Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Lakewood, NJ

Photo of Tysheira Maddox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tysheira Maddox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Hey hey! I am Tysheira Maddox, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of NJ, PA, and D.C. As your therapist, I will be journeying by your side as we work through your most challenging moments and the self-limiting thoughts that keep you from living the life you desire. My counseling style is warm, laid back, and sprinkled with some humor. My most common approaches that I like to use from my therapy tool kit are CBT, DBT, Narrative and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
Hey hey! I am Tysheira Maddox, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of NJ, PA, and D.C. As your therapist, I will be journeying by your side as we work through your most challenging moments and the self-limiting thoughts that keep you from living the life you desire. My counseling style is warm, laid back, and sprinkled with some humor. My most common approaches that I like to use from my therapy tool kit are CBT, DBT, Narrative and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
(848) 208-8329 View (848) 208-8329
Photo of Chana Lampner - Chana Lampner LCSW, Art Therapist, LCSW, ATR-P, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chana Lampner LCSW, Art Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ATR-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I employ a variety of therapeutic interventions such as Art Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy as well as IFS, CBT and DBT to help individuals reach a place of healing and growth and achieve peace within themselves and in relationships.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Art Therapist. I am passionate about guiding women in overcoming challenges in their lives and resolving trauma and difficult experiences which are holding them back from accomplishing their goals and leading happy and fulfilling lives. I aspire to assist individuals in accessing and utilizing their unique strengths to enhance their lives and achieve their personal goals.
I employ a variety of therapeutic interventions such as Art Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy as well as IFS, CBT and DBT to help individuals reach a place of healing and growth and achieve peace within themselves and in relationships.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Art Therapist. I am passionate about guiding women in overcoming challenges in their lives and resolving trauma and difficult experiences which are holding them back from accomplishing their goals and leading happy and fulfilling lives. I aspire to assist individuals in accessing and utilizing their unique strengths to enhance their lives and achieve their personal goals.
(732) 631-4632 View (732) 631-4632
Photo of Michal Marchette, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michal Marchette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I am trained in EMDR and Polyvagal Theory, and utilize other modalities like Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you experiencing pain and loneliness? Are you ready to do the inner work of healing? I am passionate about working with women and teenagers. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, depression, relationships, self expression or the effects of trauma on your emotional wellbeing, then you have come to the right place! I welcome my clients into a safe, supportive and empathetic space in which we journey together. I offer a listening ear and a compassionate heart. We work together to find the techniques in my toolbox that work best to empower you.
I am trained in EMDR and Polyvagal Theory, and utilize other modalities like Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you experiencing pain and loneliness? Are you ready to do the inner work of healing? I am passionate about working with women and teenagers. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, depression, relationships, self expression or the effects of trauma on your emotional wellbeing, then you have come to the right place! I welcome my clients into a safe, supportive and empathetic space in which we journey together. I offer a listening ear and a compassionate heart. We work together to find the techniques in my toolbox that work best to empower you.
(732) 592-3342 View (732) 592-3342
Photo of Dinelle Polchinski, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Dinelle Polchinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I'm Dinelle Polchinski and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ. I am trained in individual, couples, and structural family therapy. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, severe and persistent mental illness, grief and trauma focused therapy. While my style can be described as eclectic, my sessions with individuals are primarily person-centered, interpersonal and supportive. I incorporate techniques from Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, mindfulness and self-compassion. I am trained in grief support, trauma therapy and I'm a certified ADHD professional.
I'm Dinelle Polchinski and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ. I am trained in individual, couples, and structural family therapy. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, severe and persistent mental illness, grief and trauma focused therapy. While my style can be described as eclectic, my sessions with individuals are primarily person-centered, interpersonal and supportive. I incorporate techniques from Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, mindfulness and self-compassion. I am trained in grief support, trauma therapy and I'm a certified ADHD professional.
(732) 655-6201 View (732) 655-6201
Photo of Elisheva Assouline, PsyD, Psychologist
Elisheva Assouline
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Positive Psychology.
Navigating life’s challenges can be difficult for anyone, and no one should have to do it alone. Whether it be a struggle with anxiety or any of the other issues life inevitably throws your way, admitting you need help and reaching out is always the first step. My goal is to help you along this amazing and difficult journey we call life and to tap into your existing strengths so that you can live a more balanced and satisfying life.
I have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Positive Psychology.
Navigating life’s challenges can be difficult for anyone, and no one should have to do it alone. Whether it be a struggle with anxiety or any of the other issues life inevitably throws your way, admitting you need help and reaching out is always the first step. My goal is to help you along this amazing and difficult journey we call life and to tap into your existing strengths so that you can live a more balanced and satisfying life.
(845) 442-4780 View (845) 442-4780
Photo of Margo Neuburger, PsyD, Psychologist
Margo Neuburger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I integrate a psychodynamic approach with CBT/DBT and motivational interviewing in order to help clients gain new levels of awareness and the skills to translate that awareness into change.
Insight is a key ingredient in experiencing relationships and life in a more fulfilled way. My goal is to help clients gain a deeper level of awareness and insight into their struggles in order to help them heal. People often turn to me with anxiety, trauma histories, or who are struggling in relationships. I aim to create a space where clients feel safe, emotionally supported, and held, so that together we can explore their struggles.
I integrate a psychodynamic approach with CBT/DBT and motivational interviewing in order to help clients gain new levels of awareness and the skills to translate that awareness into change.
Insight is a key ingredient in experiencing relationships and life in a more fulfilled way. My goal is to help clients gain a deeper level of awareness and insight into their struggles in order to help them heal. People often turn to me with anxiety, trauma histories, or who are struggling in relationships. I aim to create a space where clients feel safe, emotionally supported, and held, so that together we can explore their struggles.
(848) 246-2063 View (848) 246-2063
Photo of Yeslie Solis, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yeslie Solis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
I am trained and certified in DBT.
I have immediate availability to see clients virtually in English & Spanish. Asking for help can be hard, whether it's the uncertainty, the fear, or simply not knowing what to expect with the therapy process. Throughout life we will be presented with challenges and sometimes we need someone in our corner to guide us and find hope to build a life worth living. Mind Soul Wellness was created to instill hope and purpose into individuals who are in need.
I am trained and certified in DBT.
I have immediate availability to see clients virtually in English & Spanish. Asking for help can be hard, whether it's the uncertainty, the fear, or simply not knowing what to expect with the therapy process. Throughout life we will be presented with challenges and sometimes we need someone in our corner to guide us and find hope to build a life worth living. Mind Soul Wellness was created to instill hope and purpose into individuals who are in need.
(732) 344-4365 View (732) 344-4365
Photo of Frayde Yudkowsky, MSW, LSW, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frayde Yudkowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I am a Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Trainer, Certified Trauma Professional, and I have completed extensive training in Somatic Intervention for healing from trauma and dissociation.
You may think of yourself as bad, worthless, crazy or sick. You may feel shame for behaviors you have done. You may wish the ground would swallow you up. You may have no energy to face another day. You may know that beneath that darkness and gloom is a beautiful soul. It is okay to be human and to have ups and downs. It is okay to need someone to embrace your journey and tread the waters of life with you. You are worth the fight. You are deserving of peace. You matter. No amount of trauma, pain, challenge, illness and broken-heart can change that.
I am a Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Trainer, Certified Trauma Professional, and I have completed extensive training in Somatic Intervention for healing from trauma and dissociation.
You may think of yourself as bad, worthless, crazy or sick. You may feel shame for behaviors you have done. You may wish the ground would swallow you up. You may have no energy to face another day. You may know that beneath that darkness and gloom is a beautiful soul. It is okay to be human and to have ups and downs. It is okay to need someone to embrace your journey and tread the waters of life with you. You are worth the fight. You are deserving of peace. You matter. No amount of trauma, pain, challenge, illness and broken-heart can change that.
(848) 281-3582 View (848) 281-3582
Photo of Shmuel Brachfeld, PsyD, Psychologist
Shmuel Brachfeld
Psychologist, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
With a foundation based in attachment theory, he utilizes somatic interventions, and DBT skills to help the individual gain a sense of safety and mastery over themselves.
Shmuel Brachfeld attained his PsyD in clinical psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2017. He has extended experience in treating addictions of all kind, as well as the underlying traumas that lead to, and develop from addictive behaviors. He is also trained in treating concerned family members, helping them find hope, and create a new positive environment for themselves and their loved one.
With a foundation based in attachment theory, he utilizes somatic interventions, and DBT skills to help the individual gain a sense of safety and mastery over themselves.
Shmuel Brachfeld attained his PsyD in clinical psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2017. He has extended experience in treating addictions of all kind, as well as the underlying traumas that lead to, and develop from addictive behaviors. He is also trained in treating concerned family members, helping them find hope, and create a new positive environment for themselves and their loved one.
(848) 204-1073 View (848) 204-1073
Photo of Nina Kaweblum, LCSW, DBT-LBC, MA, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Kaweblum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DBT-LBC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I am a Linehan Board Certified DBT therapist with a private practice in Lakewood, NJ.
I firmly believe that life's most difficult challenges - intense and explosive emotions, impulsive behaviors, trauma, emotional eating, suicidality, self-harm, substance abuse - can be handled and surmounted through compassionate support and attainable goals. I am a certified DBT therapist, a skill-based therapy designed to help those living with overwhelming emotions and harmful behavior patterns. In my years of practice, I have seen my clients master the tools of Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance and Interpersonal Effectiveness to build happy and productive lives, with increased self-respect and positive relationships. I know there is hope and relief for everyone.
I am a Linehan Board Certified DBT therapist with a private practice in Lakewood, NJ.
I firmly believe that life's most difficult challenges - intense and explosive emotions, impulsive behaviors, trauma, emotional eating, suicidality, self-harm, substance abuse - can be handled and surmounted through compassionate support and attainable goals. I am a certified DBT therapist, a skill-based therapy designed to help those living with overwhelming emotions and harmful behavior patterns. In my years of practice, I have seen my clients master the tools of Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance and Interpersonal Effectiveness to build happy and productive lives, with increased self-respect and positive relationships. I know there is hope and relief for everyone.
(732) 337-6245 View (732) 337-6245
Photo of Sprinca Friefeld, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sprinca Friefeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
As a licensed social worker, I see my role as that of a guide and witness: Guide, to help clients discover new pathways in their lives, and witness, to stand by and pay tribute to my clients' stories, strengths, and struggles. Each individual presents a vast and beautiful world to be gently explored and uncovered, and I feel humbled and privileged to do so alongside my clients. In my practice, I draw from IFS, DBT, and CBT, and other evidence-based treatments to contextualize clients' past experiences and formulate a comprehensive care plan.
As a licensed social worker, I see my role as that of a guide and witness: Guide, to help clients discover new pathways in their lives, and witness, to stand by and pay tribute to my clients' stories, strengths, and struggles. Each individual presents a vast and beautiful world to be gently explored and uncovered, and I feel humbled and privileged to do so alongside my clients. In my practice, I draw from IFS, DBT, and CBT, and other evidence-based treatments to contextualize clients' past experiences and formulate a comprehensive care plan.
(732) 724-1475 View (732) 724-1475
Photo of Jennifer Campbell, LCSW, DBT-LBC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm glad you found me! Taking steps out of misery and avoidance is difficult and scary. I work from a patient-centered, DBT perspective in partnership with clients struggling within the range of severe and acute eating disorders, persistent emotion dysregulation, chronic suicidality, and trauma/PTSD. Redefining your quality of life and getting out of your personal hell is possible. My clinical work spans New Jersey, New York, and my team based in Ohio, so please do not be surprised by different locations! Please reach out with any questions, and I look forward to working with you in building a life worth living.
Hello there, I'm glad you found me! Taking steps out of misery and avoidance is difficult and scary. I work from a patient-centered, DBT perspective in partnership with clients struggling within the range of severe and acute eating disorders, persistent emotion dysregulation, chronic suicidality, and trauma/PTSD. Redefining your quality of life and getting out of your personal hell is possible. My clinical work spans New Jersey, New York, and my team based in Ohio, so please do not be surprised by different locations! Please reach out with any questions, and I look forward to working with you in building a life worth living.
(609) 552-0840 View (609) 552-0840
Photo of Gina Frigiola, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Frigiola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
I use a variety of clinical tools including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused therapy and mindfulness tools.
**Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available** Everyone has a story to tell…I would like to hear yours. Your story might include sadness, pain, hurt, loss, trauma, injustice, addiction, or many other challenges that interfere with your daily functioning. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can be heard and valued. We can work together to help you sort through the difficulty, rediscover your strengths, and find the joy and peace you deserve in life. You can return your story to one of hope, recovery, and good health.
I use a variety of clinical tools including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused therapy and mindfulness tools.
**Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available** Everyone has a story to tell…I would like to hear yours. Your story might include sadness, pain, hurt, loss, trauma, injustice, addiction, or many other challenges that interfere with your daily functioning. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can be heard and valued. We can work together to help you sort through the difficulty, rediscover your strengths, and find the joy and peace you deserve in life. You can return your story to one of hope, recovery, and good health.
(848) 257-9532 View (848) 257-9532
Photo of Eli Muhrer - Charlie Health
Charlie Health
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
We specialize in CBT, DBT skills, and CFT.
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-nj
We specialize in CBT, DBT skills, and CFT.
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-nj
(973) 319-8458 View (973) 319-8458
Photo of Miriam Shulman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Shulman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Through evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, IFS, and trauma-informed care, we'll collaborate to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, build resilience, and foster a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion.
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, debilitating depression, or the feeling that things in your life just aren't going right? You don't have to face these challenges alone! I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions, work through challenges, and develop coping strategies to improve your mental health and well-being.
Through evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, IFS, and trauma-informed care, we'll collaborate to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, build resilience, and foster a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion.
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, debilitating depression, or the feeling that things in your life just aren't going right? You don't have to face these challenges alone! I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions, work through challenges, and develop coping strategies to improve your mental health and well-being.
(732) 487-3265 View (732) 487-3265
Photo of Elizabeth Woods, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
She recognizes that all clients are unique and require a tailored plan of care that incorporates different therapeutic approaches including but not limited mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and solutions-focused therapy (SFT).
Elizabeth Woods is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who brings over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. Elizabeth's experience as a clinical social worker and psychotherapist spans over 7 years and includes work with adolescents and adults with a range of symptoms and challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulty with relationships, behavioral issues, personality disorders, life transitions and loss.
She recognizes that all clients are unique and require a tailored plan of care that incorporates different therapeutic approaches including but not limited mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and solutions-focused therapy (SFT).
Elizabeth Woods is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who brings over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. Elizabeth's experience as a clinical social worker and psychotherapist spans over 7 years and includes work with adolescents and adults with a range of symptoms and challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulty with relationships, behavioral issues, personality disorders, life transitions and loss.
(848) 285-6822 View (848) 285-6822
Photo of Dini Klafter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dini Klafter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Hi, thank you for visiting my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida, New York, and New Jersey. I work with women and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship challenges. I work closely with each client to help them achieve their goals using a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. We focus on healing, self love and acceptance, and long-term growth.
Hi, thank you for visiting my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida, New York, and New Jersey. I work with women and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship challenges. I work closely with each client to help them achieve their goals using a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. We focus on healing, self love and acceptance, and long-term growth.
(305) 419-3925 View (305) 419-3925
Photo of Shlomo Bogart, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shlomo Bogart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
I am passionate about utilizing evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, REBT, and IFS theory in my practice.
I am committed to providing a warm and safe environment for my clients. I have 12 years of experience working with adolescents and adults with all sorts of cognitive, emotional and behavioral challenges.
I am passionate about utilizing evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, REBT, and IFS theory in my practice.
I am committed to providing a warm and safe environment for my clients. I have 12 years of experience working with adolescents and adults with all sorts of cognitive, emotional and behavioral challenges.
(475) 271-1026 View (475) 271-1026
Photo of Deborah Malik, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Malik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
Beyond my degree, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Feeling weighed down by stress, depression, or anxiety? Let's work together to lighten that load and find your way back to peace and joy. My practice welcomes individuals aged 18 and above, offering a safe space to explore your unique journey to healing. With a diverse background, I've had the privilege of supporting clients across various settings—from children in elementary school to seniors in their homes. I believe in a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy. Your journey is yours to lead, and I'm here to provide the tools and support that fit your needs.
Beyond my degree, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Feeling weighed down by stress, depression, or anxiety? Let's work together to lighten that load and find your way back to peace and joy. My practice welcomes individuals aged 18 and above, offering a safe space to explore your unique journey to healing. With a diverse background, I've had the privilege of supporting clients across various settings—from children in elementary school to seniors in their homes. I believe in a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy. Your journey is yours to lead, and I'm here to provide the tools and support that fit your needs.
(551) 205-5709 View (551) 205-5709
Photo of Zipora Carolyn Levi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zipora Carolyn Levi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I am a certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-I) and use a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, and IFS.
You feel stressed and overwhelmed. You struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or relationships. You are looking for change (even if you are not sure exactly what that would look like). I can help you explore, learn, grow, and achieve emotional wellbeing.
I am a certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-I) and use a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, and IFS.
You feel stressed and overwhelmed. You struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or relationships. You are looking for change (even if you are not sure exactly what that would look like). I can help you explore, learn, grow, and achieve emotional wellbeing.
(845) 834-8213 View (845) 834-8213
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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.