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Online Therapists

Photo of Mary F Summerlin - Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
I have also completed the coursework and obtained supervision to become a Dialectical Behavior Therapy counselor.
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
I have also completed the coursework and obtained supervision to become a Dialectical Behavior Therapy counselor.
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
(910) 378-3685 View (910) 378-3685
Photo of Christine A Still, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine A Still
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
I am an experienced and formally trained DBT therapist.
Are you experiencing emotional roller coasters? Struggling to control racing thoughts? Looking to find balance? I offer those experiencing depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues, and trauma ways to build consistency in their lives. Happiness Comes In Waves, however, Peace is Consistent. I work with individuals and couples to identify their needs and take action to meet them. My therapeutic approach starts with building a strong relationship with the client in order to help identify these patterns to create lasting change. Together, we will find your resiliency, to rise with your strengths towards your own personal goals.
I am an experienced and formally trained DBT therapist.
Are you experiencing emotional roller coasters? Struggling to control racing thoughts? Looking to find balance? I offer those experiencing depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues, and trauma ways to build consistency in their lives. Happiness Comes In Waves, however, Peace is Consistent. I work with individuals and couples to identify their needs and take action to meet them. My therapeutic approach starts with building a strong relationship with the client in order to help identify these patterns to create lasting change. Together, we will find your resiliency, to rise with your strengths towards your own personal goals.
(910) 613-5900 View (910) 613-5900
Photo of Christina L Stakely, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina L Stakely
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28546
I use a variety of approaches, including Mindfulness practices; Dialectical Behavioral therapy; Attachment Theory Approaches and Systems Oriented Therapy.
My extensive experience includes working with service members/veterans and their families as well as children ages birth-five and their families. I enjoy working with adults with infertility issues and women or men who have experienced sexual trauma. I also work with adolescents who have different mental health challenges. My desire is to help you and your family learn how to express who you are and to experience growth. I hope to help you and your family with developing good intuition, creating healthy connections, and becoming more of your authentic self (selves). I want you to experience more joy and peace within your life.
I use a variety of approaches, including Mindfulness practices; Dialectical Behavioral therapy; Attachment Theory Approaches and Systems Oriented Therapy.
My extensive experience includes working with service members/veterans and their families as well as children ages birth-five and their families. I enjoy working with adults with infertility issues and women or men who have experienced sexual trauma. I also work with adolescents who have different mental health challenges. My desire is to help you and your family learn how to express who you are and to experience growth. I hope to help you and your family with developing good intuition, creating healthy connections, and becoming more of your authentic self (selves). I want you to experience more joy and peace within your life.
(910) 387-4267 View (910) 387-4267
Photo of Anna May, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Anna May
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT and IFS with guided imagery.
As a mental health counselor, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples overcome their struggles and achieve a fulfilling life. I hold strong values of compassion, empathy, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, beliefs, or sexual orientation. I have experience working with individuals, couples, parents, and families. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and ENM affirming.
I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT and IFS with guided imagery.
As a mental health counselor, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples overcome their struggles and achieve a fulfilling life. I hold strong values of compassion, empathy, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, beliefs, or sexual orientation. I have experience working with individuals, couples, parents, and families. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and ENM affirming.
(919) 887-8874 View (919) 887-8874
Photo of Kelly Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Kelly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified in dialectical behavioral therapy. She has extensive experience with helping individuals struggling with substance use disorders, dually diagnosed individuals; mood disorders; anxiety disorders; ADHD; and suicidal ideation/self harm. While embracing a passion for working with vulnerable populations, Kelly seeks to support individuals on their therapeutic journey using different methods of therapy such as CBT, DBT, Gottman Method, and EFT. Kelly received her Master's degree from University of St. Francis. She provides individual, family, and couples. She is also a ADHD - CCSP.
Kelly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified in dialectical behavioral therapy. She has extensive experience with helping individuals struggling with substance use disorders, dually diagnosed individuals; mood disorders; anxiety disorders; ADHD; and suicidal ideation/self harm. While embracing a passion for working with vulnerable populations, Kelly seeks to support individuals on their therapeutic journey using different methods of therapy such as CBT, DBT, Gottman Method, and EFT. Kelly received her Master's degree from University of St. Francis. She provides individual, family, and couples. She is also a ADHD - CCSP.
(984) 209-1121 View (984) 209-1121
Photo of Rebecca Knowles Floyd, MEd, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Knowles Floyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I sometimes offer grief groups and am trained in Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, EMDR, and body based strategies.
I am old enough to know that life does not always lend itself to simplistic answers. At various periods we all find ourselves in difficult circumstances that feel overwhelming, sometimes related to life changing tragedies like death, divorce, new medical diagnosis like cancer, job loss, or catastrophic injury. In these situations your life changes in an instant. There is an avalanche of distressing emotions and life no longer feels solid or stable. As a therapist who has experienced some serious, life changing tragedies, I understand those feelings and am specifically trained in grief and trauma.
I sometimes offer grief groups and am trained in Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, EMDR, and body based strategies.
I am old enough to know that life does not always lend itself to simplistic answers. At various periods we all find ourselves in difficult circumstances that feel overwhelming, sometimes related to life changing tragedies like death, divorce, new medical diagnosis like cancer, job loss, or catastrophic injury. In these situations your life changes in an instant. There is an avalanche of distressing emotions and life no longer feels solid or stable. As a therapist who has experienced some serious, life changing tragedies, I understand those feelings and am specifically trained in grief and trauma.
(919) 689-4380 View (919) 689-4380
Photo of Jonathan Conover, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Conover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304  (Online Only)
I offer evidence-based therapy like CBT and DBT, emphasizing compassion and person-centered care.
Feeling overwhelmed with school, work, military life, transitions, family, or relationships? Struggling with self-esteem, depression, or grief? I'm here to listen and support. Therapy can feel intimidating, but you deserve understanding. You're the expert of your life; I'll meet you where you are. Together, we'll uncover problem areas and find clarity, hope, and healing.
I offer evidence-based therapy like CBT and DBT, emphasizing compassion and person-centered care.
Feeling overwhelmed with school, work, military life, transitions, family, or relationships? Struggling with self-esteem, depression, or grief? I'm here to listen and support. Therapy can feel intimidating, but you deserve understanding. You're the expert of your life; I'll meet you where you are. Together, we'll uncover problem areas and find clarity, hope, and healing.
(910) 485-6336 View (910) 485-6336
Photo of Taylor Trull, MA, NCC, LCMHC-A
Taylor Trull
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Approaches I use to help facilitate change include person centered therapy, CBT, mindfulness, dbt, and and relaxation and presenting techniques.
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
Approaches I use to help facilitate change include person centered therapy, CBT, mindfulness, dbt, and and relaxation and presenting techniques.
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
(984) 600-0978 View (984) 600-0978
Photo of Amelia Kelley, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR,  RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amelia Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. We specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, family discord, school issues, chronic pain and stress, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. We specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, family discord, school issues, chronic pain and stress, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
(919) 794-8350 View (919) 794-8350
Photo of Katie Quin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Quin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carthage, NC 28327  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, and I'm certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Problem Solving Treatment (PST), and Cognitive-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy (CBCT) for PTSD.
Weekend availability! Hello and welcome. I'm Katie, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 12 years of experience working with diverse populations. Finding a therapist can be intimidating, but I'm here to support you in your journey in whatever way I can. As an added bonus, my pittie Gumbo will want to introduce himself and offer virtual support in our sessions! I'm currently accepting new clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflict, and self-esteem/body image issues. I also have experience treating military service members and their families.
I utilize evidence based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, and I'm certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Problem Solving Treatment (PST), and Cognitive-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy (CBCT) for PTSD.
Weekend availability! Hello and welcome. I'm Katie, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 12 years of experience working with diverse populations. Finding a therapist can be intimidating, but I'm here to support you in your journey in whatever way I can. As an added bonus, my pittie Gumbo will want to introduce himself and offer virtual support in our sessions! I'm currently accepting new clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflict, and self-esteem/body image issues. I also have experience treating military service members and their families.
(910) 971-0498 View (910) 971-0498
Photo of Lindsey K Umstead, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, CEDS
Lindsey K Umstead
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
I have advanced training in DBT, EMDR, & Brainspotting & have worked in various counseling settings.
Living in a world that tells us it’s not okay to be who we truly are is hard, hurtful, and exhausting. I want to help you be more of you - not less. To help you both be gentle with and challenge yourself. To trust yourself. To feel liberated to be your full, authentic, and dynamic self. If you’re tired of shrinking yourself or being shrunk by others, I want to support you as you embrace this process of expansion. My goal as a counselor is to help you accept yourself just as you are, have compassion for where you are right now, and commit to making changes that help you live a meaningful, values-driven life that works for you.
I have advanced training in DBT, EMDR, & Brainspotting & have worked in various counseling settings.
Living in a world that tells us it’s not okay to be who we truly are is hard, hurtful, and exhausting. I want to help you be more of you - not less. To help you both be gentle with and challenge yourself. To trust yourself. To feel liberated to be your full, authentic, and dynamic self. If you’re tired of shrinking yourself or being shrunk by others, I want to support you as you embrace this process of expansion. My goal as a counselor is to help you accept yourself just as you are, have compassion for where you are right now, and commit to making changes that help you live a meaningful, values-driven life that works for you.
(984) 205-7060 x2012 View (984) 205-7060 x2012
Photo of Kim Nelson Bovee, MA, LCMHC-S, NCC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Nelson Bovee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I expertise with interventions to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am an experienced, caring Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor with a Certification in Perinatal Mental Health. I have been practicing in the Triangle since 1998. I have a passion for working with children (aged 10 and older), adolescents, and adults with concerns that include: depression, anxiety, oppositional/acting out behaviors, self-harm, stress and anger management, coping with life transitions, trauma; parenting concerns, women's issues including pregnancy and infant loss; grief; and marital & relationship issues.
I expertise with interventions to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am an experienced, caring Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor with a Certification in Perinatal Mental Health. I have been practicing in the Triangle since 1998. I have a passion for working with children (aged 10 and older), adolescents, and adults with concerns that include: depression, anxiety, oppositional/acting out behaviors, self-harm, stress and anger management, coping with life transitions, trauma; parenting concerns, women's issues including pregnancy and infant loss; grief; and marital & relationship issues.
(919) 432-4245 View (919) 432-4245
Photo of Alexandria Zegers, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria Zegers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I utilize techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), I strive to provide compassionate and effective framework for individuals on their healing journeys.
In my professional journey, I've dedicated myself to the field of mental health, recognizing its profound impact on individuals' overall well-being. I've had the privilege of working in diverse settings, including schools, a psychiatric hospital, and private practice. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the nuanced challenges people face and underscored the importance of tailored approaches to support their unique needs.
I utilize techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), I strive to provide compassionate and effective framework for individuals on their healing journeys.
In my professional journey, I've dedicated myself to the field of mental health, recognizing its profound impact on individuals' overall well-being. I've had the privilege of working in diverse settings, including schools, a psychiatric hospital, and private practice. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the nuanced challenges people face and underscored the importance of tailored approaches to support their unique needs.
(252) 888-1378 View (252) 888-1378
Photo of Jenna Desrosiers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Desrosiers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
I focus on one's strengths and offer CBT, DBT, ACT, and ERP techniques to help manage depression and anxiety.
Are you a mom or a future mom who is trying to adjust to pregnancy and life after having a child? Are you neurodivergent and trying to process dealing with a world that feels like it just does not get you? Are you a young adult who is adjusting to life after college? Are you feeling hopeless or worried about the future? So much is unknown and is constantly changing in this world. By working on coping skills and ways to be more self-compassionate, I can help you feel like "you" again.
I focus on one's strengths and offer CBT, DBT, ACT, and ERP techniques to help manage depression and anxiety.
Are you a mom or a future mom who is trying to adjust to pregnancy and life after having a child? Are you neurodivergent and trying to process dealing with a world that feels like it just does not get you? Are you a young adult who is adjusting to life after college? Are you feeling hopeless or worried about the future? So much is unknown and is constantly changing in this world. By working on coping skills and ways to be more self-compassionate, I can help you feel like "you" again.
(919) 585-1069 View (919) 585-1069
Photo of Katherine H Schulz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine H Schulz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
I utilize evidence based therapies in my practice including Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I treat clients who have difficulty with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder as well as clients in the midst of a major life transition or grief. Many of my clients struggle to regulate their emotions. They either avoid emotions altogether or feel explosive or out of control of their emotions.
I utilize evidence based therapies in my practice including Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I treat clients who have difficulty with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder as well as clients in the midst of a major life transition or grief. Many of my clients struggle to regulate their emotions. They either avoid emotions altogether or feel explosive or out of control of their emotions.
(925) 259-3408 View (925) 259-3408
Photo of Ebone Rocker - Carolina Counseling Services - Southern Pines, NC, LCMHCS, Counselor
Carolina Counseling Services - Southern Pines, NC
Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Life can be challenging, therapy can help. Our independently contracted therapists work with couples, adults, teens and children to get to where they want to be. We contract with friendly, experienced, licensed clinicians with different specialties who are able to help. Our Southern Pines and Pinehurst offices are warm and welcoming, allowing you to feel at home when meeting with your therapist. Please visit the website for detailed information on how we may assist you: www.CarolinaCounselingServices.com.
Life can be challenging, therapy can help. Our independently contracted therapists work with couples, adults, teens and children to get to where they want to be. We contract with friendly, experienced, licensed clinicians with different specialties who are able to help. Our Southern Pines and Pinehurst offices are warm and welcoming, allowing you to feel at home when meeting with your therapist. Please visit the website for detailed information on how we may assist you: www.CarolinaCounselingServices.com.
(910) 725-6336 View (910) 725-6336
Photo of Barbara Orticelli - Focused Solutions LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Focused Solutions LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
We understand that making the decision to seek therapy can be overwhelming, and we are here to help guide you through the process. Our goal is to clear a path to emotional well-being. By working together, we can develop a strategy that promotes a healthier life for you and the ones closest to you. Our compassionate approach provides a safe and caring environment for you to seek the support that you deserve.
We understand that making the decision to seek therapy can be overwhelming, and we are here to help guide you through the process. Our goal is to clear a path to emotional well-being. By working together, we can develop a strategy that promotes a healthier life for you and the ones closest to you. Our compassionate approach provides a safe and caring environment for you to seek the support that you deserve.
(919) 626-3576 View (919) 626-3576
Photo of Mikayla Franklin, LCMHC, LAPC, Counselor
Mikayla Franklin
Counselor, LCMHC, LAPC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
As a Black Millennial therapist, who is also a military spouse, I am passionate about providing relatable therapy to BIPOC , LGBTQIA+ ,Millennials and Military families.
As a Black Millennial therapist, who is also a military spouse, I am passionate about providing relatable therapy to BIPOC , LGBTQIA+ ,Millennials and Military families.
(910) 606-6763 View (910) 606-6763
Photo of Shelley Freeman, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27519  (Online Only)
I help moms thrive without fear, anxiety and overwhelm. My clients struggle as you do. Despite being strong, capable and amazing, life is hard. Even harder really since becoming a mom. When you first come in, you’re struggling to know yourself, inundated with overwhelm, fear, worry and a heavy load. Everyone’s load may look different, but it’s heavy. With EMDR, moms can begin to feel less overwhelmed, less triggered, less anxious and there’s room for more joy!
I help moms thrive without fear, anxiety and overwhelm. My clients struggle as you do. Despite being strong, capable and amazing, life is hard. Even harder really since becoming a mom. When you first come in, you’re struggling to know yourself, inundated with overwhelm, fear, worry and a heavy load. Everyone’s load may look different, but it’s heavy. With EMDR, moms can begin to feel less overwhelmed, less triggered, less anxious and there’s room for more joy!
(910) 817-2612 View (910) 817-2612
Photo of Fareiza Blunt, LCSWA
Fareiza Blunt
LCSW Associate, LCSWA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28540  (Online Only)
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and safe space to express themselves and embark on a healing journey. My specialization lies in supporting the perinatal population dealing with challenges such as stress, trauma, anxiety/depression, fertility issues, grief, body image/self-esteem concerns, and various life adjustments both before and after childbirth. I firmly believe in the importance of a robust support system during the prenatal and postpartum stages for both women and men.
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and safe space to express themselves and embark on a healing journey. My specialization lies in supporting the perinatal population dealing with challenges such as stress, trauma, anxiety/depression, fertility issues, grief, body image/self-esteem concerns, and various life adjustments both before and after childbirth. I firmly believe in the importance of a robust support system during the prenatal and postpartum stages for both women and men.
(910) 996-3668 View (910) 996-3668
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.