Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Belle Mead, NJ

Photo of Samuel Parton, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samuel Parton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
View
Photo of Christine Peters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
View
Photo of Laura DeMarzo, EdD, Psychologist
Laura DeMarzo
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
For over 30 years CPS works hard at getting you and your family the results you need. Specialties include EMDR, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorders, anxieties, depression, and trauma and addiction. We work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Iwe offer a solution oriented motivvating approach with an emphasis on skill building through Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT, DBT). We help develop effective strategies to cope with stress, build self_esteem and improve relationships. We offer Group therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, Play and Sand Therapy, Hypnotherapy and mediation/divorce coaching.
For over 30 years CPS works hard at getting you and your family the results you need. Specialties include EMDR, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorders, anxieties, depression, and trauma and addiction. We work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Iwe offer a solution oriented motivvating approach with an emphasis on skill building through Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT, DBT). We help develop effective strategies to cope with stress, build self_esteem and improve relationships. We offer Group therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, Play and Sand Therapy, Hypnotherapy and mediation/divorce coaching.
(908) 768-4651 View (908) 768-4651
Photo of Haley Kastner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley Kastner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
View
Photo of Maritza Koslow, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maritza Koslow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Belle Mead, NJ 08502  (Online Only)
I have had the privilege of working as a therapist for 17 years now, helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate through challenging times in their lives. Whether you are a divorced person adjusting to a new phase in your life, a concerned parent, a college student finding your way, or a frightened child learning to live without your deceased loved one, seeking therapy can be a first step in your healing process. Maybe you have decided to embark on a journey of self- discovery. I have witnessed the birth of limitless possibilities within my clients many times over.
I have had the privilege of working as a therapist for 17 years now, helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate through challenging times in their lives. Whether you are a divorced person adjusting to a new phase in your life, a concerned parent, a college student finding your way, or a frightened child learning to live without your deceased loved one, seeking therapy can be a first step in your healing process. Maybe you have decided to embark on a journey of self- discovery. I have witnessed the birth of limitless possibilities within my clients many times over.
(732) 599-6132 View (732) 599-6132
Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
View
Photo of Edward Callaghan - Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ, Psychologist
Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
(908) 460-1990 View (908) 460-1990

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Megan Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I have specialized training in treating PTSD, Complex PTSD and Dissociation using a relational approach along with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
My practice is based on the understanding that many clients have suffered overwhelming, traumatic, or adverse childhood experiences regardless of whether they are coming to therapy specifically due to these experiences. With compassion and care, I approach every session from a trauma informed lens. Instead of asking, "What is wrong with you?" I explore, "What have you experienced in your life and how might these symptoms be a response to it?" I am also particularly sensitive to the needs of often undiagnosed adults with ADHD and how trauma and the ADHD brain are interconnected.
I have specialized training in treating PTSD, Complex PTSD and Dissociation using a relational approach along with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
My practice is based on the understanding that many clients have suffered overwhelming, traumatic, or adverse childhood experiences regardless of whether they are coming to therapy specifically due to these experiences. With compassion and care, I approach every session from a trauma informed lens. Instead of asking, "What is wrong with you?" I explore, "What have you experienced in your life and how might these symptoms be a response to it?" I am also particularly sensitive to the needs of often undiagnosed adults with ADHD and how trauma and the ADHD brain are interconnected.
(347) 851-1558 View (347) 851-1558
Photo of Deborah Kaschak, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Kaschak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I use a strengths-based approach to counseling, employing a variety of therapeutic techniques from the following approaches: EMDR, trauma-focused, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, relaxation techniques, psychodynamic, IMAGO, and family systems.
I am an EMDR and DBT trained therapist who has enjoyed working in the mental health field for 20 years. I work with a diverse group of clients, including children, adults, and couples. I am a licensed clinical social worker and hold graduate degrees in both Social Work and Psychology. My focus is mood disorders, panic disorder, stress and anxiety, personality disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and general relationship issues. I have experience in the field of adoption, helping couples work through loss issues related to infertility and educating families about adoption and parenting issues.
I use a strengths-based approach to counseling, employing a variety of therapeutic techniques from the following approaches: EMDR, trauma-focused, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, relaxation techniques, psychodynamic, IMAGO, and family systems.
I am an EMDR and DBT trained therapist who has enjoyed working in the mental health field for 20 years. I work with a diverse group of clients, including children, adults, and couples. I am a licensed clinical social worker and hold graduate degrees in both Social Work and Psychology. My focus is mood disorders, panic disorder, stress and anxiety, personality disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and general relationship issues. I have experience in the field of adoption, helping couples work through loss issues related to infertility and educating families about adoption and parenting issues.
(908) 845-8411 View (908) 845-8411
Photo of Sophie Hans, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerne as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerne as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
(908) 883-4823 View (908) 883-4823
Photo of Wendy L Saling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy L Saling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I have been trained primarily in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness & Relational Theory.
You long for peace and clarity in your life but when navigating a major life transition those goals can appear out of reach. Divorce, illness, family and career changes can leave any one of us reeling, feeling beaten down, overwhelmed, confused and alone. A therapist can provide that safe non-judgmental space to explore thoughts, feelings and experiences that may be preventing you from moving forward. I work hard to tailor my approach to meet my client's needs always honoring the fact that this work is collaborative and each client is unique.
I have been trained primarily in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness & Relational Theory.
You long for peace and clarity in your life but when navigating a major life transition those goals can appear out of reach. Divorce, illness, family and career changes can leave any one of us reeling, feeling beaten down, overwhelmed, confused and alone. A therapist can provide that safe non-judgmental space to explore thoughts, feelings and experiences that may be preventing you from moving forward. I work hard to tailor my approach to meet my client's needs always honoring the fact that this work is collaborative and each client is unique.
(908) 242-3495 View (908) 242-3495
Photo of Janine Elliott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janine Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Janine Elliott takes a collaborative approach to building relationships with clients that empower them to thrive in their relationships, school/workplace, and community. She uses evidence-based treatments including CBT, DBT, ERP and HRT to help reframe unhelpful behaviors and thoughts, increase emotional regulation, and improve resiliency. Janine received her MSW from Rutgers with a focus in family systems and attachment theory. She has also trained extensively with pioneers in the field at the Beck Institute, UPenn Department of Psychiatry, Center for Treatment and Study of Anxiety, and Minuchin Center for the Family.
Janine Elliott takes a collaborative approach to building relationships with clients that empower them to thrive in their relationships, school/workplace, and community. She uses evidence-based treatments including CBT, DBT, ERP and HRT to help reframe unhelpful behaviors and thoughts, increase emotional regulation, and improve resiliency. Janine received her MSW from Rutgers with a focus in family systems and attachment theory. She has also trained extensively with pioneers in the field at the Beck Institute, UPenn Department of Psychiatry, Center for Treatment and Study of Anxiety, and Minuchin Center for the Family.
View
Photo of Jacqueline Pidich, LPC, ACS, LPAT, ATR- BC, ATCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline Pidich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, LPAT, ATR- BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
I am a CBT and DBT informed therapist.
We are living in very different times. Are stress, depression and anxiety eating you alive? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or lonely, despite all of your attempts at handling life alone? You deserve a break, and you owe it to yourself to try! I can help you with the transitions you face due to Covid, the change in seasons, college and job stress, break ups, divorce, raising kids, coming out as LGBT and, or chronic pain. I get it you may not know where to start. I myself have overcome many life's challenges. Breathe and take a shot! ... Art Therapy and talk therapy can provide a sense of relief, and I am here to support you!
I am a CBT and DBT informed therapist.
We are living in very different times. Are stress, depression and anxiety eating you alive? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or lonely, despite all of your attempts at handling life alone? You deserve a break, and you owe it to yourself to try! I can help you with the transitions you face due to Covid, the change in seasons, college and job stress, break ups, divorce, raising kids, coming out as LGBT and, or chronic pain. I get it you may not know where to start. I myself have overcome many life's challenges. Breathe and take a shot! ... Art Therapy and talk therapy can provide a sense of relief, and I am here to support you!
(609) 436-9416 View (609) 436-9416
Photo of Shams Elbedeiwy, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shams Elbedeiwy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I draw on elements of CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic.
My ideal client is a young adult under the age of 35 who may have difficulty with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, adjusting to new circumstances, stress, family strain, relationship issues, and cultural stress.
I draw on elements of CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic.
My ideal client is a young adult under the age of 35 who may have difficulty with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, adjusting to new circumstances, stress, family strain, relationship issues, and cultural stress.
(908) 529-0491 View (908) 529-0491
Photo of Samuel Parton, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samuel Parton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
View
Photo of Margaret Zofia Stachura, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Zofia Stachura
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, NJ 08502  (Online Only)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques to increase your awareness and teach you helpful skills.
Does your life feel like a burden? If yes, I am here to help because I believe that life should feel like a gift. My name is Margaret (Malgorzata) and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with adults and adolescents. Congratulations for taking a step to invest in your well being. I know that the decision we usually make to look for a therapist tends to be bittersweet. I know whatever you're going through could be very hard, but I believe that you could get through it. I am thrilled to help you discover what you need to be successful and happy!
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques to increase your awareness and teach you helpful skills.
Does your life feel like a burden? If yes, I am here to help because I believe that life should feel like a gift. My name is Margaret (Malgorzata) and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with adults and adolescents. Congratulations for taking a step to invest in your well being. I know that the decision we usually make to look for a therapist tends to be bittersweet. I know whatever you're going through could be very hard, but I believe that you could get through it. I am thrilled to help you discover what you need to be successful and happy!
(908) 663-8937 View (908) 663-8937
Photo of Iris Aybar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iris Aybar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
In my approach I incorporate interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) along with the use of creative approaches stemming from expressive play & art therapies.
As we face life’s challenges, we may also be facing the opportunity to find growth & meaning through our most difficult experiences. I am here to provide you with warmth, respect, & kindness as you face these difficult moments. I will aim to work alongside you, supporting you through the process of recognizing your strengths, uncovering & learning new skills, & problem solving ways to effectively cope with whatever difficulties you may be facing.
In my approach I incorporate interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) along with the use of creative approaches stemming from expressive play & art therapies.
As we face life’s challenges, we may also be facing the opportunity to find growth & meaning through our most difficult experiences. I am here to provide you with warmth, respect, & kindness as you face these difficult moments. I will aim to work alongside you, supporting you through the process of recognizing your strengths, uncovering & learning new skills, & problem solving ways to effectively cope with whatever difficulties you may be facing.
(908) 263-1011 View (908) 263-1011
Photo of Christine Peters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
View
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
I integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
(908) 356-4481 View (908) 356-4481
Photo of Nancy J Ashworth, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy J Ashworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I am experienced in providing a variety of behavioral interventions such as CBT, DBT, insight oriented and interpersonal relationship therapies.
My clients say that I am easy to talk to, supportive, encouraging and a good listener.I am interactive, collaborative and provide active feedback. I offer emotional support and challenge you to explore new ways of thinking and behaving to increase your happiness, well-being and self-confidence. It is important that you feel understood, safe and valued as you develop trust in our work together. We will address your difficulties, help you identify your strengths and explore ways to make positive changes. I have thirty years of experience providing mental health, substance abuse and relationship treatment in numerous outpatient facilities including UMDNJ and Rutgers.
I am experienced in providing a variety of behavioral interventions such as CBT, DBT, insight oriented and interpersonal relationship therapies.
My clients say that I am easy to talk to, supportive, encouraging and a good listener.I am interactive, collaborative and provide active feedback. I offer emotional support and challenge you to explore new ways of thinking and behaving to increase your happiness, well-being and self-confidence. It is important that you feel understood, safe and valued as you develop trust in our work together. We will address your difficulties, help you identify your strengths and explore ways to make positive changes. I have thirty years of experience providing mental health, substance abuse and relationship treatment in numerous outpatient facilities including UMDNJ and Rutgers.
(908) 386-4406 View (908) 386-4406

See more therapy options for Belle Mead

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.