Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Inver Grove Heights, MN

Photo of Sheilah Healow, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sheilah Healow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I utilize various modalities, including ACT and DBT, and incorporate movement, art, and mindfulness into our sessions.
In today's world, we juggle a lot and are often bombarded by information, responsibilities, and other stressors, making us feel out of touch and overwhelmed. Are you looking for someone to listen, understand, and create space for you to reconnect with yourself and what you want out of your life?
I utilize various modalities, including ACT and DBT, and incorporate movement, art, and mindfulness into our sessions.
In today's world, we juggle a lot and are often bombarded by information, responsibilities, and other stressors, making us feel out of touch and overwhelmed. Are you looking for someone to listen, understand, and create space for you to reconnect with yourself and what you want out of your life?
(651) 301-7974 View (651) 301-7974
Photo of Crystal Lee Nelson - Integrative Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist
Integrative Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I focus on the whole person providing Adlerian Counseling, Emotion Focused Couple's & Family Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Yoga, Intuitive Eating Coaching & Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing.
I provide integral treatment to support you. We collaborate on methods to work towards goals, wellness and thriving in a healthy lifestyle. In EMDR therapy you will be guided through an 8 phase treatment with BLS (i.e. eye movement or tappers). After determining which memories to target, you hold different aspects of that event, internal associations arise and you can process the memory & disturbing feelings. The meaning of the painful event is transformed on an emotional level. In marriage therapy (EFCT), our goals are to understand love systemically, emotions & attachment needs, control negative patterns & shape positive bonds.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I focus on the whole person providing Adlerian Counseling, Emotion Focused Couple's & Family Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Yoga, Intuitive Eating Coaching & Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing.
I provide integral treatment to support you. We collaborate on methods to work towards goals, wellness and thriving in a healthy lifestyle. In EMDR therapy you will be guided through an 8 phase treatment with BLS (i.e. eye movement or tappers). After determining which memories to target, you hold different aspects of that event, internal associations arise and you can process the memory & disturbing feelings. The meaning of the painful event is transformed on an emotional level. In marriage therapy (EFCT), our goals are to understand love systemically, emotions & attachment needs, control negative patterns & shape positive bonds.
(612) 712-7756 View (612) 712-7756
Photo of Amber Egdorf, MA, LPCC, LADC
Amber Egdorf
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in methods of motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, EMDR and am seeking further training in IFS.
My passion is working with individuals with dual-diagnosis or co-occurring substance use concerns along with an array of mental health disorders. I have a specific passion working with those who have experienced trauma or have been diagnosed/have concerns related to a personality disorder. I have worked with individuals with both substance and sexual addictions and find great passion in being able to work with individuals to help them implement changes and shape their lives towards a life worth enjoying.
I am trained in methods of motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, EMDR and am seeking further training in IFS.
My passion is working with individuals with dual-diagnosis or co-occurring substance use concerns along with an array of mental health disorders. I have a specific passion working with those who have experienced trauma or have been diagnosed/have concerns related to a personality disorder. I have worked with individuals with both substance and sexual addictions and find great passion in being able to work with individuals to help them implement changes and shape their lives towards a life worth enjoying.
(651) 360-1147 View (651) 360-1147
Photo of Haven Hafar, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Haven Hafar
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I aim to help clients cultivate self-compassion and identify the strengths they hold, while also using DBT to help people learn new concrete coping skills for navigating life in a way that feels most effective for them.
You feel the pressure to do it all, get everything right, and take care of everyone around you, but inside... you feel alone, exhausted, and like you’re still not good enough. The thought of putting yourself first feels impossible, or you feel guilty when you try. You are struggling to cope with current stressors, and still feel stuck in difficult past experiences. Things feel overwhelming and too difficult to manage on your own right now. I promise, you're not alone, and I am ready to walk alongside you as you unpack your personal experiences and the systemic factors that impact the way you experience the world.
I aim to help clients cultivate self-compassion and identify the strengths they hold, while also using DBT to help people learn new concrete coping skills for navigating life in a way that feels most effective for them.
You feel the pressure to do it all, get everything right, and take care of everyone around you, but inside... you feel alone, exhausted, and like you’re still not good enough. The thought of putting yourself first feels impossible, or you feel guilty when you try. You are struggling to cope with current stressors, and still feel stuck in difficult past experiences. Things feel overwhelming and too difficult to manage on your own right now. I promise, you're not alone, and I am ready to walk alongside you as you unpack your personal experiences and the systemic factors that impact the way you experience the world.
(651) 337-9218 View (651) 337-9218
Photo of Katie Engh, MA, LPCC, DBTC, Counselor
Katie Engh
Counselor, MA, LPCC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
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 Leslie K. Adair, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Leslie K. Adair
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077
I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Family and Couples Therapy.
My passion is helping people to create and live their best life. I believe that values, acceptance, compassion, and forgiveness are the keys to leading a meaningful life while managing life’s curveballs. While I will approach our work together with genuine care and unconditional acceptance, I also believe that being able to explore a different way of seeing things is helpful. My own life experiences help me to relate to people at all life stages including early adulthood, parenting, divorce and starting over and the changes associated with transition to retirement. Together we can utilize your strengths to find your best self.
I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Family and Couples Therapy.
My passion is helping people to create and live their best life. I believe that values, acceptance, compassion, and forgiveness are the keys to leading a meaningful life while managing life’s curveballs. While I will approach our work together with genuine care and unconditional acceptance, I also believe that being able to explore a different way of seeing things is helpful. My own life experiences help me to relate to people at all life stages including early adulthood, parenting, divorce and starting over and the changes associated with transition to retirement. Together we can utilize your strengths to find your best self.
(952) 900-2838 View (952) 900-2838
Photo of Tina McDonough, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina McDonough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I provide a warm, safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment for people to explore interpersonal concerns and relationships with others. Clients find me to be very personable, humorous, and direct - yet gentle. Whether you are struggling with a significant other, parent, child, friend, boss, or colleague - I can help you identify thoughts, feelings, and needs which will allow you to understand yourself better and enhance communication with your world. This new self awareness will greatly improve your relationships, increase your self esteem, and allow you to enjoy your life to its fullest.
I provide a warm, safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment for people to explore interpersonal concerns and relationships with others. Clients find me to be very personable, humorous, and direct - yet gentle. Whether you are struggling with a significant other, parent, child, friend, boss, or colleague - I can help you identify thoughts, feelings, and needs which will allow you to understand yourself better and enhance communication with your world. This new self awareness will greatly improve your relationships, increase your self esteem, and allow you to enjoy your life to its fullest.
(612) 284-0462 View (612) 284-0462
Photo of Kyle Warner, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kyle Warner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Life can be a lot and talking with someone can help. Sometimes it’s a matter of having an unbiased ear to listen, someone assuring you that you have value, or someone to help get your thoughts in order. We all have different experiences and needs, and finding a therapist can be helpful. I am passionate about mental health and working to make tackling our own mental health issues approachable. I have a compassionate and realistic approach to mental health and view it as a necessary part of anyone’s life. I believe therapy is most effective by providing a non-judgmental space for people to be heard, appreciated, and validated.
Life can be a lot and talking with someone can help. Sometimes it’s a matter of having an unbiased ear to listen, someone assuring you that you have value, or someone to help get your thoughts in order. We all have different experiences and needs, and finding a therapist can be helpful. I am passionate about mental health and working to make tackling our own mental health issues approachable. I have a compassionate and realistic approach to mental health and view it as a necessary part of anyone’s life. I believe therapy is most effective by providing a non-judgmental space for people to be heard, appreciated, and validated.
(651) 504-8303 View (651) 504-8303
Photo of Samantha Rohl, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Rohl
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Change can be difficult, but some of our most difficult times can be our greatest opportunities for growth and healing. Therapy is a place to gather tools that help you identify your feelings, better understand yourself, and manage uncomfortable emotions. I aim to create an empathetic and trusting environment and relationship in which you can feel safe, seen, heard, and respected to discover areas of yourself that need of healing. I am a recent graduate from Southwestern College-Santa Fe with a master’s degree in art therapy and counseling, working towards my independent licensure.
Change can be difficult, but some of our most difficult times can be our greatest opportunities for growth and healing. Therapy is a place to gather tools that help you identify your feelings, better understand yourself, and manage uncomfortable emotions. I aim to create an empathetic and trusting environment and relationship in which you can feel safe, seen, heard, and respected to discover areas of yourself that need of healing. I am a recent graduate from Southwestern College-Santa Fe with a master’s degree in art therapy and counseling, working towards my independent licensure.
(218) 413-2123 View (218) 413-2123
Photo of Cathy L Chavez, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy L Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I believe your situation is unique and deserves an individualized plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. You can be assured I will always remember your unique "story" every time we meet. My approach to counseling is straight forward, yet caring and compassionate.
I believe your situation is unique and deserves an individualized plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. You can be assured I will always remember your unique "story" every time we meet. My approach to counseling is straight forward, yet caring and compassionate.
(651) 314-7570 View (651) 314-7570
Photo of Kelsey Rehome-Peymann, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Rehome-Peymann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Not accepting new clients
Each person holds their own unique set of values and beliefs. I am not hear to judge or dictate your behavior, rather, I strive to acknowledged and honor your experiences; accepting who you are, where you are at this current moment, and where you would like to go. Through collaboration, encouragement, and active participation in therapeutic process, you can become the agent of change in your life. As a supportive therapist, I am here to help you cultivate a better personal understanding of your life and make choices that will benefit your personal growth and overall well-being.
Each person holds their own unique set of values and beliefs. I am not hear to judge or dictate your behavior, rather, I strive to acknowledged and honor your experiences; accepting who you are, where you are at this current moment, and where you would like to go. Through collaboration, encouragement, and active participation in therapeutic process, you can become the agent of change in your life. As a supportive therapist, I am here to help you cultivate a better personal understanding of your life and make choices that will benefit your personal growth and overall well-being.
(612) 439-4256 View (612) 439-4256

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mackenzie Kerber, LPCC, Counselor
Mackenzie Kerber
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122  (Online Only)
I have special training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I strongly believe that healing trauma happens in the mind and the body. Once my clients have a good base of coping skills, I enjoy using Sensorimotor and somatic techniques to help clients heal their trauma. I also love working with women who have experienced trauma. Especially those that are going through (or have experienced) infertility/loss, the trenches of prenatal and postpartum life, sexual assault and abuse survivors and woman who want to explore their sense of self.
I have special training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I strongly believe that healing trauma happens in the mind and the body. Once my clients have a good base of coping skills, I enjoy using Sensorimotor and somatic techniques to help clients heal their trauma. I also love working with women who have experienced trauma. Especially those that are going through (or have experienced) infertility/loss, the trenches of prenatal and postpartum life, sexual assault and abuse survivors and woman who want to explore their sense of self.
(952) 295-4981 View (952) 295-4981
Photo of Aura Chasteen - Aura Chasteen, PsyD, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aura Chasteen, PsyD
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I employ cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and skills training based in Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients navigate their presenting challenges.
Hello & welcome. Seeking therapy is a decision of courage and I’m so glad you are exploring this option. I provide therapy to residents of Minnesota, in person & via Telehealth. I love working with a variety of clients, including those struggling to adjust to major life changes, have experienced grief and loss, or are struggling with substance use issues and considering positive steps to improve their health and well-being. Therapy can be hard work, but when a client is motivated for change, I find it very inspiring and a privilege to work collaboratively with these individuals to reach the goals they have identified for themselves.
I employ cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and skills training based in Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients navigate their presenting challenges.
Hello & welcome. Seeking therapy is a decision of courage and I’m so glad you are exploring this option. I provide therapy to residents of Minnesota, in person & via Telehealth. I love working with a variety of clients, including those struggling to adjust to major life changes, have experienced grief and loss, or are struggling with substance use issues and considering positive steps to improve their health and well-being. Therapy can be hard work, but when a client is motivated for change, I find it very inspiring and a privilege to work collaboratively with these individuals to reach the goals they have identified for themselves.
(952) 522-4460 View (952) 522-4460
Photo of Jacqueline Bluem - Positive Psychology Consultants - Jacqueline Bluem, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Positive Psychology Consultants - Jacqueline Bluem
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55425  (Online Only)
Jackie is passionate about helping others succeed in improving their mental health and chemical health symptoms so they can live an optimal healthy life. She utilizes Positive Psychology concepts and Motivational Interviewing which are both a form of strength-based approaches. Motivational Interviewing has been defined as “a collaborative, person-centered form of guiding to elicit and strengthen motivation to change”. Jackie also uses an informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Jackie is passionate about helping others succeed in improving their mental health and chemical health symptoms so they can live an optimal healthy life. She utilizes Positive Psychology concepts and Motivational Interviewing which are both a form of strength-based approaches. Motivational Interviewing has been defined as “a collaborative, person-centered form of guiding to elicit and strengthen motivation to change”. Jackie also uses an informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(651) 383-1978 View (651) 383-1978
Photo of Cindy Lou Fischer Hancock, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cindy Lou Fischer Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
My focus in therapy is to provide an environment where clients can develop coping skills and explore their own thoughts and feelings. By providing evidence-based practices including CBT and DBT, mind-body skills work clients can increase their awareness of how their own thought patterns and their impact emotionally. I have a history of skills in developing rapport and making effective progress with clients who have co-occurring disorders of mental health and addictions. My approach is integrative, collaborative, client-centered and includes alternative complimentary modalities. and co-occurring disorders from Alfred Adler Graduate School.
My focus in therapy is to provide an environment where clients can develop coping skills and explore their own thoughts and feelings. By providing evidence-based practices including CBT and DBT, mind-body skills work clients can increase their awareness of how their own thought patterns and their impact emotionally. I have a history of skills in developing rapport and making effective progress with clients who have co-occurring disorders of mental health and addictions. My approach is integrative, collaborative, client-centered and includes alternative complimentary modalities. and co-occurring disorders from Alfred Adler Graduate School.
(952) 777-7842 View (952) 777-7842
Photo of Charlie Breslin, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charlie Breslin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
I also use motivational interviewing and DBT skills to help folks create change.
I work with LGBTQ+ and polyamorous folks. I recognize that many of us have experienced trauma, relationship challenges, and discrimination, and that our identities are a critical component of how we heal and grow. Finding a sense of who you are is never an easy process, but receiving invalidating messaging from the world while holding past and present wounds makes it even more difficult. The stories we tell about ourselves, inside and outside the context of personal identities, have power over how we understand our experiences, relationships, and emotions. What might it be like to tell your story in a new way?
I also use motivational interviewing and DBT skills to help folks create change.
I work with LGBTQ+ and polyamorous folks. I recognize that many of us have experienced trauma, relationship challenges, and discrimination, and that our identities are a critical component of how we heal and grow. Finding a sense of who you are is never an easy process, but receiving invalidating messaging from the world while holding past and present wounds makes it even more difficult. The stories we tell about ourselves, inside and outside the context of personal identities, have power over how we understand our experiences, relationships, and emotions. What might it be like to tell your story in a new way?
(612) 887-9711 View (612) 887-9711
Photo of David R Bradshaw - Healing Connections Therapy Center, MSEd, LP, Psychologist
Healing Connections Therapy Center
Psychologist, MSEd, LP
Not Verified Not Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Our specialties include personality disorders, DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), trauma informed therapy, marriage and family therapy, addictions, depression, anxiety, adolescents, EMDR, PTSD, grief/loss, and life transitions.
We are a multi-disciplinary team offering medication management, individual therapy, couples and family counseling, and group therapy to provide you with comprehensive care for treatment of many mental health issues. Our groups and individual therapy have proven to change destructive behaviors, improve ability to manage mood, and enhance stress management skills. Our goal is to be of support by helping individuals develop and strengthen skills that promote well-being and success in daily living. We look forward to working with you.
Our specialties include personality disorders, DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), trauma informed therapy, marriage and family therapy, addictions, depression, anxiety, adolescents, EMDR, PTSD, grief/loss, and life transitions.
We are a multi-disciplinary team offering medication management, individual therapy, couples and family counseling, and group therapy to provide you with comprehensive care for treatment of many mental health issues. Our groups and individual therapy have proven to change destructive behaviors, improve ability to manage mood, and enhance stress management skills. Our goal is to be of support by helping individuals develop and strengthen skills that promote well-being and success in daily living. We look forward to working with you.
(952) 479-5976 View (952) 479-5976
Photo of Shannon Pollreis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Pollreis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55120
Not accepting new clients
I incorporate CBT, DBT and am trained in ART.
Do you identify as LGBTQIA+ and/or have non-traditional relationship dynamics? Do you feel disconnected from your partner(s) or self? We can navigate the barriers which prevent you from having the connections you desire with others and yourself. Do you respond in ways that you just don't understand and feel out of your control at times? Let's work together to understand and change patterns which no longer serve you. Are you unsure of the path you are on and want to embark on a journey that matches with your authentic self, but first need to figure out what that means to you? I can help guide you in self exploration.
I incorporate CBT, DBT and am trained in ART.
Do you identify as LGBTQIA+ and/or have non-traditional relationship dynamics? Do you feel disconnected from your partner(s) or self? We can navigate the barriers which prevent you from having the connections you desire with others and yourself. Do you respond in ways that you just don't understand and feel out of your control at times? Let's work together to understand and change patterns which no longer serve you. Are you unsure of the path you are on and want to embark on a journey that matches with your authentic self, but first need to figure out what that means to you? I can help guide you in self exploration.
(651) 615-2831 View (651) 615-2831
Photo of Amelia (Mia) Paquin, PhD, LP, E-Psprt, Psychologist
Amelia (Mia) Paquin
Psychologist, PhD, LP, E-Psprt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior therapy, interpersonal process, and acceptance commitment therapy approaches) tailored to your individual needs.
I believe life's challenges are opportunities for us to grow as human beings. Whether you or a family member are struggling with an old problem that keeps coming back or facing an entirely new problem, there is hope. I use research based assessments and treatments to help you or your family member overcome these concerns and thrive in your life.
, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior therapy, interpersonal process, and acceptance commitment therapy approaches) tailored to your individual needs.
I believe life's challenges are opportunities for us to grow as human beings. Whether you or a family member are struggling with an old problem that keeps coming back or facing an entirely new problem, there is hope. I use research based assessments and treatments to help you or your family member overcome these concerns and thrive in your life.
(651) 358-2699 View (651) 358-2699
Photo of Kristin Turner, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Kristin Turner
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Waitlist for new clients
I practice from person-centered, trauma-informed, ACT, CBT, and DBT therapy approaches.
On parental leave until September 2024. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere for clients to explore their relationships, values, strengths, and changes they would like to make. I strongly believe that everyone is capable of persevering through life's challenges and making positive change, if given the proper tools and resources. I emphasize building upon underlying resilience I believe every person has, through education, skills, and evidence-based approaches. I am a direct communicator but have a casual approach, emphasize compassion, and appreciate humor in sessions.
I practice from person-centered, trauma-informed, ACT, CBT, and DBT therapy approaches.
On parental leave until September 2024. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere for clients to explore their relationships, values, strengths, and changes they would like to make. I strongly believe that everyone is capable of persevering through life's challenges and making positive change, if given the proper tools and resources. I emphasize building upon underlying resilience I believe every person has, through education, skills, and evidence-based approaches. I am a direct communicator but have a casual approach, emphasize compassion, and appreciate humor in sessions.
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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.