Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Pikesville, MD
![Photo of Kimberly Minenger - Optimal Behavioral Health Services, LLC, LCPC-S, LCADAS, CAC-AD, C-DBT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4bf6649-0215-400f-be2e-1de6e68561dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Optimal Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-S, LCADAS, CAC-AD, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (C-DBT), and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor specializing in individual, couple, family, and substance abuse counseling.
Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to review my page. My love of helping people began as a young child. I have always been the "go-to" person when family and friends need an ear to listen. As I grew older, my life experiences inspired me to work in the human services field. Upon graduating from college and post-secondary higher education, my passion has been to empower my clients to heal and recover from their past trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse. My practice is located in the Central Maryland area currently servicing clients via telehealth.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (C-DBT), and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor specializing in individual, couple, family, and substance abuse counseling.
Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to review my page. My love of helping people began as a young child. I have always been the "go-to" person when family and friends need an ear to listen. As I grew older, my life experiences inspired me to work in the human services field. Upon graduating from college and post-secondary higher education, my passion has been to empower my clients to heal and recover from their past trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse. My practice is located in the Central Maryland area currently servicing clients via telehealth.
![Photo of Lori J Pasch, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40241fdb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lori J Pasch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I use CBT, DBT interventions, Somatic tools and a Solution/Strengths based approach.
Raising children is a fulfilling and puzzling part of our lives. From that first day we meet our new baby, a world of hope, wishes, and new possibilities begin. Parents don't leave the hospital with a guidebook on how to address every bump and hurdle along the way. Children are unique, complex, and exciting. Sometimes however, they also need extra support. In my therapeutic work, I partner with you to understand the needs of your family and that of your child. Together we explore the concerns which bring you into my office - whether trauma, adjustment, anxiety, school related concerns, or behavioral challenges.
I use CBT, DBT interventions, Somatic tools and a Solution/Strengths based approach.
Raising children is a fulfilling and puzzling part of our lives. From that first day we meet our new baby, a world of hope, wishes, and new possibilities begin. Parents don't leave the hospital with a guidebook on how to address every bump and hurdle along the way. Children are unique, complex, and exciting. Sometimes however, they also need extra support. In my therapeutic work, I partner with you to understand the needs of your family and that of your child. Together we explore the concerns which bring you into my office - whether trauma, adjustment, anxiety, school related concerns, or behavioral challenges.
![Photo of Josie Ann Bodenstein, LCSW-C, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65093721-f6f8-4cb6-8c21-dae55886d1a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Josie Ann Bodenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
I help people using strategies and therapies such as CBT, DBT and psychodynamic approaches.
What stumbling blocks are getting in your way. If you are trying to manage issues related to eating disorders, depression or anxiety then I am available to help you. I help those who are struggling with managing both internal and eternal strsssors. This may include working on various thoughts that hold you back from feeling better about what’s important to you. I will ask you about what you want and need realizing that not being sure is often a most significant part of the therapy process. Untangling the feelings, thoughts and behaviors gives rise for hope and change.
I help people using strategies and therapies such as CBT, DBT and psychodynamic approaches.
What stumbling blocks are getting in your way. If you are trying to manage issues related to eating disorders, depression or anxiety then I am available to help you. I help those who are struggling with managing both internal and eternal strsssors. This may include working on various thoughts that hold you back from feeling better about what’s important to you. I will ask you about what you want and need realizing that not being sure is often a most significant part of the therapy process. Untangling the feelings, thoughts and behaviors gives rise for hope and change.
![Photo of Yisroel Tenenbaum, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11af4d26-9f44-43db-9689-22d7229a851d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yisroel Tenenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I draw heavily from the research-backed therapy styles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
Whether it's a major challenge or an interest in going from good to great, having someone in your corner can make a big difference. I work with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, trauma, and grief. I also have particular experience working with sleep difficulties (insomnia), ADHD, anger, and chronic pain.
I draw heavily from the research-backed therapy styles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
Whether it's a major challenge or an interest in going from good to great, having someone in your corner can make a big difference. I work with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, trauma, and grief. I also have particular experience working with sleep difficulties (insomnia), ADHD, anger, and chronic pain.
![Photo of Cara Baltimore Lcsw-C, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/325d6ba2-a4a4-40ee-879a-3ac5f7bfd2f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cara Baltimore Lcsw-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I provide a holistic approach that allows you to be the author of your own treatment. I am a hands-on therapist that encourages others to apply skills directly in practice. I am most passionate about helping individuals move trauma from the mind and body, equipping them with the skills necessary to take control of their lives and begin truly living.
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I provide a holistic approach that allows you to be the author of your own treatment. I am a hands-on therapist that encourages others to apply skills directly in practice. I am most passionate about helping individuals move trauma from the mind and body, equipping them with the skills necessary to take control of their lives and begin truly living.
![Photo of Michal Adler, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61e0e34f-b2b1-4df0-8cc3-89fc9638fc06/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michal Adler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities in my approach with clients, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness as well as various modalities that encourage client growth and success.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, body image concerns or anxiety? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with adolescents and adults. I have experience providing individual, family and group therapy in the inpatient, partial and intensive outpatient settings. My clinical experience includes working with individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns; anxiety, depression and other mood disorders; and life transitions and interpersonal issues.
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities in my approach with clients, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness as well as various modalities that encourage client growth and success.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, body image concerns or anxiety? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with adolescents and adults. I have experience providing individual, family and group therapy in the inpatient, partial and intensive outpatient settings. My clinical experience includes working with individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns; anxiety, depression and other mood disorders; and life transitions and interpersonal issues.
The human mind is an amazing entity, its capacity unparalleled, and yet we sometimes work against our own best interests and purposes. Psychotherapy can be a mirror into the soul, enabling access to one's potential for healing, growth, and empowerment. I utilize a variety of modalities, including CBT and DBT informed interventions, Emotion Focused therapy, Interpersonal and psychodynamic theories and interventions to address anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties , and, problem solving in all realms. As an RN and LCSW-C I have many years experience. I welcome adults of all ages.
The human mind is an amazing entity, its capacity unparalleled, and yet we sometimes work against our own best interests and purposes. Psychotherapy can be a mirror into the soul, enabling access to one's potential for healing, growth, and empowerment. I utilize a variety of modalities, including CBT and DBT informed interventions, Emotion Focused therapy, Interpersonal and psychodynamic theories and interventions to address anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties , and, problem solving in all realms. As an RN and LCSW-C I have many years experience. I welcome adults of all ages.
![Photo of Mona Rubenfeld, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/466c9cab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
We will utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework, with healthy and effective techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT); emphasizing coping skills to help you better manage difficult emotions .
Have you been living with depression and anxiety, and/or a chronic medical condition, and struggle finding relief in dealing with the symptoms? Have you tried other treatment approaches and nothing seems to help? I specialize in treating chronic, treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and chronic medical illness. For the first few sessions, we will discuss your history and the impact it has on your day to day life. We will then discuss various approaches to help you feel better, and together, we will develop a treatment plan to help you reach realistic goals.
We will utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework, with healthy and effective techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT); emphasizing coping skills to help you better manage difficult emotions .
Have you been living with depression and anxiety, and/or a chronic medical condition, and struggle finding relief in dealing with the symptoms? Have you tried other treatment approaches and nothing seems to help? I specialize in treating chronic, treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and chronic medical illness. For the first few sessions, we will discuss your history and the impact it has on your day to day life. We will then discuss various approaches to help you feel better, and together, we will develop a treatment plan to help you reach realistic goals.
![Photo of Jasmine Simmons - EviJoy Counseling Center, MS, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36361aa7-88c6-4ee1-afee-b585b0142e37/1/320x400.jpeg)
EviJoy Counseling Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Modalities some therapists use are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, IFS, EMDR , Somatic Approach, Person Centered.
Feelings of self doubt, constant worry or hopelessness can make a person feel stuck. Life can be very unpredictable with the uncertainties. It is okay if you are struggling to be in touch with your emotions. Therapy can provide a sense of peace in a safe environment where there is an opportunity to better understand thought process, anxiety or triggers that are hindering you from reaching your full potential. We are here to guide you in working through the challenges that you are facing and focus on your inner strength to connect the pieces in your life that can help you build a strong foundation for growth and life fulfilment.
Modalities some therapists use are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, IFS, EMDR , Somatic Approach, Person Centered.
Feelings of self doubt, constant worry or hopelessness can make a person feel stuck. Life can be very unpredictable with the uncertainties. It is okay if you are struggling to be in touch with your emotions. Therapy can provide a sense of peace in a safe environment where there is an opportunity to better understand thought process, anxiety or triggers that are hindering you from reaching your full potential. We are here to guide you in working through the challenges that you are facing and focus on your inner strength to connect the pieces in your life that can help you build a strong foundation for growth and life fulfilment.
![Photo of Anita Sharma, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f124412-d054-475f-9fb2-bd9222ed307a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also am Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT) informed and offer DBT groups for women ages 16-22 as well as older adult women.
I believe engaging in a therapy relationship benefits all. It is important in this setting to feel safe, heard as well as understood without judgement. I work with adolescents as well as adults navigating through lives filled with relationship conflicts, school and academic stressors, communication breakdowns, body image issues, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse. I want my clients to feel how important their issues and progress are to me and that I will do my very best to help them reach their goals.
I also am Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT) informed and offer DBT groups for women ages 16-22 as well as older adult women.
I believe engaging in a therapy relationship benefits all. It is important in this setting to feel safe, heard as well as understood without judgement. I work with adolescents as well as adults navigating through lives filled with relationship conflicts, school and academic stressors, communication breakdowns, body image issues, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse. I want my clients to feel how important their issues and progress are to me and that I will do my very best to help them reach their goals.
![Photo of Rochelle Ziman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c5e623f-c34d-4281-a4e1-4f5693294746/2/320x400.jpeg)
Utilizing a strength-based focus, I integrate techniques from various theories and modalities such as: cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, internal family systems, mindfulness, attachment and narrative therapy.
Finding a good therapist is like shopping for a good pair of shoes. Why, you might ask. It’s all about the fit. You usually choose shoes that are most comfortable and suit you best. Whether you may have gone to a therapist before or have never been – whether you had awful experiences in the past or none at all. Successful therapy is about finding the right fit; about finding a relationship where you have a safe space to bring any and all of your feelings and challenges.
Utilizing a strength-based focus, I integrate techniques from various theories and modalities such as: cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, internal family systems, mindfulness, attachment and narrative therapy.
Finding a good therapist is like shopping for a good pair of shoes. Why, you might ask. It’s all about the fit. You usually choose shoes that are most comfortable and suit you best. Whether you may have gone to a therapist before or have never been – whether you had awful experiences in the past or none at all. Successful therapy is about finding the right fit; about finding a relationship where you have a safe space to bring any and all of your feelings and challenges.
![Photo of William Clare, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e1039ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
William Clare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
Whether an individual, couple or family are struggling with issues that appear to be a bump in the road of life, stressors that appear to make them feel stuck with no possibilities or are dealing with catastrophic events that have occurred, I work to meet the client where they are at, with the goal to work with them to come up other possible solutions that allow them to get unstuck and make the change that they are hoping to make.
Whether an individual, couple or family are struggling with issues that appear to be a bump in the road of life, stressors that appear to make them feel stuck with no possibilities or are dealing with catastrophic events that have occurred, I work to meet the client where they are at, with the goal to work with them to come up other possible solutions that allow them to get unstuck and make the change that they are hoping to make.
![Photo of Lillian Soloweszyk - Ascent Therapy Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f7314d2-0dd7-43af-b67d-ebf741963dec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ascent Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
Any Individual struggling to control worries that control their life, panic attacks that disrupt their lives, or other disorders that impact their life. Additionally anyone adjusting to life in a new country. Couples and families struggling with lack of communication and connection.
Any Individual struggling to control worries that control their life, panic attacks that disrupt their lives, or other disorders that impact their life. Additionally anyone adjusting to life in a new country. Couples and families struggling with lack of communication and connection.
![Photo of Rivka Janowski, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76a86ffb-3942-4cca-80c1-75b10e0ca33d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rivka Janowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I understand that each individual is not an illness or label, rather a person with multiple contributing factors towards his or her distress and/or reasons that are his or her impetus for seeking help. For this reason, I try my best, as renowned psychotherapist Irvin Yalom puts it, to “create a new therapy for each client.”
I understand that each individual is not an illness or label, rather a person with multiple contributing factors towards his or her distress and/or reasons that are his or her impetus for seeking help. For this reason, I try my best, as renowned psychotherapist Irvin Yalom puts it, to “create a new therapy for each client.”
![Photo of Wendy Berman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/702b2650-3a1c-41f5-a06b-876b756c0054/3/320x400.jpeg)
Have you experienced a past or current trauma? Are you feeling isolated, loss of interest in activities you once found enjoyable, anxiety, mistrust, or depressed mood? Are you participating in self destructive behaviors? If so, these are all normal symptoms of trauma, and you are in the right place. Trauma is the experience of witnessing or being involved in an event that feels life threatening. It can be anything from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to divorce, financial setbacks, medical diagnoses or car accidents.
Have you experienced a past or current trauma? Are you feeling isolated, loss of interest in activities you once found enjoyable, anxiety, mistrust, or depressed mood? Are you participating in self destructive behaviors? If so, these are all normal symptoms of trauma, and you are in the right place. Trauma is the experience of witnessing or being involved in an event that feels life threatening. It can be anything from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to divorce, financial setbacks, medical diagnoses or car accidents.
![Photo of Julie Altman Wolff, MS, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ba4d37f-4513-4921-96c5-f9af15ae891a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Altman Wolff
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
As a Director of MindWell Consulting, LLC, I provide therapy and coaching to individuals, couples, and families. The goal of my work is to meet clients where they’re at and help them develop wellness strategies based on self-awareness, resilience, communication, mindfulness, and acceptance of themselves and the world around them. Our work together will provide you with a tool kit that best prepares you for the challenges of today’s world. Together, we will identify strengths and areas where those strengths can best be applied to help improve your overall well-being.
As a Director of MindWell Consulting, LLC, I provide therapy and coaching to individuals, couples, and families. The goal of my work is to meet clients where they’re at and help them develop wellness strategies based on self-awareness, resilience, communication, mindfulness, and acceptance of themselves and the world around them. Our work together will provide you with a tool kit that best prepares you for the challenges of today’s world. Together, we will identify strengths and areas where those strengths can best be applied to help improve your overall well-being.
![Photo of Yvonne Barnes, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/302d2483-da49-4614-bd6c-f0145ae09006/1/320x400.jpeg)
I hold a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am an experienced Clinical Mental Health Therapist dedicated to helping adults overcome a variety of minor and difficult issues related to mental health needs. In my private practice, I create a non-judgmental and emotionally safe place for all clients.
I hold a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am an experienced Clinical Mental Health Therapist dedicated to helping adults overcome a variety of minor and difficult issues related to mental health needs. In my private practice, I create a non-judgmental and emotionally safe place for all clients.
![Photo of Lacresha Reid White, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e92d28a4-d393-49b6-861b-fa15e24463e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lacresha Reid White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
My ideal client is survivor of childhood trauma is motivated to create a fulfilling, empowered life for themselves. This shows their commitment by showing up, being engaged during sessions, and doing the necessary homework between sessions. This client understands that healing from trauma and rebuilding trust is a process that involves working through attachment issues and developing a securely attached therapeutic relationship with their therapist.
My ideal client is survivor of childhood trauma is motivated to create a fulfilling, empowered life for themselves. This shows their commitment by showing up, being engaged during sessions, and doing the necessary homework between sessions. This client understands that healing from trauma and rebuilding trust is a process that involves working through attachment issues and developing a securely attached therapeutic relationship with their therapist.
![Photo of Ovadia Golfeiz - Ocd And Anxiety Treatment, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c563ebe-853e-436b-92b1-4227281ffa5b/1/320x400.png)
Ovadia Golfeiz - Ocd And Anxiety Treatment
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States. Anxiety can be significantly disabling and negatively impact our mood and quality of life. It's not uncommon for someone with an anxiety disorder to also suffer from depression. You are tired of experiencing symptoms of anxiety including intrusive, racing, and ruminative thoughts that seemingly don’t stop, feeling on constant edge, and worrying all the time. You may also feel anxiety present itself as uncomfortable sensations in your body. You, however, have already made the most courageous step which is to look for a solution.
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States. Anxiety can be significantly disabling and negatively impact our mood and quality of life. It's not uncommon for someone with an anxiety disorder to also suffer from depression. You are tired of experiencing symptoms of anxiety including intrusive, racing, and ruminative thoughts that seemingly don’t stop, feeling on constant edge, and worrying all the time. You may also feel anxiety present itself as uncomfortable sensations in your body. You, however, have already made the most courageous step which is to look for a solution.
![Photo of Samuel Katz, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d441112-071e-4ded-a663-0f3074e778ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients... Are you experiencing negative emotions, intrusive thoughts, difficulty managing your mood, or struggling with building or maintaining meaningful relationships? Then my friend you have taken the first step on your journey of internal reflection and growth. Therapy can be a wonderful safe haven which provides the freedom to explore your thoughts and emotions. I work with individuals and couples to achieve their goals and provide much needed support to create lasting change to your life.
Now accepting new clients... Are you experiencing negative emotions, intrusive thoughts, difficulty managing your mood, or struggling with building or maintaining meaningful relationships? Then my friend you have taken the first step on your journey of internal reflection and growth. Therapy can be a wonderful safe haven which provides the freedom to explore your thoughts and emotions. I work with individuals and couples to achieve their goals and provide much needed support to create lasting change to your life.
See more therapy options for Pikesville
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Pikesville
- Catonsville
- Garrison
- Gwynn Oak
- Lutherville
- Lutherville Timonium
- Mount Washington
- Owings Mills
- Randallstown
- Reisterstown
- Roland Park
- Timonium
- Windsor Mill
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.