Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Weston, MA

Photo of Mary Tate, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Tate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
My approach is strength-based and draws from many principles, including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing and solutions-focused therapy.
It requires a lot of strength and courage to ask for help. Reaching out can be scary and unsettling, but you don't have to do it alone. I acknowledge what it took for you to seek help, and want to provide a safe, warm and comfortable environment for you to talk and open up. A strong therapeutic alliance is the key in ensuring honest, open, and constructive communication. In my sessions, I like to work together as two experts tackling your problems. I am direct, interactive, and genuine and will always be honest and upfront with you.
My approach is strength-based and draws from many principles, including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing and solutions-focused therapy.
It requires a lot of strength and courage to ask for help. Reaching out can be scary and unsettling, but you don't have to do it alone. I acknowledge what it took for you to seek help, and want to provide a safe, warm and comfortable environment for you to talk and open up. A strong therapeutic alliance is the key in ensuring honest, open, and constructive communication. In my sessions, I like to work together as two experts tackling your problems. I am direct, interactive, and genuine and will always be honest and upfront with you.
(214) 949-1259 View (214) 949-1259
Photo of Caroline Balz, MA, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Caroline Balz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
It takes so much courage to begin the process of change! By utilizing Dialectaical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), self-psychology and a relational approach, I believe in a model of full recovery. I also believe that you can't feel good about your self if you don't know who that SELF is. This approach tends to gives you the support necessary to help break the cycles of maladaptive behaviors and live the change you want to see in your life.
It takes so much courage to begin the process of change! By utilizing Dialectaical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), self-psychology and a relational approach, I believe in a model of full recovery. I also believe that you can't feel good about your self if you don't know who that SELF is. This approach tends to gives you the support necessary to help break the cycles of maladaptive behaviors and live the change you want to see in your life.
(617) 882-7075 View (617) 882-7075
Photo of Katharine Thomson, PhD, Psychologist
Katharine Thomson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
I use CBT/ DBT/ACT approaches for individuals (thoughts, emotions, behaviors, skills, acceptance, mindfulness); a Development Model for couples therapy (connections, healthy differentiation); SPACE for parents with children/teens with anxiety/OCD (reducing accommodations), and FBT for parents with teens with eating disorders (family-based therapy).
In addition to my faculty and hospital-based roles, in my private practice I see children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I am licensed in Massachusetts, New York, and British Columbia. Harvard Medical School trained, I deliver evidence-based approaches and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses using a bio-psycho-social model. I welcome all backgrounds and strive for culturally responsive and attuned care. My interventions also include mindfulness and focus on reducing distress and improving relationships, all delivered with warmth, humor, and science.
I use CBT/ DBT/ACT approaches for individuals (thoughts, emotions, behaviors, skills, acceptance, mindfulness); a Development Model for couples therapy (connections, healthy differentiation); SPACE for parents with children/teens with anxiety/OCD (reducing accommodations), and FBT for parents with teens with eating disorders (family-based therapy).
In addition to my faculty and hospital-based roles, in my private practice I see children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I am licensed in Massachusetts, New York, and British Columbia. Harvard Medical School trained, I deliver evidence-based approaches and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses using a bio-psycho-social model. I welcome all backgrounds and strive for culturally responsive and attuned care. My interventions also include mindfulness and focus on reducing distress and improving relationships, all delivered with warmth, humor, and science.
(617) 600-5984 View (617) 600-5984
Photo of Liz Phillips, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
I utilize various treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Grief Counseling, Client Centered Therapy & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I am a mental health therapist who will assist you on your journey to a better sense of self through psychoeducation on ways to cope with various mental health diagnoses, tips to manage personal & professional struggles, & provide overall emotional support. Finding love within yourself, for yourself, leads to a strong foundation that can support one’s growth and ability to cope with difficult life experiences. I aim to alleviate fear & apprehension about the therapeutic process through building genuine relationships with clients. Together we can restore your mental health.
I utilize various treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Grief Counseling, Client Centered Therapy & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I am a mental health therapist who will assist you on your journey to a better sense of self through psychoeducation on ways to cope with various mental health diagnoses, tips to manage personal & professional struggles, & provide overall emotional support. Finding love within yourself, for yourself, leads to a strong foundation that can support one’s growth and ability to cope with difficult life experiences. I aim to alleviate fear & apprehension about the therapeutic process through building genuine relationships with clients. Together we can restore your mental health.
(857) 410-6266 View (857) 410-6266
Photo of Kerrin Messina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerrin Messina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
Some of these approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and acceptance and commitment Therapy (ACT).
Kerrin Messina is a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with 5 years of experience working with individuals that have faced depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, chronic illness, grief/loss, substance use, unemployment, trauma, and adjustments that come with life. She is passionate about helping individuals struggling with self-esteem, end-of-life care, and finding that strength within. Kerrin is currently working on obtaining her independent licensure in the state of Massachusetts. Kerrin received her Master's degree in Social Work from Boise State University.
Some of these approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and acceptance and commitment Therapy (ACT).
Kerrin Messina is a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with 5 years of experience working with individuals that have faced depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, chronic illness, grief/loss, substance use, unemployment, trauma, and adjustments that come with life. She is passionate about helping individuals struggling with self-esteem, end-of-life care, and finding that strength within. Kerrin is currently working on obtaining her independent licensure in the state of Massachusetts. Kerrin received her Master's degree in Social Work from Boise State University.
(617) 766-0192 View (617) 766-0192
Photo of Kate Monaghan, MSS, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Monaghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02193
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 Lena Nganga, LICW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lena Nganga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICW
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
Her approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), client-centered (CCT), solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and motivational interviewing (MI).
Lena Nganga is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with more than 15 years of experience assisting teens, adults, and seniors struggling with mood dysregulation, negative self-talk, anxiety, relationship issues, family concerns, life transitions, and trauma or abuse. Lena graduated with her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Denver. She has worked in several clinical settings, including residential, outpatient settings, and in schools with various ages and diverse backgrounds.
Her approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), client-centered (CCT), solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and motivational interviewing (MI).
Lena Nganga is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with more than 15 years of experience assisting teens, adults, and seniors struggling with mood dysregulation, negative self-talk, anxiety, relationship issues, family concerns, life transitions, and trauma or abuse. Lena graduated with her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Denver. She has worked in several clinical settings, including residential, outpatient settings, and in schools with various ages and diverse backgrounds.
(508) 978-4846 View (508) 978-4846
Photo of Mary P. Cunningham, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary P. Cunningham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02193
I employ a combination of cognitive-behavioral, strength-based, solution-focused, mind-body and dialectical behavior therapy.
Does your teen have worries and negative thoughts or feelings related to school, home or peers? I can help. With over 25 years of experience working with pre-teens, adolescents and adults, I have worked extensively with several schools in the Boston Metrowest area. I understand the intricacies of the home/school connection and am adept at partnering with parents to facilitate collaboration with all providers in the child’s environment. I have successfully worked with adolescents and families to address a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, and ADD/ADHD.
I employ a combination of cognitive-behavioral, strength-based, solution-focused, mind-body and dialectical behavior therapy.
Does your teen have worries and negative thoughts or feelings related to school, home or peers? I can help. With over 25 years of experience working with pre-teens, adolescents and adults, I have worked extensively with several schools in the Boston Metrowest area. I understand the intricacies of the home/school connection and am adept at partnering with parents to facilitate collaboration with all providers in the child’s environment. I have successfully worked with adolescents and families to address a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, and ADD/ADHD.
(978) 307-1367 View (978) 307-1367
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Waltham
Counselor
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
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 Rachel Spring, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Spring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02193  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) offering virtual individual therapy for adults in Massachusetts. Whether you are new to therapy or have been in therapy for years, I'm here to assist you with navigating life's challenges. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, work-related issues, relationship issues, and life transitions for young adults. My therapeutic approach is evidence-based and flexible, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) offering virtual individual therapy for adults in Massachusetts. Whether you are new to therapy or have been in therapy for years, I'm here to assist you with navigating life's challenges. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, work-related issues, relationship issues, and life transitions for young adults. My therapeutic approach is evidence-based and flexible, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
(508) 978-5064 View (508) 978-5064
Photo of Ashley Schwartzman, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Schwartzman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493
I provide evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and depression, dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT) to treat chronic emotional dysregulation and self-harming behaviors, dialectical behavior therapy prolonged exposure ( DBT PE) to treat PTSD, and I use the Gottman Method in providing couples therapy.
I work with adolescents (14+ y/o) and adults who are seeking individual, family, and couples therapy. Many of the adolescents and adults I work with experience general and social anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and may engage in self-harming behaviors or have suicidal ideation. I provide parent/ caregiver coaching to parents who want to improve the quality of their relationship with their children and learn skills of effective conflict management and limit setting. The couples I work with want to learn skills to improve their communication, manage conflict effectively, and rebuild trust and intimacy within their relationship.
I provide evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and depression, dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT) to treat chronic emotional dysregulation and self-harming behaviors, dialectical behavior therapy prolonged exposure ( DBT PE) to treat PTSD, and I use the Gottman Method in providing couples therapy.
I work with adolescents (14+ y/o) and adults who are seeking individual, family, and couples therapy. Many of the adolescents and adults I work with experience general and social anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and may engage in self-harming behaviors or have suicidal ideation. I provide parent/ caregiver coaching to parents who want to improve the quality of their relationship with their children and learn skills of effective conflict management and limit setting. The couples I work with want to learn skills to improve their communication, manage conflict effectively, and rebuild trust and intimacy within their relationship.
(234) 348-3858 View (234) 348-3858
Photo of Dr. Alexandra L Vlahakes, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alexandra L Vlahakes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Vlahakes employs evidence-based therapeutic methods, including dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), relational, and psychodynamic principles.
Alexandra Vlahakes, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Massachusetts. Her specialties include helping adolescents and adults struggling with depression and anxiety, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, bipolar disorder, and people struggling with emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal issues. Dr. Vlahakes takes a particular interest in working with persons struggling with borderline personality, as well as consulting for dissociative disorders. Dr. Vlahakes also provides supervision for license-eligible practitioners as the Director of Clinical Training for Brighter Life Therapy, PLLC.
Vlahakes employs evidence-based therapeutic methods, including dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), relational, and psychodynamic principles.
Alexandra Vlahakes, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Massachusetts. Her specialties include helping adolescents and adults struggling with depression and anxiety, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, bipolar disorder, and people struggling with emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal issues. Dr. Vlahakes takes a particular interest in working with persons struggling with borderline personality, as well as consulting for dissociative disorders. Dr. Vlahakes also provides supervision for license-eligible practitioners as the Director of Clinical Training for Brighter Life Therapy, PLLC.
(617) 936-8770 View (617) 936-8770
Photo of Christopher Diddle, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Diddle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to further address challenges.
As a therapist, I know that hope is obtainable despite feelings or depression or anxiety. Imagining life with hope and happiness can be challenging, but it is possible to achieve. I utilize a strength-based approach with multiple behavioral health techniques and therapies to personalize care of couples or individuals. I help identify and achieve goals while making a connection and developing positive growth and well-being. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, couples, and families.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to further address challenges.
As a therapist, I know that hope is obtainable despite feelings or depression or anxiety. Imagining life with hope and happiness can be challenging, but it is possible to achieve. I utilize a strength-based approach with multiple behavioral health techniques and therapies to personalize care of couples or individuals. I help identify and achieve goals while making a connection and developing positive growth and well-being. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, couples, and families.
(617) 655-8030 View (617) 655-8030
Photo of Claudine Richard, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudine Richard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
Are you feeling off these days? Are there things in your life that are causing dysfunction? Well, if you answered yes to any of these questions, maybe it's time to learn how to better manage the parts of your life that are causing dysfunction. The only way past any difficulty in life is to go through it which can be intimidating, but you do not need to do it alone. I am here for you! My name is Dr. Claudine Richard, and I am a licensed psychotherapist and board-certified sex therapist with over 20 years’ experience helping individuals/ couples/ families overcome difficulties, achieve desired outcomes, and make lasting life changes.
Are you feeling off these days? Are there things in your life that are causing dysfunction? Well, if you answered yes to any of these questions, maybe it's time to learn how to better manage the parts of your life that are causing dysfunction. The only way past any difficulty in life is to go through it which can be intimidating, but you do not need to do it alone. I am here for you! My name is Dr. Claudine Richard, and I am a licensed psychotherapist and board-certified sex therapist with over 20 years’ experience helping individuals/ couples/ families overcome difficulties, achieve desired outcomes, and make lasting life changes.
(617) 229-6793 View (617) 229-6793
Photo of Alicia Southwell, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Southwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
It is not uncommon to realize we are living lives we never planned on. We may be in an active crisis, or a life transition, or we may realize that we are stuck, or that things are just not working. Often, present-day challenges can be traced back to old patterns of relating, perceiving, understanding, and behaving. I help my clients identify and understand old patterns, and then develop greater flexibility in how they relate and respond. I work with them to adopt new practices which will allow them to move away from impasses and towards lives that are more fulfilling, productive and connected.
It is not uncommon to realize we are living lives we never planned on. We may be in an active crisis, or a life transition, or we may realize that we are stuck, or that things are just not working. Often, present-day challenges can be traced back to old patterns of relating, perceiving, understanding, and behaving. I help my clients identify and understand old patterns, and then develop greater flexibility in how they relate and respond. I work with them to adopt new practices which will allow them to move away from impasses and towards lives that are more fulfilling, productive and connected.
(781) 341-7865 View (781) 341-7865
Photo of Maxim Michael Arbuzov - Well Balanced Men PLLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Well Balanced Men PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Maxim Arbuzov, a dedicated psychotherapist specializing in men's mental health, relationship and intimacy issues, sex and porn addiction. I offer my services virtually in the state of Massachusetts, facilitating a comfortable and secure environment for my clients to explore their emotions and challenges. My expertise lies in understanding the unique struggles men can face, and I am committed to assisting them in navigating these obstacles, often unspoken in society, with empathy and professionalism.
Hello, I'm Maxim Arbuzov, a dedicated psychotherapist specializing in men's mental health, relationship and intimacy issues, sex and porn addiction. I offer my services virtually in the state of Massachusetts, facilitating a comfortable and secure environment for my clients to explore their emotions and challenges. My expertise lies in understanding the unique struggles men can face, and I am committed to assisting them in navigating these obstacles, often unspoken in society, with empathy and professionalism.
(508) 413-6966 View (508) 413-6966
Photo of Marykate Shorter, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marykate Shorter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients of many backgrounds, with a variety of goals and challenges. They have all wanted to improve their quality of life through the support that therapy provides.
I have worked with clients of many backgrounds, with a variety of goals and challenges. They have all wanted to improve their quality of life through the support that therapy provides.
(617) 765-9706 View (617) 765-9706
Photo of Jessie Odegard, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessie Odegard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that crisis is an opportunity: to be supported, to grow, to create stronger systems, to process experiences. No crisis is too big or too small. Take the opportunity - you're worth it!
I believe that crisis is an opportunity: to be supported, to grow, to create stronger systems, to process experiences. No crisis is too big or too small. Take the opportunity - you're worth it!
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Photo of Alexa Moubarak, MSW, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexa Moubarak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
You don't need to bear that heavy burden alone. Whatever struggles you're facing, however exhausted or critical you may feel towards yourself, or how bleak things seem right now, know that therapy offers a space to share that weight. Together, we'll take a comprehensive approach to support both your mind and body. We'll delve into the root causes of your challenges, relieve stress through lifestyle adjustments and processing, and learn practical, evidence-based techniques to enhance your daily life. Our goal is to guide your body back to a state of relaxation, where joy can once again be felt.
You don't need to bear that heavy burden alone. Whatever struggles you're facing, however exhausted or critical you may feel towards yourself, or how bleak things seem right now, know that therapy offers a space to share that weight. Together, we'll take a comprehensive approach to support both your mind and body. We'll delve into the root causes of your challenges, relieve stress through lifestyle adjustments and processing, and learn practical, evidence-based techniques to enhance your daily life. Our goal is to guide your body back to a state of relaxation, where joy can once again be felt.
(508) 514-5607 View (508) 514-5607
Photo of Dan Nudel, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dan Nudel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493
The aim of my practice is to help reduce moments of suffering and discomfort while increasing moments of joy, connectedness and resilience. I focus on creating authentic, curious and challenging therapeutic relationships from which my clients and I explore and take on possible pathways to meaningful change. Shifting away from unhelpful patterns in our lives can be scary and overwhelming. I look forward to supporting you as you navigate the pain and joy that can come from the process of seeking positive change.
The aim of my practice is to help reduce moments of suffering and discomfort while increasing moments of joy, connectedness and resilience. I focus on creating authentic, curious and challenging therapeutic relationships from which my clients and I explore and take on possible pathways to meaningful change. Shifting away from unhelpful patterns in our lives can be scary and overwhelming. I look forward to supporting you as you navigate the pain and joy that can come from the process of seeking positive change.
(508) 538-3821 View (508) 538-3821
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.