Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Wellesley, MA

Photo of Kristin Rajala, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin Rajala
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I tailor evidence-based interventions (CBT, DBT, ACT-informed) that align with my patients expressed personal goals, unique experiences, background/culture, and spiritual beliefs.
I thoroughly enjoy working with patients across the lifespan to address a wide range of behavioral health concerns (mental health, substance use, and physical health conditions). I have particular specialty in treating physical health conditions through psychological interventions including chronic pain and medically unexplained physical symptoms; however, I support clients with an array of other presenting concerns (Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Stress). My clients are often seeking active support in making meaningful changes in their personal, work, or social lives and relationships.
I tailor evidence-based interventions (CBT, DBT, ACT-informed) that align with my patients expressed personal goals, unique experiences, background/culture, and spiritual beliefs.
I thoroughly enjoy working with patients across the lifespan to address a wide range of behavioral health concerns (mental health, substance use, and physical health conditions). I have particular specialty in treating physical health conditions through psychological interventions including chronic pain and medically unexplained physical symptoms; however, I support clients with an array of other presenting concerns (Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Stress). My clients are often seeking active support in making meaningful changes in their personal, work, or social lives and relationships.
(781) 390-9981 View (781) 390-9981
Photo of Jessica Buttner, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Buttner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I draw from CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based interventions to reach my client's goals.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts with over 15 years of clinical experience providing services in English and Spanish in a number of school and community-based settings in the Boston area, and in various locations in Latin America. I love working with adolescents, young adults, and families. I have experience partnering with people experiencing depression. anxiety, trauma ADHD, identity issues, relational challenges and stressors that arise from life transitions.
I draw from CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based interventions to reach my client's goals.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts with over 15 years of clinical experience providing services in English and Spanish in a number of school and community-based settings in the Boston area, and in various locations in Latin America. I love working with adolescents, young adults, and families. I have experience partnering with people experiencing depression. anxiety, trauma ADHD, identity issues, relational challenges and stressors that arise from life transitions.
(774) 338-3241 View (774) 338-3241
Photo of Kubra Aydin, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Kubra Aydin
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
Besides evidence-based interventions like Trauma-Focused CBT, Mindfulness, DBT and ACT; Kubra utilizes empowerment and advocacy to assist clients’ personal growth.
P.S: Please click on "Website" to schedule 15 minutes consultation. Kubra is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor experienced in trauma, depression, anxiety, and relational problems. Her passion for working with a diverse population led her to acquire the Global Mental Health: Immigration and Trauma Certificate from Harvard University. Kubra sees her clients beyond their diagnoses and seeks to bring awareness to societal and environmental challenges that prevent clients from fulfilling their true potential.
Besides evidence-based interventions like Trauma-Focused CBT, Mindfulness, DBT and ACT; Kubra utilizes empowerment and advocacy to assist clients’ personal growth.
P.S: Please click on "Website" to schedule 15 minutes consultation. Kubra is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor experienced in trauma, depression, anxiety, and relational problems. Her passion for working with a diverse population led her to acquire the Global Mental Health: Immigration and Trauma Certificate from Harvard University. Kubra sees her clients beyond their diagnoses and seeks to bring awareness to societal and environmental challenges that prevent clients from fulfilling their true potential.
(617) 675-4586 View (617) 675-4586
Photo of Sara Meldon, PsyD, Psychologist
Sara Meldon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I specialize in DBT, a treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and related problems with emotion regulation.
I work with adults (18+) who have difficulty managing their emotions and who struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, and problems functioning at work or school. I provide evidence-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help my clients change ineffective behavioral patterns, develop more helpful ways of thinking, and accept difficult realities to build the lives they want. I also see clients with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through all stages of the pregnancy and parenthood process.
I specialize in DBT, a treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and related problems with emotion regulation.
I work with adults (18+) who have difficulty managing their emotions and who struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, and problems functioning at work or school. I provide evidence-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help my clients change ineffective behavioral patterns, develop more helpful ways of thinking, and accept difficult realities to build the lives they want. I also see clients with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through all stages of the pregnancy and parenthood process.
(339) 331-1709 View (339) 331-1709
Photo of Amy Howland, LMHC, Counselor
Amy Howland
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I use a blend of CBT, DBT, and ACT to help clients gain an understanding of how their thoughts impact their emotions and reactions, reframe unhelpful thoughts, set clear steps for making behavioral changes, assist in regulating challenging emotions and living a life according to their values.
I believe reading this means you’re taking a brave step forward for yourself. Therapy is about being heard and never judged as you get to know yourself and how you relate to the world around you. My approach is person-centered, featuring warmth, genuineness and compassion. I individualize treatment to my clients' needs, personality and goals. I have experience working with adults with a number of mental health presentations in the outpatient environment.
I use a blend of CBT, DBT, and ACT to help clients gain an understanding of how their thoughts impact their emotions and reactions, reframe unhelpful thoughts, set clear steps for making behavioral changes, assist in regulating challenging emotions and living a life according to their values.
I believe reading this means you’re taking a brave step forward for yourself. Therapy is about being heard and never judged as you get to know yourself and how you relate to the world around you. My approach is person-centered, featuring warmth, genuineness and compassion. I individualize treatment to my clients' needs, personality and goals. I have experience working with adults with a number of mental health presentations in the outpatient environment.
(774) 515-4110 View (774) 515-4110
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
Photo of Nina Lewis-Schroeder, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Nina Lewis-Schroeder
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am also certified in DBT and CBT.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychotherapy for adults with problems coping with trauma, perinatal and reproductive mental health, anxiety, relationship issues, and general life stressors. Finding the right therapist can be challenging - and it's important to find the right "match," both in terms of style and specialization. My therapeutic approach is personalized to address each individual's strengths, needs, and goals but grounded in gold standard, empirically-based treatment approaches. I offer free initial phone sessions so that we can discuss your needs and assess this fit.
I am also certified in DBT and CBT.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychotherapy for adults with problems coping with trauma, perinatal and reproductive mental health, anxiety, relationship issues, and general life stressors. Finding the right therapist can be challenging - and it's important to find the right "match," both in terms of style and specialization. My therapeutic approach is personalized to address each individual's strengths, needs, and goals but grounded in gold standard, empirically-based treatment approaches. I offer free initial phone sessions so that we can discuss your needs and assess this fit.
(617) 249-7675 View (617) 249-7675
Jaclyn Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and enjoy using this skill based modality.
I hope to support you and be an agent of change in your life as you identify and build upon your strength and resilience. I have experience working with all ages using a trauma informed lens while reinforcing interventions and tools with psychoeducation. I feel confident supporting clients struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, complex trauma as well as challenges with self-esteem. I have experience working with survivors of sexual abuse and childhood abuse.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and enjoy using this skill based modality.
I hope to support you and be an agent of change in your life as you identify and build upon your strength and resilience. I have experience working with all ages using a trauma informed lens while reinforcing interventions and tools with psychoeducation. I feel confident supporting clients struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, complex trauma as well as challenges with self-esteem. I have experience working with survivors of sexual abuse and childhood abuse.
(339) 217-9978 View (339) 217-9978
Photo of Grace Fotiades, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grace Fotiades
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I work with teens, adolescents, and young adults both virtually and in-person. I have a passion for collaborating with clients to promote their mental wellness and support them in achieving their goals. I strive to have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by all of my clients. I draw from a wide range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I work with teens, adolescents, and young adults both virtually and in-person. I have a passion for collaborating with clients to promote their mental wellness and support them in achieving their goals. I strive to have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by all of my clients. I draw from a wide range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(774) 515-4395 View (774) 515-4395
Photo of Irena Cafasso, LMHC, Counselor
Irena Cafasso
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
My approach is influenced by a number of counseling styles, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychoanalytic therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness Based Techniques.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
My approach is influenced by a number of counseling styles, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychoanalytic therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness Based Techniques.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
(339) 218-3448 View (339) 218-3448
Photo of Cooper Hastings, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cooper Hastings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with more than 10 years of experience working with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings including private practice, academia and community health. I use a person-centered and strength based approach along with the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused therapies. I have expertise treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, phase of life issues, work and academic stressors, and relationship problems.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with more than 10 years of experience working with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings including private practice, academia and community health. I use a person-centered and strength based approach along with the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused therapies. I have expertise treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, phase of life issues, work and academic stressors, and relationship problems.
(781) 527-4518 View (781) 527-4518
Photo of Anna Berestova, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anna Berestova
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I tailor and implement evidence-based interventions that align with my client's interests and needs, using CBT, DBT, and EMDR approaches.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who present various problems and concerns, such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I believe in the power of early interventions to help children and teens develop healthy boundaries and coping skills and have healthier and happier relationships with themselves and others.
I tailor and implement evidence-based interventions that align with my client's interests and needs, using CBT, DBT, and EMDR approaches.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who present various problems and concerns, such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I believe in the power of early interventions to help children and teens develop healthy boundaries and coping skills and have healthier and happier relationships with themselves and others.
(781) 230-7729 View (781) 230-7729
Photo of Tiana McCrory, LICSW, MSW, C-DBT, CCATP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiana McCrory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, C-DBT, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
Waitlist for new clients
Are you overwhelmed and struggling to make it through the day? Are you a queer person dealing with feelings of identity? Or are you a teen/young adult having a hard time focusing, making friends, or finding your lifestyle? All of this is hard. I'm proud of you for looking for support. I'd love to help. My specific areas of focus include those in the LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as those experiencing grief/loss, ADHD, self-destructive behaviors, anger, depression, PTSD, and substance use. I work with teens, young adults, and adult individuals using evidence-based techniques such as IFS, DBT, CBT, and EFT.
Are you overwhelmed and struggling to make it through the day? Are you a queer person dealing with feelings of identity? Or are you a teen/young adult having a hard time focusing, making friends, or finding your lifestyle? All of this is hard. I'm proud of you for looking for support. I'd love to help. My specific areas of focus include those in the LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as those experiencing grief/loss, ADHD, self-destructive behaviors, anger, depression, PTSD, and substance use. I work with teens, young adults, and adult individuals using evidence-based techniques such as IFS, DBT, CBT, and EFT.
(339) 217-8966 View (339) 217-8966
Photo of Nicki Roth, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicki Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
I mainly employ Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, and Narrative therapy.
Currently accepting new patients in person and online- Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, out of control, or unable to communicate? In my work I meet with adolescents, adults, young adults, and couples. Together we work towards addressing whatever challenges you are facing, including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and trauma. You are the expert in your own life, and working together we will find solutions to challenges, inspire hope, find humor, and gain a deeper understanding of what brings you joy.
I mainly employ Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, and Narrative therapy.
Currently accepting new patients in person and online- Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, out of control, or unable to communicate? In my work I meet with adolescents, adults, young adults, and couples. Together we work towards addressing whatever challenges you are facing, including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and trauma. You are the expert in your own life, and working together we will find solutions to challenges, inspire hope, find humor, and gain a deeper understanding of what brings you joy.
(781) 776-1296 View (781) 776-1296
Photo of Kathryn Boger - InStride Health, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
InStride Health
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
InStride Health specializes in treating young patients whose anxiety or OCD is causing significant impairment in life (ie., school avoidance, social isolation, family disruption, and physical manifestations.) Practicing evidence-based treatment (CBT, ACT, components of DBT) with an emphasis on exposure, the InStride team empowers youth to face their fears and build resilience.
InStride Health specializes in treating young patients whose anxiety or OCD is causing significant impairment in life (ie., school avoidance, social isolation, family disruption, and physical manifestations.) Practicing evidence-based treatment (CBT, ACT, components of DBT) with an emphasis on exposure, the InStride team empowers youth to face their fears and build resilience.
(339) 330-1092 View (339) 330-1092
Photo of Jeff Butts, ABD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Butts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ABD, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
I understand how difficult seeking help can be for many teens. With over 25 years of experience, I'm able to engage the most challenging young people, so they can get the help they need. I specialize in working with teens who are struggling across multiple domains in their lives (school, peers and family). My approach is both trauma-informed and strength based. I have extensive training in ARC (Attachment Regulation and Competency) interventions, DBT, and CBT. My experience running mental health programs affords me a unique understanding of educational, justice and mental health systems.
I understand how difficult seeking help can be for many teens. With over 25 years of experience, I'm able to engage the most challenging young people, so they can get the help they need. I specialize in working with teens who are struggling across multiple domains in their lives (school, peers and family). My approach is both trauma-informed and strength based. I have extensive training in ARC (Attachment Regulation and Competency) interventions, DBT, and CBT. My experience running mental health programs affords me a unique understanding of educational, justice and mental health systems.
(617) 446-5434 View (617) 446-5434
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
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 Dr. Niles Lingard, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Niles Lingard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Selina Lang, LMHC, Counselor
Selina Lang
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) trained Clinician, and I utilize Person-Centered, Positive Psychology, Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Art Therapy approaches.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals having difficulty navigating LGBTQIA2S+ related challenges, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, low self-esteem, life transitions, and trauma. I am LGBTQIA2S+ affirming and antiracist, and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic space where clients feel safe and empowered.
I am a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) trained Clinician, and I utilize Person-Centered, Positive Psychology, Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Art Therapy approaches.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals having difficulty navigating LGBTQIA2S+ related challenges, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, low self-esteem, life transitions, and trauma. I am LGBTQIA2S+ affirming and antiracist, and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic space where clients feel safe and empowered.
(781) 678-7398 View (781) 678-7398
1
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.