Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Maple Grove, MN

Photo of Chloe Elise Kieser, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chloe Elise Kieser
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I offer modalities such as CBT, DBT, and dance and movement.
I’m here to help you live the life you desire, by working together to reduce symptoms, create positive experiences, and work through stressors. I want all my clients to achieve the goals they set for themselves, and we will work as a team. Overall wellness is what I strive to help you achieve.
I offer modalities such as CBT, DBT, and dance and movement.
I’m here to help you live the life you desire, by working together to reduce symptoms, create positive experiences, and work through stressors. I want all my clients to achieve the goals they set for themselves, and we will work as a team. Overall wellness is what I strive to help you achieve.
(763) 373-4834 View (763) 373-4834
Photo of Judy Brunsgaard, MA, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy Brunsgaard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I draw upon multiple evidence-based therapies including Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, DBT-informed skills, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and sensorimotor psychotherapy.
Depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, loss, and traumatic events all have the ability to disrupt our lives, interfering with a clear focus on what is truly fulfilling and rewarding. I believe that each person has the ability to deeply connect with their unique life perspective to clear the confusion, develop their own internal wisdom, and begin living life more fully.
I draw upon multiple evidence-based therapies including Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, DBT-informed skills, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and sensorimotor psychotherapy.
Depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, loss, and traumatic events all have the ability to disrupt our lives, interfering with a clear focus on what is truly fulfilling and rewarding. I believe that each person has the ability to deeply connect with their unique life perspective to clear the confusion, develop their own internal wisdom, and begin living life more fully.
(612) 400-7941 View (612) 400-7941
Photo of Averi Linz, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Averi Linz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
My therapeutic approach draws primarily from feminist, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and emotion-focused theoretical orientations.
I am dedicated to establishing an accepting and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their stories and feel genuinely heard. I aim to cultivate a collaborative counseling relationship grounded in a holistic, client-centered, and culturally responsive approach. My clinical interests include working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. I am also passionate about women’s mental health concerns, including pregnancy, perinatal health, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and reproductive challenges. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and use a multicultural counseling lens.
My therapeutic approach draws primarily from feminist, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and emotion-focused theoretical orientations.
I am dedicated to establishing an accepting and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their stories and feel genuinely heard. I aim to cultivate a collaborative counseling relationship grounded in a holistic, client-centered, and culturally responsive approach. My clinical interests include working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. I am also passionate about women’s mental health concerns, including pregnancy, perinatal health, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and reproductive challenges. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and use a multicultural counseling lens.
(763) 888-8461 View (763) 888-8461
Photo of Taylor Cameron, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Taylor Cameron
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Taylor also utilizes skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I strive to create a non-judgemental, safe haven where clients can come as they are, process their story, and feel genuinely heard and validated. I approach therapy authentically and collaboratively, and desires to empower clients to create meaningful change towards the life they want to live. I approach therapeutic relationships with curiosity, genuineness and empathy. I truly believe that it takes immense strength, bravery, and willingness to seek out therapy services. I am committed to helping you understand your story, explore your strengths, and make meaning from your lived experiences.
Taylor also utilizes skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I strive to create a non-judgemental, safe haven where clients can come as they are, process their story, and feel genuinely heard and validated. I approach therapy authentically and collaboratively, and desires to empower clients to create meaningful change towards the life they want to live. I approach therapeutic relationships with curiosity, genuineness and empathy. I truly believe that it takes immense strength, bravery, and willingness to seek out therapy services. I am committed to helping you understand your story, explore your strengths, and make meaning from your lived experiences.
(763) 878-7297 View (763) 878-7297
Photo of Chelsey Jernberg Peschges, MA, LPCC, PMH-C, Counselor
Chelsey Jernberg Peschges
Counselor, MA, LPCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Waitlist for new clients
I draw upon integrative and trauma-informed approaches incorporating acceptance and commitment therapy principles, CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based techniques and somatic resourcing.
I provide individual therapy for adults and teens (16+) with special interest in working with young adults and women throughout all life stages. I believe in meeting clients where they are at and providing a judgement-free space for them to explore emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I am perinatal mental health certified and love to support individuals through these important life transitions including pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenting stages. I approach therapy with authenticity and work to collaborate with my clients to achieve their goals around health and well-being.
I draw upon integrative and trauma-informed approaches incorporating acceptance and commitment therapy principles, CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based techniques and somatic resourcing.
I provide individual therapy for adults and teens (16+) with special interest in working with young adults and women throughout all life stages. I believe in meeting clients where they are at and providing a judgement-free space for them to explore emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I am perinatal mental health certified and love to support individuals through these important life transitions including pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenting stages. I approach therapy with authenticity and work to collaborate with my clients to achieve their goals around health and well-being.
(763) 314-3531 View (763) 314-3531
Photo of Jenn Anderson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenn Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
I utilize CBT, DBT and mindfulness techniques throughout my practice.
Throughout life, people face various obstacles. These obstacles may feel overwhelming and sometimes, insurmountable. Working with a therapist who is a good fit is a magnificent strength to help during these times. I work to create a safe environment to foster development of healthy communication skills and emphasize how to utilize support systems and healthy coping skills. I have experience working with adolescents in a school setting, in day treatment, in group therapy, and in an outpatient individual treatment setting. I have also worked with adults in a day treatment setting in addition to outpatient therapy.
I utilize CBT, DBT and mindfulness techniques throughout my practice.
Throughout life, people face various obstacles. These obstacles may feel overwhelming and sometimes, insurmountable. Working with a therapist who is a good fit is a magnificent strength to help during these times. I work to create a safe environment to foster development of healthy communication skills and emphasize how to utilize support systems and healthy coping skills. I have experience working with adolescents in a school setting, in day treatment, in group therapy, and in an outpatient individual treatment setting. I have also worked with adults in a day treatment setting in addition to outpatient therapy.
(612) 400-8754 View (612) 400-8754
Photo of Jenny M Johnson (She Her), MA,  LPCC
Jenny M Johnson (She Her)
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (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 Toni Stone - Wild Roots Counseling LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wild Roots Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Therapeutic techniques include: DBT, CBT, person-centered, trauma informed care and.
Clients can expect a therapist who is down to earth and brings authentic self to session. Someone who is curious, straight forward yet gentle, honest, genuine and has a great sense of humor. An ideal client is an individual who sees vulnerability as courage, finds value in openness, transparency and humor. They have the desire to gain insight about what’s working and what isn’t working. They have interest in investing in themselves and genuinely building a life worth living.
Therapeutic techniques include: DBT, CBT, person-centered, trauma informed care and.
Clients can expect a therapist who is down to earth and brings authentic self to session. Someone who is curious, straight forward yet gentle, honest, genuine and has a great sense of humor. An ideal client is an individual who sees vulnerability as courage, finds value in openness, transparency and humor. They have the desire to gain insight about what’s working and what isn’t working. They have interest in investing in themselves and genuinely building a life worth living.
(763) 878-7221 View (763) 878-7221
Photo of Brandon Stavish, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Brandon Stavish
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
Brandon has a diverse and comprehensive background in providing therapy, particularly with a focus on DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), harm reduction, and mind body integration.
Brandon's experience across various settings and specialties, including working with serious mental health challenges and substance use disorders, offers a well rounded understanding of complex problems and co-occurring conditions. Brandon has experience working in various settings such as inpatient hospitalization, day treatment, intensive residential treatment services, and outpatient therapy.
Brandon has a diverse and comprehensive background in providing therapy, particularly with a focus on DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), harm reduction, and mind body integration.
Brandon's experience across various settings and specialties, including working with serious mental health challenges and substance use disorders, offers a well rounded understanding of complex problems and co-occurring conditions. Brandon has experience working in various settings such as inpatient hospitalization, day treatment, intensive residential treatment services, and outpatient therapy.
(763) 314-4478 View (763) 314-4478
Photo of Kiersten Brooks, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Kiersten Brooks
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
I’m a strengths-based and compassionate therapist who genuinely believes that positive change is always within reach, even during challenging times. I focus on building a strong, supportive relationship with my clients so you always feel heard and accepted. I see myself as a partner in your journey, helping to brainstorm solutions, offer fresh perspectives, and work together to find your path toward resilience, self-acceptance, and meaningful change. I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which helps you build skills for managing emotions, improving relationships, and finding a balanced, fulfilling life.
I’m a strengths-based and compassionate therapist who genuinely believes that positive change is always within reach, even during challenging times. I focus on building a strong, supportive relationship with my clients so you always feel heard and accepted. I see myself as a partner in your journey, helping to brainstorm solutions, offer fresh perspectives, and work together to find your path toward resilience, self-acceptance, and meaningful change. I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which helps you build skills for managing emotions, improving relationships, and finding a balanced, fulfilling life.
(763) 710-3701 View (763) 710-3701
Jeanne M Abicht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I am passionate in providing a strength-based and non-judgmental space for you to explore your needs within a confidential therapeutic relationship. I provide a compassionate, empathic, and collaborative space for people to explore mental and emotional conflict, life transitions, grief, trauma, and challenges within interpersonal relationships. I believe in people's intrinsic strength, courage, and resilience in exploring new possibilities and develop enhanced coping skills. I enjoy working with children, pre-adolescents, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I also enjoy working with families and providing parent guidance.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I am passionate in providing a strength-based and non-judgmental space for you to explore your needs within a confidential therapeutic relationship. I provide a compassionate, empathic, and collaborative space for people to explore mental and emotional conflict, life transitions, grief, trauma, and challenges within interpersonal relationships. I believe in people's intrinsic strength, courage, and resilience in exploring new possibilities and develop enhanced coping skills. I enjoy working with children, pre-adolescents, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I also enjoy working with families and providing parent guidance.
(763) 225-1530 View (763) 225-1530
Photo of Kari Lyn Stevens Wampler, MA, LMFT, PCLC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kari Lyn Stevens Wampler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PCLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I use a conversational yet directive approach to therapy and favor modalities such as Internal Family Systems, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, AIR Network (for trauma), Neurology, Mind Body Medicine, Immanuel Approach, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
If you're ready for a change, you're in the right place. I love being able to help my clients release ties that have kept them stuck or in pain. Together we will work to identify wellness goals, assist in building healthy relationships, and move you toward a stronger more vibrant life. My clients say that I am easy to talk to and authentic, compassionate yet challenging. I help my clients to gain insight and tools so they can move on to live a life they feel good about. I work with individuals, adolescents, families, and couples to solve immediate issues, like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life dissatisfaction.
I use a conversational yet directive approach to therapy and favor modalities such as Internal Family Systems, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, AIR Network (for trauma), Neurology, Mind Body Medicine, Immanuel Approach, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
If you're ready for a change, you're in the right place. I love being able to help my clients release ties that have kept them stuck or in pain. Together we will work to identify wellness goals, assist in building healthy relationships, and move you toward a stronger more vibrant life. My clients say that I am easy to talk to and authentic, compassionate yet challenging. I help my clients to gain insight and tools so they can move on to live a life they feel good about. I work with individuals, adolescents, families, and couples to solve immediate issues, like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life dissatisfaction.
(763) 280-5733 View (763) 280-5733
Photo of Mona Abuhussein, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mona Abuhussein
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I specialize in trauma-informed care and am training in DBT.
I specialize in counseling individuals, adults, children above 8, and adolescents, navigating emotional challenges, life transitions, and chronic illness grief. My approach is person-centered, and culturally sensitive, enhancing therapy for diverse backgrounds. Fluent in English and Arabic, I foster a space of acceptance and growth. Inspired by continuous learning, I am dedicated to empowering clients toward resilience and personal fulfillment.
I specialize in trauma-informed care and am training in DBT.
I specialize in counseling individuals, adults, children above 8, and adolescents, navigating emotional challenges, life transitions, and chronic illness grief. My approach is person-centered, and culturally sensitive, enhancing therapy for diverse backgrounds. Fluent in English and Arabic, I foster a space of acceptance and growth. Inspired by continuous learning, I am dedicated to empowering clients toward resilience and personal fulfillment.
(763) 296-0703 View (763) 296-0703
Photo of Echo Anne Althoff, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Echo Anne Althoff
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
Outside of traditional therapy I offer a Telehealth DBT group for Teens.
Hello there! Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just a bit stuck? You're not alone, and you don't have to navigate these challenges by yourself. I'm a dedicated telehealth therapist specializing in a client-centered, solution-focused approach to psychology. Whether you're an individual, adolescent, part of a family, or a couple, I'm here to help you overcome those immediate hurdles standing in the way of your happiness and fulfillment. In our sessions, we'll work together to tackle issues like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and the general dissatisfaction that life sometimes throws our way.
Outside of traditional therapy I offer a Telehealth DBT group for Teens.
Hello there! Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just a bit stuck? You're not alone, and you don't have to navigate these challenges by yourself. I'm a dedicated telehealth therapist specializing in a client-centered, solution-focused approach to psychology. Whether you're an individual, adolescent, part of a family, or a couple, I'm here to help you overcome those immediate hurdles standing in the way of your happiness and fulfillment. In our sessions, we'll work together to tackle issues like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and the general dissatisfaction that life sometimes throws our way.
(320) 314-3337 View (320) 314-3337
Photo of Dr. Scott Hanneman Phd Lp, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Scott Hanneman Phd Lp
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
, ACT, CBT, DBT).
Life can be unpredictable with many ups-and-downs. Seeking therapy to help navigate life requires courage. If you are considering therapy, you are demonstrating that courage and are likely on your way to improving your life. I take pride in utilizing science-based approaches and I also cherish the opportunity to mindfully and compassionately collaborate with you. Together we will identify what may be keeping you stuck and we will forge a path to increasing your quality of life. Lastly, I believe in the mind-body connection and enjoy introducing mindfulness-based skills to enhance that connection.
, ACT, CBT, DBT).
Life can be unpredictable with many ups-and-downs. Seeking therapy to help navigate life requires courage. If you are considering therapy, you are demonstrating that courage and are likely on your way to improving your life. I take pride in utilizing science-based approaches and I also cherish the opportunity to mindfully and compassionately collaborate with you. Together we will identify what may be keeping you stuck and we will forge a path to increasing your quality of life. Lastly, I believe in the mind-body connection and enjoy introducing mindfulness-based skills to enhance that connection.
(952) 333-4053 View (952) 333-4053
Photo of Miranda Kuschel, MA, CPSS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Miranda Kuschel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CPSS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369
My ideal client is looking for a breath of fresh air, and a way to experience immediate relief from pain and struggles. Your challenges can be changed into dramatic life improvements. Our interactions will help you feel understood. I build in tasks for you to work on in between sessions Focus Areas: Depression,OCD, Anxiety, Codependency, Narcissistic Harm Abuse/Survivor, Self Healing, Trauma, Relationship or Life Transitions,Compulsions, All Addictions, Intrusive Thoughts, Self-worth/Value/Health/Motivation.Burying all your disappointments will not be a sustainable strategy. There is a special approach that will help in your healing
My ideal client is looking for a breath of fresh air, and a way to experience immediate relief from pain and struggles. Your challenges can be changed into dramatic life improvements. Our interactions will help you feel understood. I build in tasks for you to work on in between sessions Focus Areas: Depression,OCD, Anxiety, Codependency, Narcissistic Harm Abuse/Survivor, Self Healing, Trauma, Relationship or Life Transitions,Compulsions, All Addictions, Intrusive Thoughts, Self-worth/Value/Health/Motivation.Burying all your disappointments will not be a sustainable strategy. There is a special approach that will help in your healing
(763) 308-6329 View (763) 308-6329
Photo of Ryan Gay, MA, LPCC
Ryan Gay
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
Hello! I provide Telehealth individual therapy sessions for adults who are primarily experiencing anxiety and depression struggles. It is my goal to help people work through intense emotions, unhelpful thoughts, and challenging life circumstances. Using a strengths-based approach, I enjoy working collaboratively with those I work with to help them reach their goals. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and watching the MN Vikings.
Hello! I provide Telehealth individual therapy sessions for adults who are primarily experiencing anxiety and depression struggles. It is my goal to help people work through intense emotions, unhelpful thoughts, and challenging life circumstances. Using a strengths-based approach, I enjoy working collaboratively with those I work with to help them reach their goals. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and watching the MN Vikings.
(651) 409-9826 View (651) 409-9826
Photo of Peter Falcon, MS, LPCC, LIMHP, NCC, Counselor
Peter Falcon
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LIMHP, NCC
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55311
I believe in incorporating a positive psychological and holistic approach to the individuals I serve. By incorporating an overall wellness and "whole mind/body" approach with individuals, I believe each person can get the best out of themselves through mental health therapy. I utilize evidenced based clinical counseling techniques such as ACT, Mindfulness, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and a variety of sport counseling/psychology modalities into practice. Lastly, I take an individual approach to every person I treat, knowing that every person is different and deserves authentic, genuine, and exceptional mental health care.
I believe in incorporating a positive psychological and holistic approach to the individuals I serve. By incorporating an overall wellness and "whole mind/body" approach with individuals, I believe each person can get the best out of themselves through mental health therapy. I utilize evidenced based clinical counseling techniques such as ACT, Mindfulness, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and a variety of sport counseling/psychology modalities into practice. Lastly, I take an individual approach to every person I treat, knowing that every person is different and deserves authentic, genuine, and exceptional mental health care.
(612) 453-4470 View (612) 453-4470
Photo of Stephanie Keeffe Rossing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Keeffe Rossing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I'm passionate to partner with you to receive mind/body/spirit healing that lasts, regardless of the amount of trauma or overwhelm you have experienced! You will learn holistic tools that supersede talk therapy to embody feeling whole and alive. I will empower you to shift your neurobiology throughout each day, allowing you gain the capacity to neutralize the painful life experiences your body has been storing. I specialize with neurophysiological healing from all forms of overwhelming life circumstances including prolonged trauma and dissociation.
I'm passionate to partner with you to receive mind/body/spirit healing that lasts, regardless of the amount of trauma or overwhelm you have experienced! You will learn holistic tools that supersede talk therapy to embody feeling whole and alive. I will empower you to shift your neurobiology throughout each day, allowing you gain the capacity to neutralize the painful life experiences your body has been storing. I specialize with neurophysiological healing from all forms of overwhelming life circumstances including prolonged trauma and dissociation.
(763) 250-5364 View (763) 250-5364
Photo of Erica Cook, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I specialize in working with adolescents, children, and adults with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-confidence, and other concerns. I enjoy working with my clients around strength-based approaches, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, finding helpful coping strategies, and finding a different perspective around concerns at hand.
I specialize in working with adolescents, children, and adults with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-confidence, and other concerns. I enjoy working with my clients around strength-based approaches, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, finding helpful coping strategies, and finding a different perspective around concerns at hand.
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.