Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Brigantine, NJ

Photo of Abbie Brewster, LPC, LPAT, ACS, ATR-BC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abbie Brewster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPAT, ACS, ATR-BC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Brigantine, NJ 08203
My belief is that the client knows best so I work from a person centered and psychodynamic approach, but I also pull from different modalities such as CBT, DBT, solution focused, motivational interviewing and reality therapy, based on the client’s needs.
I utilize creativity through art therapy and talk therapy to cultivate a safe environment in order to promote healing for all ages. Sometimes it is difficult to find the words to express ourselves and art can be another way to communicate those thoughts, feelings and experiences. Or just talking if you prefer! I specialize in managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, emotion dysregulation as well as addictive behaviors.
My belief is that the client knows best so I work from a person centered and psychodynamic approach, but I also pull from different modalities such as CBT, DBT, solution focused, motivational interviewing and reality therapy, based on the client’s needs.
I utilize creativity through art therapy and talk therapy to cultivate a safe environment in order to promote healing for all ages. Sometimes it is difficult to find the words to express ourselves and art can be another way to communicate those thoughts, feelings and experiences. Or just talking if you prefer! I specialize in managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, emotion dysregulation as well as addictive behaviors.
(609) 459-2354 View (609) 459-2354
Photo of Amy Moore, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brigantine, NJ 08203  (Online Only)
It is my life purpose and passion to help others develop inner resilience and self compassion to navigate their deep personal growth journey. I offer both traditional psychotherapy and holistic modalities, giving people HOPE and tools they need to heal emotional wounds and behavioral patterns. I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families who are motivated to have better relationships with themselves and their loved ones.
It is my life purpose and passion to help others develop inner resilience and self compassion to navigate their deep personal growth journey. I offer both traditional psychotherapy and holistic modalities, giving people HOPE and tools they need to heal emotional wounds and behavioral patterns. I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families who are motivated to have better relationships with themselves and their loved ones.
(609) 473-3857 View (609) 473-3857
Photo of Reena Corvil, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reena Corvil
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brigantine, NJ 08203
Making changes can feel overwhelming and uncomfortable. Asking for help with those changes can feel just the same or even more nerve racking. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and empathetic space where you can find yourself getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. Together, we can find a home and balance within yourself centering on your strengths that keep you going everyday as you begin your therapeutic journey.
Making changes can feel overwhelming and uncomfortable. Asking for help with those changes can feel just the same or even more nerve racking. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and empathetic space where you can find yourself getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. Together, we can find a home and balance within yourself centering on your strengths that keep you going everyday as you begin your therapeutic journey.
(732) 769-1579 View (732) 769-1579
Photo of Stephany Victoria Piermattei, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephany Victoria Piermattei
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brigantine, NJ 08203  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I’m an LCSW who graduated from Stockton University. In my work as the professional, I’ve worked with people dealing with depression, anxiety, disability, sexual trauma, domestic violence, other types of trauma OCD bipolar disorder eating disorders relationship problems I’ve also worked a lot with people from the LGBT community adjusting to anything from college to parenting to aging. I am always training and learning, new techniques and new ways of helping because every person is unique.
Hi, I’m an LCSW who graduated from Stockton University. In my work as the professional, I’ve worked with people dealing with depression, anxiety, disability, sexual trauma, domestic violence, other types of trauma OCD bipolar disorder eating disorders relationship problems I’ve also worked a lot with people from the LGBT community adjusting to anything from college to parenting to aging. I am always training and learning, new techniques and new ways of helping because every person is unique.
(640) 400-5880 View (640) 400-5880

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Catherine Steers, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Steers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlantic City, NJ 08400  (Online Only)
As a professional trained in both DBT and psychodynamic theory, I can help you recognize unhealthy patterns while creating new healthier ones, strengthen communication with others, be more mindful, and learn how to regulate emotions.
Life can include a fair number of stressors and sometimes one needs a helping hand. Seeking guidance through life’s ups and downs or feelings of being stuck are normal. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and although I am Psychodynamic trained, I utilize an eclectic approach in my work. I truly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone for progress and growth throughout treatment. I am dedicated to encouraging and empowering clients in a safe space and committed to working with the client to achieve their goals, create healthy boundaries, and enhance mental well-being.
As a professional trained in both DBT and psychodynamic theory, I can help you recognize unhealthy patterns while creating new healthier ones, strengthen communication with others, be more mindful, and learn how to regulate emotions.
Life can include a fair number of stressors and sometimes one needs a helping hand. Seeking guidance through life’s ups and downs or feelings of being stuck are normal. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and although I am Psychodynamic trained, I utilize an eclectic approach in my work. I truly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone for progress and growth throughout treatment. I am dedicated to encouraging and empowering clients in a safe space and committed to working with the client to achieve their goals, create healthy boundaries, and enhance mental well-being.
(609) 928-7376 View (609) 928-7376
Photo of Jessica K Mann, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica K Mann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galloway, NJ 08205  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have also completed extensive training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) as well as training in DBT and brain spotting.
Making the decision to ask for help and seek therapy can be difficult. That’s why I’m here. I strive to create a comfortable space where you can begin to explore yourself in new ways. I work with you to provide a safe place where healing and recovery feels natural. My goal is to hold space for you to understand and manage the parts of yourself that pose barriers to change in your life and relationships. I sincerely believe that individuals are doing their best and need assistance to change
I have also completed extensive training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) as well as training in DBT and brain spotting.
Making the decision to ask for help and seek therapy can be difficult. That’s why I’m here. I strive to create a comfortable space where you can begin to explore yourself in new ways. I work with you to provide a safe place where healing and recovery feels natural. My goal is to hold space for you to understand and manage the parts of yourself that pose barriers to change in your life and relationships. I sincerely believe that individuals are doing their best and need assistance to change
(609) 473-6850 View (609) 473-6850
Photo of Heidi Schnorr, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Schnorr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northfield, NJ 08225
I am a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializing in treating adults with mood concerns, depressive feelings, anxiety, anger issues, stress management, trauma, self-esteem, relationship distress and substance abuse support (members affected & those in sustained recovery). Using respected theories including Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT & DBT,) Humanistic, and Psychodynamic Theory, treatment is tailored to focus on the specific needs and concerns of the client. My approach is to help you find practical, realistic, and sensible solutions to difficulties, taking into account your particular life circumstances.
I am a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializing in treating adults with mood concerns, depressive feelings, anxiety, anger issues, stress management, trauma, self-esteem, relationship distress and substance abuse support (members affected & those in sustained recovery). Using respected theories including Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT & DBT,) Humanistic, and Psychodynamic Theory, treatment is tailored to focus on the specific needs and concerns of the client. My approach is to help you find practical, realistic, and sensible solutions to difficulties, taking into account your particular life circumstances.
(609) 969-5594 View (609) 969-5594
Photo of Alexandra Nicotra, MS ED, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra Nicotra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS ED, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Atlantic City, NJ 08400  (Online Only)
Are you ready to take control of your mental health and unlock your full potential? As a mental health professional therapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the challenges of life, enhance their emotional well-being, and develop the skills needed to thrive. With a strong background in dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and skill development for all mood and behavioral disorders, I provide a holistic and personalized approach to mental health treatment. I collaborate with each client to identify their unique strengths and areas for growth.
Are you ready to take control of your mental health and unlock your full potential? As a mental health professional therapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the challenges of life, enhance their emotional well-being, and develop the skills needed to thrive. With a strong background in dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and skill development for all mood and behavioral disorders, I provide a holistic and personalized approach to mental health treatment. I collaborate with each client to identify their unique strengths and areas for growth.
(732) 517-7816 View (732) 517-7816
Photo of Rachael Mecholsky Pelikan, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, LCADC, CCTP, Counselor
Rachael Mecholsky Pelikan
Counselor, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, LCADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Margate City, NJ 08402
My experience includes inpatient substance abuse with adults, as well as art therapy with children and teens. I have a Master’s degree in Art Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, and am also trained in a number of other effective tools we can use to address deeper issues if they arise, including sand tray therapy, EMDR, DBT, and yoga. When working with children and teens, the family is an essential part of the treatment team and therapeutic process, and each parent is involved every step of the way.
My experience includes inpatient substance abuse with adults, as well as art therapy with children and teens. I have a Master’s degree in Art Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, and am also trained in a number of other effective tools we can use to address deeper issues if they arise, including sand tray therapy, EMDR, DBT, and yoga. When working with children and teens, the family is an essential part of the treatment team and therapeutic process, and each parent is involved every step of the way.
(609) 853-5965 View (609) 853-5965
Photo of Katherine Ditmire, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Ditmire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Northfield, NJ 08225
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and client focused therapies.
I work with a variety of clients and they come to me with many different challenges to overcome. I’ve worked extensively with trauma victims and personality disorders, especially borderline personality disorder - which is treatable despite many clinicians turning their backs on this problem. I also have a high level of expertise in LGBT issues, especially those starting their transition journey to another gender. It is gratifying to be a part of helping clients achieve change and I’m honored to be trusted in the process.
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and client focused therapies.
I work with a variety of clients and they come to me with many different challenges to overcome. I’ve worked extensively with trauma victims and personality disorders, especially borderline personality disorder - which is treatable despite many clinicians turning their backs on this problem. I also have a high level of expertise in LGBT issues, especially those starting their transition journey to another gender. It is gratifying to be a part of helping clients achieve change and I’m honored to be trusted in the process.
(609) 245-6514 View (609) 245-6514
Photo of Maggie Mary Terrels - Maggie Terrels, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maggie Terrels
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Margate City, NJ 08402
I incorporate principles of Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution-Focused therapy and Dialectical Behavioral therapy.
Hi there beautiful human, I'm proud of you for taking the first step towards healing. I would be honored to help you along on your journey. I feel passionately about helping people restore their relationships with food and their bodies. I specialize in eating disorders, substance abuse and grief. I am a licensed professional counselor in both PA and NJ. I have a history of working in residential treatment centers for persons with eating disorders and currently work in an outpatient, virtual setting. I pride myself on being warm, empathetic and also direct in my approach. I am also trauma informed.
I incorporate principles of Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution-Focused therapy and Dialectical Behavioral therapy.
Hi there beautiful human, I'm proud of you for taking the first step towards healing. I would be honored to help you along on your journey. I feel passionately about helping people restore their relationships with food and their bodies. I specialize in eating disorders, substance abuse and grief. I am a licensed professional counselor in both PA and NJ. I have a history of working in residential treatment centers for persons with eating disorders and currently work in an outpatient, virtual setting. I pride myself on being warm, empathetic and also direct in my approach. I am also trauma informed.
(609) 513-8310 View (609) 513-8310
Photo of Kelly Geary, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Geary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northfield, NJ 08225
I would be honored to help guide you or your loved one on their journey toward wellness & healing. If you have experienced a major loss, setback, or something that has you questioning decisions you have made, I can help. First, I want to understand your story, what you have experienced, who you are and what you want to change. Then I will draw from my 20 plus years of direct, client experience to assist in creating your "roadmap to change." I am utilize full protocol EMDR, trained in CBT, DBT, and IFS. You are not alone and there is hope, regardless of how dark things may seem at times.
I would be honored to help guide you or your loved one on their journey toward wellness & healing. If you have experienced a major loss, setback, or something that has you questioning decisions you have made, I can help. First, I want to understand your story, what you have experienced, who you are and what you want to change. Then I will draw from my 20 plus years of direct, client experience to assist in creating your "roadmap to change." I am utilize full protocol EMDR, trained in CBT, DBT, and IFS. You are not alone and there is hope, regardless of how dark things may seem at times.
(609) 365-1247 View (609) 365-1247
Photo of Caitlin Cantor, MSW, LCSW, CST, CGT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Cantor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST, CGT
Verified Verified
Margate City, NJ 08402
I use a variety of techniques including Gestalt Therapy, DBT, IFS, & Somatic Techniques.
I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to talk about difficult subjects without fear of judgment. I specialize in relationships and relational work. I help couples heal from unresolved issues, learn new ways to communicate and understand each other, and deepen their intimacy. I teach couples how to have hard conversations that end in deeper connection, instead of painful fights that result in deeper wounds. I also help single people navigate the dating world, date from a place of confidence and self-worth, & create a healthy, lasting relationship.
I use a variety of techniques including Gestalt Therapy, DBT, IFS, & Somatic Techniques.
I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to talk about difficult subjects without fear of judgment. I specialize in relationships and relational work. I help couples heal from unresolved issues, learn new ways to communicate and understand each other, and deepen their intimacy. I teach couples how to have hard conversations that end in deeper connection, instead of painful fights that result in deeper wounds. I also help single people navigate the dating world, date from a place of confidence and self-worth, & create a healthy, lasting relationship.
(215) 607-8282 View (215) 607-8282
Photo of Gianna Williams, LAC, MA, Counselor
Gianna Williams
Counselor, LAC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galloway, NJ 08205
I draw from a variety of evidence-based interventions while blending mindfulness-based strategies in a unique way, such as CBT, ERP, informed play therapy, and DBT skills.
I'm happy you're here and I welcome you wherever you are in your life. I believe in the power of empathy and insight to create a supportive space where you can explore, heal, and thrive with confidence. I provide evidence-based interventions integrated with a mind-body approach to clients of all ages to build resilience through life’s challenges. I work holistically to understand your perspective and lifestyle, with the aims of establishing trust, finding methods to achieve inner calm, changing habits, and helping you identify and reshape the narratives that influence your life.
I draw from a variety of evidence-based interventions while blending mindfulness-based strategies in a unique way, such as CBT, ERP, informed play therapy, and DBT skills.
I'm happy you're here and I welcome you wherever you are in your life. I believe in the power of empathy and insight to create a supportive space where you can explore, heal, and thrive with confidence. I provide evidence-based interventions integrated with a mind-body approach to clients of all ages to build resilience through life’s challenges. I work holistically to understand your perspective and lifestyle, with the aims of establishing trust, finding methods to achieve inner calm, changing habits, and helping you identify and reshape the narratives that influence your life.
(609) 293-3587 View (609) 293-3587
Photo of Diana Cofsky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Margate City, NJ 08402
My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(640) 224-4811 View (640) 224-4811
Photo of Lisa Cordasco - Rewired Path, LCSW, LSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rewired Path
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Margate City, NJ 08402
We are a group practicing ready to support you and your loved ones as a guide on your path to wellness, wholeness and worthiness. We use a holistic, person-centered and individualized approach to help you to achieve your goals to be the most fulfilled version of you. Our practice believes in tailoring our treatment approach to your individual needs and our clinicians specialize in a variety of approaches and modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Behavioral Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Approach, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Brainspotting
We are a group practicing ready to support you and your loved ones as a guide on your path to wellness, wholeness and worthiness. We use a holistic, person-centered and individualized approach to help you to achieve your goals to be the most fulfilled version of you. Our practice believes in tailoring our treatment approach to your individual needs and our clinicians specialize in a variety of approaches and modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Behavioral Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Approach, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Brainspotting
(609) 566-8516 View (609) 566-8516
Photo of Kelly White, PhD, LPC, LCPC, ACS/CCS, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly White
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCPC, ACS/CCS, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Atlantic City, NJ 08400  (Online Only)
At this time, I am accepting Forensic clients (Court mandated, parole, probation, DCPP) New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine via telehealth (video) or phone sessions at Kaizen Foundation. For Psychoeducational Evaluations, ADHD testing, IQ testing, and General Mental Health therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Sandplay therapy, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and TraumaPlay therapy please contact me at Bridge to Balance, Inc at 856-354-0664. I can provide Clinical Supervision for LACs in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine
At this time, I am accepting Forensic clients (Court mandated, parole, probation, DCPP) New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine via telehealth (video) or phone sessions at Kaizen Foundation. For Psychoeducational Evaluations, ADHD testing, IQ testing, and General Mental Health therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Sandplay therapy, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and TraumaPlay therapy please contact me at Bridge to Balance, Inc at 856-354-0664. I can provide Clinical Supervision for LACs in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine
(856) 272-4117 View (856) 272-4117
Photo of Brittany D. Rahn, LCSW, LCADC, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany D. Rahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northfield, NJ 08225
I am trained in various therapy modalities— most notably, DBT (certified), CBT, and ERP (all trauma-informed).
Change is not an easy endeavor. But, by reading this, you are taking the first step and that is where it all starts. I am a dual-licensed therapist as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/ Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in NJ. My main speciality is assisting clients with processing complex trauma and addressing the various ways those past experiences may show up in their daily life causing distress (i.e. relationship troubles, maladaptive thoughts/behaviors, limiting self-beliefs.) I am here to guide you as we navigate through the Stages of Change in order to reach sustainable and meaningful goals that matter to YOU.
I am trained in various therapy modalities— most notably, DBT (certified), CBT, and ERP (all trauma-informed).
Change is not an easy endeavor. But, by reading this, you are taking the first step and that is where it all starts. I am a dual-licensed therapist as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/ Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in NJ. My main speciality is assisting clients with processing complex trauma and addressing the various ways those past experiences may show up in their daily life causing distress (i.e. relationship troubles, maladaptive thoughts/behaviors, limiting self-beliefs.) I am here to guide you as we navigate through the Stages of Change in order to reach sustainable and meaningful goals that matter to YOU.
(609) 270-3184 View (609) 270-3184
Photo of Doree Putnam-Baker, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doree Putnam-Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Galloway, NJ 08205
Are you feeing overwhelmed by daily life or like things are out of control? I might be able to help. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to help you better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Through techniques like ART(Accelerated Resolution therapy), Brainspotting, mindfulness, dialectical and cognitive behavioral approaches, you can learn how to accept your life and start living in the present not the past. You will gain insight into long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Are you feeing overwhelmed by daily life or like things are out of control? I might be able to help. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to help you better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Through techniques like ART(Accelerated Resolution therapy), Brainspotting, mindfulness, dialectical and cognitive behavioral approaches, you can learn how to accept your life and start living in the present not the past. You will gain insight into long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(484) 588-4131 View (484) 588-4131
Photo of Erica Lapid - Way To Wellness, LPC, LCADC, ACS, CCTP, CTTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Lapid - Way To Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS, CCTP, CTTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Margate City, NJ 08402
With extensive experience working with trauma, substance use, co-dependence/ACOA, and other co-occurring mental health diagnoses, Erica accompanies individuals, couples, and families on their journeys toward recovery and wellness. Erica takes pride in creating a calm and nurturing environment for her clients, providing them with a safe and comfortable place for self-exploration, expression, and emotional healing. Her psychodynamic approach to counseling is often described as relatable, strength-based and holistic, believing that one level of the self should never be the focus of clinical attention to the exclusion of another.
With extensive experience working with trauma, substance use, co-dependence/ACOA, and other co-occurring mental health diagnoses, Erica accompanies individuals, couples, and families on their journeys toward recovery and wellness. Erica takes pride in creating a calm and nurturing environment for her clients, providing them with a safe and comfortable place for self-exploration, expression, and emotional healing. Her psychodynamic approach to counseling is often described as relatable, strength-based and holistic, believing that one level of the self should never be the focus of clinical attention to the exclusion of another.
(609) 385-2490 View (609) 385-2490

See more therapy options for Brigantine

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.