Photo of Heather Petersen, BSW, CT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Heather Petersen
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, MN 56069
In the realm of mental health, my commitment is driven by my profound sense of empathy and compassion. It's my passion to support every individual in their discovery for a life enriched with fulfillment and well-being. I strive to create a space where individuals feel validated and understood. Witnessing their journey towards growth and transformation not only fuels my enthusiasm but also provides meaning in my own life. Together, we embark on a shared voyage of self-discovery, resilience, and holistic well-being, paving the way for enduring positive change.
In the realm of mental health, my commitment is driven by my profound sense of empathy and compassion. It's my passion to support every individual in their discovery for a life enriched with fulfillment and well-being. I strive to create a space where individuals feel validated and understood. Witnessing their journey towards growth and transformation not only fuels my enthusiasm but also provides meaning in my own life. Together, we embark on a shared voyage of self-discovery, resilience, and holistic well-being, paving the way for enduring positive change.
(952) 900-3460 View (952) 900-3460

Online Therapists

Photo of Bailey Fischer, MA, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bailey Fischer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
I have completed formal training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I believe that our relationships with others are an essential component of the human experience. We all exist within various systems, whether that is within friendships, romantic relationships, family relationships, or relationships within a school or workplace. These relational systems tend to be transactional, in the sense that we impact and are impacted by those that are in relation to us. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families in order to create not only individual change, but also systemic and relational change.
I have completed formal training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I believe that our relationships with others are an essential component of the human experience. We all exist within various systems, whether that is within friendships, romantic relationships, family relationships, or relationships within a school or workplace. These relational systems tend to be transactional, in the sense that we impact and are impacted by those that are in relation to us. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families in order to create not only individual change, but also systemic and relational change.
(763) 343-7762 View (763) 343-7762
Photo of Lyndelle Pratt, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyndelle Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55116
Integrating techniques from Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), most of my professional experience has been with pre-teens, teens and young adults and their family members building healthy, supportive communication and confidence while working through mental health concerns.
There have been so many things outside of our control with the societal injustices, pandemic and traumatic events that create feelings of being anxious or losing hope. I want to help your relationship with yourself and others be more informed and reflective on what to do next. I want to offer you knowledge and expertise I have gained through experience and focus on helping others who have had similar experiences. I am here ready to listen and take this pathway by your side to find out what works for you.
Integrating techniques from Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), most of my professional experience has been with pre-teens, teens and young adults and their family members building healthy, supportive communication and confidence while working through mental health concerns.
There have been so many things outside of our control with the societal injustices, pandemic and traumatic events that create feelings of being anxious or losing hope. I want to help your relationship with yourself and others be more informed and reflective on what to do next. I want to offer you knowledge and expertise I have gained through experience and focus on helping others who have had similar experiences. I am here ready to listen and take this pathway by your side to find out what works for you.
(612) 712-8442 View (612) 712-8442
Photo of Chris Clark, PsyD, Psychologist
Chris Clark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55426  (Online Only)
My therapeutic work is informed by person-centered, CBT, DBT, and ACT approaches.
I have experience working with individuals struggling with disordered eating, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, and stress. I believe that seeking out support when needed can be both extremely difficult and incredibly rewarding. Finding a therapist who is a good fit is an important part of that journey.
My therapeutic work is informed by person-centered, CBT, DBT, and ACT approaches.
I have experience working with individuals struggling with disordered eating, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, and stress. I believe that seeking out support when needed can be both extremely difficult and incredibly rewarding. Finding a therapist who is a good fit is an important part of that journey.
(763) 343-8583 View (763) 343-8583
Photo of Patricia L Gorman - Ellie Mental Health Services, EdD, LPCC
Ellie Mental Health Services
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, EdD, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56303  (Online Only)
We all need to laugh sometimes! I am trained in EMDR and DBT but utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to help you move forward.
Everyone has experienced pain and disappointment in their life. For some of us that pain is keeping us from the life we want. You may have learned to cope in ways that are no longer helpful and have become "stuck." I consider it an honor to hear your story and help you navigate what is keeping you from moving forward.
We all need to laugh sometimes! I am trained in EMDR and DBT but utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to help you move forward.
Everyone has experienced pain and disappointment in their life. For some of us that pain is keeping us from the life we want. You may have learned to cope in ways that are no longer helpful and have become "stuck." I consider it an honor to hear your story and help you navigate what is keeping you from moving forward.
View
Photo of Justin Allen, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55425
I have immediate openings! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working in residential, inpatient, intensive outpatient, and outpatient therapy settings. I received my Masters in Social Work from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and my Bachelors from University of Wisconsin-Madison. I work with individual adolescents, young adults, and adults, and can help with a wide variety of concerns. I have about 5 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy; my clients have stated they appreciate the practical skills it teaches them to use in their day-to-day lives.
I have immediate openings! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working in residential, inpatient, intensive outpatient, and outpatient therapy settings. I received my Masters in Social Work from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and my Bachelors from University of Wisconsin-Madison. I work with individual adolescents, young adults, and adults, and can help with a wide variety of concerns. I have about 5 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy; my clients have stated they appreciate the practical skills it teaches them to use in their day-to-day lives.
(952) 592-5855 View (952) 592-5855
Photo of McKenzie Lorentz, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
McKenzie Lorentz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Ulm, MN 56073
My main therapeutic methods are psychoeducation, cognitive behavior techniques (CBT), mindfulness practices, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Hey there, I'm Kenzie! My journey in mental health stems from a deep passion for guiding transformative experiences. The human mind's complexities have always intrigued me, and providing a safe, non-judgmental space for exploration is a privilege. Therapy, to me, is an art of profound connection, understanding your unique narrative, and working together towards healing and growth. Witnessing your insights, resilience, and progress towards mental well-being is incredibly rewarding. Let's engage in meaningful conversation and start this journey together!
My main therapeutic methods are psychoeducation, cognitive behavior techniques (CBT), mindfulness practices, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Hey there, I'm Kenzie! My journey in mental health stems from a deep passion for guiding transformative experiences. The human mind's complexities have always intrigued me, and providing a safe, non-judgmental space for exploration is a privilege. Therapy, to me, is an art of profound connection, understanding your unique narrative, and working together towards healing and growth. Witnessing your insights, resilience, and progress towards mental well-being is incredibly rewarding. Let's engage in meaningful conversation and start this journey together!
(507) 556-8318 View (507) 556-8318
Photo of Madison Gruenewald, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Madison Gruenewald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
My approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, holistic therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy skills, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy and mindfulness based practices.
Hello, I am Madison Gruenewald and I am a licensed therapist in the state of Minnesota. I have 9 years experience working in outpatient mental health/substance use disorder treatment, helping clients work through relationship issues, mood management, value exploration, recovery from addiction and codependency, etc. My experience includes working with individuals, groups and families and have worked with both adolescents and adults. My passion is working collaboratively alongside my clients as they navigate through their healing and create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
My approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, holistic therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy skills, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy and mindfulness based practices.
Hello, I am Madison Gruenewald and I am a licensed therapist in the state of Minnesota. I have 9 years experience working in outpatient mental health/substance use disorder treatment, helping clients work through relationship issues, mood management, value exploration, recovery from addiction and codependency, etc. My experience includes working with individuals, groups and families and have worked with both adolescents and adults. My passion is working collaboratively alongside my clients as they navigate through their healing and create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(952) 529-4214 View (952) 529-4214
Photo of Jean Wagner, DMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jean Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55116
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
We are all on a unique life journey! I am passionate about helping others thrive, not just survive, on their journey. I am especially passionate about healthy relationships with a special interest in family of origin issues, pre-marriage counseling, divorce, remarriage, blended families, and codependency issues. I also specialize in grief counseling, life transitions, career development, and spiritual concerns. I work with individual adults and couples using a systemic, strengths-based, integrative approach.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
We are all on a unique life journey! I am passionate about helping others thrive, not just survive, on their journey. I am especially passionate about healthy relationships with a special interest in family of origin issues, pre-marriage counseling, divorce, remarriage, blended families, and codependency issues. I also specialize in grief counseling, life transitions, career development, and spiritual concerns. I work with individual adults and couples using a systemic, strengths-based, integrative approach.
(612) 482-8554 x4 View (612) 482-8554 x4
Photo of Erin Appel, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Erin Appel
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
My therapy is informed by CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Existential Therapy, and ACT, and is evolving as I read, listen, and collaborate with other therapists.
Crisis is a normal part of human life. We all have them. We can allow them to demoralize us and make us more scared and hopeless, but that’s not the only option. We can also use these moments of pain to learn and grow, and become stronger and more resilient. If we are patient, they can also transform our hearts and make us more compassionate.
My therapy is informed by CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Existential Therapy, and ACT, and is evolving as I read, listen, and collaborate with other therapists.
Crisis is a normal part of human life. We all have them. We can allow them to demoralize us and make us more scared and hopeless, but that’s not the only option. We can also use these moments of pain to learn and grow, and become stronger and more resilient. If we are patient, they can also transform our hearts and make us more compassionate.
(612) 482-5534 View (612) 482-5534
Photo of Kay Nordgren, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Kay Nordgren
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chanhassen, MN 55317  (Online Only)
I most often combine relational talk therapy, with a coaching approach, then I sprinkle in some awesome techniques, and then add in some CBT, ACT, or DBT.
Do you feel stuck, stale or stagnant with your anxiety, depression or mental health? Is trauma a factor in your life that needs to dealt with? Are you feeling sad from a death or sad and/or angry from a divorce, from a break up, or from caregiving and just need to process all that has happened? Therapy can help you be more aware, calmer, have more healing, discernment, more authenticity, more ease, less negativity, better boundaries, be less triggered/less personal, more personal power, better self care, more vulnerability, and healthier connections. Basically, therapy can help you be a better version of yourself!
I most often combine relational talk therapy, with a coaching approach, then I sprinkle in some awesome techniques, and then add in some CBT, ACT, or DBT.
Do you feel stuck, stale or stagnant with your anxiety, depression or mental health? Is trauma a factor in your life that needs to dealt with? Are you feeling sad from a death or sad and/or angry from a divorce, from a break up, or from caregiving and just need to process all that has happened? Therapy can help you be more aware, calmer, have more healing, discernment, more authenticity, more ease, less negativity, better boundaries, be less triggered/less personal, more personal power, better self care, more vulnerability, and healthier connections. Basically, therapy can help you be a better version of yourself!
(952) 955-6730 View (952) 955-6730
Photo of Madison Andrews, MA,  LPCC, Counselor
Madison Andrews
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55435
Madison Andrews is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2019. She received her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and her Masters in Counseling from Adler University with a specialization in sport and health psychology. Madison is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy along with dialectical behavioral therapy and has a personcentered theoretical orientation.
Madison Andrews is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2019. She received her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and her Masters in Counseling from Adler University with a specialization in sport and health psychology. Madison is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy along with dialectical behavioral therapy and has a personcentered theoretical orientation.
(952) 295-4481 View (952) 295-4481
Photo of Kristen Lund, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Lund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55116
I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, otherwise known as DBT.
Hi. I'm Kristen Lund. I have over 28 years of experience providing psychotherapy to individuals, families and groups. I am also the owner of The Art of Validation and Change, LLC. As a person many people find me genuine, humorous and warm. As a therapist many clients find me direct, challenging, compassionate, intuitive and respectful. I enjoy working with male and female adults of many different orientations, races and cultures. If I am full, I have many wonderful therapists on my team that can see you! Check out my website to meet them. www.kristenlund.com They can see clients as young as 6 and as old as 100 years.
I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, otherwise known as DBT.
Hi. I'm Kristen Lund. I have over 28 years of experience providing psychotherapy to individuals, families and groups. I am also the owner of The Art of Validation and Change, LLC. As a person many people find me genuine, humorous and warm. As a therapist many clients find me direct, challenging, compassionate, intuitive and respectful. I enjoy working with male and female adults of many different orientations, races and cultures. If I am full, I have many wonderful therapists on my team that can see you! Check out my website to meet them. www.kristenlund.com They can see clients as young as 6 and as old as 100 years.
(612) 208-7309 View (612) 208-7309
Photo of Robin Getsug, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin Getsug
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roseville, MN 55113
I integrate modalities including mindfulness, creative Flow, ACT, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused, Narrative, Adlerian and Positive Psychology.
I believe in compassionate client/ patient care using my unique combination of skills: Therapy +Art +Mindfulness for Group, Individual, Couple and Family Therapy settings. I will be primarily focusing my practice on adolescents and adults. I believe in a holistic, integrated trauma informed approach to my Art Therapy and Psychotherapy practices. I have a deep compassion and empathy for diverse people from all walks of life. I have a passion for sharing the healing power of creativity, specifically the visual arts.
I integrate modalities including mindfulness, creative Flow, ACT, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused, Narrative, Adlerian and Positive Psychology.
I believe in compassionate client/ patient care using my unique combination of skills: Therapy +Art +Mindfulness for Group, Individual, Couple and Family Therapy settings. I will be primarily focusing my practice on adolescents and adults. I believe in a holistic, integrated trauma informed approach to my Art Therapy and Psychotherapy practices. I have a deep compassion and empathy for diverse people from all walks of life. I have a passion for sharing the healing power of creativity, specifically the visual arts.
(952) 260-4482 View (952) 260-4482
Photo of Amy Krueger, MA, LPCC, PMH-C, Counselor
Amy Krueger
Counselor, MA, LPCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55420
This could include cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, skills to increase mindfulness, or self-soothing tools drawn from dialectical behavior therapy.
As a former wilderness guide, and current Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I am dedicated to helping people take the difficult steps necessary to achieve meaningful change in their lives. I have experience working with a wide range of mental and chemical health challenges. My specialties include mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem issues, navigating personal/professional changes, and recovery from addiction. I also have a great passion for supporting parents dealing with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and am certified through Postpartum Support International as a Perinatal Mental Health specialist.
This could include cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, skills to increase mindfulness, or self-soothing tools drawn from dialectical behavior therapy.
As a former wilderness guide, and current Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I am dedicated to helping people take the difficult steps necessary to achieve meaningful change in their lives. I have experience working with a wide range of mental and chemical health challenges. My specialties include mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem issues, navigating personal/professional changes, and recovery from addiction. I also have a great passion for supporting parents dealing with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and am certified through Postpartum Support International as a Perinatal Mental Health specialist.
(763) 600-7132 View (763) 600-7132
Photo of Omish Schopf, MA, LADC, LPCC -s, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Omish Schopf
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC, LPCC -s
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anoka, MN 55303  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to guiding clients through trauma and losses that obscure life's beauty. My goal is to reignite your zest, help you meet your authentic self, and navigate life's changes and challenges. Together, we'll explore your inner strength to acknowledge discrepancies and learn how to make desired changes. I combine EMDR with CBT, DBT, and holistic methods to improve your relationship with yourself, others, and the world. Through eye movements, you'll feel as if you've solved a puzzle, breaking the vicious cycle of unhealthy behaviors, shedding long-held burdens and experiencing lasting change, opening opportunities for growth.
I am dedicated to guiding clients through trauma and losses that obscure life's beauty. My goal is to reignite your zest, help you meet your authentic self, and navigate life's changes and challenges. Together, we'll explore your inner strength to acknowledge discrepancies and learn how to make desired changes. I combine EMDR with CBT, DBT, and holistic methods to improve your relationship with yourself, others, and the world. Through eye movements, you'll feel as if you've solved a puzzle, breaking the vicious cycle of unhealthy behaviors, shedding long-held burdens and experiencing lasting change, opening opportunities for growth.
(763) 298-4570 View (763) 298-4570
Photo of Paul L Paladie, MSW, LICSW, LADC, CCTP, Veteran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul L Paladie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC, CCTP, Veteran
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marine On Saint Croix, MN 55047
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Trauma based work in various forms with clients to help better understand thoughts and behaviors.
I am committed to providing strength-focused, client-centered therapy to individuals who are looking for strategies or ways to work with the challenges they have been carrying. My mission is to meet each person, wherever they are in life, and to provide effective mental health intervention that builds on the strengths of the individual and the environment in which that person lives. I believe the most successful outcomes, often start with challenging beginnings. (Challenges are defined by negative influences, thoughts, behaviors, or actions- including MH concerns,
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Trauma based work in various forms with clients to help better understand thoughts and behaviors.
I am committed to providing strength-focused, client-centered therapy to individuals who are looking for strategies or ways to work with the challenges they have been carrying. My mission is to meet each person, wherever they are in life, and to provide effective mental health intervention that builds on the strengths of the individual and the environment in which that person lives. I believe the most successful outcomes, often start with challenging beginnings. (Challenges are defined by negative influences, thoughts, behaviors, or actions- including MH concerns,
(651) 877-8343 View (651) 877-8343
Photo of Scott Grandt, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Grandt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55447
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help give individuals the skills needed to cope and thrive.
Scott is an individual therapist who sees teens (16+) and adults. Scott believes in meeting people where they are at in their mental health journey. His style of therapy would be described as warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help give individuals the skills needed to cope and thrive.
Scott is an individual therapist who sees teens (16+) and adults. Scott believes in meeting people where they are at in their mental health journey. His style of therapy would be described as warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
(507) 204-3446 View (507) 204-3446
Photo of Grace Boehnke, MA, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace Boehnke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Byron, MN 55920
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize practices of Acceptance and commitment therapy, CBT, DBT, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and many others.
I received my masters in clinical mental health counseling in 2021, but have been providing counseling services since 2014. I am fully licensed as an LADC and LPCC to provide both mental health and substance use therapies. I enjoy working with a variety of clients and focus on showing up authentically in the work we do together. My goal is to provide an open and comfortable space for you to explore your experiences, and help you identify ways to move through and forward in life. I value identity and hope to help each of my clients feel solid in who they are and how they are living that out.
I utilize practices of Acceptance and commitment therapy, CBT, DBT, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and many others.
I received my masters in clinical mental health counseling in 2021, but have been providing counseling services since 2014. I am fully licensed as an LADC and LPCC to provide both mental health and substance use therapies. I enjoy working with a variety of clients and focus on showing up authentically in the work we do together. My goal is to provide an open and comfortable space for you to explore your experiences, and help you identify ways to move through and forward in life. I value identity and hope to help each of my clients feel solid in who they are and how they are living that out.
(507) 407-3776 x729 View (507) 407-3776 x729
Photo of Michelle Moser - Possibilities Therapeutic Services, MA, LMFT, CAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Possibilities Therapeutic Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAS
Verified Verified
Red Wing, MN 55066
In addition to basic mental health issues, I specialize in relationship/intimacy issues, codependency, anxiety and addictions (gambling, chemical,eating), and DBT Skills.
Possibilities Therapeutic Services supports your journey towards growth by exploring self defeating thoughts and feelings to open pathways for new healthier relationship and lifestyle possibilities in the future. Therapeutic services are based on the tenants and techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral and Solution-Focused Theories. Approved MN-DHS problem gambler provider-Rule 82 assessments.
In addition to basic mental health issues, I specialize in relationship/intimacy issues, codependency, anxiety and addictions (gambling, chemical,eating), and DBT Skills.
Possibilities Therapeutic Services supports your journey towards growth by exploring self defeating thoughts and feelings to open pathways for new healthier relationship and lifestyle possibilities in the future. Therapeutic services are based on the tenants and techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral and Solution-Focused Theories. Approved MN-DHS problem gambler provider-Rule 82 assessments.
(651) 560-3361 View (651) 560-3361

See more therapy options for Montgomery

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.