Therapists in North Conway, NH
![Photo of Caitlyn Cook, LCMHC, LCPC, LCAT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2c5b150-a2bc-4fc2-9992-570801a0e03a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlyn Cook
Counselor, LCMHC, LCPC, LCAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Conway, NH 03860 (Online Only)
With extensive background in CBT, DBT, Wilderness Therapy, Art Therapy, and Family Systems, every client can expect a truly individualized and flexible approach.
Growing up is hard. Besides drowning in a culture of “never enough,” we are bombarded daily by a constant stream of messaging about who, how and what we are supposed to be. The pressure is often crippling, the messages are confusing, and it can be tough to know where to turn for help. For over a decade, I have worked with teens, young adults, and parents who are learning how to navigate this important period with self-awareness, skill, and confidence. I listen carefully and read between the lines, helping young people figure out what is really going on and helping them forge their own, unique path forward.
With extensive background in CBT, DBT, Wilderness Therapy, Art Therapy, and Family Systems, every client can expect a truly individualized and flexible approach.
Growing up is hard. Besides drowning in a culture of “never enough,” we are bombarded daily by a constant stream of messaging about who, how and what we are supposed to be. The pressure is often crippling, the messages are confusing, and it can be tough to know where to turn for help. For over a decade, I have worked with teens, young adults, and parents who are learning how to navigate this important period with self-awareness, skill, and confidence. I listen carefully and read between the lines, helping young people figure out what is really going on and helping them forge their own, unique path forward.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Joy Cromwell, LMHC, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fb2c7ea-ffa5-4d54-aa60-92b7a799beb5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Cromwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berlin, NH 03570 (Online Only)
I use a combination of expressive arts, Internal Family Systems, and other evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (using eye movement reprocessing similar to EMDR) to process trauma and combat symptoms of depression and anxiety.
I am a creative by heart, and a counselor by trade. It is my pleasure to hold space for people as they seek to get to know themselves better and learn how to best solve their own problems. I am a firm believer that deep down, people know what is right for them, and they know how to solve their own problems. My job as a counselor is to help you remove the layers of cultural conditioning, negative self-talk, trauma memories, and more to help you get reconnected with your self. My goal is to stand beside you as we examine barriers, explore possibilities, and help you find your inner strength to fight any battles that come your way.
I use a combination of expressive arts, Internal Family Systems, and other evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (using eye movement reprocessing similar to EMDR) to process trauma and combat symptoms of depression and anxiety.
I am a creative by heart, and a counselor by trade. It is my pleasure to hold space for people as they seek to get to know themselves better and learn how to best solve their own problems. I am a firm believer that deep down, people know what is right for them, and they know how to solve their own problems. My job as a counselor is to help you remove the layers of cultural conditioning, negative self-talk, trauma memories, and more to help you get reconnected with your self. My goal is to stand beside you as we examine barriers, explore possibilities, and help you find your inner strength to fight any battles that come your way.
![Photo of Courtney Cupelo, LMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f077171-23bf-4030-b193-8777dd56e7a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Cupelo
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NH 03301 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Combining Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy gives us the flexibility to have an eclectic approach to your goals.
During these chaotic times it is more important than ever to take space and choose self-care. I am a clinical mental health counselor with experience in working with anxiety, depression, and helping professionals. I am also partnered with Rebellious Wellness where we assist individuals to liberate themselves from the influences of diet culture, find freedom in their minds and accept their bodies.
Combining Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy gives us the flexibility to have an eclectic approach to your goals.
During these chaotic times it is more important than ever to take space and choose self-care. I am a clinical mental health counselor with experience in working with anxiety, depression, and helping professionals. I am also partnered with Rebellious Wellness where we assist individuals to liberate themselves from the influences of diet culture, find freedom in their minds and accept their bodies.
![Photo of Julianna Labul, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f97d6884-2bda-4854-b31e-d6d249cea665/1/320x400.png)
I utilize a variety of evidence-based practices including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and narrative therapy.
Hi there! My name is Julianna, I use She/Her pronouns. I am a pre-licensed Master of Social Work clinician. While I work with all ages twelve and older, I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQ+ folks, adolescents, and young adults. I am dedicated to providing culturally competent and neurodivergent-affirming therapy. I do this by meeting each client where they're at, striving to make my space comfortable and welcoming, and being open to all types of feedback. Therapy is an ever-evolving work that I am committed to by continuously updating my approaches and knowledge.
I utilize a variety of evidence-based practices including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and narrative therapy.
Hi there! My name is Julianna, I use She/Her pronouns. I am a pre-licensed Master of Social Work clinician. While I work with all ages twelve and older, I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQ+ folks, adolescents, and young adults. I am dedicated to providing culturally competent and neurodivergent-affirming therapy. I do this by meeting each client where they're at, striving to make my space comfortable and welcoming, and being open to all types of feedback. Therapy is an ever-evolving work that I am committed to by continuously updating my approaches and knowledge.
![Photo of April C Wisler, MA, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e5655e2-1065-42b4-93c9-2c0cf6091365/2/320x400.jpeg)
April C Wisler
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03104
Therapeutic modalities I regularly incorporate include CBT, DBT, trauma-focused CBT, narrative therapy, art therapy & positive psychology to help build up the whole person.
Now accepting new clients beginning the first week of August. I will be out of the office for vacation prior, so please be patient with responses to inquiries. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, my role is to help guide you to achieve your treatment goals and find the type of wellness that comes from true self-acceptance and peace. Whether your needs involve development of coping skills, healing through creative expression, or changing the story that you have been carrying, my diverse experience in the field places me in a unique position to help you achieve all of your goals.
Therapeutic modalities I regularly incorporate include CBT, DBT, trauma-focused CBT, narrative therapy, art therapy & positive psychology to help build up the whole person.
Now accepting new clients beginning the first week of August. I will be out of the office for vacation prior, so please be patient with responses to inquiries. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, my role is to help guide you to achieve your treatment goals and find the type of wellness that comes from true self-acceptance and peace. Whether your needs involve development of coping skills, healing through creative expression, or changing the story that you have been carrying, my diverse experience in the field places me in a unique position to help you achieve all of your goals.
![Photo of Courtney Conerly, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dac3ad9c-251b-4580-9437-87ed7dfcf931/2/320x400.jpeg)
Art therapy, CBT, DBT, and ACT are also modalities that I emphasize in my approach.
Hello and welcome. There is never an invalid reason to come into therapy. My ideal client would be someone who is open-minded to the therapeutic process. I seek to work collaboratively with clients to help them reach their goals. It is my hope that I can provide different insight and perspectives. Most importantly, I seek to provide a safe space for any client to express themselves freely.
Art therapy, CBT, DBT, and ACT are also modalities that I emphasize in my approach.
Hello and welcome. There is never an invalid reason to come into therapy. My ideal client would be someone who is open-minded to the therapeutic process. I seek to work collaboratively with clients to help them reach their goals. It is my hope that I can provide different insight and perspectives. Most importantly, I seek to provide a safe space for any client to express themselves freely.
![Photo of Holly Testerman, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cb78f9b-7c43-4017-9b82-47399938bdbf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I draw from person-centered therapy and evidence-based modalities like Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Accepting new clients! Are you seeking compassionate and inclusive mental health support? I work with both adults, pre-teens, teens, and families. My specialties include compassionate counseling for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also specialize in ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and intellectual disabilities. I offer dedicated care for LGBTQIA+ individuals and gender-affirming support. With extensive experience working with multi-cultural families, I particularly enjoy guiding teens and young adults as they discover their values and navigate life’s transitions.
I draw from person-centered therapy and evidence-based modalities like Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Accepting new clients! Are you seeking compassionate and inclusive mental health support? I work with both adults, pre-teens, teens, and families. My specialties include compassionate counseling for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also specialize in ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and intellectual disabilities. I offer dedicated care for LGBTQIA+ individuals and gender-affirming support. With extensive experience working with multi-cultural families, I particularly enjoy guiding teens and young adults as they discover their values and navigate life’s transitions.
![Photo of Megan Drake Stillman, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46291970-56e8-48dc-8f42-7af56fb5b624/1/320x400.jpeg)
We will customize your treatment to you; pulling from CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and creative practices.
You only have one body & accepting it might seem impossible. Many people turn to food, exercise, perfectionism, & anxiety to cope. However, they find themselves caught in an unbreakable cycle of unhappiness. Speaking with a therapist helps you to identify your unhelpful patterns, honor your strengths, create a toolbox of strategies, & learn to talk to yourself with compassion. My specialty is in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and body image. Eating disorders rarely exist in isolation. I am experienced in treating co-occurring symptoms including social challenges, family issues, depression, ADHD, & trauma.
We will customize your treatment to you; pulling from CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and creative practices.
You only have one body & accepting it might seem impossible. Many people turn to food, exercise, perfectionism, & anxiety to cope. However, they find themselves caught in an unbreakable cycle of unhappiness. Speaking with a therapist helps you to identify your unhelpful patterns, honor your strengths, create a toolbox of strategies, & learn to talk to yourself with compassion. My specialty is in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and body image. Eating disorders rarely exist in isolation. I am experienced in treating co-occurring symptoms including social challenges, family issues, depression, ADHD, & trauma.
![Photo of Jennifer E Yebba, LCMHC, MLADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b2ed99f-2d23-4673-a927-7f73fc74b2e5/3/320x400.jpeg)
This then allows the client to be open to a variety of modalities including EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative therapy that I incorporate into their sessions.
I am a licensed LCMHC and MLADC in the state of NH. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and/or struggling to get through past traumas. In addition, I specialize in working with individuals who have substance and alcohol addictions and/or are seeking to maintain long-term recovery. I use a person-centered approach to therapy to best serve the individual and help them achieve their greatest outcome.
This then allows the client to be open to a variety of modalities including EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative therapy that I incorporate into their sessions.
I am a licensed LCMHC and MLADC in the state of NH. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and/or struggling to get through past traumas. In addition, I specialize in working with individuals who have substance and alcohol addictions and/or are seeking to maintain long-term recovery. I use a person-centered approach to therapy to best serve the individual and help them achieve their greatest outcome.
![Photo of Cerissa Desrosiers - Endurance Behavioral Health, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a94a544-6985-45f9-87c0-2593bcde89e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Each day you'll have the opportunity to participate in a variety of groups, including team-expressive arts, DBT skills, traditional "talk-therapy" and wellness groups.
Now offering our PHP both in-person and online! Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to get through the day? Out-of-control? In these uncertain times, you don't have to go it alone. Let us support you as you work on regaining safety and stability in your life. Our partial hospital program (PHP) welcomes teens ages 13-20 who may be experiencing significant mental health concerns (e.g., self-harm, suicidal thinking, OCD, anxiety), struggling to attend or engage in school, stepping down from residential or inpatient treatment, and/or looking to avoid future hospitalization.
Each day you'll have the opportunity to participate in a variety of groups, including team-expressive arts, DBT skills, traditional "talk-therapy" and wellness groups.
Now offering our PHP both in-person and online! Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to get through the day? Out-of-control? In these uncertain times, you don't have to go it alone. Let us support you as you work on regaining safety and stability in your life. Our partial hospital program (PHP) welcomes teens ages 13-20 who may be experiencing significant mental health concerns (e.g., self-harm, suicidal thinking, OCD, anxiety), struggling to attend or engage in school, stepping down from residential or inpatient treatment, and/or looking to avoid future hospitalization.
![Photo of Paula Semakula, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d9cf744-c17d-4920-a670-91bf468f37b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate openings for teens/adults in LGBTQ+ community! I am ready to join you on the journey to a healthier mind, body, and soul. To do this, we will have to look at what is not working in your present and possibly explore issues from the past, but always with an eye towards a better future. During this journey, you will learn coping skills, build safety, and create support. In this manner, we will work together to ensure you have the strengths you need to reach your ultimate goals.
Immediate openings for teens/adults in LGBTQ+ community! I am ready to join you on the journey to a healthier mind, body, and soul. To do this, we will have to look at what is not working in your present and possibly explore issues from the past, but always with an eye towards a better future. During this journey, you will learn coping skills, build safety, and create support. In this manner, we will work together to ensure you have the strengths you need to reach your ultimate goals.
![Photo of Sheri Wilkins, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4606175f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Over the past 15 years, I've had the opportunity to practice in a variety of settings and in the presence of clients from all walks of life. My primary educational focus has been on understanding the importance of integrating holistic theory into the realm of counseling and I've found great success in exploring this avenue of therapy with my clients.
Over the past 15 years, I've had the opportunity to practice in a variety of settings and in the presence of clients from all walks of life. My primary educational focus has been on understanding the importance of integrating holistic theory into the realm of counseling and I've found great success in exploring this avenue of therapy with my clients.
![Photo of Danielle Delloiacono, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78834021-2c09-49fe-ac69-a76ded24771b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Delloiacono
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03303 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
![Photo of Holly Clause, MAET, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de0cbff2-3a3e-4f90-bab8-320b75f9d70e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Because we are unique and complex people I choose a holistic and individualized counseling approach. I am both a traditional "talk therapist" and an expressive arts therapist specializing in art therapy. I have 20 years of experience in the mental health field working in various treatment setting with teens and adults. I help people gain insight, awareness, emotional release, problem solving and coping skills. I have considerable experience in treating emotional disturbances, trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders and anxiety. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy and psychodynamics; I use both approaches.
Because we are unique and complex people I choose a holistic and individualized counseling approach. I am both a traditional "talk therapist" and an expressive arts therapist specializing in art therapy. I have 20 years of experience in the mental health field working in various treatment setting with teens and adults. I help people gain insight, awareness, emotional release, problem solving and coping skills. I have considerable experience in treating emotional disturbances, trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders and anxiety. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy and psychodynamics; I use both approaches.
![Photo of Lisa Ibekwe, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, CAMSII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33694344-9c05-45e0-a337-405ffad80987/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Ibekwe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, CAMSII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NH 03301 (Online Only)
Welcome to The Comfy Place! We know that seeking out therapy can be a new and sometimes uncomfortable experience, but we appreciate you considering us to help you on your journey. Our focus is on helping children, teens, young adults, and families heal. We understand that life has many ups and downs so, we aim to create a safe space where people can have fun, get real, and heal. We want everyone to feel like they are a part of our Comfy Place family where we welcome all with open arms no matter where they are on their walk in life. I currently serve the following states MA, PA, RI, VT, ME, NH, UT & FL via Telehealth ONLY.
Welcome to The Comfy Place! We know that seeking out therapy can be a new and sometimes uncomfortable experience, but we appreciate you considering us to help you on your journey. Our focus is on helping children, teens, young adults, and families heal. We understand that life has many ups and downs so, we aim to create a safe space where people can have fun, get real, and heal. We want everyone to feel like they are a part of our Comfy Place family where we welcome all with open arms no matter where they are on their walk in life. I currently serve the following states MA, PA, RI, VT, ME, NH, UT & FL via Telehealth ONLY.
![Photo of Issanna Loughman, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c76f1b17-afe8-40f4-9a7e-70805134a9e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
The stressors of life can have profound impacts on youth. I provide children and adolescents (ages 3-19) with compassionate integrative care to meet their unique needs; this can include CBT, Play Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, and Expressive Art Therapy. To me, working with youth also means providing support and guidance to their families via separate family and parenting sessions, as needed.
The stressors of life can have profound impacts on youth. I provide children and adolescents (ages 3-19) with compassionate integrative care to meet their unique needs; this can include CBT, Play Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, and Expressive Art Therapy. To me, working with youth also means providing support and guidance to their families via separate family and parenting sessions, as needed.
![Photo of Matthew E. Garthwait, MSW, LICSW, MLADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc730c85-ce47-4626-965c-38c2cf749118/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew E. Garthwait
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Rye, NH 03870
I work with people on a variety of issues, typically those struggling with anxiety/depression, stress management, substance use and addiction. There are moments in our lives that feel extra stressful or overwhelming and this is perhaps more true today given these especially challenging times. This is when having strong, healthy coping strategies and the right tools can help us feel back in control with the ability to better manage life again.
I work with people on a variety of issues, typically those struggling with anxiety/depression, stress management, substance use and addiction. There are moments in our lives that feel extra stressful or overwhelming and this is perhaps more true today given these especially challenging times. This is when having strong, healthy coping strategies and the right tools can help us feel back in control with the ability to better manage life again.
![Photo of For Appointment - Center for Expressive Arts, Therapy and Education, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3baf8f2d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate openings! C.R.E.A.T.E! combines the benefits of traditional mental health counseling with arts-based interventions when appropriate for the client. We offer a wide variety of services, experience, and specialties, with over 20 clinicians, arts-based therapists, and interns. Whether you are looking for therapy, trauma resolution or simply want to do some creative personal development, the counselors at C.R.E.A.T.E! believe you have strengths which can help you through your present situation. We can help create a plan to move you towards your goals and for your success.
Immediate openings! C.R.E.A.T.E! combines the benefits of traditional mental health counseling with arts-based interventions when appropriate for the client. We offer a wide variety of services, experience, and specialties, with over 20 clinicians, arts-based therapists, and interns. Whether you are looking for therapy, trauma resolution or simply want to do some creative personal development, the counselors at C.R.E.A.T.E! believe you have strengths which can help you through your present situation. We can help create a plan to move you towards your goals and for your success.
![Photo of Shanna Meyer - Trivium Integrative Mental Health , MA, LCMHC, MT-BC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5b58fd5-c1c1-4485-9c99-534fb2939693/2/320x400.jpeg)
Trivium Life Services offers integrative mental health and wellness services through our Outpatient Clinic in Lebanon, New Hampshire. We provide a strength-based and person-centered approach, working collaboratively with each client to develop a course of treatment responsive to individual preferences and needs. Our integrative approach will help you explore lifestyle factors as potential sources of relief from psychological distress. We combine evidence-based therapy models with complimentary wellness tools to develop a personalized treatment approach tailored to your needs. We offer diagnostic assessments, including for ADHD.
Trivium Life Services offers integrative mental health and wellness services through our Outpatient Clinic in Lebanon, New Hampshire. We provide a strength-based and person-centered approach, working collaboratively with each client to develop a course of treatment responsive to individual preferences and needs. Our integrative approach will help you explore lifestyle factors as potential sources of relief from psychological distress. We combine evidence-based therapy models with complimentary wellness tools to develop a personalized treatment approach tailored to your needs. We offer diagnostic assessments, including for ADHD.
![Photo of Megan Littlehale, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b5c36b3-2944-44f7-b7a1-7ce92768f819/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan knew at a young age that her life must include art! Seeking to address social and emotional issues through the arts she attended Plymouth State University in 2008, earning a bachelor degree in Art Education, with a minor in psychology and ceramics. She then graduated Lesley University in 2013 with a Master’s degree in Expressive Therapies with a specialization in Art Therapy and Mental Health Counseling. Megan is currently working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Northern New Hampshire.
Megan knew at a young age that her life must include art! Seeking to address social and emotional issues through the arts she attended Plymouth State University in 2008, earning a bachelor degree in Art Education, with a minor in psychology and ceramics. She then graduated Lesley University in 2013 with a Master’s degree in Expressive Therapies with a specialization in Art Therapy and Mental Health Counseling. Megan is currently working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Northern New Hampshire.
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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.