Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Wellesley Hills, MA

Photo of Kate Monaghan, MSS, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Monaghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
I employ DBT, TF-CBT, and Psychodynamic frameworks.
You are brave for being here. You have done your best as a parent, and yet your child is still struggling. It hurts to see them beating themselves down, and selling themselves short when you know who they are at their best. You've heard them say "I'm not good enough," "no one understands me," or "things would be better if I weren't here." Maybe they've turned to self harm to manage their emotions. You want to protect them, help them heal, and show them the beauty you see when you look at them.
I employ DBT, TF-CBT, and Psychodynamic frameworks.
You are brave for being here. You have done your best as a parent, and yet your child is still struggling. It hurts to see them beating themselves down, and selling themselves short when you know who they are at their best. You've heard them say "I'm not good enough," "no one understands me," or "things would be better if I weren't here." Maybe they've turned to self harm to manage their emotions. You want to protect them, help them heal, and show them the beauty you see when you look at them.
(267) 633-8968 View (267) 633-8968
Photo of Leslie Scheel, PsyD, Psychologist
Leslie Scheel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
Currently accepting referrals! I provide individuals with the space to process challenges and help them identify and address the barriers impeding growth (unhelpful thinking styles, behaviors, relationship patterns, etc). I utilize interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy, and offer flexibility when needed to meet people where they are and address individual needs. I currently work with adolescents (13-17) and adults (18-60). My overall goal for family therapy is to improve communication, understanding, and connection between family members.
Currently accepting referrals! I provide individuals with the space to process challenges and help them identify and address the barriers impeding growth (unhelpful thinking styles, behaviors, relationship patterns, etc). I utilize interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy, and offer flexibility when needed to meet people where they are and address individual needs. I currently work with adolescents (13-17) and adults (18-60). My overall goal for family therapy is to improve communication, understanding, and connection between family members.
(617) 404-2683 View (617) 404-2683
Photo of Kerry Morrison, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerry Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
I use a blend of clinical modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS); Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and other mind/body techniques; DBT; and CBT.
We all have a unique story to tell. Our stories need witnessing, understanding, and even transformation. I believe that therapy provides such a transformative space. It is only in telling our stories, slowing down and recognizing our automatic thoughts and responses that we can reveal our unique inner resources and the truth that we already have everything we need to embrace lives of connection, health, and purpose. It is a creative and collaborative endeavor, navigating internal and external struggles, organizing thoughts and feelings, identifying patterns, and being curious about our own (and each other’s ’) stories.
I use a blend of clinical modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS); Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and other mind/body techniques; DBT; and CBT.
We all have a unique story to tell. Our stories need witnessing, understanding, and even transformation. I believe that therapy provides such a transformative space. It is only in telling our stories, slowing down and recognizing our automatic thoughts and responses that we can reveal our unique inner resources and the truth that we already have everything we need to embrace lives of connection, health, and purpose. It is a creative and collaborative endeavor, navigating internal and external struggles, organizing thoughts and feelings, identifying patterns, and being curious about our own (and each other’s ’) stories.
(508) 501-8203 View (508) 501-8203
Photo of Stefanie Acierno, MEd, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefanie Acierno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Stefanie employs a range of strategies, drawing on her expertise in CBT and DBT, to inspire and support individuals.
Stefanie Acierno, LICSW, is a seasoned psychotherapist with 25+ years in behavioral health, based in Massachusetts. She specializes in attachment styles, anxiety, stress, OCD, intrusive thoughts, and ADD/ADHD. Stefanie’s approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to enhance self-confidence, self-awareness, and break unhealthy patterns. She offers tailored, compassionate support to adults, college students, and athletes, fostering personal growth and emotional resilience.
Stefanie employs a range of strategies, drawing on her expertise in CBT and DBT, to inspire and support individuals.
Stefanie Acierno, LICSW, is a seasoned psychotherapist with 25+ years in behavioral health, based in Massachusetts. She specializes in attachment styles, anxiety, stress, OCD, intrusive thoughts, and ADD/ADHD. Stefanie’s approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to enhance self-confidence, self-awareness, and break unhealthy patterns. She offers tailored, compassionate support to adults, college students, and athletes, fostering personal growth and emotional resilience.
(857) 370-5436 View (857) 370-5436
Photo of Kimberly N Dziama, LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly N Dziama
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
Seeking help is a sign of personal strength and courage. I work with clients who are struggling with a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, marital conflict, relationship difficulties and self esteem issues. My goal is to help clients with life challenges that interfere with their happiness and well-being.
Seeking help is a sign of personal strength and courage. I work with clients who are struggling with a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, marital conflict, relationship difficulties and self esteem issues. My goal is to help clients with life challenges that interfere with their happiness and well-being.
(781) 546-4303 View (781) 546-4303
Photo of Dr. Mitch Abblett, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Mitch Abblett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
As a Boston-area psychologist for over 15 years, I focus on mindfulness-based work with teens, parents, families with whom I facilitate healthy change and growth. I have clinical experience from various settings (hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential facilities & therapeutic schools). For over a decade, I served as the Clinical Director of the Manville School at Judge Baker Children's Center in Boston - a Harvard-affiliated therapeutic school program for kids with emotional, behavioral and learning difficulties. I also recently served as the Executive Director of the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy (IMP) in Boston.
As a Boston-area psychologist for over 15 years, I focus on mindfulness-based work with teens, parents, families with whom I facilitate healthy change and growth. I have clinical experience from various settings (hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential facilities & therapeutic schools). For over a decade, I served as the Clinical Director of the Manville School at Judge Baker Children's Center in Boston - a Harvard-affiliated therapeutic school program for kids with emotional, behavioral and learning difficulties. I also recently served as the Executive Director of the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy (IMP) in Boston.
(774) 237-2098 View (774) 237-2098
Photo of Karen Silver, PsyD, Psychologist
Karen Silver
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
I work well with with adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with a wide range of issues including social and generalized anxiety, OCD, panic, depression, self-esteem and emotion-regulation. I also enjoy working with individuals going through significant life transitions, such as adjustment to college, parenting, or divorce.
I work well with with adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with a wide range of issues including social and generalized anxiety, OCD, panic, depression, self-esteem and emotion-regulation. I also enjoy working with individuals going through significant life transitions, such as adjustment to college, parenting, or divorce.
(781) 549-9757 View (781) 549-9757
Photo of Renée MacLean, MSW, LADC I, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Renée MacLean
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LADC I
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating Substance Use Disorder (SUD) with 17+ years experience helping people recover from drug and alcohol addiction, along with also treating anxiety, depression and other co-occurring disorders such as Personality Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder.
I specialize in treating Substance Use Disorder (SUD) with 17+ years experience helping people recover from drug and alcohol addiction, along with also treating anxiety, depression and other co-occurring disorders such as Personality Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder.
(857) 688-0408 View (857) 688-0408
Photo of Heidi Wells, PsyD, Psychologist
Heidi Wells
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in DBT, mindfulness, IFS, inner child work, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapy.
Are you struggling with narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma or issues related to divorce? These are my specialty. My style incorporates several techniques. I’m influenced by positive psychology, body-based therapy, and relational therapies. Focusing on self-love is crucial for all issues! My goal is to assure that you feel supported and that you have tools to help you between our sessions. There are skills that you can incorporate into your daily life to help with all this. Let’s do that together!
I am trained in DBT, mindfulness, IFS, inner child work, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapy.
Are you struggling with narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma or issues related to divorce? These are my specialty. My style incorporates several techniques. I’m influenced by positive psychology, body-based therapy, and relational therapies. Focusing on self-love is crucial for all issues! My goal is to assure that you feel supported and that you have tools to help you between our sessions. There are skills that you can incorporate into your daily life to help with all this. Let’s do that together!
(207) 747-3966 View (207) 747-3966

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nicky Fitzpatrick, LMHC, Counselor
Nicky Fitzpatrick
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques, including cognitive restructuring and building distress tolerance skills.
I pride myself on taking a collaborative, humanistic approach with all of my clients. I use a relational and developmental lens to meet individuals where they are at. I specialize in working with young adults and older adolescents to support the exploration of life transitions, relationships and relationship patterns, and identity development.
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques, including cognitive restructuring and building distress tolerance skills.
I pride myself on taking a collaborative, humanistic approach with all of my clients. I use a relational and developmental lens to meet individuals where they are at. I specialize in working with young adults and older adolescents to support the exploration of life transitions, relationships and relationship patterns, and identity development.
(774) 228-7456 View (774) 228-7456
Lindsay Amateis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02181
I have training in DBT skills and I am a certified Cognitive Processing Therapy Provider for PTSD.
I am a licensed independent social worker specializing in psychotherapy for adults and adolescents with trauma (PTSD, CPTSD), emotional difficulties, dissociative disorders, depression, and anxiety. I also enjoy working with folks going through life transitions, exploring their identity, or seeking to improve their relationships. I use a blend of psychodynamic and relational approaches as well as skills building and tailor each treatment to the needs of the individual. I believe you are the expert on yourself and I strive to cultivate a safe and supportive environment that is nonjudgmental.
I have training in DBT skills and I am a certified Cognitive Processing Therapy Provider for PTSD.
I am a licensed independent social worker specializing in psychotherapy for adults and adolescents with trauma (PTSD, CPTSD), emotional difficulties, dissociative disorders, depression, and anxiety. I also enjoy working with folks going through life transitions, exploring their identity, or seeking to improve their relationships. I use a blend of psychodynamic and relational approaches as well as skills building and tailor each treatment to the needs of the individual. I believe you are the expert on yourself and I strive to cultivate a safe and supportive environment that is nonjudgmental.
(617) 958-8722 View (617) 958-8722
Tyler Swanberg
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
My focus is on promoting this innate desire to change by utilizing evidence based therapy techniques such as CBT and DBT.
I enjoy working with adults and adolescents from diverse backgrounds and take a client-centered, solutions-focused approach to therapy. I have experience treating clients with a range of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, PTSD/trauma-related disorders, among many others. If you are struggling in life, know you are not alone, and choosing to begin therapy can be an excellent way to kickstart your mental health journey and work towards the life you've always envisioned for yourself. My goal is to help you along every step of this journey, no matter what barriers lie in your way.
My focus is on promoting this innate desire to change by utilizing evidence based therapy techniques such as CBT and DBT.
I enjoy working with adults and adolescents from diverse backgrounds and take a client-centered, solutions-focused approach to therapy. I have experience treating clients with a range of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, PTSD/trauma-related disorders, among many others. If you are struggling in life, know you are not alone, and choosing to begin therapy can be an excellent way to kickstart your mental health journey and work towards the life you've always envisioned for yourself. My goal is to help you along every step of this journey, no matter what barriers lie in your way.
(781) 390-4863 View (781) 390-4863
Photo of Stephanie Boyton, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Boyton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
Various therapeutic techniques are implemented, including CBT, DBT, strength-based, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused; however, I believe therapy is a collaborative process.
My ideal client would be new to therapy, though motivated to change. I am aware of the challenges that come with seeking therapy and want to be a support to those who are hesitant with the process. Ideally, I would like a client who is self-aware, receptive to feedback, and willing to hold themselves accountable.
Various therapeutic techniques are implemented, including CBT, DBT, strength-based, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused; however, I believe therapy is a collaborative process.
My ideal client would be new to therapy, though motivated to change. I am aware of the challenges that come with seeking therapy and want to be a support to those who are hesitant with the process. Ideally, I would like a client who is self-aware, receptive to feedback, and willing to hold themselves accountable.
(508) 501-3730 View (508) 501-3730
Photo of Dr. Niles Lingard, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Niles Lingard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
My approach combines behavioral and mindfulness-based interventions from Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
Glad you made it here…I would like to acknowledge that effort from the start. Are emotions driving your behaviors more often than you would like? Is the internal conversation you have with yourself becoming more hostile and critical? Are you finding time slip away onto a phone, bottle, or other mindlessness? Are you looking for ways to find calmness, self-compassion, and connection? I am hopeful I can help you to ease your suffering.
My approach combines behavioral and mindfulness-based interventions from Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
Glad you made it here…I would like to acknowledge that effort from the start. Are emotions driving your behaviors more often than you would like? Is the internal conversation you have with yourself becoming more hostile and critical? Are you finding time slip away onto a phone, bottle, or other mindlessness? Are you looking for ways to find calmness, self-compassion, and connection? I am hopeful I can help you to ease your suffering.
(339) 217-5088 View (339) 217-5088
Photo of Emma Barrows, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Barrows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02492  (Online Only)
My approach is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and trauma-informed practices.
Now accepting new clients with BCBS! Hi! My name is Emma Barrows and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I am committed to helping individuals and families who may be facing a variety of life’s challenges, such as relationship difficulties, stress in transitions, family conflict, stress at school or in the workplace, or dealing with chronic medical conditions. I provide a nonjudgemental space with the purpose of identifying personal values and goals to tailor strategies that will help you (or a loved on) lead a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
My approach is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and trauma-informed practices.
Now accepting new clients with BCBS! Hi! My name is Emma Barrows and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I am committed to helping individuals and families who may be facing a variety of life’s challenges, such as relationship difficulties, stress in transitions, family conflict, stress at school or in the workplace, or dealing with chronic medical conditions. I provide a nonjudgemental space with the purpose of identifying personal values and goals to tailor strategies that will help you (or a loved on) lead a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
(857) 420-6807 View (857) 420-6807
Photo of Julia Diamant : Diamond Therapy, CAGS, LMHC, Counselor
Julia Diamant : Diamond Therapy
Counselor, CAGS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02192  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with youth, teenage and young adult populations, and utilize a variation of therapeutic approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, DBT & Mindfulness, CBT and other techniques to support and engage youth in sessions.
"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." - Carl Rogers. Therapy is a deeply personal journey involving an array of emotions waiting to be discovered and explored. You deserve to be heard and supported through life's unpredictable moments and events, and I welcome you to share your experiences, obstacles, and thoughts in a comfortable, safe and encouraging space where you can unearth and be your authentic self.
I specialize in working with youth, teenage and young adult populations, and utilize a variation of therapeutic approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, DBT & Mindfulness, CBT and other techniques to support and engage youth in sessions.
"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." - Carl Rogers. Therapy is a deeply personal journey involving an array of emotions waiting to be discovered and explored. You deserve to be heard and supported through life's unpredictable moments and events, and I welcome you to share your experiences, obstacles, and thoughts in a comfortable, safe and encouraging space where you can unearth and be your authentic self.
(774) 484-7462 View (774) 484-7462
Photo of Jillian Burley - Birch Hill Behavioral Health, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Birch Hill Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
We offer specialty care in DBT/CBT, EMDR, health psychology (mind/body), and trauma-focused treatment.
Birch Hill Behavioral Health (BHBH) is a specialty group practice, offering thoughtful and tailored evidence-based treatments for adolescents and adults presenting with unique backgrounds, preferences, strengths, and challenges. We strive for a thorough understanding of our clients, their symptoms and concerns, and their expressed goals. This informs an individualized, integrative, and collaboratively-determined treatment plan. We value transparency in the treatment process, as well as a warm, interactive approach. You can expect your therapist to provide specific recommendations for your care.
We offer specialty care in DBT/CBT, EMDR, health psychology (mind/body), and trauma-focused treatment.
Birch Hill Behavioral Health (BHBH) is a specialty group practice, offering thoughtful and tailored evidence-based treatments for adolescents and adults presenting with unique backgrounds, preferences, strengths, and challenges. We strive for a thorough understanding of our clients, their symptoms and concerns, and their expressed goals. This informs an individualized, integrative, and collaboratively-determined treatment plan. We value transparency in the treatment process, as well as a warm, interactive approach. You can expect your therapist to provide specific recommendations for your care.
(781) 253-8493 View (781) 253-8493
Photo of Leah DeTellis, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah DeTellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Needham, MA 02192  (Online Only)
I integrate elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy into my practice.
In recent times life can seem overwhelming. I can help you to make your life feel more manageable. I aim to be gentle and caring with my clients. I don't want to push anyone more than they are ready for. I will, however, help you to challenge thought patterns and beliefs that might be holding you back. I am an LICSW offering affirming, nurturing therapy to adults and adolescents. Many of my clients are young women managing relationship issues, work, and/or parenting; and members of the LGBTQIA? community.
I integrate elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy into my practice.
In recent times life can seem overwhelming. I can help you to make your life feel more manageable. I aim to be gentle and caring with my clients. I don't want to push anyone more than they are ready for. I will, however, help you to challenge thought patterns and beliefs that might be holding you back. I am an LICSW offering affirming, nurturing therapy to adults and adolescents. Many of my clients are young women managing relationship issues, work, and/or parenting; and members of the LGBTQIA? community.
(774) 250-3528 View (774) 250-3528
Photo of Rachael Gorton, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Gorton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02181  (Online Only)
As an eclectic therapist, I primarily utilize elements of CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Solution focused, Motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and supportive therapies.
Though embarking on a therapy journey can be intimidating, it is also a profound act of strength, bravery, and self love. Thank you for considering me to travel this road with you. I take an eclectic approach to therapy - utilizing a variety of treatment styles - that is non judgmental, inclusive, compassionate, and curious. Every patient is different, so I provide therapy that is patient centered and individualized to each person's needs. I am passionate about providing therapy to all those who need it, especially women and non-binary folx, new parents, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
As an eclectic therapist, I primarily utilize elements of CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Solution focused, Motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and supportive therapies.
Though embarking on a therapy journey can be intimidating, it is also a profound act of strength, bravery, and self love. Thank you for considering me to travel this road with you. I take an eclectic approach to therapy - utilizing a variety of treatment styles - that is non judgmental, inclusive, compassionate, and curious. Every patient is different, so I provide therapy that is patient centered and individualized to each person's needs. I am passionate about providing therapy to all those who need it, especially women and non-binary folx, new parents, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(781) 650-2876 View (781) 650-2876
Nathan Dworkin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
My approach to therapy is patient-centered and flexible, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), psychodynamic, and existential models.
I am a clinical psychology doctoral student at William James College, and an intern at Birch Hill Behavioral Health. I specialize in working with teenage boys and young men, particularly around issues related to identity, interpersonal relationships, and mental health. I’ve worked with a variety of concerns, including mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and substance use, as well as individuals at high risk for self-harm or suicide.
My approach to therapy is patient-centered and flexible, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), psychodynamic, and existential models.
I am a clinical psychology doctoral student at William James College, and an intern at Birch Hill Behavioral Health. I specialize in working with teenage boys and young men, particularly around issues related to identity, interpersonal relationships, and mental health. I’ve worked with a variety of concerns, including mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and substance use, as well as individuals at high risk for self-harm or suicide.
(781) 317-6831 x103 View (781) 317-6831 x103

See more therapy options for Wellesley Hills

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.