priorities. I provide treatment that is founded on evidence based principles, meaning that I base treatment on knowledge gleaned from research and science while allowing for flexibility to accommodate to the individuals with whom I work. I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities and work from within an acceptance based cognitive behavior therapy framework. Balancing acceptance of our experiences and channeling our strengths towards behavior change is, I find, the most useful path forward.
![Photo of Paola Scardino, LMHC, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eac02b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
And, my treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness based psychotherapy and positive psychology in the context of a trusting and warm relationship.
I believe that we all have the innate ability to thrive and be well in mind, given the right guidance, support and tools. To that goal, I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, couples, adolescents and families in a safe and supportive environment. Some of my specialty areas include anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, relational issues, family conflict, adjusting to life transitions, trauma, multicultural issues and LGBTQ clients.
And, my treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness based psychotherapy and positive psychology in the context of a trusting and warm relationship.
I believe that we all have the innate ability to thrive and be well in mind, given the right guidance, support and tools. To that goal, I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, couples, adolescents and families in a safe and supportive environment. Some of my specialty areas include anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, relational issues, family conflict, adjusting to life transitions, trauma, multicultural issues and LGBTQ clients.
![Photo of Jason Kaufman, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dfc6716-4f42-4c57-aaee-390918031084/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in attachment-oriented individual, couples & family therapy with years of experience helping teens and adults find their way to healthier relationships with themselves and others. My training in DBT, MBT, Relational Life (Terry Real) and Gottmanian couples therapies are the cornerstones of my work improving relationships and well-being. I've aided many badly-bruised relationships. I particularly enjoy working with couples facing trust & communication issues, as well as individuals coping with identity, life-transition, personality & relationship issues. Autism, divorce, narcissism, & men's issues are also specialities.
I specialize in attachment-oriented individual, couples & family therapy with years of experience helping teens and adults find their way to healthier relationships with themselves and others. My training in DBT, MBT, Relational Life (Terry Real) and Gottmanian couples therapies are the cornerstones of my work improving relationships and well-being. I've aided many badly-bruised relationships. I particularly enjoy working with couples facing trust & communication issues, as well as individuals coping with identity, life-transition, personality & relationship issues. Autism, divorce, narcissism, & men's issues are also specialities.
![Photo of Elizabeth Magnavita, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50bf442c-a4e3-45f7-8a8c-4a0dbfebd813/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Magnavita
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02125 (Online Only)
I specialize in CBT, DBT mindfulness therapy, meditation, movement, self-expression, and anxiety treatment.
Welcome! Asking for help is never easy, but it is a huge step! Having someone to support you in your journey can have a powerful impact in your life. I am passionate about helping you make positive changes, navigate life's difficulties, and identify and work towards your goals. My approach focuses on integrative healing, emphasizing balanced self-care, engaging in the arts, nutrition, and exercise and movement. I will bring compassion, creativity, sensitivity, humor, warmth, accountability, and insight to our work together.
I specialize in CBT, DBT mindfulness therapy, meditation, movement, self-expression, and anxiety treatment.
Welcome! Asking for help is never easy, but it is a huge step! Having someone to support you in your journey can have a powerful impact in your life. I am passionate about helping you make positive changes, navigate life's difficulties, and identify and work towards your goals. My approach focuses on integrative healing, emphasizing balanced self-care, engaging in the arts, nutrition, and exercise and movement. I will bring compassion, creativity, sensitivity, humor, warmth, accountability, and insight to our work together.
![Photo of Dr. Peter Ward, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dab539c-9a21-4c97-bd0b-a27e7fb6ff28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Peter Ward
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help people manage stress and treat anxiety, depression and mood disorders using skills-based approaches including CBT and DBT.
I want to work with anyone looking to feel better. I enjoy helping others find relief from anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma and other symptoms or mental health conditions. I help clients find and address what is preventing their ability to function, grow, thrive, or just relax! I also enjoy helping people discover more about themselves and reconnect with their sense of meaning or purpose in life. Therapy takes effort and commitment and, in exchange, provides freedom from suffering. I would love to help you discover the gift I believe therapy can give to you.
I help people manage stress and treat anxiety, depression and mood disorders using skills-based approaches including CBT and DBT.
I want to work with anyone looking to feel better. I enjoy helping others find relief from anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma and other symptoms or mental health conditions. I help clients find and address what is preventing their ability to function, grow, thrive, or just relax! I also enjoy helping people discover more about themselves and reconnect with their sense of meaning or purpose in life. Therapy takes effort and commitment and, in exchange, provides freedom from suffering. I would love to help you discover the gift I believe therapy can give to you.
![Photo of Dr. Yanina Gonzales Blanchard, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d94e6a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I practice integrative psychotherapy and use cognitive and behavioral interventions ( DBT, CBT, ACT) as well as insight oriented and trauma informed therapy.
Currently, accepting referrals for Adult DBT group starting on Sep 12th 2024. I see psychotherapy as a safe place where healing and change are fostered. I help patients to be able to gain awareness of their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they are able to change aspects of themselves that are holding them back from having a self-fulfilling life. I believe that everybody has the capacity to change and live a life worth living. The therapeutic relationship is central. I provide a warm, caring, nonjudgemental and compassionate environment that helps clients to feel supported while working on their goals.
I practice integrative psychotherapy and use cognitive and behavioral interventions ( DBT, CBT, ACT) as well as insight oriented and trauma informed therapy.
Currently, accepting referrals for Adult DBT group starting on Sep 12th 2024. I see psychotherapy as a safe place where healing and change are fostered. I help patients to be able to gain awareness of their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they are able to change aspects of themselves that are holding them back from having a self-fulfilling life. I believe that everybody has the capacity to change and live a life worth living. The therapeutic relationship is central. I provide a warm, caring, nonjudgemental and compassionate environment that helps clients to feel supported while working on their goals.
![Photo of Afreen Nizami, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/103b7b5e-77d2-4177-8374-e6579994841e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Afreen utilizes multiple approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and many more.
Afreen Nizami is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 5 years experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, young adults, and adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Afreen specializes in depression, anxiety, PSTD, grief, trauma, school stress, relationship problems, and life transitions.
Afreen utilizes multiple approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and many more.
Afreen Nizami is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 5 years experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, young adults, and adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Afreen specializes in depression, anxiety, PSTD, grief, trauma, school stress, relationship problems, and life transitions.
![Photo of Dr. Madeleine Gordon, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8997ee19-320b-4482-b0e4-fdfbf4748a05/2/320x400.jpeg)
My work is informed by relational, psychodynamic, family systems, and cognitive and dialectical behavioral theory.
Often, we find ourselves stuck. We repeat ineffective and painful patterns of behavior, and think worrisome and self-critical thoughts. Our past creeps in and impacts our present functioning. We struggle with conflict and communication in our most important relationships. It takes courage to tell your story, whether it is your first time or you have previously engaged in therapy. It is a privilege for me to learn about, and partner with you in pursuit of your goals. I see therapy as a safe and collaborative space to explore yourself, your areas of strength and of growth, and your relationships, without judgement.
My work is informed by relational, psychodynamic, family systems, and cognitive and dialectical behavioral theory.
Often, we find ourselves stuck. We repeat ineffective and painful patterns of behavior, and think worrisome and self-critical thoughts. Our past creeps in and impacts our present functioning. We struggle with conflict and communication in our most important relationships. It takes courage to tell your story, whether it is your first time or you have previously engaged in therapy. It is a privilege for me to learn about, and partner with you in pursuit of your goals. I see therapy as a safe and collaborative space to explore yourself, your areas of strength and of growth, and your relationships, without judgement.
![Photo of Jay Gallagher, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d26fa2ea-ebd0-4c0d-8d04-359fa3dafe60/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jay Gallagher
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02104 (Online Only)
I have a focus on skill building, solutions focused therapy using a CBT/ DBT based approach to help you address and work to improve your ability to cope and help make an impact on your stressful situations.
Therapy should be a place of comfort and compassion, while also being an opportunity build understanding, insight, and skills. I believe in making strong connections with, and being strong advocates for my clients. I have experience treating a wide variety of issues and disorders, especially anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stress/adjustment issues.
I have a focus on skill building, solutions focused therapy using a CBT/ DBT based approach to help you address and work to improve your ability to cope and help make an impact on your stressful situations.
Therapy should be a place of comfort and compassion, while also being an opportunity build understanding, insight, and skills. I believe in making strong connections with, and being strong advocates for my clients. I have experience treating a wide variety of issues and disorders, especially anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stress/adjustment issues.
![Photo of Stephanie Vaughn, PsyD, DBT-LBC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc7e1c4e-7340-4cef-b972-c78ed8ab43ca/5/320x400.png)
Stephanie Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110 (Online Only)
I'm a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They are looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I am also licensed in MA.
I'm a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They are looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I am also licensed in MA.
![Photo of Ciara Ginley, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35cb3f93-80dd-4629-937f-e8568103afdd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ciara Ginley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02127 (Online Only)
In my practice, I utilize elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. I am interested in working with individuals who are dealing with life transitions and relationship issues. Additionally, I work with people around body image and self esteem concerns. I have worked in various mental health settings such as inpatient hospital programs, partial hospitalization programs, an eating disorder treatment facility, and a domestic violence program.
In my practice, I utilize elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. I am interested in working with individuals who are dealing with life transitions and relationship issues. Additionally, I work with people around body image and self esteem concerns. I have worked in various mental health settings such as inpatient hospital programs, partial hospitalization programs, an eating disorder treatment facility, and a domestic violence program.
![Photo of Melissa Bryant, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0093853a-d2d6-4344-86b6-b7e8f9ce0caa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139 (Online Only)
Treatment modalities that I utilize in session with clients ranges from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy( DBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Self Compassion.
I'm a Social Worker licensed to practice in the states of Massachusetts and California trained in treating anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, life transitions, trauma, grief & loss. I am a strong advocate for social justice issues and have a commitment to working with marginalized communities over my 10+ years in the social services field. I have acquired specialized training in working with LGBTQ+ and Aging folks.
Treatment modalities that I utilize in session with clients ranges from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy( DBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Self Compassion.
I'm a Social Worker licensed to practice in the states of Massachusetts and California trained in treating anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, life transitions, trauma, grief & loss. I am a strong advocate for social justice issues and have a commitment to working with marginalized communities over my 10+ years in the social services field. I have acquired specialized training in working with LGBTQ+ and Aging folks.
![Photo of Maggie Sullivan, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b7e9129-af4c-49b3-9a35-e890ba0e4aa6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I began working in mental health in 2009, and became a therapist in 2015. During that time I have worked in a variety of eating disorder and DBT treatment centers, and have enjoyed working with adults and adolescents while they move towards creating positive routines and coping skills to support their goals. I have a warm and supportive approach, and utilize DBT, CBT, mindfulness, humor, and strengths-based treatment with my clients.
I began working in mental health in 2009, and became a therapist in 2015. During that time I have worked in a variety of eating disorder and DBT treatment centers, and have enjoyed working with adults and adolescents while they move towards creating positive routines and coping skills to support their goals. I have a warm and supportive approach, and utilize DBT, CBT, mindfulness, humor, and strengths-based treatment with my clients.
See more therapy options for Roxbury
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Roxbury
- Allston
- Boston
- Brighton
- Brookline
- Brookline Village
- Cambridge
- Charlestown
- Chestnut Hill
- Dorchester
- Jamaica Plain
- Roslindale
- South Boston
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.