Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Raleigh, NC
Devin Malik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
I pull from depth and liberation psychology together with several other interventions including EMDR therapy, DBT, ACT, CBT, CPT, and narrative therapy.
Hello! I specialize in working with teens and adults who have trauma histories. I have a particular passion for working with neurodivergent (Autism/ADHD) and queer individuals with trauma. I also enjoy engaging with folks who live with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, mood disorders, life transitions, and other mental health experiences. I aim to meet you where you are and to work collaboratively towards your goals. Being a human is hard, and therapy can provide you with an invaluable space to heal and grow within.
I pull from depth and liberation psychology together with several other interventions including EMDR therapy, DBT, ACT, CBT, CPT, and narrative therapy.
Hello! I specialize in working with teens and adults who have trauma histories. I have a particular passion for working with neurodivergent (Autism/ADHD) and queer individuals with trauma. I also enjoy engaging with folks who live with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, mood disorders, life transitions, and other mental health experiences. I aim to meet you where you are and to work collaboratively towards your goals. Being a human is hard, and therapy can provide you with an invaluable space to heal and grow within.
I have 35 years of experience and additional training in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, DBT, and Touch Training for therapists.
Thank you for your interest in my practice! I am trained in the Transforming Touch modality. It is a Regulation-based approach rooted in the theory that when we experience ruptures during our developmental years, these disruptions continue to affect our lives at any age. These ruptures can be seen as challenges that are behavioral, psychological, spiritual and physical. Developmental Trauma affects every part of our growth and development. It orchestrates how we learn, how we mature, how we relate to others. Transforming Touch is an innovative way of supporting change in our nervous systems so that we can begin to hope and dream.
I have 35 years of experience and additional training in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, DBT, and Touch Training for therapists.
Thank you for your interest in my practice! I am trained in the Transforming Touch modality. It is a Regulation-based approach rooted in the theory that when we experience ruptures during our developmental years, these disruptions continue to affect our lives at any age. These ruptures can be seen as challenges that are behavioral, psychological, spiritual and physical. Developmental Trauma affects every part of our growth and development. It orchestrates how we learn, how we mature, how we relate to others. Transforming Touch is an innovative way of supporting change in our nervous systems so that we can begin to hope and dream.
Joel Bethelmy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609 (Online Only)
My therapeutic style incorporates Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), DBT, Mindfulness, ACT, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Establishing rapport is essential to the work that the client and the therapist will be doing together. I value your time, your experience, and your individuality. We will discuss your presenting concerns, needs, and goals. We will collaborate on best fit and process what is important and meaningful in your life. I am here to offer a judgment-free space for expression.
My therapeutic style incorporates Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), DBT, Mindfulness, ACT, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Establishing rapport is essential to the work that the client and the therapist will be doing together. I value your time, your experience, and your individuality. We will discuss your presenting concerns, needs, and goals. We will collaborate on best fit and process what is important and meaningful in your life. I am here to offer a judgment-free space for expression.
Denise F Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QDDP, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Hello! I would like to help you. Sometimes, we find ourselves feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and misunderstood. Mental Health is very important. When our emotions saturate our minds, it can be difficult to function. I can help. I utilze a holistic approach, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, and Goal Setting. A therapeutic alliance will be developed centering around empathy, acceptance, and compassion. Life will become less stressful, more manageable, healthier, and happier! There are solutions that will improve coping skills, communication, stress management, relational problems, and any obstacle you may be encountering.
Hello! I would like to help you. Sometimes, we find ourselves feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and misunderstood. Mental Health is very important. When our emotions saturate our minds, it can be difficult to function. I can help. I utilze a holistic approach, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, and Goal Setting. A therapeutic alliance will be developed centering around empathy, acceptance, and compassion. Life will become less stressful, more manageable, healthier, and happier! There are solutions that will improve coping skills, communication, stress management, relational problems, and any obstacle you may be encountering.
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Raleigh
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
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 also use CBT, CPT, DBT, ACT to best meet individual client needs.
I am passionate about working with adult women ages 18 and up on a variety of issues including anxiety, self esteem/self-worth, trauma, faith, depression, relational issues, and life transitions. I am passionate about client-centered care and meeting clients where they are. I believe that it is from our experience of overcoming struggle that we are best able to help others. I utilize a strength-based perspective to empower each client to realize and optimize their personal strengths in order to overcome challenges, move toward positive change, and live life to their fullest potential.
I also use CBT, CPT, DBT, ACT to best meet individual client needs.
I am passionate about working with adult women ages 18 and up on a variety of issues including anxiety, self esteem/self-worth, trauma, faith, depression, relational issues, and life transitions. I am passionate about client-centered care and meeting clients where they are. I believe that it is from our experience of overcoming struggle that we are best able to help others. I utilize a strength-based perspective to empower each client to realize and optimize their personal strengths in order to overcome challenges, move toward positive change, and live life to their fullest potential.
I tend to pull from multiple modalities such as dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and MI.
It takes a great deal of vulnerability to meet with a stranger and discuss difficult topics. I acknowledge that vulnerability and am here to support you. Clients who are ready to put in the time and energy into therapy will get that same time and energy back from me. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or an interpersonal issue I am here to listen, provide feedback and problem solve. If you are ready to make a change but not quite sure what that change is yet, no problem that is what I am here for!
I tend to pull from multiple modalities such as dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and MI.
It takes a great deal of vulnerability to meet with a stranger and discuss difficult topics. I acknowledge that vulnerability and am here to support you. Clients who are ready to put in the time and energy into therapy will get that same time and energy back from me. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or an interpersonal issue I am here to listen, provide feedback and problem solve. If you are ready to make a change but not quite sure what that change is yet, no problem that is what I am here for!
Julie Beth Michaelsen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I believe that everyone has unlocked potential inside of them. Substance addiction, anxiety, trauma, anger, codependency and fear keep us from achieving our goals and being the best version of ourselves. I strive to help clients see all the amazing qualities they hold within themselves and overcome those obstacles that prevent them from reaching their full potential in all areas of their lives. I am EMDR certified, utilize CBT, ACT, DBT, and Reality therapy.
I believe that everyone has unlocked potential inside of them. Substance addiction, anxiety, trauma, anger, codependency and fear keep us from achieving our goals and being the best version of ourselves. I strive to help clients see all the amazing qualities they hold within themselves and overcome those obstacles that prevent them from reaching their full potential in all areas of their lives. I am EMDR certified, utilize CBT, ACT, DBT, and Reality therapy.
Serena Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609 (Online Only)
It is an act of self love to prioritize your mental health and emotional wellbeing. It's my goal to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you are given room to access your wisdom, reflect and expand self-awareness. If there are old patterns that are no longer serving you, I am here to provide support/guidance as you explore new ways of being. Through the use of DBT, CBT, mindfulness and somatic interventions. I provide treatment services to adults affected by anxiety, depression, emotional abuse, narcissistic abuse, adult children of emotionally immature parents and being connected to someone living with a substance use disorder.
It is an act of self love to prioritize your mental health and emotional wellbeing. It's my goal to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you are given room to access your wisdom, reflect and expand self-awareness. If there are old patterns that are no longer serving you, I am here to provide support/guidance as you explore new ways of being. Through the use of DBT, CBT, mindfulness and somatic interventions. I provide treatment services to adults affected by anxiety, depression, emotional abuse, narcissistic abuse, adult children of emotionally immature parents and being connected to someone living with a substance use disorder.
Autumn Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Our therapists have a variety of skills and use different modalities to meet clients where they are including IFS, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, CPT, ACT and art therapy.
We have 3 clinicians with immediate openings! Trauma, anxiety, and depression affect all areas of our lives and impact our ability to feel safe and secure. When experiencing hardships it can feel like negative feelings and thoughts just won't stop. These emotions can also become so overwhelming that they begin to interfere with our happiness, relationships, and ability to take control of our life. At Regrowth Counseling we will work collaboratively to process and endure intense emotions, overcome challenges and fill your toolbox with techniques to help you move forward in your life.
Our therapists have a variety of skills and use different modalities to meet clients where they are including IFS, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, CPT, ACT and art therapy.
We have 3 clinicians with immediate openings! Trauma, anxiety, and depression affect all areas of our lives and impact our ability to feel safe and secure. When experiencing hardships it can feel like negative feelings and thoughts just won't stop. These emotions can also become so overwhelming that they begin to interfere with our happiness, relationships, and ability to take control of our life. At Regrowth Counseling we will work collaboratively to process and endure intense emotions, overcome challenges and fill your toolbox with techniques to help you move forward in your life.
Sharon Wilkening
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
****Cambrio Counseling has immediate openings in N. Raleigh Locations for adults, children and couples ****ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. BOTH IN PERSON AND TELEHEALTH*** We have 7 therapists working with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, domestic violence, children, adolescent and couples. We utlitize cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, strength-based therapy, EMDR and solutions-focused therapy in a client-centered, non-judgmental atmosphere.
****Cambrio Counseling has immediate openings in N. Raleigh Locations for adults, children and couples ****ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. BOTH IN PERSON AND TELEHEALTH*** We have 7 therapists working with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, domestic violence, children, adolescent and couples. We utlitize cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, strength-based therapy, EMDR and solutions-focused therapy in a client-centered, non-judgmental atmosphere.
15 Second Videos
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Raleigh
Trinity Perini
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Raleigh
Colleen Fleming
Amber Turlik
Melanie McCabe
Natalie Ma
Kateryna Chorna
Barbara Jean Lowe Sauvé
Word of Truth & Hope
Marc Hardy
Chantay Stanley
Amanda Ingraham
Hannah Groover
Elizabeth Grady
Jane M. Roberts
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy NE Raleigh
Erica K. Smith
Anna Butler
Valerie Giannavola
Leigh Ann Fernandez
Elise Davis
Lindsey K Umstead
Amber Rae Apostol
Regina Walden Alston
Bianca Mason
Rachelle Dunn
Jeffrey Gianelli
Luz Velez
Hannah Jeter
Kendra Wilson
LaShonda Oates Milsap
Charlie Health
Jonora Jones
Jessica Miceli
John Daniel Kinney
Amy Carmen
Cynthia E McSwain
Kasha Sears Howard
Carolyn Laura Kindred
Kristin Sanders
Sara Hudson
Sarah Webber
Headstrong Communities, Inc
Katelyn Kivett
Catherine Saleska
Aurora Nunez Dixon
Brittany Fierro
Gabriela Magallanes
Megan Davis
Christy Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
I use therapeutic modalities such as Interpersonal Process Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to individualize the therapy process to best meet your needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, life transitions, relationships struggles, fertility/infertility issues, postpartum mood disorders, and general women's issues. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strongly relational, as I believe that a solid therapeutic relationship is essential in helping you gain insight and thrive in the face of your struggles. I work to bring warmth, acceptance, nurturing, and compassion to the therapeutic relationship.
I use therapeutic modalities such as Interpersonal Process Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to individualize the therapy process to best meet your needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, life transitions, relationships struggles, fertility/infertility issues, postpartum mood disorders, and general women's issues. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strongly relational, as I believe that a solid therapeutic relationship is essential in helping you gain insight and thrive in the face of your struggles. I work to bring warmth, acceptance, nurturing, and compassion to the therapeutic relationship.
Valerie Hartzog Thorn
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
The pain, the trauma, the struggle is real. I desire to walk with you to heal the hurt, redeem the loss, & begin to allow yourself to live in the moment. Start a new beginning today, you do not have to keep living in the past. I honor a client's personal and spiritual values and strive to integrate faith and psychology's best practices. My special interests and experience include working with adults, adolescents, with anxiety, depression & trauma. My theoretical approach uses evidenced based practices, integrating Person Centered, Trauma informed Care, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral therapy and Solution Focused techniques.
The pain, the trauma, the struggle is real. I desire to walk with you to heal the hurt, redeem the loss, & begin to allow yourself to live in the moment. Start a new beginning today, you do not have to keep living in the past. I honor a client's personal and spiritual values and strive to integrate faith and psychology's best practices. My special interests and experience include working with adults, adolescents, with anxiety, depression & trauma. My theoretical approach uses evidenced based practices, integrating Person Centered, Trauma informed Care, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral therapy and Solution Focused techniques.
Elizabeth Robinette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a certified provider of trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and grief counseling.
I am passionate about helping neurodivergent-identifying folx navigate a world designed by and for a neurotypical brain. I am an ardent advocate for neurodiversity and view ADHD as a brain style. My focus, through empirically supported coaching and solution-focused counseling, is to transform “disorder” into an asset. I partner with my clients to develop skills that compensate for the difficult parts of their diagnosis, while celebrating the amazing qualities of their neurodivergent brain.
I am also a certified provider of trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and grief counseling.
I am passionate about helping neurodivergent-identifying folx navigate a world designed by and for a neurotypical brain. I am an ardent advocate for neurodiversity and view ADHD as a brain style. My focus, through empirically supported coaching and solution-focused counseling, is to transform “disorder” into an asset. I partner with my clients to develop skills that compensate for the difficult parts of their diagnosis, while celebrating the amazing qualities of their neurodivergent brain.
Adrienne Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605 (Online Only)
In addition, I utilize EMDR, DBT, ACT & Structural Family Therapy approaches.
When navigating life, you may work hard to hold everything together externally, yet internally, you struggle with feelings of inadequacy and disappointment. Whether it manifests as anxiety, challenging relationships, disordered eating, or low self-esteem, you're wanting some sort of relief.
In addition, I utilize EMDR, DBT, ACT & Structural Family Therapy approaches.
When navigating life, you may work hard to hold everything together externally, yet internally, you struggle with feelings of inadequacy and disappointment. Whether it manifests as anxiety, challenging relationships, disordered eating, or low self-esteem, you're wanting some sort of relief.
I have 7 years of experience as a therapist and utilize many different evidence-based therapies including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and child-centered play therapy.
Hello, my name is Sara Pascucci and I'm a therapist in RaIeigh, NC. As a mother of two, I am passionate about helping mothers through their pregnancy and postpartum journeys in addition to parenting and partner relations to help ease the stress of those early years of parenthood. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I love building on people's strengths and resiliencies to help them reach their goals, improve their relationships, and overall life satisfaction. So reach out today to schedule your free 15 minute consultation and make sure I'm the right fit for you.
I have 7 years of experience as a therapist and utilize many different evidence-based therapies including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and child-centered play therapy.
Hello, my name is Sara Pascucci and I'm a therapist in RaIeigh, NC. As a mother of two, I am passionate about helping mothers through their pregnancy and postpartum journeys in addition to parenting and partner relations to help ease the stress of those early years of parenthood. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I love building on people's strengths and resiliencies to help them reach their goals, improve their relationships, and overall life satisfaction. So reach out today to schedule your free 15 minute consultation and make sure I'm the right fit for you.
Christopher Deviney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
I offer high quality CBT focused serviced with interventions from DBT, MI, Solution focused, and empowerment focused treatment.
My ideal client is anyone coming who is interested in finding answers to the hard questions in life. My primary experience is Substance use, Depression, and anxiety, however I have interest and experience working with any person driven and motivated to find change.
I offer high quality CBT focused serviced with interventions from DBT, MI, Solution focused, and empowerment focused treatment.
My ideal client is anyone coming who is interested in finding answers to the hard questions in life. My primary experience is Substance use, Depression, and anxiety, however I have interest and experience working with any person driven and motivated to find change.
Ori L Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607 (Online Only)
My therapeutic work is based in Cognitive Behavioral modalities, particularly Dialectical Behavioral skills, combined, as it may benefit you, with art and meditation.
If you or a loved one is living with a mental health condition or struggling with life stress or relationship difficulties, you may feel stuck or confused about what to do to help. If you are looking for a therapist who will work creatively and as a team with you to meet your mental health goals, this may be the right time to begin treatment. I am a non-binary person and have particular experience working with transgender and non-binary people, women, older adolescents, and other LGBQIA+ individuals. I am happy to work in a sensitive and affirming way with people from all walks of life.
My therapeutic work is based in Cognitive Behavioral modalities, particularly Dialectical Behavioral skills, combined, as it may benefit you, with art and meditation.
If you or a loved one is living with a mental health condition or struggling with life stress or relationship difficulties, you may feel stuck or confused about what to do to help. If you are looking for a therapist who will work creatively and as a team with you to meet your mental health goals, this may be the right time to begin treatment. I am a non-binary person and have particular experience working with transgender and non-binary people, women, older adolescents, and other LGBQIA+ individuals. I am happy to work in a sensitive and affirming way with people from all walks of life.
Michael L Kerns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and I am an Intensively-trained DBT Therapist.
Are you ready to have more satisfying relationships and obtain freedom from self-defeating or self-destructive behaviors/thoughts? If so, I believe in empowering and assisting you in changing the course of your life in a dramatic way. This passion is why I chose this career. I believe in accepting and facilitating desired change in people. I believe in validating people as they currently see themselves. I have a strong belief people want to improve their lives and give their life meaning through the unity of purpose, resolution and harmony. So, I look forward to working with you.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and I am an Intensively-trained DBT Therapist.
Are you ready to have more satisfying relationships and obtain freedom from self-defeating or self-destructive behaviors/thoughts? If so, I believe in empowering and assisting you in changing the course of your life in a dramatic way. This passion is why I chose this career. I believe in accepting and facilitating desired change in people. I believe in validating people as they currently see themselves. I have a strong belief people want to improve their lives and give their life meaning through the unity of purpose, resolution and harmony. So, I look forward to working with you.
Jeremy George
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
Waitlist for new clients
My primary specialty is attachment theory. Attachment based modalities include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Families (EFFT). Other areas of speciality include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is effective in treating trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). I am also growing in my ability to apply Internal Family Systems (IFS) in my practice with clients.
My primary specialty is attachment theory. Attachment based modalities include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Families (EFFT). Other areas of speciality include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is effective in treating trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). I am also growing in my ability to apply Internal Family Systems (IFS) in my practice with clients.
See more therapy options for Raleigh
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Raleigh
- Apex
- Cary
- Clayton
- Fuquay Varina
- Garner
- Holly Springs
- Knightdale
- Morrisville
- Rolesville
- Wake Forest
- Willow Spring
- Zebulon
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.