Photo of Michelle Draper, MA, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Draper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430  (Online Only)
Through life you may feel as though you are in a constant fight with yourself. Where the history of your battles have not been won, but only suppressed. Overtime they are unknowingly disarmed and you find yourself walking across an unknown terrain that triggers you to fall apart. With this comes the ability to pick up your broken pieces and put them all back together healthily. What is great about being human is the ability to learn and grow.
Through life you may feel as though you are in a constant fight with yourself. Where the history of your battles have not been won, but only suppressed. Overtime they are unknowingly disarmed and you find yourself walking across an unknown terrain that triggers you to fall apart. With this comes the ability to pick up your broken pieces and put them all back together healthily. What is great about being human is the ability to learn and grow.
(734) 294-0886 View (734) 294-0886
Charly Dolan
Limited Licensed Psychologist, TLLP
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430
Charly graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology. She has worked in ABA, as well as with older adults with dementia and other cognitive disorders. Charly continued her education and earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at Michigan School of Psychology, where she was trained with a humanistic, client-centered orientation. Charly is experienced in individual therapy with adults and teens, psychological assessments, and has worked with various diagnoses. She is excited to continue growing her skills with MPC.
Charly graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology. She has worked in ABA, as well as with older adults with dementia and other cognitive disorders. Charly continued her education and earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at Michigan School of Psychology, where she was trained with a humanistic, client-centered orientation. Charly is experienced in individual therapy with adults and teens, psychological assessments, and has worked with various diagnoses. She is excited to continue growing her skills with MPC.
(517) 921-1075 View (517) 921-1075
Photo of Patsy Colleen Essenmacher, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patsy Colleen Essenmacher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fenton, MI 48430
Not accepting new clients
I have over thirty years of experience treating people of all ages who struggle with problems ranging from depression and anxiety to conflictual relationships and grief. I worked 8 yrs exclusively with survivors of physical, sexual and emotional trauma. My early training is in CBT and behavior modification. Therefore, I teach skills to help with anger and stress management, social anxiety, phobias, addictions, child management and ADHD. I have a strong bias towards children, helping parents learn from their own childhood to make a positive difference for their children.
I have over thirty years of experience treating people of all ages who struggle with problems ranging from depression and anxiety to conflictual relationships and grief. I worked 8 yrs exclusively with survivors of physical, sexual and emotional trauma. My early training is in CBT and behavior modification. Therefore, I teach skills to help with anger and stress management, social anxiety, phobias, addictions, child management and ADHD. I have a strong bias towards children, helping parents learn from their own childhood to make a positive difference for their children.
(810) 347-2289 View (810) 347-2289

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amanda Reynolds, LMSW, CAADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
Hello! My name is Amanda Reynolds, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Michigan. I am a strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma-focused therapist. My goal is to assist you in working through your stressors, symptoms, and obstacles. I am a fully licensed therapist with a specialization in trauma, substance use, anxiety, and depression. I am certified in EMDR and DBT skills. I have a history of working in multiple settings and currently hold a position as a clinical therapist at Great Lakes Psychology Group. I offer both in office and Telehealth appointments.
Hello! My name is Amanda Reynolds, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Michigan. I am a strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma-focused therapist. My goal is to assist you in working through your stressors, symptoms, and obstacles. I am a fully licensed therapist with a specialization in trauma, substance use, anxiety, and depression. I am certified in EMDR and DBT skills. I have a history of working in multiple settings and currently hold a position as a clinical therapist at Great Lakes Psychology Group. I offer both in office and Telehealth appointments.
(810) 242-3076 View (810) 242-3076
Photo of Quintin Williams, LMSW, MA, CADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quintin Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA, CADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Grand Blanc, MI 48439  (Online Only)
I have been providing therapy for more than 15 years to individuals, groups, and families. I have worked in outpatient and inpatient settings. I treat the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative process where we work to find healthy solutions to overcome internal and external barriers you may be experiencing. I accept who you are and want to be. My goal is to help you to discover, utilize, and hone your strengths in achieving optimal wellness and enrichment in your life.
I have been providing therapy for more than 15 years to individuals, groups, and families. I have worked in outpatient and inpatient settings. I treat the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative process where we work to find healthy solutions to overcome internal and external barriers you may be experiencing. I accept who you are and want to be. My goal is to help you to discover, utilize, and hone your strengths in achieving optimal wellness and enrichment in your life.
(810) 788-6524 View (810) 788-6524
Photo of Halie Byrd, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Halie Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
Accepting new clients! Now offering Walk and Talk therapy for in-person services! There are many reasons you or your family may be seeking additional support right now. Maybe you or your child are experiencing anxiety, persistent sadness, behavioral problems, divorce/separation, difficulties in the school setting, or you are just looking for extra support to navigate a major life decision or hardship. I am here to listen and help you take the first steps to accessing the support you need.
Accepting new clients! Now offering Walk and Talk therapy for in-person services! There are many reasons you or your family may be seeking additional support right now. Maybe you or your child are experiencing anxiety, persistent sadness, behavioral problems, divorce/separation, difficulties in the school setting, or you are just looking for extra support to navigate a major life decision or hardship. I am here to listen and help you take the first steps to accessing the support you need.
(810) 535-6460 View (810) 535-6460
Photo of Jamie Sauer, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Sauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Linden, MI 48451
If you are struggling with self-defeating beliefs, such as feeling like a failure, inadequate, worthless, alone, from events that have occurred in your life and want to change your behaviors and/or emotional reactions then I have some techniques we can try. I am here to help you get the confidence you need to wake up and face the day. You deserve to know that you are important, special, deserving and supported. Let’s make sense of things you have been through.
If you are struggling with self-defeating beliefs, such as feeling like a failure, inadequate, worthless, alone, from events that have occurred in your life and want to change your behaviors and/or emotional reactions then I have some techniques we can try. I am here to help you get the confidence you need to wake up and face the day. You deserve to know that you are important, special, deserving and supported. Let’s make sense of things you have been through.
(810) 255-4492 View (810) 255-4492

Online Therapists

Photo of Ivy Lam, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ivy Lam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375
Hello and welcome! My name is Ivy Lam and my goal is to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental environment, so you can feel safe and validated when you are talking! One of the approaches I use is a strength-based approach. We all have our own strength, and sometimes when life gets hard it can be hard to see that we have the power within ourselves. I am here to help you see the greatness you have within yourself through many different evidence-based approaches such as strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Hello and welcome! My name is Ivy Lam and my goal is to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental environment, so you can feel safe and validated when you are talking! One of the approaches I use is a strength-based approach. We all have our own strength, and sometimes when life gets hard it can be hard to see that we have the power within ourselves. I am here to help you see the greatness you have within yourself through many different evidence-based approaches such as strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
(248) 617-2296 View (248) 617-2296
Photo of Alicia Wilder, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Wilder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from Grand Valley State University in 2012 and am equipped with training and experience in evidence based interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I believe it is a privilege to work with individuals who are courageous enough to face the painful experiences and emotions that often hold us back from being our most authentic selves. It is my mission to provide you with the tools to safely explore your inner world. I will journey with you towards meaningful transformation and behavior change so you can awaken the best version of you that already lies within! I do this in a way that is kind and genuine, and I am truly passionate about the sacred work of assisting others in self growth.
I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from Grand Valley State University in 2012 and am equipped with training and experience in evidence based interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I believe it is a privilege to work with individuals who are courageous enough to face the painful experiences and emotions that often hold us back from being our most authentic selves. It is my mission to provide you with the tools to safely explore your inner world. I will journey with you towards meaningful transformation and behavior change so you can awaken the best version of you that already lies within! I do this in a way that is kind and genuine, and I am truly passionate about the sacred work of assisting others in self growth.
(616) 431-4309 View (616) 431-4309
Photo of Brett Johnson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brett Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize CBT, DBT, strengths-based, solution-focused, trauma-informed, mindfulness, and other interventions to help you move toward healing and overall well-being.
Hello, my name is Brett Johnson and I have worked in mental health since 2006, first providing direct care. I received my a BA degree from Albion College in 2009, and served in the Peace Corps from 2010 to 2012 as a youth development volunteer in Bulgaria. Following my Peace Corps service, I worked as a case manager for adults who receive mental health services from 2012 to 2020. I received my MSW degree from Western Michigan University in 2020 and I have worked as a clinical social worker and therapist at Peaceful Mind Counseling Services since then.
I utilize CBT, DBT, strengths-based, solution-focused, trauma-informed, mindfulness, and other interventions to help you move toward healing and overall well-being.
Hello, my name is Brett Johnson and I have worked in mental health since 2006, first providing direct care. I received my a BA degree from Albion College in 2009, and served in the Peace Corps from 2010 to 2012 as a youth development volunteer in Bulgaria. Following my Peace Corps service, I worked as a case manager for adults who receive mental health services from 2012 to 2020. I received my MSW degree from Western Michigan University in 2020 and I have worked as a clinical social worker and therapist at Peaceful Mind Counseling Services since then.
(269) 247-5937 View (269) 247-5937
Photo of Nick Salisbury, LMSW-C, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nick Salisbury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Brainspotting, IFS, EMDR, and DBT create a powerful toolkit.
Can you imagine the relief you will feel when you are no longer carrying the burdens you have held for so long? Being able to have a peaceful loving relationship with food and your body. Coping with stressors without alcohol or drugs. Not having daily panic attacks. I know it may feel impossible but I watch incredible people do this work every day. You can too! I am also available to write a letter to support gender affirming care, clinical supervision for LLMSW, and consultation through a liberation lens.
Brainspotting, IFS, EMDR, and DBT create a powerful toolkit.
Can you imagine the relief you will feel when you are no longer carrying the burdens you have held for so long? Being able to have a peaceful loving relationship with food and your body. Coping with stressors without alcohol or drugs. Not having daily panic attacks. I know it may feel impossible but I watch incredible people do this work every day. You can too! I am also available to write a letter to support gender affirming care, clinical supervision for LLMSW, and consultation through a liberation lens.
(734) 339-2920 View (734) 339-2920
Photo of Amy Paggeot, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Amy Paggeot
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with adults and couples in a variety of settings, including college counseling, hospital emergency room and inpatient floors, forensic inpatient, and veteran's hospitals. I have experience with both acute and long-term trauma, adjustment to life stressors, couple's distress and relationship problems, depression, anxiety, panic, personality disorders, and substance abuse problems. I have also received expert training in many forms of evidence-based psychotherapy, and am particularly well-versed in CBT, DBT, Integrative Behavioral Couple's Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I have worked with adults and couples in a variety of settings, including college counseling, hospital emergency room and inpatient floors, forensic inpatient, and veteran's hospitals. I have experience with both acute and long-term trauma, adjustment to life stressors, couple's distress and relationship problems, depression, anxiety, panic, personality disorders, and substance abuse problems. I have also received expert training in many forms of evidence-based psychotherapy, and am particularly well-versed in CBT, DBT, Integrative Behavioral Couple's Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(734) 345-1356 View (734) 345-1356
Photo of Katie Germash-Neubert - Katie Neubert, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Neubert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Treatment is offered in the form of Interpersonal Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, etc.
Treating patients (adolescents, teens, and adults) suffering from symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, aggression, mood dysregulation, trauma, behavioral difficulties, and other mental health concerns, such as work/life balance. Treatment is provided to patients and their families who seek improvement in their daily functioning, including work, school, relationships, family dynamics, and overall outlook. Patients are the experts on themselves, and should be willing and able to actively participate in the therapeutic process, which may include the exploration and practice of, positive, appropriate, and adaptive coping skills.
Treatment is offered in the form of Interpersonal Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, etc.
Treating patients (adolescents, teens, and adults) suffering from symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, aggression, mood dysregulation, trauma, behavioral difficulties, and other mental health concerns, such as work/life balance. Treatment is provided to patients and their families who seek improvement in their daily functioning, including work, school, relationships, family dynamics, and overall outlook. Patients are the experts on themselves, and should be willing and able to actively participate in the therapeutic process, which may include the exploration and practice of, positive, appropriate, and adaptive coping skills.
(313) 329-7125 View (313) 329-7125
Photo of Jeannie Craig, MS, LPC, TLLP, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeannie Craig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, TLLP, CAADC
Verified Verified
Metamora, MI 48455
My specialties holistic (whole person-balanced), ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, relapse prevention, Anger Management and Codependency in individual, couples, Motivational interviewing, CBT & DBT approaches used.
I am here to be a nonjudgmental support and to help you achieve change to better your life for a new outlook and more fulfilling life. Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired of being stuck come Break The Cycle! Are you feeling stressed and anxious or depressed? Are you struggling to focus your attention and feeling overwhelmed as well as lacking balance in life? Are you struggling to cope with your tragedy in life? Are you struggling with an addiction?
My specialties holistic (whole person-balanced), ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, relapse prevention, Anger Management and Codependency in individual, couples, Motivational interviewing, CBT & DBT approaches used.
I am here to be a nonjudgmental support and to help you achieve change to better your life for a new outlook and more fulfilling life. Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired of being stuck come Break The Cycle! Are you feeling stressed and anxious or depressed? Are you struggling to focus your attention and feeling overwhelmed as well as lacking balance in life? Are you struggling to cope with your tragedy in life? Are you struggling with an addiction?
(947) 888-7605 View (947) 888-7605
Photo of Brenda Sue O'Brien, PhD, LLP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda Sue O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LLP, LPC
Verified Verified
Wyandotte, MI 48192
My training as a therapist and years of practice, along with continuing education courses allowed me to utilize many approaches to treatment but one of best treatments today is the Dialectical behavior treatment.
Hello! As an experienced therapist I feel I can help teens, adults, couples and those in the LBGTQ area to sort out their issues, gain perspective to feel whole and healthy again. No one needs to suffer depression, anxiety, bullying , or low self worth. We can work these issues together.
My training as a therapist and years of practice, along with continuing education courses allowed me to utilize many approaches to treatment but one of best treatments today is the Dialectical behavior treatment.
Hello! As an experienced therapist I feel I can help teens, adults, couples and those in the LBGTQ area to sort out their issues, gain perspective to feel whole and healthy again. No one needs to suffer depression, anxiety, bullying , or low self worth. We can work these issues together.
(248) 965-0636 View (248) 965-0636
Photo of Alison Dault, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Dault
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I most often use DBT skills with IFS and trauma-informed care principles to help people understand themselves, set boundaries, and choose their path.
I usually find myself working with people who know there's something not quite right but aren't sure where to start. Are you struggling with anxiety and depression, and don't know why? Are relationships difficult, or do you feel like you haven't found your people? Has life suddenly just switched to "hard mode"? I especially enjoy working with people who are trying balance work and managing chronic illnesses, fellow social services employees, and LGBTQ+ clients. I love working with neurodivergence!
I most often use DBT skills with IFS and trauma-informed care principles to help people understand themselves, set boundaries, and choose their path.
I usually find myself working with people who know there's something not quite right but aren't sure where to start. Are you struggling with anxiety and depression, and don't know why? Are relationships difficult, or do you feel like you haven't found your people? Has life suddenly just switched to "hard mode"? I especially enjoy working with people who are trying balance work and managing chronic illnesses, fellow social services employees, and LGBTQ+ clients. I love working with neurodivergence!
(616) 512-1627 View (616) 512-1627
Photo of Beth Toplyn, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Beth Toplyn
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
Dr. Toplyn has a special passion for DBT related treatment and autism assessment. She enjoys working with issues related to trauma, loss, abuse, adoption and placement. She has continued to work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, severe and persistent mental illness and can provide both group and individual DBT informed therapy. Her most recent work has been providing forensic evaluations to adults and teens involved in the legal system allowing her to empathize with those involved in the court system.
Dr. Toplyn has a special passion for DBT related treatment and autism assessment. She enjoys working with issues related to trauma, loss, abuse, adoption and placement. She has continued to work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, severe and persistent mental illness and can provide both group and individual DBT informed therapy. Her most recent work has been providing forensic evaluations to adults and teens involved in the legal system allowing her to empathize with those involved in the court system.
(517) 697-5608 View (517) 697-5608
Photo of Macomb Therapy Group - Macomb Therapy Group, PLLC, LMSW, LPC, LLP, CAADC, PA-C, Counselor
Macomb Therapy Group, PLLC
Counselor, LMSW, LPC, LLP, CAADC, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48038
Our clinicians offer a wide variety of exceptional therapeutic approaches, incorporating a spectrum of techniques, including: Marriage and Family, Person Centered, Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), LGBTQ+, the Gottman Method, Solution Focused-Brief Therapy, Somatic, Developmental, Integrative, Multicultural, Art and Play Therapy.
We all need a friendly ear, especially in difficult times. With someone in your corner you can build the coping skills needed to handle life's challenges with confidence. Macomb Therapy Group works with adults, adolescents, families and couples. Our clinicians have experience counseling people from a range of backgrounds and ages; facing a variety of challenges: from individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder; to children and adults in crisis and families with relational problems.
Our clinicians offer a wide variety of exceptional therapeutic approaches, incorporating a spectrum of techniques, including: Marriage and Family, Person Centered, Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), LGBTQ+, the Gottman Method, Solution Focused-Brief Therapy, Somatic, Developmental, Integrative, Multicultural, Art and Play Therapy.
We all need a friendly ear, especially in difficult times. With someone in your corner you can build the coping skills needed to handle life's challenges with confidence. Macomb Therapy Group works with adults, adolescents, families and couples. Our clinicians have experience counseling people from a range of backgrounds and ages; facing a variety of challenges: from individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder; to children and adults in crisis and families with relational problems.
(586) 551-7289 View (586) 551-7289
Photo of Lisa Michaels, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Michaels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48083
Using elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), positive psychology, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I strive to hold space with my clients as we explore their inner-emotional landscapes.
Taking the first step on your therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming and scary. My aim as a therapist is to foster a safe space for you to explore your curiosities, recognize your inherent strength, and cultivate resilience so your mental health odyssey doesn't have to feel like a solo trek. Working with individuals, couples, and groups, my work is person-centered and evidence-based. I specialize in self-compassion/self-forgiveness, SUDs recovery, anxiety, depression, and performance-based mental health (including touring).
Using elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), positive psychology, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I strive to hold space with my clients as we explore their inner-emotional landscapes.
Taking the first step on your therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming and scary. My aim as a therapist is to foster a safe space for you to explore your curiosities, recognize your inherent strength, and cultivate resilience so your mental health odyssey doesn't have to feel like a solo trek. Working with individuals, couples, and groups, my work is person-centered and evidence-based. I specialize in self-compassion/self-forgiveness, SUDs recovery, anxiety, depression, and performance-based mental health (including touring).
(248) 617-8921 View (248) 617-8921
Photo of Ellen Floate, MS, LLPC, Counselor
Ellen Floate
Counselor, MS, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823
I currently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, EMDR, Person-Centered therapy and have experience working with individuals in recovery.
Are you looking for a compassionate and skilled therapist to help you navigate anxiety, depression or trauma? My name is Ellen and I am a dedicated therapist who utilizes, client-centered therapy, and DBT skills. I am also currently in training for EMDR. I utilize evidence-based techniques to foster healthy and personal growth. By untiring these skills, my goals is to decrease your mental health symptoms, providing relief and empowering you to lad more fulfilling life. Whether you're struggling with past traumas or current emotional challenges, I am here to support you on your mental health journey.
I currently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, EMDR, Person-Centered therapy and have experience working with individuals in recovery.
Are you looking for a compassionate and skilled therapist to help you navigate anxiety, depression or trauma? My name is Ellen and I am a dedicated therapist who utilizes, client-centered therapy, and DBT skills. I am also currently in training for EMDR. I utilize evidence-based techniques to foster healthy and personal growth. By untiring these skills, my goals is to decrease your mental health symptoms, providing relief and empowering you to lad more fulfilling life. Whether you're struggling with past traumas or current emotional challenges, I am here to support you on your mental health journey.
(517) 994-1949 View (517) 994-1949
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.