Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Astoria, NY

Photo of William Michael Cooper, LCSW, CASAC-T, CDBT, CMIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Michael Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC-T, CDBT, CMIP
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
He also works as a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Specialist (C- DBT) and is a current Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP).
William Michael Cooper is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) CASAC-T with SiFi based in New York City NY. Cooper is a CASAC-T; Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor and has over 13 years of working with persons who happen to have addictive disorders. He also works as a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Specialist (C- DBT) and is a current Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP).
He also works as a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Specialist (C- DBT) and is a current Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP).
William Michael Cooper is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) CASAC-T with SiFi based in New York City NY. Cooper is a CASAC-T; Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor and has over 13 years of working with persons who happen to have addictive disorders. He also works as a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Specialist (C- DBT) and is a current Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP).
(347) 507-2933 View (347) 507-2933
Photo of Michelle Castillo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Castillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11105
I use a trauma informed approach and am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and art therapy.
Life is a journey filled with ups and downs. Learning to get through life's anxieties, whether it be relationship issues, work stress, or any other life transition can feel daunting but reaching out for help can also feel scary. It takes a lot of courage to show up and take this step towards a healing path. I believe that forging a compassionate and non-judgemental relationship is crucial for growth to take place. Each individual is different so I try to tailor my approach to fit a persons needs drawing from the various techniques I have been trained in.
I use a trauma informed approach and am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and art therapy.
Life is a journey filled with ups and downs. Learning to get through life's anxieties, whether it be relationship issues, work stress, or any other life transition can feel daunting but reaching out for help can also feel scary. It takes a lot of courage to show up and take this step towards a healing path. I believe that forging a compassionate and non-judgemental relationship is crucial for growth to take place. Each individual is different so I try to tailor my approach to fit a persons needs drawing from the various techniques I have been trained in.
(718) 571-8161 View (718) 571-8161
Photo of Maia Dioses, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maia Dioses
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
CBT, DBT and other approaches such as strength-based, relational and attachment-based.
Hi there! My goal for our therapeutic relationship is for you to feel heard, safe and welcome. Creating a safe space where you can feel comfortable with developing your journey to work on persisting barriers, reconnecting with your inner strengths and embracing your present and your future with regained confidence. I believe we can work collaboratively through short or long-term treatment interventions towards your goals. I have experience working with depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflict and LGBTQIA+ challenges.
CBT, DBT and other approaches such as strength-based, relational and attachment-based.
Hi there! My goal for our therapeutic relationship is for you to feel heard, safe and welcome. Creating a safe space where you can feel comfortable with developing your journey to work on persisting barriers, reconnecting with your inner strengths and embracing your present and your future with regained confidence. I believe we can work collaboratively through short or long-term treatment interventions towards your goals. I have experience working with depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflict and LGBTQIA+ challenges.
(347) 394-3784 View (347) 394-3784
Photo of Sonia Lasmin, MHC-LP
Sonia Lasmin
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11106
I integrate evidence-based practices and multicultural approaches, such as mindfulness, CBT, DBT, MI, Solution-Focused Therapy, and so forth.
Taking the courageous step to seek counseling is an important decision, and finding a counselor with whom you can trust and connect is vital. As a Psychotherapist, I prioritize empathy, trust, and creating a non-judgmental environment for my clients.
I integrate evidence-based practices and multicultural approaches, such as mindfulness, CBT, DBT, MI, Solution-Focused Therapy, and so forth.
Taking the courageous step to seek counseling is an important decision, and finding a counselor with whom you can trust and connect is vital. As a Psychotherapist, I prioritize empathy, trust, and creating a non-judgmental environment for my clients.
(332) 239-6726 View (332) 239-6726
Photo of Hashini Weerasekera, MHC-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hashini Weerasekera
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
I utilize approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), somatic work, and narrative therapy, all designed to help you connect with your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with feelings of depression? Do past traumas linger in your thoughts, making it hard to move forward? If you’re navigating the complexities of family dynamics or cultural expectations, you’re not alone, and I’m here to help. As a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Resident, I work with adults like you who are seeking to make sense of their experiences and find a path toward healing. Together, we can explore the challenges you face, whether they stem from emotional struggles, cultural pressures, or family relationships.
I utilize approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), somatic work, and narrative therapy, all designed to help you connect with your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with feelings of depression? Do past traumas linger in your thoughts, making it hard to move forward? If you’re navigating the complexities of family dynamics or cultural expectations, you’re not alone, and I’m here to help. As a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Resident, I work with adults like you who are seeking to make sense of their experiences and find a path toward healing. Together, we can explore the challenges you face, whether they stem from emotional struggles, cultural pressures, or family relationships.
(929) 463-9207 View (929) 463-9207
Photo of Rachel Valencia, LMHC, Counselor
Rachel Valencia
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
I also integrate skills from ACT, DBT, and polyvagal theory based on your needs.
Accepting new clients via telehealth! Struggling with your mental health can be difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether it be depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help you understand where your issues have stemmed from, work on healing them, and learn new ways to cope and interact with your world. In working with me, you can expect to have a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your innerworld. I work with clients of all ages, and in individual, couple, or family modality.
I also integrate skills from ACT, DBT, and polyvagal theory based on your needs.
Accepting new clients via telehealth! Struggling with your mental health can be difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether it be depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help you understand where your issues have stemmed from, work on healing them, and learn new ways to cope and interact with your world. In working with me, you can expect to have a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your innerworld. I work with clients of all ages, and in individual, couple, or family modality.
(718) 400-6205 View (718) 400-6205
Photo of Kate Filmore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Filmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
I helped create a TGNB-specific service to support gender affirming health needs, and led the Trauma treatment and DBT treatment programs.
My name is Kate. I have 18 years experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor. My practice is LGBTQI-focused, though clients of all identities are welcome. Clients come to me to reduce distress and bring ease into their lives. I practice affirmative therapy that is trauma-informed and nonjudgemental. I view therapy as a collaborative journey towards self-discovery, healing, and symptom relief.
I helped create a TGNB-specific service to support gender affirming health needs, and led the Trauma treatment and DBT treatment programs.
My name is Kate. I have 18 years experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor. My practice is LGBTQI-focused, though clients of all identities are welcome. Clients come to me to reduce distress and bring ease into their lives. I practice affirmative therapy that is trauma-informed and nonjudgemental. I view therapy as a collaborative journey towards self-discovery, healing, and symptom relief.
(718) 557-9215 View (718) 557-9215
Photo of Jemaal Ian Alexander, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Jemaal Ian Alexander
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
Having developed a psychodynamic practice centered around increased mindfulness and acceptance, I utilize aspects of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and other modalities to help you gain the insight you need to develop better tools and strategies for living a happier, healthier life.
My ideal client is a fresh face to therapy, ready to take a leap of faith and invest in their wellness. They are the young adults transitioning through life, navigating adulthood, parenthood, breakups, intimacy, self worth, family pressures and much more. My clients are brave, genuine, and vulnerable as they show up with the goal of achieving a better understanding and acceptance of their emotions, identity and direction. Anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationships with self/others and support exploring emotional vulnerability are common areas of concerns with my clients.
Having developed a psychodynamic practice centered around increased mindfulness and acceptance, I utilize aspects of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and other modalities to help you gain the insight you need to develop better tools and strategies for living a happier, healthier life.
My ideal client is a fresh face to therapy, ready to take a leap of faith and invest in their wellness. They are the young adults transitioning through life, navigating adulthood, parenthood, breakups, intimacy, self worth, family pressures and much more. My clients are brave, genuine, and vulnerable as they show up with the goal of achieving a better understanding and acceptance of their emotions, identity and direction. Anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationships with self/others and support exploring emotional vulnerability are common areas of concerns with my clients.
(929) 209-4059 View (929) 209-4059
Photo of Aly Negreira, PhD, Psychologist
Aly Negreira
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach blends my superlative training in evidence-based treatments from Yale School of Medicine, the National Center for PTSD, and DBT treatment centers with a warm, compassionate, and engaging style.
Many of us will experience anxiety, depression, or trauma in our lifetime. We tend to carry these experiences silently and heavily weighed down by them, often leaving us feeling hopeless, exhausted, isolated, and unhappy. For some, they can also lead to significant mental health issues and unhelpful coping strategies. This pain is significant. Your suffering is real. And, if you're reading this, you've probably tried everything to fix it. You may have believed that nothing could change or get better. I am here to help you challenge those beliefs and provide you with a set of skills to help you cope with your distress.
My therapeutic approach blends my superlative training in evidence-based treatments from Yale School of Medicine, the National Center for PTSD, and DBT treatment centers with a warm, compassionate, and engaging style.
Many of us will experience anxiety, depression, or trauma in our lifetime. We tend to carry these experiences silently and heavily weighed down by them, often leaving us feeling hopeless, exhausted, isolated, and unhappy. For some, they can also lead to significant mental health issues and unhelpful coping strategies. This pain is significant. Your suffering is real. And, if you're reading this, you've probably tried everything to fix it. You may have believed that nothing could change or get better. I am here to help you challenge those beliefs and provide you with a set of skills to help you cope with your distress.
(347) 727-0589 View (347) 727-0589
Photo of Andrew Peake, LMSW
Andrew Peake
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11102
I hold a Master's degree from the University of New England in Social Work, specializing in Trauma-Informed modalities, including DBT, Informed Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, and harm reduction for dual diagnosis and substance use.
The experience of overwhelming anxiety symptoms, past and current trauma, as well as recurring depression, can make life difficult to tap into your inner potential. Let’s work together and safely explore better practices to enrich your life.
I hold a Master's degree from the University of New England in Social Work, specializing in Trauma-Informed modalities, including DBT, Informed Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, and harm reduction for dual diagnosis and substance use.
The experience of overwhelming anxiety symptoms, past and current trauma, as well as recurring depression, can make life difficult to tap into your inner potential. Let’s work together and safely explore better practices to enrich your life.
(929) 547-9414 View (929) 547-9414
Photo of Neal Santacruz, LCSW, r, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neal Santacruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, r
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11103
I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Family Therapy.
You are unique. Using a client-centered approach, I work with your individual needs and focus for therapy. Sometimes a person may seek change in their lives or want to process their unresolved experiences and understand themselves better. Whether you are sad about the past or worried about the future, I am well versed in multiple therapeutic modalities to be able to help.
I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Family Therapy.
You are unique. Using a client-centered approach, I work with your individual needs and focus for therapy. Sometimes a person may seek change in their lives or want to process their unresolved experiences and understand themselves better. Whether you are sad about the past or worried about the future, I am well versed in multiple therapeutic modalities to be able to help.
(917) 765-0047 View (917) 765-0047
Photo of Joanna Poon, PsyD, Psychologist
Joanna Poon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11101
My clinical work is grounded in relationally oriented psychodynamic therapy, DBT, Prolonged Exposure Trauma Therapy, CBT, and attachment based approaches.
Change is hard. Most people don’t like change. Some say it’s human nature. That may be true. At the same time, doing hard things can be incredibly rewarding and worthwhile. It can reward you with improved relationships with your loved ones and a better understanding of yourself. It can relieve you of the pain from a difficult past. It can help you better manage a challenging environment or life transition. You are not alone. Help is here.
My clinical work is grounded in relationally oriented psychodynamic therapy, DBT, Prolonged Exposure Trauma Therapy, CBT, and attachment based approaches.
Change is hard. Most people don’t like change. Some say it’s human nature. That may be true. At the same time, doing hard things can be incredibly rewarding and worthwhile. It can reward you with improved relationships with your loved ones and a better understanding of yourself. It can relieve you of the pain from a difficult past. It can help you better manage a challenging environment or life transition. You are not alone. Help is here.
(929) 383-7944 View (929) 383-7944
Photo of Elizabeth Jillian Bishop, LMSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Jillian Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11103  (Online Only)
I am a licensed social worker with twelve years of clinical experience providing relational psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapy (including Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Solution Focused Therapy and CBT).
I believe in an eclectic and individualized approach to helping folks achieve their unique goals and objectives, and to cultivate an optimal quality of life. I've worked with people who have experienced breast cancer, those recovering from complex post-traumatic stress disorder, individuals who’ve experienced intimate partner violence, people struggling with or recovering from alcohol use disorder, as well as those managing day-to-day anxieties and periods of depression. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I've helped my peers and allies explore identities, navigate relationships, etc.
I am a licensed social worker with twelve years of clinical experience providing relational psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapy (including Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Solution Focused Therapy and CBT).
I believe in an eclectic and individualized approach to helping folks achieve their unique goals and objectives, and to cultivate an optimal quality of life. I've worked with people who have experienced breast cancer, those recovering from complex post-traumatic stress disorder, individuals who’ve experienced intimate partner violence, people struggling with or recovering from alcohol use disorder, as well as those managing day-to-day anxieties and periods of depression. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I've helped my peers and allies explore identities, navigate relationships, etc.
(240) 693-5955 View (240) 693-5955
Photo of Sarvin Azizgolshani, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Sarvin Azizgolshani
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I develop an individualized approach for each client and have been trained in psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Have you felt stuck in familiar patterns or felt unfulfilled in your relationships? I understand that starting therapy can be a difficult decision and I aim to provide a supportive environment to empower clients to be able to live a more meaningful life. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Each stage in life comes with own unique challenges, which can have a deep impact on how one views the world. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and work with clients to develop better ways to cope with their struggles.
I develop an individualized approach for each client and have been trained in psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Have you felt stuck in familiar patterns or felt unfulfilled in your relationships? I understand that starting therapy can be a difficult decision and I aim to provide a supportive environment to empower clients to be able to live a more meaningful life. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Each stage in life comes with own unique challenges, which can have a deep impact on how one views the world. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and work with clients to develop better ways to cope with their struggles.
(516) 518-9560 View (516) 518-9560
Photo of Hannah Evans, LMHC, Counselor
Hannah Evans
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11103
The therapeutic modalities used in my work utilize trauma-focused interventions including psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Whether you’re looking to tackle unwanted and unhelpful behaviors or striving to work through a traumatic experience - your wellbeing and healing is my number one priority. Clients working with me can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental and encouraging environment to effectively communicate stressors and dive deeper into the root of emotional patterns. I believe in empowering clients to take ownership of their emotions, to speak about challenging life experiences, and identify healthy coping behaviors to lead a positive life.
The therapeutic modalities used in my work utilize trauma-focused interventions including psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Whether you’re looking to tackle unwanted and unhelpful behaviors or striving to work through a traumatic experience - your wellbeing and healing is my number one priority. Clients working with me can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental and encouraging environment to effectively communicate stressors and dive deeper into the root of emotional patterns. I believe in empowering clients to take ownership of their emotions, to speak about challenging life experiences, and identify healthy coping behaviors to lead a positive life.
(917) 451-7251 View (917) 451-7251
Photo of Lizzy Barna - Lizzy Barna - Expansive Therapy, MHC-LP
Lizzy Barna - Expansive Therapy
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11106
My counseling approach is eclectic and trauma-informed. A key focus of my practice is building a trusting relationship, creating a space where you feel comfortable to explore yourself and your emotions fully. I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS). Through IFS, we will explore the various parts of yourself that make you whole. I also incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and mindfulness techniques to enhance emotional regulation and awareness.
My counseling approach is eclectic and trauma-informed. A key focus of my practice is building a trusting relationship, creating a space where you feel comfortable to explore yourself and your emotions fully. I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS). Through IFS, we will explore the various parts of yourself that make you whole. I also incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and mindfulness techniques to enhance emotional regulation and awareness.
(213) 510-3232 View (213) 510-3232
Photo of Charlotte Grillot, PhD
Charlotte Grillot
PhD
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I understand that there is no ‘one size fits all’ treatment and flexibly tailor evidence-based treatments (e.g., CBT, DBT) to meet your unique needs and goals. Over the course of treatment, you can expect to better understand the sources of unhelpful patterns in your life and how to change them. You will leave treatment empowered and equipped to maintain positive changes and achieve your most meaningful and fulfilling life.
I understand that there is no ‘one size fits all’ treatment and flexibly tailor evidence-based treatments (e.g., CBT, DBT) to meet your unique needs and goals. Over the course of treatment, you can expect to better understand the sources of unhelpful patterns in your life and how to change them. You will leave treatment empowered and equipped to maintain positive changes and achieve your most meaningful and fulfilling life.
(914) 875-2486 View (914) 875-2486
Photo of Marleah Noonan - Marleah Noonan - Expansive Therapy, LMHC, Counselor
Marleah Noonan - Expansive Therapy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11106  (Online Only)
There is no “one size fits all” approach here. I think at its most core level, my job is to create a space that is collaborative, never-judgmental, and genuinely supportive of the whole you. With that as a foundation, I pull from a variety of therapeutic modalities depending on your preferences including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness practices. My work is also grounded in a relational-cultural framework, which causes me to frequently get curious about the way societal messages might have shaped how you view yourself and your potential.
There is no “one size fits all” approach here. I think at its most core level, my job is to create a space that is collaborative, never-judgmental, and genuinely supportive of the whole you. With that as a foundation, I pull from a variety of therapeutic modalities depending on your preferences including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness practices. My work is also grounded in a relational-cultural framework, which causes me to frequently get curious about the way societal messages might have shaped how you view yourself and your potential.
(929) 357-1526 View (929) 357-1526
Photo of Julie Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
By utilizing techniques such as CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and DBT, I want to help empower you to lead the life you want to live.
These are uncertain times. People are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, hopelessness, family dynamics, and life transitions. It can feel difficult to manage on your own! I want to work with you to develop interpersonal skills and tools to navigate everyday struggles. Together, we'll build on your strengths to live a happier and more fulfilling life.
By utilizing techniques such as CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and DBT, I want to help empower you to lead the life you want to live.
These are uncertain times. People are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, hopelessness, family dynamics, and life transitions. It can feel difficult to manage on your own! I want to work with you to develop interpersonal skills and tools to navigate everyday struggles. Together, we'll build on your strengths to live a happier and more fulfilling life.
(332) 334-7293 View (332) 334-7293
Photo of Veronica Green, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I frequently use EMDR and draw from psychodynamic, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Therapy is a chance to discover more about yourself - everyone deserves this opportunity. In our sessions, we will identify ways to overcome your challenges and help you become more self-aware and empowered in your decision-making, to build the life you want. Together, we can seek what motivates you while you develop coping skills and learn how to perspective-take, to reframe negative beliefs.
I frequently use EMDR and draw from psychodynamic, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Therapy is a chance to discover more about yourself - everyone deserves this opportunity. In our sessions, we will identify ways to overcome your challenges and help you become more self-aware and empowered in your decision-making, to build the life you want. Together, we can seek what motivates you while you develop coping skills and learn how to perspective-take, to reframe negative beliefs.
(516) 400-4665 View (516) 400-4665
1
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.