Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Lakeville, MN

Photo of Madeline Gould, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madeline Gould
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
I use a flexible mix of therapeutic approaches (ACT, CBT, DBT, and more) in my work that allow me to meet clients where they're at.
The body and mind can be uncomfortable places to be when dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, physical injury/disability, identity questions, and/or trauma. It can be especially uncomfortable or even scary when we feel alone or stuck without effective ways to work through what's happening. Together, my clients and I find ways to make their bodies and minds comfortable places to be that fit their lives and needs.
I use a flexible mix of therapeutic approaches (ACT, CBT, DBT, and more) in my work that allow me to meet clients where they're at.
The body and mind can be uncomfortable places to be when dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, physical injury/disability, identity questions, and/or trauma. It can be especially uncomfortable or even scary when we feel alone or stuck without effective ways to work through what's happening. Together, my clients and I find ways to make their bodies and minds comfortable places to be that fit their lives and needs.
(952) 248-8480 View (952) 248-8480
Photo of Leanne D Ravey, PsyD, LPCC, Counselor
Leanne D Ravey
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalytic therapy, Sandplay therapy, mind-body therapy, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Seeking help from a therapist can be a difficult decision. Successful therapy is highly based on the client-therapist relationship as well as openness to change. I have a warm eclectic style that creates a trusting therapeutic environment. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families to address unhealthy patterns that keep them stuck in emotional distress and unfulfilling relationships. I treat a variety of issues including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, spiritual and relationship issues.
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalytic therapy, Sandplay therapy, mind-body therapy, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Seeking help from a therapist can be a difficult decision. Successful therapy is highly based on the client-therapist relationship as well as openness to change. I have a warm eclectic style that creates a trusting therapeutic environment. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families to address unhealthy patterns that keep them stuck in emotional distress and unfulfilling relationships. I treat a variety of issues including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, spiritual and relationship issues.
(952) 314-9000 View (952) 314-9000
Photo of Sheila K Anderson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheila K Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeville, MN 55044
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in DBT which focuses on life skills for coping with regulating emotions, tolerating stress, mindfulness practices and retaining healthy boundaries in relationships.
Many of our clients are challenged with feelings of depression, anxiety, anger and/or hopelessness. They might be experiencing relational problems, having trouble managing emotions, facing major decisions, and/or simply having trouble coping with everyday life. We offer freedom and encouragement to explore possibilities for change in a nonjudgmental environment. We can help you sort out your thoughts and feelings related to your biggest stressors and empower you to take action in addressing the issues you desire to work on.
I specialize in DBT which focuses on life skills for coping with regulating emotions, tolerating stress, mindfulness practices and retaining healthy boundaries in relationships.
Many of our clients are challenged with feelings of depression, anxiety, anger and/or hopelessness. They might be experiencing relational problems, having trouble managing emotions, facing major decisions, and/or simply having trouble coping with everyday life. We offer freedom and encouragement to explore possibilities for change in a nonjudgmental environment. We can help you sort out your thoughts and feelings related to your biggest stressors and empower you to take action in addressing the issues you desire to work on.
(952) 260-9729 x1 View (952) 260-9729 x1
Photo of Sheila Anderson - Panoramic Perspectives Therapy and Training PA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Panoramic Perspectives Therapy and Training PA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Our providers are trained in DBT, CBT, EMDR, Narrative and Solution-focused therapies.
We have immediate openings for individual, couples, and family therapy. We can help you sort through your thoughts and feelings about your circumstances by providing an emotionally safe environment for you to be curious about barriers you might encounter. We explore negative mindsets that may be keeping you stuck and encourage self-care and compassion as you work to change those faulty beliefs, creating lasting change. We support you!
Our providers are trained in DBT, CBT, EMDR, Narrative and Solution-focused therapies.
We have immediate openings for individual, couples, and family therapy. We can help you sort through your thoughts and feelings about your circumstances by providing an emotionally safe environment for you to be curious about barriers you might encounter. We explore negative mindsets that may be keeping you stuck and encourage self-care and compassion as you work to change those faulty beliefs, creating lasting change. We support you!
(952) 592-4454 x55044 View (952) 592-4454 x55044
Photo of Emily Like Schuleman, MS, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Emily Like Schuleman
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeville, MN 55044  (Online Only)
Through counseling, we will explore ways to gain insight, identify new copings skills, and use evidence based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, Dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
"Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life" - Shannon L. Alder Are you someone needing to make changes, learn new ways of coping, and working towards healing? My passion in the mental health field is to work with adolescents and adults suffering from trauma, substance abuse, and other various disorders. I believe the therapeutic relationship as a sacred place to feel safe to explore past experiences and gain insight to a new hopeful future.
Through counseling, we will explore ways to gain insight, identify new copings skills, and use evidence based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, Dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
"Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life" - Shannon L. Alder Are you someone needing to make changes, learn new ways of coping, and working towards healing? My passion in the mental health field is to work with adolescents and adults suffering from trauma, substance abuse, and other various disorders. I believe the therapeutic relationship as a sacred place to feel safe to explore past experiences and gain insight to a new hopeful future.
(952) 592-8379 View (952) 592-8379
Photo of Haylee Baier, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haylee Baier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeville, MN 55044
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), DBT-C (for children), DBT-A (for adolescents/teens), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Welcome! I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from St. Catherine University and University of St. Thomas. I am an outpatient therapist, director of compliance & clinical supervisor. I thoroughly enjoy working with adolescents and adults in all life stages - primarily ages 13+. I am competent in working with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, complex trauma, domestic violence, first responders, and those involved in the criminal justice system. As a therapist, I believe it is important to find balance in therapy between acceptance and change, beginning where the client is at in order to meet their individual needs.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), DBT-C (for children), DBT-A (for adolescents/teens), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Welcome! I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from St. Catherine University and University of St. Thomas. I am an outpatient therapist, director of compliance & clinical supervisor. I thoroughly enjoy working with adolescents and adults in all life stages - primarily ages 13+. I am competent in working with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, complex trauma, domestic violence, first responders, and those involved in the criminal justice system. As a therapist, I believe it is important to find balance in therapy between acceptance and change, beginning where the client is at in order to meet their individual needs.
(952) 209-8196 View (952) 209-8196
Photo of Kristin Kelly Steady, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristin Kelly Steady
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
While CBT, DBT, and Gottman are the approaches I primarily rely on, I utilize an eclectic variety to better suit your specific needs.
Have you become bogged down by life's challenges, slowly strayed from your path, or become stuck in a pattern that isn't serving you? I can help with life's trials that cause you to lose faith in yourself and steal your happiness, meaning, and resilience. I will act as your support by prioritizing your needs and empowering you to use your innate strengths to accomplish your goals. I provide an emotionally safe and inclusive environment to help facilitate exploration of your past, create peace in your present, and hope for your future.
While CBT, DBT, and Gottman are the approaches I primarily rely on, I utilize an eclectic variety to better suit your specific needs.
Have you become bogged down by life's challenges, slowly strayed from your path, or become stuck in a pattern that isn't serving you? I can help with life's trials that cause you to lose faith in yourself and steal your happiness, meaning, and resilience. I will act as your support by prioritizing your needs and empowering you to use your innate strengths to accomplish your goals. I provide an emotionally safe and inclusive environment to help facilitate exploration of your past, create peace in your present, and hope for your future.
(952) 592-9860 View (952) 592-9860
Photo of Ben Mushel - Ben Mushel: Adults, Trauma, LGBTQ+, MS, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Mushel: Adults, Trauma, LGBTQ+
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeville, MN 55044  (Online Only)
I am a gay male therapist who enjoys encouraging adult individuals who are open to new ideas and are ready to make mental health a priority in their lives. I work with clients struggling with trauma reactions, anxiety and depression, or are just feeling stuck and unfulfilled. I have a special interest in treating trauma with EMDR. I frequently use CBT to develop awareness of how thoughts, behaviors, and emotions relate to each other, and DBT for developing skills and mindfulness. I work with empathy and intentionality. My aim is to help you access the best version of yourself so you can move confidently toward your goals.
I am a gay male therapist who enjoys encouraging adult individuals who are open to new ideas and are ready to make mental health a priority in their lives. I work with clients struggling with trauma reactions, anxiety and depression, or are just feeling stuck and unfulfilled. I have a special interest in treating trauma with EMDR. I frequently use CBT to develop awareness of how thoughts, behaviors, and emotions relate to each other, and DBT for developing skills and mindfulness. I work with empathy and intentionality. My aim is to help you access the best version of yourself so you can move confidently toward your goals.
(651) 538-2830 View (651) 538-2830
Photo of David R Bradshaw - Healing Connections Therapy Center, MSEd, LP, Psychologist
Healing Connections Therapy Center
Psychologist, MSEd, LP
Not Verified Not Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
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 Christine Halby Herzog - Hygge Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LPCC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hygge Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044  (Online Only)
I utilize a strength based, client-centered approach with components of mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy and DBT.
Christine Herzog is the founder of Hygge Counseling Services. She is a licensed professional clinical counselor in AZ, DE, MN & NM. Christine is trained in Perinatal mental health, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, early childhood mental health, and Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, stressed, angry, or having difficulty identifying your purpose? I provide a safe space for engaging in psychotherapy where individuals feel heard. I focus on meeting the needs of each client with coping skills for regulating mood, gaining awareness of triggers, and pursuing personal growth.
I utilize a strength based, client-centered approach with components of mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy and DBT.
Christine Herzog is the founder of Hygge Counseling Services. She is a licensed professional clinical counselor in AZ, DE, MN & NM. Christine is trained in Perinatal mental health, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, early childhood mental health, and Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, stressed, angry, or having difficulty identifying your purpose? I provide a safe space for engaging in psychotherapy where individuals feel heard. I focus on meeting the needs of each client with coping skills for regulating mood, gaining awareness of triggers, and pursuing personal growth.
(505) 596-3050 View (505) 596-3050
Photo of Elena Fosness, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elena Fosness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Modalities that I use most frequently are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
My name is Elena Fosness and i am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Minnesota. I work with teenagers and adults and specialize in depression, traumatic experiences and anxiety. I see my approach to therapy as a good fit working with teens and adults that experience challenging life transitions and difficult times managing their mental health symptoms. This often comes in the form of depression, anxiety, stress and trauma experience. I work to help my clients in navigating through difficult life periods and learning skills that help them to feel better about themselves and the world around.
Modalities that I use most frequently are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
My name is Elena Fosness and i am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Minnesota. I work with teenagers and adults and specialize in depression, traumatic experiences and anxiety. I see my approach to therapy as a good fit working with teens and adults that experience challenging life transitions and difficult times managing their mental health symptoms. This often comes in the form of depression, anxiety, stress and trauma experience. I work to help my clients in navigating through difficult life periods and learning skills that help them to feel better about themselves and the world around.
(651) 372-1628 View (651) 372-1628
Photo of Sharon Rohde, LPCC
Sharon Rohde
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
My name is Sharon Rohde, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC 1906) and a licensed drug and alcohol counselor (LADC (303827). I work with adults and couples using evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies and acceptance and commitment therapy. My approach to therapy consists of evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies and acceptance and commitment therapy.
My name is Sharon Rohde, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC 1906) and a licensed drug and alcohol counselor (LADC (303827). I work with adults and couples using evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies and acceptance and commitment therapy. My approach to therapy consists of evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(651) 240-4163 View (651) 240-4163
Photo of Leah B Ghali, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah B Ghali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeville, MN 55044
My work is grounded in psychodynamic theory, but I greatly value the skills of DBT and CBT.
I work with adults struggling to sort through their emotional experience and make changes to feel more fulfilled and at peace. My practice is rooted in cultural humility and sensitivity to dynamics of power and privilege. I serve clients of all cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I believe in approaching life and therapy with a sense of humor. I specialize in working with matters related to: perinatal mental health, grief & loss, addictive/self-medicating behaviors, depression & anxiety, and deconstruction/ reconstruction of spirituality & religious experiences.
My work is grounded in psychodynamic theory, but I greatly value the skills of DBT and CBT.
I work with adults struggling to sort through their emotional experience and make changes to feel more fulfilled and at peace. My practice is rooted in cultural humility and sensitivity to dynamics of power and privilege. I serve clients of all cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I believe in approaching life and therapy with a sense of humor. I specialize in working with matters related to: perinatal mental health, grief & loss, addictive/self-medicating behaviors, depression & anxiety, and deconstruction/ reconstruction of spirituality & religious experiences.
(952) 260-2036 View (952) 260-2036
Photo of Caitlin Earle, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Earle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044  (Online Only)
Hey there! My name is Cait Earle, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist. I have been in practice for roughly 10 years now. I began working at Mayo Clinic with pediatric patients battling depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. I later branched out into a practice with clients of all ages ranging from age 5 to 85 or so. I have experience working with couples and families. I enjoy incorporating a variety of therapeutic strategies, commonly CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based practices.
Hey there! My name is Cait Earle, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist. I have been in practice for roughly 10 years now. I began working at Mayo Clinic with pediatric patients battling depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. I later branched out into a practice with clients of all ages ranging from age 5 to 85 or so. I have experience working with couples and families. I enjoy incorporating a variety of therapeutic strategies, commonly CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based practices.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Rachael Britton, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Rachael Britton
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
and older, and specialize in Dialectial Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocressing (EMDR).
My clinical interests include working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, adjustment disorders, relational issues/concerns, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal ideation, self-esteem issues, trauma related issues & PTSD, complex trauma, dissociation, and personality disorders. I would like to help you be able to identify the goals you would like to achieve to live a more desirable life. Once we have this goal established, we will work together to identify new coping skills to address situations that feel distressing to you.
and older, and specialize in Dialectial Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocressing (EMDR).
My clinical interests include working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, adjustment disorders, relational issues/concerns, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal ideation, self-esteem issues, trauma related issues & PTSD, complex trauma, dissociation, and personality disorders. I would like to help you be able to identify the goals you would like to achieve to live a more desirable life. Once we have this goal established, we will work together to identify new coping skills to address situations that feel distressing to you.
(651) 505-4380 View (651) 505-4380
Photo of Bridget Couderc, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Bridget Couderc
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeville, MN 55044
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and DBT-Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. DBT is a mindfulness-based therapy model designed to teach people how to cope with stress, live in the moment, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. At times, I utilize additional modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), motivational interviewing and Art Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and DBT-Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. DBT is a mindfulness-based therapy model designed to teach people how to cope with stress, live in the moment, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. At times, I utilize additional modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), motivational interviewing and Art Therapy.
(651) 364-3326 View (651) 364-3326
Photo of Cody Reinke, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cody Reinke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
An ideal client is one who is open to the transformative potential of therapy. In our sessions, I apply systems theory to illuminate how the societal and personal systems we navigate contribute to mental and internal strain, distancing us from our authentic selves. My integrative approach combines advanced modalities, including mindfulness-based interventions, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), polyvagal theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and attachment theory. This comprehensive blend empowers individuals to heal deep-seated wounds and unlock their inner potential.
An ideal client is one who is open to the transformative potential of therapy. In our sessions, I apply systems theory to illuminate how the societal and personal systems we navigate contribute to mental and internal strain, distancing us from our authentic selves. My integrative approach combines advanced modalities, including mindfulness-based interventions, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), polyvagal theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and attachment theory. This comprehensive blend empowers individuals to heal deep-seated wounds and unlock their inner potential.
(952) 243-3929 View (952) 243-3929
Photo of Nicole M. Johnson, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Nicole M. Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
When the pressures of life get to be too overwhelming, we tend to put ourselves last. I work with clients who get so caught up in meeting everyone else's needs that they lose themselves and start to feel burned out. If you are living a life that is taking too much from you and you need to find some balance and rest, you have come to the right place.
When the pressures of life get to be too overwhelming, we tend to put ourselves last. I work with clients who get so caught up in meeting everyone else's needs that they lose themselves and start to feel burned out. If you are living a life that is taking too much from you and you need to find some balance and rest, you have come to the right place.
(612) 502-8617 View (612) 502-8617
Photo of Rebecca Czoschke, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rebecca Czoschke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
“What do they think of me? Am I making the right decisions? Am I failing in life?” If these thoughts sound familiar to you, you are in the right place. Many of my clients tell me they are making it through their days, but their worry and stress make it almost impossible to just enjoy the moment and relax. They worry so much that it can keep them up at night and it is making things difficult in their relationships.
“What do they think of me? Am I making the right decisions? Am I failing in life?” If these thoughts sound familiar to you, you are in the right place. Many of my clients tell me they are making it through their days, but their worry and stress make it almost impossible to just enjoy the moment and relax. They worry so much that it can keep them up at night and it is making things difficult in their relationships.
(952) 260-3986 View (952) 260-3986
Photo of Joseph Yiu Cho Lee - Eastern Psychological Services, MA, LP, Psychologist
Eastern Psychological Services
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044  (Online Only)
I am Joseph Yiu Lee. In my forty years of practice, I have aided clients in slowing down obtrusive thoughts, helping them find time to breathe, working through trauma, and restoring quality sleep.
I am Joseph Yiu Lee. In my forty years of practice, I have aided clients in slowing down obtrusive thoughts, helping them find time to breathe, working through trauma, and restoring quality sleep.
(651) 371-9521 View (651) 371-9521
1
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.