Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Hugo, MN

Photo of Jo Kurzmann, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Kurzmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hugo, MN 55038  (Online Only)
I incorporate an eclectic approach including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness and meditation.
I work with teens and adults, providing individual, couples, family, and group therapy. My specialties include working with the challenges of chemical dependency issues and other addictive behaviors such as shopping, eating disorders, and gambling. I help facilitate healing for people suffering from PTSD and trauma as the result of physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect. I provide an empathic and relational experience to assist with the challenging and sometimes debilitating effects of anxiety, depression, dissociation, self-harm behaviors, and chronic pain.
I incorporate an eclectic approach including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness and meditation.
I work with teens and adults, providing individual, couples, family, and group therapy. My specialties include working with the challenges of chemical dependency issues and other addictive behaviors such as shopping, eating disorders, and gambling. I help facilitate healing for people suffering from PTSD and trauma as the result of physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect. I provide an empathic and relational experience to assist with the challenging and sometimes debilitating effects of anxiety, depression, dissociation, self-harm behaviors, and chronic pain.
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Photo of Rebecca Bowers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Bowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hugo, MN 55038
I believe that the best therapy is radically empathetic, that all people hold the innate capacity for healing, and that courage and strength are discovered when people are allowed the space to express and release emotional pain. I use relational, evidence based approaches and work collaboratively with my clients to target the issues most challenging to them. The approaches I use vary and are dependent on the needs of the individual, family, or couple that I'm working with, modalities include DBT, TF-CBT, EMDR, psychodynamic and attachment theory.
I believe that the best therapy is radically empathetic, that all people hold the innate capacity for healing, and that courage and strength are discovered when people are allowed the space to express and release emotional pain. I use relational, evidence based approaches and work collaboratively with my clients to target the issues most challenging to them. The approaches I use vary and are dependent on the needs of the individual, family, or couple that I'm working with, modalities include DBT, TF-CBT, EMDR, psychodynamic and attachment theory.
(651) 538-6975 View (651) 538-6975
Photo of Beth Hamer, LPCC
Beth Hamer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hugo, MN 55038
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 Terra Sorg, MBA, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terra Sorg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hugo, MN 55038
When it comes to therapy, I know it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to find the "right" therapist. It is an investment in time, energy and resources, so making it worthwhile is important. My approach is validating as well as direct. My clients have said that I get to the root of their situations quickly and provide clear ideas of how to cope differently. I am a skills-oriented therapist who has many ideas and strategies for working toward your goals.
When it comes to therapy, I know it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to find the "right" therapist. It is an investment in time, energy and resources, so making it worthwhile is important. My approach is validating as well as direct. My clients have said that I get to the root of their situations quickly and provide clear ideas of how to cope differently. I am a skills-oriented therapist who has many ideas and strategies for working toward your goals.
(651) 661-4855 View (651) 661-4855
Photo of Deanna L Towns, PhD, LPCS-NC, LPCC-MN, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanna L Towns
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCS-NC, LPCC-MN, NCC
Verified Verified
Hugo, MN 55038
Not accepting new clients
I use an eclectic approach, including family systems, EMDR, emotionally-focused couples therapy, CBT, DBT, and psycho-dynamic techniques.
As a therapist, it is my goal to compassionately connect with clients and hear their stories. I will help clients identify personal strengths, define desired changes, and create an individualized plan to move toward health and wholeness. My clientele include families, couples, adults, adolescents, and children. I address trauma, sexual and emotional abuse, eating disorders, self-harm, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, communication issues, forgiveness, shame, cross-cultural stress & adjustment, ministry stress, and premarital counseling (using Prepare/Enrich).
I use an eclectic approach, including family systems, EMDR, emotionally-focused couples therapy, CBT, DBT, and psycho-dynamic techniques.
As a therapist, it is my goal to compassionately connect with clients and hear their stories. I will help clients identify personal strengths, define desired changes, and create an individualized plan to move toward health and wholeness. My clientele include families, couples, adults, adolescents, and children. I address trauma, sexual and emotional abuse, eating disorders, self-harm, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, communication issues, forgiveness, shame, cross-cultural stress & adjustment, ministry stress, and premarital counseling (using Prepare/Enrich).
(919) 648-1218 View (919) 648-1218
Photo of Jina Wilson, MS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jina Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Hugo, MN 55038  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with, and connected to is key to a positive and successful therapy experience. Finding one that specializes in your areas of concern is equally important. For the past 20 years, I have focused on helping children, adolescents, and their parents heal and grow through therapy.
Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with, and connected to is key to a positive and successful therapy experience. Finding one that specializes in your areas of concern is equally important. For the past 20 years, I have focused on helping children, adolescents, and their parents heal and grow through therapy.
(651) 432-0785 View (651) 432-0785

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ben Dieffenbach, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Dieffenbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55110  (Online Only)
I've practiced Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for 11 years.
When was the last time you had a good laugh? Or felt like your brain was calm? Or felt really confident that you were running your own life; not your anxiety, or obsessive thoughts, or big emotions. If it feels like it's been a while since you could actually enjoy life, then maybe it's a good thing you're here. Therapy can seem like a really serious thing to jump into. It is! It doesn't need to feel that way though. It's possible to do hard things, face the fears and anxieties that keep you stuck, and grow into the person you want to be. You can do all of that, and it can even be fun. Enjoyable. Something you look forward to.
I've practiced Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for 11 years.
When was the last time you had a good laugh? Or felt like your brain was calm? Or felt really confident that you were running your own life; not your anxiety, or obsessive thoughts, or big emotions. If it feels like it's been a while since you could actually enjoy life, then maybe it's a good thing you're here. Therapy can seem like a really serious thing to jump into. It is! It doesn't need to feel that way though. It's possible to do hard things, face the fears and anxieties that keep you stuck, and grow into the person you want to be. You can do all of that, and it can even be fun. Enjoyable. Something you look forward to.
(651) 538-2567 View (651) 538-2567
Photo of Anna Burke, LPCC, Counselor
Anna Burke
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Forest Lake, MN 55025
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 Terri M Ulschmid, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terri M Ulschmid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Centerville, MN 55038
My specialties include: anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, spirituality, addiction and recovery, dialectical behavioral therapy, LGBTQIA issues, stress management, women’s issues, grief, and transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a pattern that appears to be repeating? Are you continuing to tell stories, and some can be painful to hold I work with people who experience stress and anxiety, grief and depression. We will do this by naming patterns and I will teach you how to regulate your emotions, learn how to communicate with others by standing up for yourself, and tolerate your emotions through difficult life events and stressful situations without making them worse
My specialties include: anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, spirituality, addiction and recovery, dialectical behavioral therapy, LGBTQIA issues, stress management, women’s issues, grief, and transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a pattern that appears to be repeating? Are you continuing to tell stories, and some can be painful to hold I work with people who experience stress and anxiety, grief and depression. We will do this by naming patterns and I will teach you how to regulate your emotions, learn how to communicate with others by standing up for yourself, and tolerate your emotions through difficult life events and stressful situations without making them worse
(651) 538-1303 View (651) 538-1303
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
Photo of Terry M Post, MS, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terry M Post
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Forest Lake, MN 55025
I use CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), Solution-Focused, Schema Therapy, and Reality Therapy/Choice Theory, believing that what we do and how we think ultimately creates how we feel and behave.
I help people overcome life’s challenges to grow and find their desired happiness. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy, relationship problems, and some personality disorders. I believe that our mental health, compulsive behaviors, relationships, sex, and intimacy all interact and influence one another to create who and how we show up today. I have an extensive history of working with individuals in the LGBT+ community and specialize in treating Chemsex
I use CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), Solution-Focused, Schema Therapy, and Reality Therapy/Choice Theory, believing that what we do and how we think ultimately creates how we feel and behave.
I help people overcome life’s challenges to grow and find their desired happiness. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy, relationship problems, and some personality disorders. I believe that our mental health, compulsive behaviors, relationships, sex, and intimacy all interact and influence one another to create who and how we show up today. I have an extensive history of working with individuals in the LGBT+ community and specialize in treating Chemsex
(952) 213-6554 View (952) 213-6554
Photo of Kimberly Overlie - HP Psychological Associates, PC, Psychologist
HP Psychological Associates, PC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Lake, MN 55025
Finally, we are a certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provider offering adult (in person and virtual) DBT groups.
We know how important it is to have options when you decide to reach out for support. As a group of clinicians invested in your wellbeing, we provide individual and group counseling to adults, children (ages 4+), families, and couples. Because we cannot determine when life stressors or increasing mental health concerns will occur, you may be able to be seen the same day of your call.
Finally, we are a certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provider offering adult (in person and virtual) DBT groups.
We know how important it is to have options when you decide to reach out for support. As a group of clinicians invested in your wellbeing, we provide individual and group counseling to adults, children (ages 4+), families, and couples. Because we cannot determine when life stressors or increasing mental health concerns will occur, you may be able to be seen the same day of your call.
(218) 464-0908 View (218) 464-0908
Photo of Kelly R Volkmann, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly R Volkmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55110
CBT, DBT skills, EMDR, solution focused, family systems, and Motivational Interviewing.
Transformation happens within to create the life and freedom desired. For mental health and addictions, evidence based and wholistic practices are used within our clinic to produce desired change. Our mission is to provide a place of wellness and healing partnering with each client to provide individualized care in a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement. Sometimes past and present experiences form unhealthy beliefs, coping mechanisms, and relationship dynamics that get in the way of healing and living out your true potential of leading a life of joy, peace, and balance.
CBT, DBT skills, EMDR, solution focused, family systems, and Motivational Interviewing.
Transformation happens within to create the life and freedom desired. For mental health and addictions, evidence based and wholistic practices are used within our clinic to produce desired change. Our mission is to provide a place of wellness and healing partnering with each client to provide individualized care in a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement. Sometimes past and present experiences form unhealthy beliefs, coping mechanisms, and relationship dynamics that get in the way of healing and living out your true potential of leading a life of joy, peace, and balance.
(651) 252-4930 View (651) 252-4930
Photo of Adam Palowski, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Adam Palowski
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lino Lakes, MN 55038  (Online Only)
I have been working in the field since 2015, through the years I have learned to use many different modalities such as; Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Trauma Focus Cognitive Therapy (TFCBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Multi-systemic Therapy (MST).
Your family's story is unique, and your voices deserve to be heard. If you're seeking a therapist who not only listens but also deeply understands, let's connect. Reach out through a call or email, and together, let's explore the path to healing and growth that best fits your family's narrative. Working with a skilled therapist (who is also a father) can offer you and your family hope.
I have been working in the field since 2015, through the years I have learned to use many different modalities such as; Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Trauma Focus Cognitive Therapy (TFCBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Multi-systemic Therapy (MST).
Your family's story is unique, and your voices deserve to be heard. If you're seeking a therapist who not only listens but also deeply understands, let's connect. Reach out through a call or email, and together, let's explore the path to healing and growth that best fits your family's narrative. Working with a skilled therapist (who is also a father) can offer you and your family hope.
(651) 349-4916 View (651) 349-4916
Photo of Natalie Wasiluk, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Wasiluk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mahtomedi, MN 55115
Waitlist for new clients
I offer an individualized approach to psychotherapy, drawing from over a decade of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, emotion dysregulation, and problems in relationships. I've completed advanced training in a variety of evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, interpersonal, and compassion-focused therapies, as well as training in mind-body and somatic practices, to help meet the diverse needs of my clientele. I have a passion for helping clients develop healthy relationships while pursuing recovery from experiences of trauma, moral injury, and shame.
I offer an individualized approach to psychotherapy, drawing from over a decade of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, emotion dysregulation, and problems in relationships. I've completed advanced training in a variety of evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, interpersonal, and compassion-focused therapies, as well as training in mind-body and somatic practices, to help meet the diverse needs of my clientele. I have a passion for helping clients develop healthy relationships while pursuing recovery from experiences of trauma, moral injury, and shame.
(651) 661-4022 View (651) 661-4022
Photo of Ann Henry, MA, LP, Psychologist
Ann Henry
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55115
I use strategies of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and mindfulness, within a relational, psychodynamic framework.
I work with adult individuals with a variety of issues, however, I specialize in treating the effects of childhood neglect and/or abuse. The impact of trauma is often profound. Pervasive and complex effects can disrupt your sense of self, your life narrative, and your ability to engage with others and the world.
I use strategies of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and mindfulness, within a relational, psychodynamic framework.
I work with adult individuals with a variety of issues, however, I specialize in treating the effects of childhood neglect and/or abuse. The impact of trauma is often profound. Pervasive and complex effects can disrupt your sense of self, your life narrative, and your ability to engage with others and the world.
(651) 309-8189 View (651) 309-8189
Photo of Christina L Kress, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina L Kress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55115
Waitlist for new clients
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
(651) 967-8762 View (651) 967-8762
Photo of Andrea L. Walker, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrea L. Walker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110  (Online Only)
She combines elements of Adlerian psychology, neurobiology, attachment theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to facilitate authentic growth and development of self.
Andrea began her career in the mental health field in 2012 and developed experience through supportive and financial roles for clinics specializing in trauma and eating disorders. She attended Adler Graduate School where she studied co-occurring disorders and completed her master’s degree in Adlerian Counseling and Psychotherapy. She is dually trained to provide counseling for both substance use and mental health disorders. She provides personalized care, equipping clients with the courage and skills to meet their goals.
She combines elements of Adlerian psychology, neurobiology, attachment theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to facilitate authentic growth and development of self.
Andrea began her career in the mental health field in 2012 and developed experience through supportive and financial roles for clinics specializing in trauma and eating disorders. She attended Adler Graduate School where she studied co-occurring disorders and completed her master’s degree in Adlerian Counseling and Psychotherapy. She is dually trained to provide counseling for both substance use and mental health disorders. She provides personalized care, equipping clients with the courage and skills to meet their goals.
(651) 493-8150 View (651) 493-8150
Photo of Jenny M Johnson (She Her), MA,  LPCC
Jenny M Johnson (She Her)
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Shoreview, MN 55126  (Online Only)
My theoretical orientation is CBT/DBT but believe in meeting the client where they are at with interventions.
I am here to help. My experience has been working with adolescents and adults who are having a difficult time managing symptoms of mental health or adjusting to life's stressors which can feel overwhelming. I have experience working with people who have experienced invalidation and childhood emotional neglect which have resulted in Complex Trauma. I enjoy working with young adults on life transitions as well as I remember how difficult that time in life can be. I offer a nonjudgmental perspective and a helping voice with a willingness to support.
My theoretical orientation is CBT/DBT but believe in meeting the client where they are at with interventions.
I am here to help. My experience has been working with adolescents and adults who are having a difficult time managing symptoms of mental health or adjusting to life's stressors which can feel overwhelming. I have experience working with people who have experienced invalidation and childhood emotional neglect which have resulted in Complex Trauma. I enjoy working with young adults on life transitions as well as I remember how difficult that time in life can be. I offer a nonjudgmental perspective and a helping voice with a willingness to support.
(763) 296-3478 View (763) 296-3478
Photo of Christina Gwenn Copeland, MS, LPCC
Christina Gwenn Copeland
MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Blaine, 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

See more therapy options for Hugo

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.