Therapists in Charlotte, NC
I use a mixture of modalities that include CBT, DBT, Person-Centered, and Strength-Based.
I am passionate about assisting others to achieve the most out of their life. My mission is to uplift, motivate, educate, and inspire. I have experience working with a diverse population including youth, teens, adults, public safety police officers and firefighters, LGBTQ+ members, justice involved youth and adults, attorneys, college students, and athletes. I also have experience working with international clients from South America, India, Asia, and Europe to name a few.
I use a mixture of modalities that include CBT, DBT, Person-Centered, and Strength-Based.
I am passionate about assisting others to achieve the most out of their life. My mission is to uplift, motivate, educate, and inspire. I have experience working with a diverse population including youth, teens, adults, public safety police officers and firefighters, LGBTQ+ members, justice involved youth and adults, attorneys, college students, and athletes. I also have experience working with international clients from South America, India, Asia, and Europe to name a few.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
I approach counseling with a person-centered approach and often incorporate CBT, DBT, Strength- Based Therapy, and mindfulness along with other methods to meet clients where they are.
I am currently accepting new clients in-person and virtually. I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults (12+). I have experience working with people experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma informed care, life transition, women’s issues, LGBTQIA+, and more. I believe in a strong foundation of building trust with clients, the value of culture, and that the client is the expert of their life. I believe in a working partnership, with you as the leader, in order to best meet your counseling goals!
I approach counseling with a person-centered approach and often incorporate CBT, DBT, Strength- Based Therapy, and mindfulness along with other methods to meet clients where they are.
I am currently accepting new clients in-person and virtually. I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults (12+). I have experience working with people experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma informed care, life transition, women’s issues, LGBTQIA+, and more. I believe in a strong foundation of building trust with clients, the value of culture, and that the client is the expert of their life. I believe in a working partnership, with you as the leader, in order to best meet your counseling goals!
Sarah Millman Carley
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
I also have specific training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy which centers on helping clients learn to regulate emotions, manage anxiety and distress, and curb intense behaviors.
I am a licensed therapist with experience working with children and adults in an array of clinical settings. I take these broad experiences, and utilize them while working with both teens and adults. I believe therapy is a collaborative practice where we can work together to reach your specific goals. I work to create a safe environment for you to explore concerns, increase stability, and find balance. I often utilize behavioral approaches and interventions and stress the link between mental and physical health.
I also have specific training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy which centers on helping clients learn to regulate emotions, manage anxiety and distress, and curb intense behaviors.
I am a licensed therapist with experience working with children and adults in an array of clinical settings. I take these broad experiences, and utilize them while working with both teens and adults. I believe therapy is a collaborative practice where we can work together to reach your specific goals. I work to create a safe environment for you to explore concerns, increase stability, and find balance. I often utilize behavioral approaches and interventions and stress the link between mental and physical health.
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Charlotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Kristin Mosley
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28217 (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile! My goals are to help clients navigate difficult seasons of life, manage complex emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and live a meaningful life. My therapeutic style is direct, open, and collaborative. I am passionate about respecting diversity, and I provide LGBTQ+, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed care. In sessions, I like to use a blend of mindfulness-based interventions like DBT and ACT paired with an unstructured use of CBT and solutions-focused therapy. I also like to include activities using art, music, and play.
Welcome to my profile! My goals are to help clients navigate difficult seasons of life, manage complex emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and live a meaningful life. My therapeutic style is direct, open, and collaborative. I am passionate about respecting diversity, and I provide LGBTQ+, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed care. In sessions, I like to use a blend of mindfulness-based interventions like DBT and ACT paired with an unstructured use of CBT and solutions-focused therapy. I also like to include activities using art, music, and play.
Andrea Exley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, somatic experiences, play therapy, and other evidence based practices that can assist in breaking down walls, reprocessing trauma, and changing the things that has kept individuals in darkness.
I am not afraid of hearing the hard truths that you don't share with others. I find it an honor and a privilege to come along side someone who trusts me enough to share their life, the good and the bad. I have supported people who have experienced things that they believe others think to be unreal, people who believe there is no reason to keep living, people who partake in activities they know are not good for them, people who struggle to have healthy relationships, and people that have been living in darkness. I want to help you break away from that darkness. I want to provide a space that fosters security, hope, and healing.
I have training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, somatic experiences, play therapy, and other evidence based practices that can assist in breaking down walls, reprocessing trauma, and changing the things that has kept individuals in darkness.
I am not afraid of hearing the hard truths that you don't share with others. I find it an honor and a privilege to come along side someone who trusts me enough to share their life, the good and the bad. I have supported people who have experienced things that they believe others think to be unreal, people who believe there is no reason to keep living, people who partake in activities they know are not good for them, people who struggle to have healthy relationships, and people that have been living in darkness. I want to help you break away from that darkness. I want to provide a space that fosters security, hope, and healing.
Rebecca Walker-MacKellar
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
My therapeutic practices pull from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Expressive Arts Therapy, and trauma informed care.
Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist and I provide both individual and family therapies. I have experience working with a diverse range of ages from early childhood through adolescence, and adulthood. When working with children I suggest and encourage parental involvement, so that the child has consistent support outside of sessions. I will provide parents and families with therapeutic interventions, resources, education, and support.
My therapeutic practices pull from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Expressive Arts Therapy, and trauma informed care.
Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist and I provide both individual and family therapies. I have experience working with a diverse range of ages from early childhood through adolescence, and adulthood. When working with children I suggest and encourage parental involvement, so that the child has consistent support outside of sessions. I will provide parents and families with therapeutic interventions, resources, education, and support.
Union Family Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCSW, LCSWA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
These include Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) among others.
Finding the right counselor can be difficult, Union Family’s diverse group of licensed clinicians make it simple for you to find a counselor that meets your unique needs. Our mission is simple, to provide quality mental health services in a warm and judgement free environment. Union Family’s goal is to provide you with a safe place to reflect, cope, heal & grow. Each clinician has their own style and area of expertise making it easy to find what you are looking for. Together you and your counselor will determine what you'd like to accomplish and develop a plan to meet these goals. Simplify your life. Contact Union Family.
These include Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) among others.
Finding the right counselor can be difficult, Union Family’s diverse group of licensed clinicians make it simple for you to find a counselor that meets your unique needs. Our mission is simple, to provide quality mental health services in a warm and judgement free environment. Union Family’s goal is to provide you with a safe place to reflect, cope, heal & grow. Each clinician has their own style and area of expertise making it easy to find what you are looking for. Together you and your counselor will determine what you'd like to accomplish and develop a plan to meet these goals. Simplify your life. Contact Union Family.
Kateryna Chorna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CTRP, DBT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I bring to the table proven expertise and experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Safe and Sound Protocol(SSP), Bio Dynamic Breathwork and Trauma Release System (BBTRS) and I am a Trauma and Resilience Practitioner (CTRP).
Hi, my name is Kateryna Chorna, and I am a Mental Health Therapist. I specialize in helping adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma to manage their negative emotions so they feel safer, calmer, and more in control of themselves and their lives. I understand how overwhelming and debilitating these conditions can be, and I am here to support, guide, and empower you on your journey towards healing and recovery.
I bring to the table proven expertise and experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Safe and Sound Protocol(SSP), Bio Dynamic Breathwork and Trauma Release System (BBTRS) and I am a Trauma and Resilience Practitioner (CTRP).
Hi, my name is Kateryna Chorna, and I am a Mental Health Therapist. I specialize in helping adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma to manage their negative emotions so they feel safer, calmer, and more in control of themselves and their lives. I understand how overwhelming and debilitating these conditions can be, and I am here to support, guide, and empower you on your journey towards healing and recovery.
We'll use mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and CBT-Insomnia to help you sleep well.
Ferris Bueller said: “Life is pretty short. If you don’t stop to look around, you may miss it.” Of course, life’s brevity may evoke anxiety. Or maybe you’re repeating thoughts and behaviors that make it hard to enjoy life or connect with people. Depression. Anxiety. Shame. Insomnia. You deserve contentment now. I help folks (mostly men) regulate their emotions so they grow beyond life’s transitions, be it relationships, work or grief, which isn't just the loss of a loved one; grief can also be the loss of a life you expected.
We'll use mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and CBT-Insomnia to help you sleep well.
Ferris Bueller said: “Life is pretty short. If you don’t stop to look around, you may miss it.” Of course, life’s brevity may evoke anxiety. Or maybe you’re repeating thoughts and behaviors that make it hard to enjoy life or connect with people. Depression. Anxiety. Shame. Insomnia. You deserve contentment now. I help folks (mostly men) regulate their emotions so they grow beyond life’s transitions, be it relationships, work or grief, which isn't just the loss of a loved one; grief can also be the loss of a life you expected.
15 Second Videos
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Charlotte
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Charlotte
Kateryna Chorna
Reuben Brody
MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC)
Emerge Child and Family Counseling
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Catherine Saleska
Amy Castongia
Transcending Limits Counseling Svcs Renee Hopkins
Julie G. Johnson
Aldi Gaines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Some of the treatment interventions I use include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
My journey towards becoming a healer began in 2009 with a vision of creating a safe place that supports the emotional, psychological, spiritual, and physical health of men and women. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I offer empowerment and compassion to my clients in effectively navigating life's challenges using a holistic approach to wellness.
Some of the treatment interventions I use include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
My journey towards becoming a healer began in 2009 with a vision of creating a safe place that supports the emotional, psychological, spiritual, and physical health of men and women. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I offer empowerment and compassion to my clients in effectively navigating life's challenges using a holistic approach to wellness.
Andrea Hayward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28269
I am a trained therapist in DBT at NewLife Counseling and Consultation.
**IT IS MORE EFFICIENT TO CONTACT ME BY EMAIL AT THIS TIME.** Many challenges may arise in life. It can be made easier if you have a comfortable atmosphere to share & express yourself. You come to therapy to face hard truths & learn better ways to handle them. Maybe you find yourself repeating the same patterns, having the same interactions, or feeling a certain way about yourself. I balance truth & tact, giving genuine feedback. I listen & support without judgment. I have a passion for helping individuals & families cope with difficulties in their lives. My desire is to help clients experience healing & life change.
I am a trained therapist in DBT at NewLife Counseling and Consultation.
**IT IS MORE EFFICIENT TO CONTACT ME BY EMAIL AT THIS TIME.** Many challenges may arise in life. It can be made easier if you have a comfortable atmosphere to share & express yourself. You come to therapy to face hard truths & learn better ways to handle them. Maybe you find yourself repeating the same patterns, having the same interactions, or feeling a certain way about yourself. I balance truth & tact, giving genuine feedback. I listen & support without judgment. I have a passion for helping individuals & families cope with difficulties in their lives. My desire is to help clients experience healing & life change.
MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
Assessments, Screenings, Treatment Planning, to specialized Trauma Treatment Modalities- TF-CBT, Evidenced Based Modules such as EMDR, DBT Adherent Groups/Individual for Pre-Teens, Teens & Adults, Family, Individual & Group Therapy.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
Assessments, Screenings, Treatment Planning, to specialized Trauma Treatment Modalities- TF-CBT, Evidenced Based Modules such as EMDR, DBT Adherent Groups/Individual for Pre-Teens, Teens & Adults, Family, Individual & Group Therapy.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
In my practice I take a person-centered approach, while also incorporating CBT, ACT, DBT, and IFS approaches.
We tend to forget it sometimes, but we are all human trying our best everyday which looks different for everyone! Countless things can have an impact on our mental well-being that at a certain point, it can all become too much to handle on our own. Whether it be the culmination of numerous experiences or one specific concern, we will work collaboratively to set and reach your goals, while processing their impact. Patience and self-compassion are vital components to building mental resilience. I meet my clients where they are and provide a space that is free of judgment, fosters healing, and promotes self-empowerment.
In my practice I take a person-centered approach, while also incorporating CBT, ACT, DBT, and IFS approaches.
We tend to forget it sometimes, but we are all human trying our best everyday which looks different for everyone! Countless things can have an impact on our mental well-being that at a certain point, it can all become too much to handle on our own. Whether it be the culmination of numerous experiences or one specific concern, we will work collaboratively to set and reach your goals, while processing their impact. Patience and self-compassion are vital components to building mental resilience. I meet my clients where they are and provide a space that is free of judgment, fosters healing, and promotes self-empowerment.
Lisa Wagoner Hairston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201 (Online Only)
I'm happy you stopped at my profile! This is a step towards growth and healing. It's not always easy to seek guidance and support. Life can be difficult and a bit of a rollercoaster ride at times. My goal is to meet and accept you where you are and help you navigate this time in your life. Change is possible! Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Autism, and Trauma are some of my areas of focus with DBT, CBT, and ACT being my main treatment modalities. I offer support for children, teens, adults, families, and couples. I also offer support for loved ones of someone with Borderline Personality Disorder and other diagnoses.
I'm happy you stopped at my profile! This is a step towards growth and healing. It's not always easy to seek guidance and support. Life can be difficult and a bit of a rollercoaster ride at times. My goal is to meet and accept you where you are and help you navigate this time in your life. Change is possible! Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Autism, and Trauma are some of my areas of focus with DBT, CBT, and ACT being my main treatment modalities. I offer support for children, teens, adults, families, and couples. I also offer support for loved ones of someone with Borderline Personality Disorder and other diagnoses.
) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), while being person-centered, culturally centered, trauma focused, and strength based.
If you woke up tomorrow and it was YOUR perfect life, what would it look like? As you're imagining this, what are the differences between this imagined life and the one you're currently living? You may feel stuck, unfulfilled, or alone even, with lingering questions that may leave you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and lost. Life has an interesting way of putting us in places and spaces that both challenge and change us in ways unimaginable, seemingly out of our control. Let's move you from being a spectator to a participant in your life story by getting uncomfortable, facing fears, and taking space to grow and heal.
) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), while being person-centered, culturally centered, trauma focused, and strength based.
If you woke up tomorrow and it was YOUR perfect life, what would it look like? As you're imagining this, what are the differences between this imagined life and the one you're currently living? You may feel stuck, unfulfilled, or alone even, with lingering questions that may leave you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and lost. Life has an interesting way of putting us in places and spaces that both challenge and change us in ways unimaginable, seemingly out of our control. Let's move you from being a spectator to a participant in your life story by getting uncomfortable, facing fears, and taking space to grow and heal.
DBT and EMDR are effective, evidence-based treatments that can help you experience less pain and more joy in life.
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
DBT and EMDR are effective, evidence-based treatments that can help you experience less pain and more joy in life.
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
Kristen Morton
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
I work from an integrative approach, primarily drawing from CBT and DBT to create personalized strategies that fit your unique needs.
Life's challenges can often feel like too much to handle, but you don't have to face them alone. As a licensed counselor with a background in mental performance coaching, I specialize in empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and thrive in their lives. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or navigating through depression, I am here to support you every step of the way.
I work from an integrative approach, primarily drawing from CBT and DBT to create personalized strategies that fit your unique needs.
Life's challenges can often feel like too much to handle, but you don't have to face them alone. As a licensed counselor with a background in mental performance coaching, I specialize in empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and thrive in their lives. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or navigating through depression, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Sierra Summerville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201
My treatment approach integrates multiple evidenced based psychotherapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, and IFS.
It is important for you to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. I love working with individuals who are interested in creating positive changes. My primary populations are emerging and young adults. I seek to provide a space of hope, non-judgment, and authenticity. I support individuals navigating a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationships. I am passionate about human rights, social justice, reproductive rights, and I am an LGBTQI+ ally. Through holistic person-centered empowerment, the individuals I work with take steps to grow, heal, and create a life worth living.
My treatment approach integrates multiple evidenced based psychotherapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, and IFS.
It is important for you to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. I love working with individuals who are interested in creating positive changes. My primary populations are emerging and young adults. I seek to provide a space of hope, non-judgment, and authenticity. I support individuals navigating a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationships. I am passionate about human rights, social justice, reproductive rights, and I am an LGBTQI+ ally. Through holistic person-centered empowerment, the individuals I work with take steps to grow, heal, and create a life worth living.
See more therapy options for Charlotte
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.