Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Circle Pines, MN

Photo of Dr. Uyanga Bayandalai, PhD, LPCC, LADC, CRC
Dr. Uyanga Bayandalai
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LADC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Circle Pines, MN 55014  (Online Only)
I specialize in assisting individuals who have anxiety, depression, and trauma using EMDR and IFS modalities, as these are the primary modalities I use in my practice. However, I personalize my approach to meet each client's specific needs and utilize tools from CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness therapy.
I specialize in assisting individuals who have anxiety, depression, and trauma using EMDR and IFS modalities, as these are the primary modalities I use in my practice. However, I personalize my approach to meet each client's specific needs and utilize tools from CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness therapy.
(763) 878-6789 View (763) 878-6789
Photo of Jill Bias, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Bias
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Circle Pines, MN 55014  (Online Only)
With over 14 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I have dedicated my practice to helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, eating disorders, co-dependency, developmental trauma, and women's issues. I often collaborate with other experienced practitioners to provide a well rounded, holistic and concise approach.
With over 14 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I have dedicated my practice to helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, eating disorders, co-dependency, developmental trauma, and women's issues. I often collaborate with other experienced practitioners to provide a well rounded, holistic and concise approach.
(763) 762-9078 View (763) 762-9078
Photo of Kelsey L McLaughlin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelsey L McLaughlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Circle Pines, MN 55014
Waitlist for new clients
Navigating the challenges of life is far from simple. Therapy is an effective. safe, and compassionate space to unfold stress, process pain, and reconnect with what you value. Whether the relationship of focus is with yourself, a partner, a friend, or a family member, relational stress threatens your sense of safety and security in this ever changing world. Reorienting yourself within these relationships and to these struggles makes it possible to restore patterns of hope.
Navigating the challenges of life is far from simple. Therapy is an effective. safe, and compassionate space to unfold stress, process pain, and reconnect with what you value. Whether the relationship of focus is with yourself, a partner, a friend, or a family member, relational stress threatens your sense of safety and security in this ever changing world. Reorienting yourself within these relationships and to these struggles makes it possible to restore patterns of hope.
(612) 662-7310 View (612) 662-7310
Photo of Samantha Yerks, MSW, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Yerks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Circle Pines, MN 55014
Waitlist for new clients
Because therapy can be intimidating, I make it a point to be sure all of my clients feel comfortable, welcomed and understood. I specialize in the treatment of: trauma, depression, anxiety, & addiction. I treat people through the use of attachment theory and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Attachment theory can help individuals examine the experiences of their relationships and process them in a healthier manner. I use EMDR in the treatment of trauma and other mental health needs, such as: anxiety, addiction and depression.
Because therapy can be intimidating, I make it a point to be sure all of my clients feel comfortable, welcomed and understood. I specialize in the treatment of: trauma, depression, anxiety, & addiction. I treat people through the use of attachment theory and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Attachment theory can help individuals examine the experiences of their relationships and process them in a healthier manner. I use EMDR in the treatment of trauma and other mental health needs, such as: anxiety, addiction and depression.
(651) 319-5341 View (651) 319-5341

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Megan Rustad, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Rustad
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
I have a background in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which means there will be times we discuss practical skills you can use right away to help yourself.
Are you tired of using quick fixes to deal with the problems in your life? Have you been to therapy before but you were left with unresolved or ongoing problems? Do you want to get to the root and heart of your pain and concerns? I can help you take a deeper dive to discover the places you wish to explore, heal, and grow. You will find me to be warm, empathic, challenging, and insightful. We will work together to identify ineffective and unhelpful patterns and cycles of thinking and behavior, and then I will help you find ways to disrupt and change them.
I have a background in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which means there will be times we discuss practical skills you can use right away to help yourself.
Are you tired of using quick fixes to deal with the problems in your life? Have you been to therapy before but you were left with unresolved or ongoing problems? Do you want to get to the root and heart of your pain and concerns? I can help you take a deeper dive to discover the places you wish to explore, heal, and grow. You will find me to be warm, empathic, challenging, and insightful. We will work together to identify ineffective and unhelpful patterns and cycles of thinking and behavior, and then I will help you find ways to disrupt and change them.
(763) 297-3896 View (763) 297-3896
Photo of Anisah Olson, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anisah Olson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Anoka, MN 55304
Not accepting new clients
I mainly draw from person-centered, trauma focused, and CBT and DBT therapies.
Hello! I'm a compassionate pre-licensed mental health therapist who strives to meet my clients where they are at and provide a safe and non-judgmental space for them to thrive in. I work collaboratively with my clients and use a variety of treatment modalities tailored to each individual client. I believe that every client knows themselves best and I'm eager to help my clients flourish and grow in an environment where they feel safe and comfortable. I recognize that each individual has different life experiences that have led you to where you are today. I'm ready to work with each individual to help you achieve your goals and desire
I mainly draw from person-centered, trauma focused, and CBT and DBT therapies.
Hello! I'm a compassionate pre-licensed mental health therapist who strives to meet my clients where they are at and provide a safe and non-judgmental space for them to thrive in. I work collaboratively with my clients and use a variety of treatment modalities tailored to each individual client. I believe that every client knows themselves best and I'm eager to help my clients flourish and grow in an environment where they feel safe and comfortable. I recognize that each individual has different life experiences that have led you to where you are today. I'm ready to work with each individual to help you achieve your goals and desire
(763) 314-4859 View (763) 314-4859
Photo of Raishma Majeed, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Raishma Majeed
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blaine, MN 55434
Not accepting new clients
I am certified in the AIR Network model, have comprehensive DBT training with over six years experience of being a part of adherent DBT teams, and am EMDR level 2 trained.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with special interest and training working with individuals with histories of complex trauma and dissociation. As a queer clinician, I am also passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I recognize that we all hold various intersectionalities and identities that shape our life experiences and I strive to constantly challenge my own privileges (such as being biracial and white-passing) and personal experiences to hold space for all of my clients to live authentically in the therapeutic setting.
I am certified in the AIR Network model, have comprehensive DBT training with over six years experience of being a part of adherent DBT teams, and am EMDR level 2 trained.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with special interest and training working with individuals with histories of complex trauma and dissociation. As a queer clinician, I am also passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I recognize that we all hold various intersectionalities and identities that shape our life experiences and I strive to constantly challenge my own privileges (such as being biracial and white-passing) and personal experiences to hold space for all of my clients to live authentically in the therapeutic setting.
(763) 343-7548 View (763) 343-7548
Photo of Rebekah J Windschitl, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Rebekah J Windschitl
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Blaine, MN 55434
I also use aspects from ACT, CBT, and DBT in my practice to help address your needs.
After 6pm availability! My goal is to provide an environment where you feel safe, calm, and free from judgment. My treatment focused approach allows for a straight forward, yet casual style of therapy to help you reach your goals quickly. I am experienced in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. My population focuses on teens, families, and adults. I have specialized training for occupations such as EMT/ LEO/ firefighter/nurses. I also have experience working with military and their families, as having been a military spouse myself, I can understand the deep nuances that run through this group.
I also use aspects from ACT, CBT, and DBT in my practice to help address your needs.
After 6pm availability! My goal is to provide an environment where you feel safe, calm, and free from judgment. My treatment focused approach allows for a straight forward, yet casual style of therapy to help you reach your goals quickly. I am experienced in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. My population focuses on teens, families, and adults. I have specialized training for occupations such as EMT/ LEO/ firefighter/nurses. I also have experience working with military and their families, as having been a military spouse myself, I can understand the deep nuances that run through this group.
(651) 955-4633 View (651) 955-4633
Photo of Christina Gwenn Copeland, MS, LPCC
Christina Gwenn Copeland
MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55449
Christina has training in providing CBT and DBT skills therapies.
Christina enjoys working with individuals, couples and families helping support them in making changes they want to make. She has her B.A. in Sociology and Diversity Studies from SCSU and her M.S. in MHC from Walden University. She is an LPCC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of MN. Christina has worked 10 years in clinical counseling. She has 24 additional years working with children, and families with services that are person-centered, strength-based and therapeutic. She has worked in foster and long-term residential based programs, as well as crisis, substance abuse treatment, vocational and education areas.
Christina has training in providing CBT and DBT skills therapies.
Christina enjoys working with individuals, couples and families helping support them in making changes they want to make. She has her B.A. in Sociology and Diversity Studies from SCSU and her M.S. in MHC from Walden University. She is an LPCC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of MN. Christina has worked 10 years in clinical counseling. She has 24 additional years working with children, and families with services that are person-centered, strength-based and therapeutic. She has worked in foster and long-term residential based programs, as well as crisis, substance abuse treatment, vocational and education areas.
(636) 266-2065 View (636) 266-2065
Photo of Anna Rauscher, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Rauscher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55421
Not accepting new clients
She utilizes EMDR, CBT, DBT, MBSR, ACT, and MI approaches in working with individuals and families.
It is an honor and a privilege to walk with clients as they navigate the challenges and joys of life. Anna believes that it is important to meet people where they are, and work with clients to create the kind of life they find fulfilling. Clients come to therapy for a variety of reasons, some of which include depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, life transitions and changes, family and relational concerns, substance abuse, grief and loss, body image issues, need for coping strategies to manage stress, and many other reasons. Therapy can be a safe space to explore concerns, to grow, and to heal.
She utilizes EMDR, CBT, DBT, MBSR, ACT, and MI approaches in working with individuals and families.
It is an honor and a privilege to walk with clients as they navigate the challenges and joys of life. Anna believes that it is important to meet people where they are, and work with clients to create the kind of life they find fulfilling. Clients come to therapy for a variety of reasons, some of which include depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, life transitions and changes, family and relational concerns, substance abuse, grief and loss, body image issues, need for coping strategies to manage stress, and many other reasons. Therapy can be a safe space to explore concerns, to grow, and to heal.
(763) 230-0141 View (763) 230-0141
Photo of Amanda Vestal, MPS, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Amanda Vestal
Counselor, MPS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize principles of talk therapy, while incorporating skills from motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy to help navigate through life's challenges.
Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to identify a positive sense of self? You are not alone. Trying to navigate the pressures of the world can be exhausting. I believe in building an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship, where you’re the expert on your own journey. Working collaboratively with you, I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to explore and work towards positive change through patience, authenticity, and humor. My goal is to create a welcoming space for you to explore and work through challenges you've encountered on your personal journey.
I utilize principles of talk therapy, while incorporating skills from motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy to help navigate through life's challenges.
Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to identify a positive sense of self? You are not alone. Trying to navigate the pressures of the world can be exhausting. I believe in building an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship, where you’re the expert on your own journey. Working collaboratively with you, I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to explore and work towards positive change through patience, authenticity, and humor. My goal is to create a welcoming space for you to explore and work through challenges you've encountered on your personal journey.
(763) 247-4650 View (763) 247-4650
Photo of Lori Wiggenhorn, MA, LP, Psychologist
Lori Wiggenhorn
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vadnais Heights, MN 55110
Does anxiety, depression or moodiness interfere with your experience of joy? Are your beliefs about the world, people and yourself getting in the way of leading a more satisfying life? These are some of the questions I have helped clients work on in my twenty five plus years as a psychologist. I want to help you learn skills to better manage these issues and other important aspects of your life. Here are some of the techniques I offer in therapy: cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) modified for individuals, family systems theory, solution-focused therapy and spirituality.
Does anxiety, depression or moodiness interfere with your experience of joy? Are your beliefs about the world, people and yourself getting in the way of leading a more satisfying life? These are some of the questions I have helped clients work on in my twenty five plus years as a psychologist. I want to help you learn skills to better manage these issues and other important aspects of your life. Here are some of the techniques I offer in therapy: cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) modified for individuals, family systems theory, solution-focused therapy and spirituality.
(612) 284-5299 View (612) 284-5299
Photo of Beth Hamer, LPCC
Beth Hamer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lino Lakes, MN 55014
My approach is eclectic, however I am trained mostly in CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Life can be hard - you don’t have to struggle alone! The decision to be open to begin therapy is a major step forward. If you're experiencing low self-confidence, doubt, grief, anxiety, shame, or stress, there is a path to help you create a more fulfilling life in the present. I provide a safe nonjudgmental space where you can feel supported, and empowered as you go on this journey.
My approach is eclectic, however I am trained mostly in CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Life can be hard - you don’t have to struggle alone! The decision to be open to begin therapy is a major step forward. If you're experiencing low self-confidence, doubt, grief, anxiety, shame, or stress, there is a path to help you create a more fulfilling life in the present. I provide a safe nonjudgmental space where you can feel supported, and empowered as you go on this journey.
(651) 359-9345 View (651) 359-9345
Photo of Amanda Nusbaum - Omni Mental Health, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Omni Mental Health
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Blaine, MN 55434
Waitlist for new clients
My primary treatment modalities are CBT (all ages) and DBT (adults only).
As a mental health practitioner, I feel it is important to meet each person where they are and support them on their journey for change. Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed, stuck, hopeless, or all of the above, let's talk about it! In session, we will explore the values, beliefs, and personal expectations that impact how you interact with the world and determine the proper steps to improve your overall quality of life.
My primary treatment modalities are CBT (all ages) and DBT (adults only).
As a mental health practitioner, I feel it is important to meet each person where they are and support them on their journey for change. Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed, stuck, hopeless, or all of the above, let's talk about it! In session, we will explore the values, beliefs, and personal expectations that impact how you interact with the world and determine the proper steps to improve your overall quality of life.
(612) 712-3564 View (612) 712-3564
Photo of Anna Burke, LPCC, Counselor
Anna Burke
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Blaine, MN 55434
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Solution and Narrative Focused Therapies.
The foundation of my work is to build a trusting and responsive relationship. I work with people to identify their goals and priorities and offer support to enact change that is meaningful and fulfilling. My areas of interest include addressing depression and anxiety, as well as trauma and core beliefs that impact the present moment. I enjoy working with people who are going through significant life changes (education, career, relationship, life stage transitions). I also have a special interest in perinatal mental health.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Solution and Narrative Focused Therapies.
The foundation of my work is to build a trusting and responsive relationship. I work with people to identify their goals and priorities and offer support to enact change that is meaningful and fulfilling. My areas of interest include addressing depression and anxiety, as well as trauma and core beliefs that impact the present moment. I enjoy working with people who are going through significant life changes (education, career, relationship, life stage transitions). I also have a special interest in perinatal mental health.
(651) 413-9739 View (651) 413-9739
Photo of Catherine Russell, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
I use many therapy techniques including CBT, DBT skills, psycho-dynamic approaches, EMDR, Hypnosis and mindful practice to provide trauma informed therapy.
I work with families who have experienced a variety of traumas in my work at Children's Hospital in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Much of the that job involves counseling parents who have lost an infant or child, or who have a child with chronic health problems, or whose child has a life threatening condition. In addition, couples who try to have another child after a loss have specific needs. When interventions are available to address the trauma of child illness or death right away, we can sometimes reduce the severity of the struggles with their trauma.
I use many therapy techniques including CBT, DBT skills, psycho-dynamic approaches, EMDR, Hypnosis and mindful practice to provide trauma informed therapy.
I work with families who have experienced a variety of traumas in my work at Children's Hospital in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Much of the that job involves counseling parents who have lost an infant or child, or who have a child with chronic health problems, or whose child has a life threatening condition. In addition, couples who try to have another child after a loss have specific needs. When interventions are available to address the trauma of child illness or death right away, we can sometimes reduce the severity of the struggles with their trauma.
(612) 260-4569 View (612) 260-4569
Photo of Elizabeth Paulsen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Paulsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roseville, MN 55113  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and I integrate this skills-oriented therapy with Narrative and Relational theories to foster a deeper understanding of one's own story.
Therapy can provide a powerful opportunity for self-understanding and balance restoration which ultimately leads to growth and emotional healing. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and trusted space with clients to help them begin to identify problematic patterns and explore healthy, effective coping skills. My hope is this repairative process will facilitate change not just within the context of therapy but in all relationships and areas of a client's life. There are many issues we may explore in therapy: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image, grief/loss and life transitions among others.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and I integrate this skills-oriented therapy with Narrative and Relational theories to foster a deeper understanding of one's own story.
Therapy can provide a powerful opportunity for self-understanding and balance restoration which ultimately leads to growth and emotional healing. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and trusted space with clients to help them begin to identify problematic patterns and explore healthy, effective coping skills. My hope is this repairative process will facilitate change not just within the context of therapy but in all relationships and areas of a client's life. There are many issues we may explore in therapy: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image, grief/loss and life transitions among others.
(763) 600-7223 View (763) 600-7223
Photo of Kristen Lund, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Lund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shoreview, MN 55126
I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, otherwise known as DBT.
Hi. I'm Kristen Lund. I have over 28 years of experience providing psychotherapy to individuals, families and groups. I am also the owner of The Art of Validation and Change, LLC. As a person many people find me genuine, humorous and warm. As a therapist many clients find me direct, challenging, compassionate, intuitive and respectful. I enjoy working with male and female adults of many different orientations, races and cultures. If I am full, I have many wonderful therapists on my team that can see you! Check out my website to meet them. www.kristenlund.com They can see clients as young as 6 and as old as 100 years.
I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, otherwise known as DBT.
Hi. I'm Kristen Lund. I have over 28 years of experience providing psychotherapy to individuals, families and groups. I am also the owner of The Art of Validation and Change, LLC. As a person many people find me genuine, humorous and warm. As a therapist many clients find me direct, challenging, compassionate, intuitive and respectful. I enjoy working with male and female adults of many different orientations, races and cultures. If I am full, I have many wonderful therapists on my team that can see you! Check out my website to meet them. www.kristenlund.com They can see clients as young as 6 and as old as 100 years.
(612) 208-7309 View (612) 208-7309
Photo of Kelly Miklas - Kelly Miklas - Psychotherapy & Intensives. , MA, LPCC
Kelly Miklas - Psychotherapy & Intensives.
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
North Oaks, MN 55127  (Online Only)
In need of therapeutic support this summer but cannot commit to recurring appointments? Consider a Therapy Intensive program! In addition to traditional weekly or biweekly psychotherapy, I also offer Therapy Intensives, which is a one-time individual program that lasts for 6-12 hours spread over 3-5 sessions, online or in-person in NE MPLS. Intensives are customizable and can incorporate Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), IFS, DBT, or CPT, and more. Please reach out for more information.
In need of therapeutic support this summer but cannot commit to recurring appointments? Consider a Therapy Intensive program! In addition to traditional weekly or biweekly psychotherapy, I also offer Therapy Intensives, which is a one-time individual program that lasts for 6-12 hours spread over 3-5 sessions, online or in-person in NE MPLS. Intensives are customizable and can incorporate Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), IFS, DBT, or CPT, and more. Please reach out for more information.
(952) 900-6845 View (952) 900-6845
Photo of Katie Engh, MA, LPCC, DBTC, Counselor
Katie Engh
Counselor, MA, LPCC, DBTC
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I integrate a variety of therapy approaches and techniques based on each client’s needs including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Starting out with a new therapist or beginning therapy for the first time can feel scary, maybe even downright terrifying. I offer a laid-back place to show up as you are without judgement, talk about the hard stuff that we inevitably experience through life, and maybe have a laugh or two in the process. I approach therapy as a collaboration. We are a team. You set the destination you want to get to, and I’m here to help you navigate.
I integrate a variety of therapy approaches and techniques based on each client’s needs including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Starting out with a new therapist or beginning therapy for the first time can feel scary, maybe even downright terrifying. I offer a laid-back place to show up as you are without judgement, talk about the hard stuff that we inevitably experience through life, and maybe have a laugh or two in the process. I approach therapy as a collaboration. We are a team. You set the destination you want to get to, and I’m here to help you navigate.
(651) 390-1908 View (651) 390-1908

See more therapy options for Circle Pines

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.