Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Red Wing, MN

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
Photo of Emily Sander, PsyD, LP, E-Psprt, Psychologist
Emily Sander
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, E-Psprt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Red Wing, MN 55066
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking support can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with the right provider it doesn’t have to be. I am a doctoral-level psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care to people of all ages. I have over 15 years of experience using a variety of therapeutic styles to meet the individual needs of each client, couple, or family I treat. While I utilize evidence-based treatments including EMDR, CBT, IFS, and DBT therapies, I strongly believe that treatment must be tailored to each client’s needs. I also believe that a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship with one’s provider is the key to success.
Seeking support can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with the right provider it doesn’t have to be. I am a doctoral-level psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care to people of all ages. I have over 15 years of experience using a variety of therapeutic styles to meet the individual needs of each client, couple, or family I treat. While I utilize evidence-based treatments including EMDR, CBT, IFS, and DBT therapies, I strongly believe that treatment must be tailored to each client’s needs. I also believe that a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship with one’s provider is the key to success.
(651) 401-7932 View (651) 401-7932
Photo of Sabrena Plath, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrena Plath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Red Wing, MN 55066
It is my goal to develop a positive relationship with you that creates a safe space to share and process at your pace. It is important that I bring evidence-based treatments to you from a person and relationship centered focus. I prioritize bringing my best self to each session we have together. Whether you are a couple, a family, a teen, or individual adult, I am here to meet you where you are in your journey.
It is my goal to develop a positive relationship with you that creates a safe space to share and process at your pace. It is important that I bring evidence-based treatments to you from a person and relationship centered focus. I prioritize bringing my best self to each session we have together. Whether you are a couple, a family, a teen, or individual adult, I am here to meet you where you are in your journey.
(651) 409-9427 View (651) 409-9427
Photo of Kate Van Pay, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Kate Van Pay
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Red Wing, MN 55066
My goal as a therapist is to genuinely connect with and support clients in their journey. It is a privilege to walk with others on their path towards healing and knowing themselves. I strive to make sure my clients feel seen and heard as their true selves, experience warmth and security in the counseling room, and know that I unconditionally accept them. I believe therapy should be a true partnership between myself and my client; we are a team working toward your desired healing, growth, and change. I am committed to providing a safe and inviting atmosphere for all people, identities, and needs.
My goal as a therapist is to genuinely connect with and support clients in their journey. It is a privilege to walk with others on their path towards healing and knowing themselves. I strive to make sure my clients feel seen and heard as their true selves, experience warmth and security in the counseling room, and know that I unconditionally accept them. I believe therapy should be a true partnership between myself and my client; we are a team working toward your desired healing, growth, and change. I am committed to providing a safe and inviting atmosphere for all people, identities, and needs.
(651) 383-8082 View (651) 383-8082
Photo of Terra Pingley, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terra Pingley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Red Wing, MN 55066
I have been working as a therapist with children, teens, adults, and couples since I received a Masters of Clinical Social Work from University of Saint Thomas/Saint Catherine University in 2017. I enjoy working with individuals ages 12 through adult. I believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship with my clients, as well as their life experiences, to meet clients where they are at and encourage growth and movement through their journey.
I have been working as a therapist with children, teens, adults, and couples since I received a Masters of Clinical Social Work from University of Saint Thomas/Saint Catherine University in 2017. I enjoy working with individuals ages 12 through adult. I believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship with my clients, as well as their life experiences, to meet clients where they are at and encourage growth and movement through their journey.
(651) 419-5322 View (651) 419-5322

Online Therapists

Photo of Lucy Stewart, LICSW, MSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lucy Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55117  (Online Only)
Specializing in trauma recovery using ART & DBT for depression/anxiety.
You've likely encountered significant hurdles in life, whether it's trauma, depression, or anxiety. These challenges may leave you feeling overwhelmed, searching for a path through the darkness. If you're an adolescent or adult, you might be wrestling with the complexities of growing up or the pressures of adulthood while carrying these emotional burdens. For those facing pregnancy, postpartum, or fertility issues, additional emotional layers can complicate this deeply personal journey. In your search for solace, understanding, and guidance, you seek support in navigating your way through these challenges.
Specializing in trauma recovery using ART & DBT for depression/anxiety.
You've likely encountered significant hurdles in life, whether it's trauma, depression, or anxiety. These challenges may leave you feeling overwhelmed, searching for a path through the darkness. If you're an adolescent or adult, you might be wrestling with the complexities of growing up or the pressures of adulthood while carrying these emotional burdens. For those facing pregnancy, postpartum, or fertility issues, additional emotional layers can complicate this deeply personal journey. In your search for solace, understanding, and guidance, you seek support in navigating your way through these challenges.
(651) 409-5709 View (651) 409-5709
Photo of Nicole Jane Gornowicz - Nicole Gornowicz, MA, LPCC, ATR, Counselor
Nicole Gornowicz
Counselor, MA, LPCC, ATR
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55413
I am certified in EMDR, TF-CBT, FST, DBT and yoga.
Hello! I am Nicole (she/her/hers) a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist. I've worked in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area for 7 years; primarily with adolescents, children, their families, and their support networks. I'm passionate about encouraging teens, young adults, families, and individuals to keep going. I aim to provide an environment that is conducive to growth through honoring who you are, what you need in the moment, and how you will get to where you'd like to be. I do this through providing a safe, comfortable, authentic, and supportive place you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I am certified in EMDR, TF-CBT, FST, DBT and yoga.
Hello! I am Nicole (she/her/hers) a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist. I've worked in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area for 7 years; primarily with adolescents, children, their families, and their support networks. I'm passionate about encouraging teens, young adults, families, and individuals to keep going. I aim to provide an environment that is conducive to growth through honoring who you are, what you need in the moment, and how you will get to where you'd like to be. I do this through providing a safe, comfortable, authentic, and supportive place you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(651) 372-1130 View (651) 372-1130
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
Photo of Justina Stich, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Justina Stich
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
As a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), my passion lies in guiding individuals toward self-discovery and healing. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I aim to create a safe space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. Drawing from evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. Together, we can embark on a journey of growth, insight, and transformation.
As a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), my passion lies in guiding individuals toward self-discovery and healing. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I aim to create a safe space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. Drawing from evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. Together, we can embark on a journey of growth, insight, and transformation.
(651) 360-2067 View (651) 360-2067
Photo of Jacqueline Bluem, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline Bluem
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406  (Online Only)
Jackie is passionate about helping others succeed in improving their mental health and chemical health symptoms so they can live an optimal healthy life. She utilizes Positive Psychology concepts and Motivational Interviewing which are both a form of strength-based approaches. Motivational Interviewing has been defined as “a collaborative, person-centered form of guiding to elicit and strengthen motivation to change”. Jackie also uses an informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Jackie is passionate about helping others succeed in improving their mental health and chemical health symptoms so they can live an optimal healthy life. She utilizes Positive Psychology concepts and Motivational Interviewing which are both a form of strength-based approaches. Motivational Interviewing has been defined as “a collaborative, person-centered form of guiding to elicit and strengthen motivation to change”. Jackie also uses an informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(651) 383-1978 View (651) 383-1978
Photo of Pamela Gilliam Martin, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Pamela Gilliam Martin
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
I practice an integrative approach including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and psychotherapy in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
I am committed to your health and well-being through the delivery of evidence based therapeutic approaches. As a Mental Health Practitioner, I work with adults addressing a variety of concerns including addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, depression, self-esteem, career, life transitions, grief/loss and relationship issues.
I practice an integrative approach including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and psychotherapy in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
I am committed to your health and well-being through the delivery of evidence based therapeutic approaches. As a Mental Health Practitioner, I work with adults addressing a variety of concerns including addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, depression, self-esteem, career, life transitions, grief/loss and relationship issues.
(651) 644-4100 x140 View (651) 644-4100 x140
Photo of Lindsay Shackelton, MA, LPCC, PMH-C, Counselor
Lindsay Shackelton
Counselor, MA, LPCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
Waitlist for new clients
I provide an empathetic and encouraging environment to those struggling with mental health issues and the challenges that come with everyday life. I believe that therapy is a partnership, in which we join together to help you establish and work towards your goals of healing. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy incorporating elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Strengths Based Therapy.
I provide an empathetic and encouraging environment to those struggling with mental health issues and the challenges that come with everyday life. I believe that therapy is a partnership, in which we join together to help you establish and work towards your goals of healing. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy incorporating elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Strengths Based Therapy.
(612) 431-8951 View (612) 431-8951
Photo of Megan Rustad, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Rustad
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
I have a background in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) which means there will be times we discuss practical skills you can use right away to help yourself.
Are you tired of using quick fixes to deal with the problems in your life? Have you been to therapy before but you were left with unresolved or ongoing problems? Do you want to get to the root and heart of your pain and concerns? I can help you take a deeper dive to discover the places you wish to explore, heal, and grow. You will find me to be warm, empathic, challenging, and insightful. We will work together to identify ineffective and unhelpful patterns and cycles of thinking and behavior, and then I will help you find ways to disrupt and change them.
I have a background in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) which means there will be times we discuss practical skills you can use right away to help yourself.
Are you tired of using quick fixes to deal with the problems in your life? Have you been to therapy before but you were left with unresolved or ongoing problems? Do you want to get to the root and heart of your pain and concerns? I can help you take a deeper dive to discover the places you wish to explore, heal, and grow. You will find me to be warm, empathic, challenging, and insightful. We will work together to identify ineffective and unhelpful patterns and cycles of thinking and behavior, and then I will help you find ways to disrupt and change them.
(763) 297-3896 View (763) 297-3896
Photo of Christina L Kress, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina L Kress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55345
Waitlist for new clients
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
(651) 967-8762 View (651) 967-8762
Photo of Lynn Léger, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynn Léger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, MN 55901
Waitlist for new clients
These approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength-based Approach, Psychoeducation, and Solution-focused Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor offering individual and couples therapy to adolescents (ages 13+) and adults. I uses a holistic approach to therapy that aims to consider all the various ways that healing happens by promoting whole-person wellness, collaborative goal setting, and self-discovery. I strives to create a safe, non-judgmental, and nurturing environment. I have experience living abroad in Europe and integrating new cultures, and this enhances my intentional work and understanding of individual needs.
These approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength-based Approach, Psychoeducation, and Solution-focused Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor offering individual and couples therapy to adolescents (ages 13+) and adults. I uses a holistic approach to therapy that aims to consider all the various ways that healing happens by promoting whole-person wellness, collaborative goal setting, and self-discovery. I strives to create a safe, non-judgmental, and nurturing environment. I have experience living abroad in Europe and integrating new cultures, and this enhances my intentional work and understanding of individual needs.
(507) 629-0199 View (507) 629-0199
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 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 Malaurie Bluhm, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Malaurie Bluhm
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
I utilize both a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) approach.
I work with both adults and adolescents in an individual capacity who are having difficulty understanding their emotional experience. I focus on providing insight into an individual's emotional experience by guiding them through understanding how their thoughts can influence emotions and lead to certain behaviors.
I utilize both a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) approach.
I work with both adults and adolescents in an individual capacity who are having difficulty understanding their emotional experience. I focus on providing insight into an individual's emotional experience by guiding them through understanding how their thoughts can influence emotions and lead to certain behaviors.
(763) 284-8794 View (763) 284-8794
Photo of Paige Sorenson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Sorenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with a varied practice history including work in nonprofit, home health, and clinical settings. I work with children and adults concerned with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships, and adjustment to life changes. I view each client as an expert in their own lives and recognize the importance of each client's story and how it informs their worldview and goals for therapy. My approach is always client centered and often includes cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy as well as mindfulness.
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with a varied practice history including work in nonprofit, home health, and clinical settings. I work with children and adults concerned with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships, and adjustment to life changes. I view each client as an expert in their own lives and recognize the importance of each client's story and how it informs their worldview and goals for therapy. My approach is always client centered and often includes cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy as well as mindfulness.
(952) 209-7491 View (952) 209-7491
Photo of Coach Nakumbe - Coach Nakumbe, PhD, LPCC, LADC, ACS, CPC
Coach Nakumbe
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LADC, ACS, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55425
Identifying schemas (thought patterns used to understand & to respond to situations), teaching relapse prevention/intervention skills, and DBT Skills.
··Accepting New Clients·· I help individuals and couples who are struggling with addiction and relationship problems. I'll help you discover the core reason(s) for why you're struggling and help develop strategies that work to change your way of thinking and behaviors so you can have longer sobriety, reduce relapses and have healthier relationships. We'll work to develop tailored relapse prevention/intervention skills for addiction, coping skills for managing mental health symptoms, and conflict resolution skills for your relationships.
Identifying schemas (thought patterns used to understand & to respond to situations), teaching relapse prevention/intervention skills, and DBT Skills.
··Accepting New Clients·· I help individuals and couples who are struggling with addiction and relationship problems. I'll help you discover the core reason(s) for why you're struggling and help develop strategies that work to change your way of thinking and behaviors so you can have longer sobriety, reduce relapses and have healthier relationships. We'll work to develop tailored relapse prevention/intervention skills for addiction, coping skills for managing mental health symptoms, and conflict resolution skills for your relationships.
(612) 223-6622 View (612) 223-6622

See more therapy options for Red Wing

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.