Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Rumson, NJ

Photo of Andrea Cernero, MA, LPC, Counselor
Andrea Cernero
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rumson, NJ 07760
Additional Training: Intensive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Lifelines Suicide Prevention Trainer, & Mindfulness Fundamentals Program.
Andrea is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. She received her Bachelor's degree from Towson University and Master's Degree from Seton Hall University. In addition, Andrea completed a Post Master's Program in Advanced Counseling at Montclair State University. Andrea has experience working as a counselor in the school setting at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, as well as in the clinical setting providing intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient counseling services.
Additional Training: Intensive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Lifelines Suicide Prevention Trainer, & Mindfulness Fundamentals Program.
Andrea is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. She received her Bachelor's degree from Towson University and Master's Degree from Seton Hall University. In addition, Andrea completed a Post Master's Program in Advanced Counseling at Montclair State University. Andrea has experience working as a counselor in the school setting at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, as well as in the clinical setting providing intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient counseling services.
(732) 784-4119 View (732) 784-4119
Photo of John R Soper Jr., MA, NCC, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
John R Soper Jr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rumson, NJ 07760
Recognizing that there is no "one size fits all", I offer a range of solutions (CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Strategies, Strategic Family Therapy, and The Gottman Method) so my clients are uniquely positioned to have an experience of organic change.
I have found that my clients gain the deepest rewards when we work through difficult and dynamic issues. I work with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. We all grow and evolve through our life. There are times we struggle through a transition and our time together will incorporate your existing strengths with therapy-enhanced skills that we create together. I have developed strong relationships with psychiatrists, attorneys, schools, and court representatives. I can help you through this...let's get to work!
Recognizing that there is no "one size fits all", I offer a range of solutions (CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Strategies, Strategic Family Therapy, and The Gottman Method) so my clients are uniquely positioned to have an experience of organic change.
I have found that my clients gain the deepest rewards when we work through difficult and dynamic issues. I work with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. We all grow and evolve through our life. There are times we struggle through a transition and our time together will incorporate your existing strengths with therapy-enhanced skills that we create together. I have developed strong relationships with psychiatrists, attorneys, schools, and court representatives. I can help you through this...let's get to work!
(732) 312-5348 View (732) 312-5348
Photo of James Wujciak, MA, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
James Wujciak
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rumson, NJ 07760
Additionally, I might incorporate aspects from ACT, REBT, Family Systems, DBT, Psychoeducation, Trauma Informed Care, Reality Therapy, or Problem Solving Therapy.
Hi! I'm James. Over the last decade I’ve seen good results helping people who feel that their life just recently “fell off track” even if they did not expect therapy to be the answer. I’ve tried to nurture this niche of helping those emotionally effected by high pressure stress. I have helped individuals address low mood, depression, anxiety, and low life-satisfaction. I have also worked with children and families to expand communication skills and patterns, improve relationships, increase feelings of security, and optimize being accurately understood.
Additionally, I might incorporate aspects from ACT, REBT, Family Systems, DBT, Psychoeducation, Trauma Informed Care, Reality Therapy, or Problem Solving Therapy.
Hi! I'm James. Over the last decade I’ve seen good results helping people who feel that their life just recently “fell off track” even if they did not expect therapy to be the answer. I’ve tried to nurture this niche of helping those emotionally effected by high pressure stress. I have helped individuals address low mood, depression, anxiety, and low life-satisfaction. I have also worked with children and families to expand communication skills and patterns, improve relationships, increase feelings of security, and optimize being accurately understood.
(732) 655-2173 View (732) 655-2173
Photo of Kelsey Alpaugh, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Alpaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
As a certified executive functioning coach, I utilize aspects of several skills based therapeutic approaches in my practice, with a primary use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
Thank you for visiting my page! I am therapist who graduated from Monmouth University’s Master's of Social Work Program with a concentration in Clinical Practice with Children and Families. I work with a variety of populations, with a specialization in teenagers and young adults. I strive to provide a safe and encouraging environment that promotes understanding, acceptance and personal growth. I aim to incorporate my knowledge of childhood and adolescent milestones into my practice to address issues such as anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality.
As a certified executive functioning coach, I utilize aspects of several skills based therapeutic approaches in my practice, with a primary use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
Thank you for visiting my page! I am therapist who graduated from Monmouth University’s Master's of Social Work Program with a concentration in Clinical Practice with Children and Families. I work with a variety of populations, with a specialization in teenagers and young adults. I strive to provide a safe and encouraging environment that promotes understanding, acceptance and personal growth. I aim to incorporate my knowledge of childhood and adolescent milestones into my practice to address issues such as anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality.
(732) 896-2398 View (732) 896-2398
Photo of Katelyn Finnegan, MA, LAC, Counselor
Katelyn Finnegan
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rumson, NJ 07760
I am passionate about working with clients living with the effects of trauma. I understand the importance of finding a good match when searching for a trauma therapist, and my personal and clinical experiences have uniquely prepared me to help clients create a life they love! I assist my clients in developing new skills and insight using research-based interventions coupled with compassion and humility. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and bring cultural sensitivity into my work. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and Internal Family Systems, also known as "parts work."
I am passionate about working with clients living with the effects of trauma. I understand the importance of finding a good match when searching for a trauma therapist, and my personal and clinical experiences have uniquely prepared me to help clients create a life they love! I assist my clients in developing new skills and insight using research-based interventions coupled with compassion and humility. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and bring cultural sensitivity into my work. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and Internal Family Systems, also known as "parts work."
(848) 308-1344 View (848) 308-1344
Photo of Katie Doyle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Doyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
I utilize a client-driven approach to treatment, implementing components of CBT, DBT, and ACT to address mental health issues including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and life transitional issues such as low motivation, goal setting, and failure to launch.
Our life experiences, genetics, relationships; past and present can cause us to struggle and feel overwhelmed. Sometimes we need a listening ear, or a sounding board to process these experiences and to understand ourselves better. At times, we need assistance to develop new strategies and skills to cope with ongoing mental health issues. I believe in meeting the client where they are and addressing the needs that are significant for the client to promote positive growth.
I utilize a client-driven approach to treatment, implementing components of CBT, DBT, and ACT to address mental health issues including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and life transitional issues such as low motivation, goal setting, and failure to launch.
Our life experiences, genetics, relationships; past and present can cause us to struggle and feel overwhelmed. Sometimes we need a listening ear, or a sounding board to process these experiences and to understand ourselves better. At times, we need assistance to develop new strategies and skills to cope with ongoing mental health issues. I believe in meeting the client where they are and addressing the needs that are significant for the client to promote positive growth.
(732) 592-5722 View (732) 592-5722
Photo of Esti Piotrkovski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Esti Piotrkovski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
I utilize the therapeutic combination of DBT, CBT and IFS modalities.
Life can be challenging, and at times we may need a safe space to ground ourselves and find healing. Here at Safe Space Counseling, I am here to support you on your journey. I work with adults in individual counseling and couples counseling and offer a compassionate and non-judgemental space to heal from and cope with anxiety, trauma, self esteem, depression, anger and relationship issues. I will work with you to discover what you need to heal and become your most genuine and happiest self. I’m here when you are ready. Let healing begin!
I utilize the therapeutic combination of DBT, CBT and IFS modalities.
Life can be challenging, and at times we may need a safe space to ground ourselves and find healing. Here at Safe Space Counseling, I am here to support you on your journey. I work with adults in individual counseling and couples counseling and offer a compassionate and non-judgemental space to heal from and cope with anxiety, trauma, self esteem, depression, anger and relationship issues. I will work with you to discover what you need to heal and become your most genuine and happiest self. I’m here when you are ready. Let healing begin!
(732) 487-3608 View (732) 487-3608
Photo of Noel Rapp, MSW, LSW, LCADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Noel Rapp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCADCI
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Rumson, NJ 07760
Through evidenced based treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, meditation and mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and strengths perspective, I am confident that together we can cultivate change!.
Noel is a highly sought out psychotherapist in Little Silver, New Jersey. She works with individuals, couples and families; adults and children. Noel's therapeutic approach can help you regain your power within, resulting in a more rewarding life, and resolving emotional trauma that may be interfering with your present self. She is empathetic and compassionate. Together, you may restructure and reframe thought patterns, develop healthier coping skills, and expand your own insight as you journey together through your process. Her goal is simply to provide a roadmap that you can follow together that allows you to reclaim your life!
Through evidenced based treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, meditation and mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and strengths perspective, I am confident that together we can cultivate change!.
Noel is a highly sought out psychotherapist in Little Silver, New Jersey. She works with individuals, couples and families; adults and children. Noel's therapeutic approach can help you regain your power within, resulting in a more rewarding life, and resolving emotional trauma that may be interfering with your present self. She is empathetic and compassionate. Together, you may restructure and reframe thought patterns, develop healthier coping skills, and expand your own insight as you journey together through your process. Her goal is simply to provide a roadmap that you can follow together that allows you to reclaim your life!
(908) 681-8965 View (908) 681-8965
Photo of Steven P Griffith, LCSW, CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven P Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CBT
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
In addition to CBT, I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Behavioral Techniques and a Client Centered approach in my practice.
Welcome to the first step in receiving mental health treatment and improving your life, relationships and overall well being. I help individuals and families overcome anxiety and depression to regain control over their lives and relationships. When we react strongly to everyday situations, we can often lose self confidence and question our ability to overcome and cope. When considering a therapist, it is important to find the right fit for you. I pride myself on being a dynamic professional that does his best to tailor a treatment plan centered around my individual clients' needs, motivations and interests.
In addition to CBT, I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Behavioral Techniques and a Client Centered approach in my practice.
Welcome to the first step in receiving mental health treatment and improving your life, relationships and overall well being. I help individuals and families overcome anxiety and depression to regain control over their lives and relationships. When we react strongly to everyday situations, we can often lose self confidence and question our ability to overcome and cope. When considering a therapist, it is important to find the right fit for you. I pride myself on being a dynamic professional that does his best to tailor a treatment plan centered around my individual clients' needs, motivations and interests.
(848) 206-1375 View (848) 206-1375
Photo of Jennifer Kelly, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
Jennifer Kelly, LPC, is a dedicated licensed clinician whose professional journey has been guided by a deep commitment to holistic wellness. With a profound belief in the interconnectedness of our mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects, Jennifer has devoted her career to understanding and treating individuals as complete beings. She applies this whole person approach to therapy and her practice reflects a comprehensive understanding of the human experience. She has years of experience working with teens and adults with a specialty in treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief and relationships.
Jennifer Kelly, LPC, is a dedicated licensed clinician whose professional journey has been guided by a deep commitment to holistic wellness. With a profound belief in the interconnectedness of our mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects, Jennifer has devoted her career to understanding and treating individuals as complete beings. She applies this whole person approach to therapy and her practice reflects a comprehensive understanding of the human experience. She has years of experience working with teens and adults with a specialty in treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief and relationships.
(848) 272-7641 View (848) 272-7641
Photo of Glenn Peter Hofferber, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glenn Peter Hofferber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
Welcome! I'm Glenn, a seasoned Couples Counselor dedicated to fostering thriving relationships. I also specialize in men's issues, explicitly helping men learn how to thrive in a complicated world. I assist couples in rekindling intimacy, enhancing communication, and navigating conflicts to rebuild lasting connections. My approach combines evidence-based therapies and a client-centered focus to address relationship challenges. I prioritize creating a safe space for open dialogue and trust-building and empowering couples with practical tools to reignite passion and mutual understanding.
Welcome! I'm Glenn, a seasoned Couples Counselor dedicated to fostering thriving relationships. I also specialize in men's issues, explicitly helping men learn how to thrive in a complicated world. I assist couples in rekindling intimacy, enhancing communication, and navigating conflicts to rebuild lasting connections. My approach combines evidence-based therapies and a client-centered focus to address relationship challenges. I prioritize creating a safe space for open dialogue and trust-building and empowering couples with practical tools to reignite passion and mutual understanding.
(848) 204-0895 View (848) 204-0895
Photo of Michele Mazzo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Mazzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
Hi and welcome to the first step of the therapeutic process. For your safety during COVID-19, Michele offers online video or phone sessions that are highly effective. Michele also offers face to face individual, couples, and family therapy sessions. Michele specializes in couples therapy as it relates to pre-marital counseling, communication styles, intimacy, trust, relationship dysfunction, divorce recovery, parenting, co-parenting, conflict resolution, and how to navigate daily stressors effectively.
Hi and welcome to the first step of the therapeutic process. For your safety during COVID-19, Michele offers online video or phone sessions that are highly effective. Michele also offers face to face individual, couples, and family therapy sessions. Michele specializes in couples therapy as it relates to pre-marital counseling, communication styles, intimacy, trust, relationship dysfunction, divorce recovery, parenting, co-parenting, conflict resolution, and how to navigate daily stressors effectively.
(848) 206-6517 View (848) 206-6517
Photo of Harry Levin, MCMHW, LPC, NCC, MHL, DD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Harry Levin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCMHW, LPC, NCC, MHL, DD
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760  (Online Only)
It won’t take long: You’ve found strong insightful support in tough times. We’ll focus on your progress, gentle and real. Expert working within families, bringing peace to unsettled relationships, peace within oneself. Sweeten parent-child life (and parent-to-parent partnership). Come benefit from practical strategies which quickly ease an upset mind. Come for wisdom uplifting each heart in distress. Clarity, enlivening of free will, thoughtful direction in achieving what you want to achieve. We’ll laugh together more than you might expect.
It won’t take long: You’ve found strong insightful support in tough times. We’ll focus on your progress, gentle and real. Expert working within families, bringing peace to unsettled relationships, peace within oneself. Sweeten parent-child life (and parent-to-parent partnership). Come benefit from practical strategies which quickly ease an upset mind. Come for wisdom uplifting each heart in distress. Clarity, enlivening of free will, thoughtful direction in achieving what you want to achieve. We’ll laugh together more than you might expect.
(732) 638-4197 View (732) 638-4197
Photo of Michelle Kerekes, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Kerekes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
You’re overwhelmed. Your mind races, toggling between to-do lists, taking note of what still needs to get done. You agonize over whether or not what you said or did was good enough. You desperately want to say no to the next request, to cut yourself some slack but haven’t the slightest clue how. The idea terrifies you. What will others think? So instead, to quiet the internal chaos you over do it on whatever takes your mind anywhere but here – food, alcohol, work, TV, shopping, social media, sleep, exercise, etc.
You’re overwhelmed. Your mind races, toggling between to-do lists, taking note of what still needs to get done. You agonize over whether or not what you said or did was good enough. You desperately want to say no to the next request, to cut yourself some slack but haven’t the slightest clue how. The idea terrifies you. What will others think? So instead, to quiet the internal chaos you over do it on whatever takes your mind anywhere but here – food, alcohol, work, TV, shopping, social media, sleep, exercise, etc.
(848) 999-5084 View (848) 999-5084
Photo of Amanda M. Goodwin, MSW , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda M. Goodwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rumson, NJ 07760
Navigating through the world today and trying to manage a variety of life's stressors can be overwhelming. We require the tools to manage these new challenges and stressors as best as we can. I work with a variety of clients that are trying to cope with the stressors of their everyday lives. I have a passion for helping others and working collaboratively towards goals. Utilizing a compassionate and supportive approach, I can assist you to feel confident and ready to take on a variety of life's challenges.
Navigating through the world today and trying to manage a variety of life's stressors can be overwhelming. We require the tools to manage these new challenges and stressors as best as we can. I work with a variety of clients that are trying to cope with the stressors of their everyday lives. I have a passion for helping others and working collaboratively towards goals. Utilizing a compassionate and supportive approach, I can assist you to feel confident and ready to take on a variety of life's challenges.
(848) 212-8496 View (848) 212-8496
Photo of Hannah de Groot, LPC, MEd, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah de Groot
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rumson, NJ 07760  (Online Only)
My clients are dedicated athletes grappling with eating disorders or OCD, facing the dual challenges of their mental health and a desire to perform at their peak. They are often overwhelmed by the demands of their sport, which can blur the lines between passion and harmful habits. Their primary goal is to reclaim their lives and their love for their sport, seeking not just recovery, but transformation—an opportunity to realign their beliefs and values towards a healthier, more balanced existence. They crave empowerment, resilience, and the ability to thrive both in their athletic pursuits and personal lives.
My clients are dedicated athletes grappling with eating disorders or OCD, facing the dual challenges of their mental health and a desire to perform at their peak. They are often overwhelmed by the demands of their sport, which can blur the lines between passion and harmful habits. Their primary goal is to reclaim their lives and their love for their sport, seeking not just recovery, but transformation—an opportunity to realign their beliefs and values towards a healthier, more balanced existence. They crave empowerment, resilience, and the ability to thrive both in their athletic pursuits and personal lives.
(267) 245-7058 View (267) 245-7058
Photo of Rebecca Rappel Zohn, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Rappel Zohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
Do you feel overwhelmed and burnt out from always saying 'yes' to others but never making time for yourself? Maybe you’ve lost touch with who you are, or there’s a voice in your head telling you you’re not good enough. You second-guess every choice, struggle to set boundaries, and worry that asking for help makes you a burden. You just want to take a breath, but 'what’s next?' or 'do I deserve this?' is always running through your mind. It might feel impossible to make a change but you deserve to put yourself first.
Do you feel overwhelmed and burnt out from always saying 'yes' to others but never making time for yourself? Maybe you’ve lost touch with who you are, or there’s a voice in your head telling you you’re not good enough. You second-guess every choice, struggle to set boundaries, and worry that asking for help makes you a burden. You just want to take a breath, but 'what’s next?' or 'do I deserve this?' is always running through your mind. It might feel impossible to make a change but you deserve to put yourself first.
(732) 203-5045 View (732) 203-5045
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Soboti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jacqueline Soboti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rumson, NJ 07760
Thank you for visiting my page! I am passionate about my work with teens and emerging adults and have dedicated my career to these age groups! I am a Fordham University Graduate and earned my Doctorate of Social Work degree at Rutger's University. I am a trauma informed therapist and utilize numerous modalities to help my clients identify those things in life that often leave them feeling stuck and help equip them with the internal and external skills to better adapt to these challenges.
Thank you for visiting my page! I am passionate about my work with teens and emerging adults and have dedicated my career to these age groups! I am a Fordham University Graduate and earned my Doctorate of Social Work degree at Rutger's University. I am a trauma informed therapist and utilize numerous modalities to help my clients identify those things in life that often leave them feeling stuck and help equip them with the internal and external skills to better adapt to these challenges.
(732) 709-1063 View (732) 709-1063
Photo of Jennifer Chaney, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Chaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rumson, NJ 07760
I have been working in behavioral health for over 25 years. Exposure to multiple settings, diagnoses and treatment modalities has afforded me the benefit of gathering an eclectic and holistic approach to psychotherapy. My goal is to provide each client with an unique and collaborative treatment plan in order to respect the complexity and character of each individual. I am an honest and empathic clinician invested in helping provide others with emotional support and the knowledge to make better decisions.
I have been working in behavioral health for over 25 years. Exposure to multiple settings, diagnoses and treatment modalities has afforded me the benefit of gathering an eclectic and holistic approach to psychotherapy. My goal is to provide each client with an unique and collaborative treatment plan in order to respect the complexity and character of each individual. I am an honest and empathic clinician invested in helping provide others with emotional support and the knowledge to make better decisions.
(732) 253-4291 View (732) 253-4291
Photo of Sherri G Harris, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherri G Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760
I help clients address issues that negatively affect their everyday lives and relationships. I believe that we all possess inner resources to solve most of our own problems. However, there are those times when we get overwhelmed and stuck in particular ways of thinking that are not helpful. I can provide the necessary tools to identify negative patterns and tap into strengths in order for clients to adopt more positive ways of seeing themselves and others. Have you previously been in therapy? I can offer a different way of working with negative aspects of yourself that can potentially lead to lasting change.
I help clients address issues that negatively affect their everyday lives and relationships. I believe that we all possess inner resources to solve most of our own problems. However, there are those times when we get overwhelmed and stuck in particular ways of thinking that are not helpful. I can provide the necessary tools to identify negative patterns and tap into strengths in order for clients to adopt more positive ways of seeing themselves and others. Have you previously been in therapy? I can offer a different way of working with negative aspects of yourself that can potentially lead to lasting change.
(732) 532-2071 View (732) 532-2071
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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.