Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Largo, MD
![Photo of Khristine Heflin, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4536a60-3935-4cda-819f-3ad4d26dea2e/1/320x400.png)
Khristine Heflin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774 (Online Only)
The therapy models that I often integrate into my sessions are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Many parents and caregivers don’t like to say this out loud, but some of the ongoing behavioral issues you face with your child make it hard to like them. You love them dearly, but when your child repeatedly has tantrums, trouble listening, or following directions, it’s difficult to maintain a strong connection with them. You need a judgment-free zone where you can learn effective techniques for managing your child’s behavior and strengthening your relationship with them. Parent-Child Interactive Training may be perfect for you. With nearly 20 years of clinical experience working with youth, I'd love to help you turn things around.
The therapy models that I often integrate into my sessions are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Many parents and caregivers don’t like to say this out loud, but some of the ongoing behavioral issues you face with your child make it hard to like them. You love them dearly, but when your child repeatedly has tantrums, trouble listening, or following directions, it’s difficult to maintain a strong connection with them. You need a judgment-free zone where you can learn effective techniques for managing your child’s behavior and strengthening your relationship with them. Parent-Child Interactive Training may be perfect for you. With nearly 20 years of clinical experience working with youth, I'd love to help you turn things around.
![Photo of Melissa Stephenson, MHS-C, LCPC, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66303c63-de07-499f-98cf-868a70b2bcf2/3/320x400.jpeg)
"I Believe In Life On Life Terms" that mainly entailed the provision of counseling services to consumers of various ages in the homes/community reporting a history of trauma, abuse, economic poverty, homeless, lack of adult guidance, substance use that precipitated unhealthy learned behaviors to survive. The consumer’s needs were individualized based on the uniqueness of each personality and life dynamics. Within the therapeutic process and environment, the need was a genuine, safe environment of emotional support and acceptance towards desired changes.
"I Believe In Life On Life Terms" that mainly entailed the provision of counseling services to consumers of various ages in the homes/community reporting a history of trauma, abuse, economic poverty, homeless, lack of adult guidance, substance use that precipitated unhealthy learned behaviors to survive. The consumer’s needs were individualized based on the uniqueness of each personality and life dynamics. Within the therapeutic process and environment, the need was a genuine, safe environment of emotional support and acceptance towards desired changes.
![Photo of Next Place Therapy Services Llc Group Practice - Next Place Therapy Services, LLC Group Practice, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87118194-32a4-416d-9440-6085429e2d00/1/320x400.jpeg)
Next Place Therapy Services, LLC Group Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774
Contact us, we have immediate openings! Is your child or teen struggling emotionally? We specialize in tailored interventions for children and teens aged 3 to 16 and their families. Our 6 therapists have openings after school and Saturdays. We offer a safe space where your child can freely express themselves and learn valuable coping skills to navigate life's challenges. With immediate in-person openings and are self-pay $175 a session, and can use your out-of-network benefits to submit for reimbursement. Contact Sabra Starnes, Owner, today at 301-531-4227 to discuss starting therapy today. Check our website at sabrastarnes.com.
Contact us, we have immediate openings! Is your child or teen struggling emotionally? We specialize in tailored interventions for children and teens aged 3 to 16 and their families. Our 6 therapists have openings after school and Saturdays. We offer a safe space where your child can freely express themselves and learn valuable coping skills to navigate life's challenges. With immediate in-person openings and are self-pay $175 a session, and can use your out-of-network benefits to submit for reimbursement. Contact Sabra Starnes, Owner, today at 301-531-4227 to discuss starting therapy today. Check our website at sabrastarnes.com.
![Photo of Curtis Clair, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48953911-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Congratulations on taking the first step in dealing with the issue(s) that may be affecting you. This is the first step in getting the necessary coping strategies needed for you to continue to move forward. I believe that all things have a beginning and an end. Everything in the middle of those two points is the walk that you must make in order to accomplish the goals that you set out to achieve. Together, we will meet your goals.
Congratulations on taking the first step in dealing with the issue(s) that may be affecting you. This is the first step in getting the necessary coping strategies needed for you to continue to move forward. I believe that all things have a beginning and an end. Everything in the middle of those two points is the walk that you must make in order to accomplish the goals that you set out to achieve. Together, we will meet your goals.
![Photo of Ongisa Ichile-McKenzie, LGMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/557e21c2-d476-4a7a-b1aa-2a06a5cdf359/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ongisa Ichile-McKenzie
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774 (Online Only)
I’m Ongisa, a Couple and Family Therapist with a specialty in human communication. I work extensively with individuals and couples. I often find that communication breakdowns are at the center of unhappy relationships. Poor communication can leave partners feeling unsafe, misunderstood, and exhausted. If you’re currently experiencing distress or a disconnect in a relationship that genuinely matters to you, then I’m your person.
I’m Ongisa, a Couple and Family Therapist with a specialty in human communication. I work extensively with individuals and couples. I often find that communication breakdowns are at the center of unhappy relationships. Poor communication can leave partners feeling unsafe, misunderstood, and exhausted. If you’re currently experiencing distress or a disconnect in a relationship that genuinely matters to you, then I’m your person.
![Photo of Reina Arevalo - The Therapy Factory, LLC Reina Arevalo, MEd, LCPC, CTRP-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9072a456-ccd6-47a1-b176-969ffa9c5588/1/320x400.png)
The Therapy Factory, LLC Reina Arevalo
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, CTRP-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or sadness? Struggling to manage ADHD symptoms that impact your daily life? I'm here to support you on your journey toward greater well-being and personal growth. My approach is warm, empathetic, and tailored to your unique needs. I believe in a collaborative and strengths-based approach to therapy. With years of experience, I've helped countless individuals navigate these challenges and discover effective strategies for managing their symptoms. Together, we'll set achievable goals to empower you to live a balanced life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or sadness? Struggling to manage ADHD symptoms that impact your daily life? I'm here to support you on your journey toward greater well-being and personal growth. My approach is warm, empathetic, and tailored to your unique needs. I believe in a collaborative and strengths-based approach to therapy. With years of experience, I've helped countless individuals navigate these challenges and discover effective strategies for managing their symptoms. Together, we'll set achievable goals to empower you to live a balanced life.
![Photo of Briana DeNeal-Findley - The Bee Network, DPA, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c597c2a7-9ebf-44c0-97f3-70119ed07d4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Bee Network
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DPA, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774 (Online Only)
The Bee Network is more than a mental health practice; it's a sanctuary where healing begins and flourishes for people of color. Our team of compassionate Black clinicians pioneers in creating safe spaces for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), ensuring that every voice is heard, and every story is honored. Our therapist specialize in helping clients in navigating the complexities of relationships, trauma, and grief, we understand that wellness transcends individual care—it encompasses all the bonds you cherish.
The Bee Network is more than a mental health practice; it's a sanctuary where healing begins and flourishes for people of color. Our team of compassionate Black clinicians pioneers in creating safe spaces for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), ensuring that every voice is heard, and every story is honored. Our therapist specialize in helping clients in navigating the complexities of relationships, trauma, and grief, we understand that wellness transcends individual care—it encompasses all the bonds you cherish.
![Photo of Marilyn Denise Grayned Price, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d77b7cb-e238-42ba-91c5-1c6d1bc5b969/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marilyn Denise Grayned Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
Marilyn D. Grayned Price, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW is the founder and President of Ms. and Mr. Little Ones, Incorporated. Marilyn's dedication to empowering individuals can best be acknowledged by her extensive background domestically and abroad. She has dedicated over 20 years assisting individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds using evidence-based practices that have led to healthy and sustainable positive outcomes. Marilyn is a servant to the community and believes paying it forward is the way to empower individuals and families to obtain their highest potential and change social injustice.
Marilyn D. Grayned Price, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW is the founder and President of Ms. and Mr. Little Ones, Incorporated. Marilyn's dedication to empowering individuals can best be acknowledged by her extensive background domestically and abroad. She has dedicated over 20 years assisting individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds using evidence-based practices that have led to healthy and sustainable positive outcomes. Marilyn is a servant to the community and believes paying it forward is the way to empower individuals and families to obtain their highest potential and change social injustice.
![Photo of Tatiana Ellerbe, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72425d0e-43d3-45e5-ac90-dc78ebb9fc5f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you trying to navigate systems of oppression with grace for yourself? Are you looking to be kept company in the hard parts of being a person? Are you motivated to remain curious and step out of your comfort zone? Are you looking for support in finding a sweet spot between codependency and individualism in your relationships? If so, I look forward to connecting and beginning our journey together.
Are you trying to navigate systems of oppression with grace for yourself? Are you looking to be kept company in the hard parts of being a person? Are you motivated to remain curious and step out of your comfort zone? Are you looking for support in finding a sweet spot between codependency and individualism in your relationships? If so, I look forward to connecting and beginning our journey together.
![Photo of Markisha Bennett, PsyD, MSW, RYT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/942e3524-eb68-4395-a1c3-8b178a89997d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Markisha Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774
Not accepting new clients
I am currently full and not accepting new clients. Welcome to Knowledge of Therapeutic Services! A psycho therapeutic practice with the sole mission of meeting you where you are and supporting you on your journey to psychological, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. I work with a wide array of clients who have experienced setbacks from exposure to trauma, grief, and life stressors. Wherever you are on your trauma recovery journey, my goal is to help you face the past, heal the present, and create your best quality life for the future.
I am currently full and not accepting new clients. Welcome to Knowledge of Therapeutic Services! A psycho therapeutic practice with the sole mission of meeting you where you are and supporting you on your journey to psychological, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. I work with a wide array of clients who have experienced setbacks from exposure to trauma, grief, and life stressors. Wherever you are on your trauma recovery journey, my goal is to help you face the past, heal the present, and create your best quality life for the future.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Iyamide House - Sabanoh Mental Health, NCC, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437f1250-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sabanoh Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
We have been intensively trained in innovative practices that are guaranteed to improve your day to day life (like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused therapy).
Are all the pieces in your life falling into place except one area and you just can't figure out why? Sabanoh Mental Health is a practice dedicated to women who need an ear, an objective voice, and a place where they can truly be themselves, in a judgement free zone. Our goal is to help women find peace and balance so they can be their best selves. Sabanoh works with clients on issues like stress, grief & loss, self-harm, and extreme hopelessness.
We have been intensively trained in innovative practices that are guaranteed to improve your day to day life (like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused therapy).
Are all the pieces in your life falling into place except one area and you just can't figure out why? Sabanoh Mental Health is a practice dedicated to women who need an ear, an objective voice, and a place where they can truly be themselves, in a judgement free zone. Our goal is to help women find peace and balance so they can be their best selves. Sabanoh works with clients on issues like stress, grief & loss, self-harm, and extreme hopelessness.
![Photo of Tammie Hedgeman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bc440b0-a69d-4b74-870e-e1d39539f914/1/320x400.png)
Tammie Hedgeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
After intake, I create a clinical intervention plan that may include but not limited to CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Psycho-education.
Parents often face tremendous challenges in 'interpreting' the behaviors of their children. We all have our own lense with which we view our world with. I work with children and parents to learn to speak the same language. Learning the triggers of your child will help you as a parent determine the right approach in supporting your youth. I enjoy working with teens and young adults to give them the safe space to bring their challenging thoughts and feelings. I help the client not only learn more about themselves but also provide the language and skill to engage with their support system in a healthy manner.
After intake, I create a clinical intervention plan that may include but not limited to CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Psycho-education.
Parents often face tremendous challenges in 'interpreting' the behaviors of their children. We all have our own lense with which we view our world with. I work with children and parents to learn to speak the same language. Learning the triggers of your child will help you as a parent determine the right approach in supporting your youth. I enjoy working with teens and young adults to give them the safe space to bring their challenging thoughts and feelings. I help the client not only learn more about themselves but also provide the language and skill to engage with their support system in a healthy manner.
![Photo of Jade Vega, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec1960f2-abc0-4750-ae02-43ddf29305ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
I practice primarily using expressive arts, mindfulness-based, and dialectical behavioral therapy strategies.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
I practice primarily using expressive arts, mindfulness-based, and dialectical behavioral therapy strategies.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
![Photo of Syreeta Moody - Special Hands Outreach, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac374eec-9548-45fb-9edf-e2e1647f047e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Special Hands Outreach
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 (Online Only)
I offer a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and psychodynamic therapy.
My primary commitment is to provide a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I understand that seeking support can be a courageous step, and I commend you for taking it. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in the inherent strength and resilience within each individual, and my role is to help you tap into these resources to navigate life's challenges more effectively. Together, we will work to identify your goals, uncover underlying patterns, and develop personalized strategies for your growth and healing.
I offer a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and psychodynamic therapy.
My primary commitment is to provide a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I understand that seeking support can be a courageous step, and I commend you for taking it. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in the inherent strength and resilience within each individual, and my role is to help you tap into these resources to navigate life's challenges more effectively. Together, we will work to identify your goals, uncover underlying patterns, and develop personalized strategies for your growth and healing.
![Photo of Emily Padin-Neidenberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa4b1580-e555-4f24-bfe2-323bdbd5c208/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Padin-Neidenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20721 (Online Only)
Using a combination of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, and EFT, I ensure that therapy with me offers a balanced blend of tangible tools along with a supportive environment where you feel comfortable embracing you.
Are you in the midst of a challenging life transition that’s causing anxiety or depression? Maybe you struggle with addiction and need additional support. If you’re in a committed relationship, perhaps you and your partner want to heal past wounds, create healthier habits, or strengthen your emotional connection. As a licensed counselor, I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach that will empower you to make the changes you've always wanted for yourself.
Using a combination of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, and EFT, I ensure that therapy with me offers a balanced blend of tangible tools along with a supportive environment where you feel comfortable embracing you.
Are you in the midst of a challenging life transition that’s causing anxiety or depression? Maybe you struggle with addiction and need additional support. If you’re in a committed relationship, perhaps you and your partner want to heal past wounds, create healthier habits, or strengthen your emotional connection. As a licensed counselor, I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach that will empower you to make the changes you've always wanted for yourself.
![Photo of Dr. Anjelica Jackson Todd, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c42972d3-c2d6-4d09-a929-244771568b64/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Anjelica Jackson Todd
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20721 (Online Only)
I am a nationally certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and have been intensively-trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Culturally-responsive therapy for everyone, everywhere. That’s my motto. I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy—whether you’re looking for help navigating life’s challenges, improving your relationships, confronting unhelpful habits, or pursuing personal growth. I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, tailoring treatment to meet the specific needs of each client while incorporating approaches supported by research.
I am a nationally certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and have been intensively-trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Culturally-responsive therapy for everyone, everywhere. That’s my motto. I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy—whether you’re looking for help navigating life’s challenges, improving your relationships, confronting unhelpful habits, or pursuing personal growth. I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, tailoring treatment to meet the specific needs of each client while incorporating approaches supported by research.
![Photo of Michelle Glenn, LICSW, LCSW-C, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c4f0eac-8948-42a5-b348-1e357a87064c/1/320x400.png)
Michelle Glenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 (Online Only)
Michelle has formalized training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and MBSR.
I am Michelle, a body positive BIPOC clinician and LGBTQIA+ ally with specialized experience in trauma-informed psychotherapy working with survivors of intimate partner violence, complex PTSD, disruption of childhood attachment, PTSD, acute stress, mood and anxiety disorders. Are you looking for someone who just gets you? Someone who is going to hold up a mirror and help you face your fears? In a way that challenges you, so you can develop tools you can use for the rest of your life? Visit my website to make an appointment today!
Michelle has formalized training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and MBSR.
I am Michelle, a body positive BIPOC clinician and LGBTQIA+ ally with specialized experience in trauma-informed psychotherapy working with survivors of intimate partner violence, complex PTSD, disruption of childhood attachment, PTSD, acute stress, mood and anxiety disorders. Are you looking for someone who just gets you? Someone who is going to hold up a mirror and help you face your fears? In a way that challenges you, so you can develop tools you can use for the rest of your life? Visit my website to make an appointment today!
![Photo of LaJune Pandy, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5843bb1-d25a-404a-9770-353dcf35331a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings! My name is LaJune Pandy, and I am a Clinician-in-Training (CIT) at Diversified Lifestyle Services (DLS) while earning my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.
Greetings! My name is LaJune Pandy, and I am a Clinician-in-Training (CIT) at Diversified Lifestyle Services (DLS) while earning my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.
![Photo of Darrell L. Parker, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/331d6ce1-1796-4208-8211-01c6a8506497/2/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal client encompasses an individual who wishes to receive assistance and willing to work toward short and long-term goals. I am seeking to work with individuals who are open to suggestions and excited about goal setting as well as goal accomplishments as much as I am. The time is “Now”, so the question I pose to you is “When?"
The ideal client encompasses an individual who wishes to receive assistance and willing to work toward short and long-term goals. I am seeking to work with individuals who are open to suggestions and excited about goal setting as well as goal accomplishments as much as I am. The time is “Now”, so the question I pose to you is “When?"
![Photo of Leila Rosado - Eudaemonia Today, LLC - Leila Rosado, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ffb4ff3-bd29-4eab-99b2-24acccf13008/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eudaemonia Today, LLC - Leila Rosado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Congratulations, you are considering therapy! You are taking an awesome leap into getting to know yourself better. I am Leila Rosado, owner and provider for Eudaemonia Today, LLC. As a licensed Clinical Social Worker in both DC and MD, I provide psychotherapy, coaching, and diagnostic assessment for couples and individuals 16 years of age and older. With over 20 years of experience working in mental health, I have found my passion in this field. Everyone has skills that can be used to make small or big changes in their lives. Sometimes it just takes a spark and the desire for something different.
Congratulations, you are considering therapy! You are taking an awesome leap into getting to know yourself better. I am Leila Rosado, owner and provider for Eudaemonia Today, LLC. As a licensed Clinical Social Worker in both DC and MD, I provide psychotherapy, coaching, and diagnostic assessment for couples and individuals 16 years of age and older. With over 20 years of experience working in mental health, I have found my passion in this field. Everyone has skills that can be used to make small or big changes in their lives. Sometimes it just takes a spark and the desire for something different.
See more therapy options for Largo
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Largo
- Bowie
- Capitol Heights
- College Park
- District Heights
- Greenbelt
- Hyattsville
- Landover
- Lanham
- Mitchellville
- Riverdale
- Temple Hills
- Upper Marlboro
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.