Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Joe Ito, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Joe Ito
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
My interventions are strength focused and include evidence-based theories such as CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, while being person-centered.
Life is a journey...a journey full of transitions - highs and lows, twists and turns, everything in between. No matter the struggle, obstacle, or challenge, we can all use some help at times. Whether it's depression, anxiety, interpersonal or other issues, I can be the professional you've been looking for. By providing a safe space where you can truly be yourself, I can provide help to work through the challenges of life and be the best version of you. I believe each person is filled with potential and has noble intentions in their actions. I am culturally sensitive as I have experience working with a variety of populations.
My interventions are strength focused and include evidence-based theories such as CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, while being person-centered.
Life is a journey...a journey full of transitions - highs and lows, twists and turns, everything in between. No matter the struggle, obstacle, or challenge, we can all use some help at times. Whether it's depression, anxiety, interpersonal or other issues, I can be the professional you've been looking for. By providing a safe space where you can truly be yourself, I can provide help to work through the challenges of life and be the best version of you. I believe each person is filled with potential and has noble intentions in their actions. I am culturally sensitive as I have experience working with a variety of populations.
(917) 924-2896 View (917) 924-2896
Photo of Ayla Sitt, PsyD, Psychologist
Ayla Sitt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11230
Ayla is a clinical psychologist specializing in CBT and DBT to help individuals build more satisfying and rewarding lives.
Ayla supports adults across the lifespan, focusing on anxiety disorders, low self-esteem, and women's health issues. She has a particular interest in major life transitions and is deeply committed to helping clients navigate the challenges of prenatal and perinatal issues.
Ayla is a clinical psychologist specializing in CBT and DBT to help individuals build more satisfying and rewarding lives.
Ayla supports adults across the lifespan, focusing on anxiety disorders, low self-esteem, and women's health issues. She has a particular interest in major life transitions and is deeply committed to helping clients navigate the challenges of prenatal and perinatal issues.
(929) 493-3257 View (929) 493-3257
Photo of Shella Eliacin, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shella Eliacin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Many people struggle to navigate life’s challenges. It is important that you feel supported while confronting these obstacles. In cultivating a supportive and therapeutic relationship, it is my goal to help you reach your goals. I have 10+ years’ experience psychotherapist working with teens and adults. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, conflict resolution, work stress and more. As a therapist, my approach is collaborative, trauma informed and integrative; incorporating evidence-based approaches including (CBT) Cognitive Behavioral, (DBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy.
Many people struggle to navigate life’s challenges. It is important that you feel supported while confronting these obstacles. In cultivating a supportive and therapeutic relationship, it is my goal to help you reach your goals. I have 10+ years’ experience psychotherapist working with teens and adults. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, conflict resolution, work stress and more. As a therapist, my approach is collaborative, trauma informed and integrative; incorporating evidence-based approaches including (CBT) Cognitive Behavioral, (DBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy.
(718) 618-9024 View (718) 618-9024
Photo of Graham Reynolds, PhD, Psychologist
Graham Reynolds
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I am a CBT and DBT provider offering in-person and telehealth visits. Choosing the right therapist is about finding the right fit – I am hopeful that working together we can find out where you feel stuck so we can help you achieve a fulfilling life. I work with adults struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues and personality disorders. Most importantly, I strive to foster a collaborative and active environment to help people create lives that are worth living.
I am a CBT and DBT provider offering in-person and telehealth visits. Choosing the right therapist is about finding the right fit – I am hopeful that working together we can find out where you feel stuck so we can help you achieve a fulfilling life. I work with adults struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues and personality disorders. Most importantly, I strive to foster a collaborative and active environment to help people create lives that are worth living.
(646) 419-3312 View (646) 419-3312
Photo of Marisa Dotts, LCSW, LICSW, CDBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Dotts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CDBT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11206  (Online Only)
Congratulations! Taking the first steps toward living a healthier, fulfilling life takes courage. Just scrolling through therapist profiles shows your motivation for something different. I use a variety of treatment modalities, including DBT and EMDR, incorporating mindfulness to help you reach your goals. Let’s work together to figure out what is causing you to be stuck in this season of your life and how you can move past the barriers to live your best life.
Congratulations! Taking the first steps toward living a healthier, fulfilling life takes courage. Just scrolling through therapist profiles shows your motivation for something different. I use a variety of treatment modalities, including DBT and EMDR, incorporating mindfulness to help you reach your goals. Let’s work together to figure out what is causing you to be stuck in this season of your life and how you can move past the barriers to live your best life.
(772) 256-7368 View (772) 256-7368
Photo of Lisa Chimes Romy, PsyD, Psychologist
Lisa Chimes Romy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11229  (Online Only)
Trained in trauma-focused therapy, DBT, CBT, and ACT, I take a comprehensive approach to address various mental health concerns, offering personalized, collaborative, and supportive care.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in New York, New Jersey, Florida, and Vermont. I completed my PsyD at William James College, an APA-accredited internship at Wediko Children's Services, and a postdoctoral fellowship at Northwell Health: Zucker Hillside Hospital. With extensive experience in hospital and private practice settings, I also supervise PhD/PsyD students and post-doctoral fellows, and teach didactic seminars. As the founder of Chimes Psychology, I provide quality, evidence-based treatment.
Trained in trauma-focused therapy, DBT, CBT, and ACT, I take a comprehensive approach to address various mental health concerns, offering personalized, collaborative, and supportive care.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in New York, New Jersey, Florida, and Vermont. I completed my PsyD at William James College, an APA-accredited internship at Wediko Children's Services, and a postdoctoral fellowship at Northwell Health: Zucker Hillside Hospital. With extensive experience in hospital and private practice settings, I also supervise PhD/PsyD students and post-doctoral fellows, and teach didactic seminars. As the founder of Chimes Psychology, I provide quality, evidence-based treatment.
(929) 545-6435 View (929) 545-6435
Photo of Sonia Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonia Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11213
My main focus in modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused and motivational interviewing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the field for over 10 years. I graduated from Hunter College with a focus in clinical practice with individuals and families. In my years in the field I have served a wide range of clientele, from adolescents to adults. I specialize in working with those that suffer from trauma, generalized anxiety, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance use and addiction issues. In addition, as a POC therapist, I am familiar with issues of race and how they can impact ones mental health.
My main focus in modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused and motivational interviewing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the field for over 10 years. I graduated from Hunter College with a focus in clinical practice with individuals and families. In my years in the field I have served a wide range of clientele, from adolescents to adults. I specialize in working with those that suffer from trauma, generalized anxiety, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance use and addiction issues. In addition, as a POC therapist, I am familiar with issues of race and how they can impact ones mental health.
(929) 357-1886 View (929) 357-1886
Photo of Samuel Edeson, LMHC, Counselor
Samuel Edeson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11229
Sam Edeson is a Licensed Mental Health counselor practicing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) with individuals and couples therapy in New York City. Sam helps clients learn the skills needed to process intense emotions and overcome distress in relationships and the self. Sam treats clients with Major Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Personality Disorders, and relationship distress.
Sam Edeson is a Licensed Mental Health counselor practicing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) with individuals and couples therapy in New York City. Sam helps clients learn the skills needed to process intense emotions and overcome distress in relationships and the self. Sam treats clients with Major Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Personality Disorders, and relationship distress.
(347) 862-9923 View (347) 862-9923
Photo of Nina Gallo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Gallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
I incorporate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) along with mindfulness-based skills.
I believe we all possess the innate capacity to heal, grow and overcome life's challenges. Sometimes, we just need a little help to move us through periods when we're feeling stuck or dissatisfied with the way things are. Drawing on my decade of experience in this field, my goal is to support you in increasing insight and awareness into these struggles, and to provide you with the tools to leverage your inner strengths, move forward and live a more fulfilling life.
I incorporate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) along with mindfulness-based skills.
I believe we all possess the innate capacity to heal, grow and overcome life's challenges. Sometimes, we just need a little help to move us through periods when we're feeling stuck or dissatisfied with the way things are. Drawing on my decade of experience in this field, my goal is to support you in increasing insight and awareness into these struggles, and to provide you with the tools to leverage your inner strengths, move forward and live a more fulfilling life.
(646) 846-1158 View (646) 846-1158
Photo of Rachel Valencia, LMHC, Counselor
Rachel Valencia
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231  (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.
(929) 294-8449 View (929) 294-8449
Photo of Samantha Linet, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Linet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Ram Dass said "We’re all just walking each other home.” While this journey home is beautiful and unique, at times, it can be treacherous and lonely. As your therapist, I see myself as your travel companion – someone to help you identify, navigate, and overcome whatever obstacles you face on your journey. Using an integrative approach, I blend more traditional psychodynamic and relational therapies with evidence-based modalities including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy.
Ram Dass said "We’re all just walking each other home.” While this journey home is beautiful and unique, at times, it can be treacherous and lonely. As your therapist, I see myself as your travel companion – someone to help you identify, navigate, and overcome whatever obstacles you face on your journey. Using an integrative approach, I blend more traditional psychodynamic and relational therapies with evidence-based modalities including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy.
(347) 647-2663 View (347) 647-2663
Photo of Breanna Hira, MHC-LP
Breanna Hira
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
My specialties include DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Somatic Therapy.
Hi! My name is Breanna Hira MHC-LP. I have experience working with groups and individuals. I worked for 2 years at a clinic where I helped adults of all ages with numerous different backgrounds and life experiences. My goal is to utilize the best therapy techniques based on your needs. I try to take a person-centered approach; this means you are in charge of your treatment.
My specialties include DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Somatic Therapy.
Hi! My name is Breanna Hira MHC-LP. I have experience working with groups and individuals. I worked for 2 years at a clinic where I helped adults of all ages with numerous different backgrounds and life experiences. My goal is to utilize the best therapy techniques based on your needs. I try to take a person-centered approach; this means you are in charge of your treatment.
(718) 957-8667 View (718) 957-8667
Photo of Sarabeth Linden, LMHC, MS Ed, Counselor
Sarabeth Linden
Counselor, LMHC, MS Ed
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
I welcome all backgrounds and identities, and cater to each individual, while focusing on internal family systems and other specific techniques such as mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and feminist therapy.
Beginning the healing process can feel quite daunting and understandably so. The good news is that narratives can be unlearned! I challenge my clients to turn inward and learn how to consciously trust their natural intuition while gaining awareness towards a deeper sense of self. Here, we will explore the body and mind connection, and how it relates to your current coping and behavior. Whether you have spent years in therapy or if this is your first time, you can anticipate a judgment-free space informed by creativity, humor, and compassion.
I welcome all backgrounds and identities, and cater to each individual, while focusing on internal family systems and other specific techniques such as mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and feminist therapy.
Beginning the healing process can feel quite daunting and understandably so. The good news is that narratives can be unlearned! I challenge my clients to turn inward and learn how to consciously trust their natural intuition while gaining awareness towards a deeper sense of self. Here, we will explore the body and mind connection, and how it relates to your current coping and behavior. Whether you have spent years in therapy or if this is your first time, you can anticipate a judgment-free space informed by creativity, humor, and compassion.
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Photo of Victoria Licandro, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Licandro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
As an individual and couples therapist, I draw upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and feminist theory.
I believe that embedded in each of us are the tools and knowledge for self-reflection, growth, and healing. I work with clients to develop the insight and skills necessary to manage anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, relationship struggles, and to resolve past traumas. I understand that everyone’s path forward is unique; therefore, I am dedicated to forming an authentic relationship with each of my clients and learning from them in the process. My goal is to actively engage with my clients—while putting them at ease and offering support—as they find their best path forward.
As an individual and couples therapist, I draw upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and feminist theory.
I believe that embedded in each of us are the tools and knowledge for self-reflection, growth, and healing. I work with clients to develop the insight and skills necessary to manage anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, relationship struggles, and to resolve past traumas. I understand that everyone’s path forward is unique; therefore, I am dedicated to forming an authentic relationship with each of my clients and learning from them in the process. My goal is to actively engage with my clients—while putting them at ease and offering support—as they find their best path forward.
(718) 395-5608 View (718) 395-5608
Photo of Ilise Reznick - Jamron Counseling, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ilise Reznick - Jamron Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11206  (Online Only)
I utilize an integrative counseling approach including CBT and DBT to help you achieve your goals.
If you feel that you're struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, self-identity, and low self-confidence, you are not alone. Different stages of life come with their own challenges. If you now find yourself looking for guidance in setting achievable goals and for reclaiming the control of your own life story, I am here to help. Let me provide you a safe, warm, and confidential space where you can foster self-connection as well as develop greater awareness of your surroundings and influences. Foundations for meaningful connections with others start with a strong self-connection and recognizing your strength and abilities.
I utilize an integrative counseling approach including CBT and DBT to help you achieve your goals.
If you feel that you're struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, self-identity, and low self-confidence, you are not alone. Different stages of life come with their own challenges. If you now find yourself looking for guidance in setting achievable goals and for reclaiming the control of your own life story, I am here to help. Let me provide you a safe, warm, and confidential space where you can foster self-connection as well as develop greater awareness of your surroundings and influences. Foundations for meaningful connections with others start with a strong self-connection and recognizing your strength and abilities.
(929) 297-8329 View (929) 297-8329
Photo of Dana Parchi, PsyD, Psychologist
Dana Parchi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I have an integral approach, combining interpersonal therapy, family systems, IFS, and DBT.
We can all get trapped in a way of thinking or relating to the world that does not serve our end goals. I work with clients to help them become aware of these patterns, understand their origin and utility, while at the same time fostering the freedom, perspective, and skills to break away from these patterns when needed. I view therapy as a co-investigative process, where you and I can look together, with neutrality, curiosity and compassion, at the forces that are shaping your emotional life, and see if there might be a different way of experiencing the world.
I have an integral approach, combining interpersonal therapy, family systems, IFS, and DBT.
We can all get trapped in a way of thinking or relating to the world that does not serve our end goals. I work with clients to help them become aware of these patterns, understand their origin and utility, while at the same time fostering the freedom, perspective, and skills to break away from these patterns when needed. I view therapy as a co-investigative process, where you and I can look together, with neutrality, curiosity and compassion, at the forces that are shaping your emotional life, and see if there might be a different way of experiencing the world.
(646) 846-2526 View (646) 846-2526
Photo of Sean Bedford, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Sean Bedford
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy - a cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach that emphasizes actual skills that we can use to become more effective in handling crises, regulating our emotions, and improving our relationships.
Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Relationships, and Major Life Changes can easily interfere and overwhelm us when we are least expecting it. It is never too soon or too late to seek help through therapy. Effective therapy is a dynamic, at times challenging, and ultimately rewarding process. It is a safe environment to think, express, and achieve growth without judgment or discrimination.
I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy - a cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach that emphasizes actual skills that we can use to become more effective in handling crises, regulating our emotions, and improving our relationships.
Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Relationships, and Major Life Changes can easily interfere and overwhelm us when we are least expecting it. It is never too soon or too late to seek help through therapy. Effective therapy is a dynamic, at times challenging, and ultimately rewarding process. It is a safe environment to think, express, and achieve growth without judgment or discrimination.
(347) 410-5092 View (347) 410-5092
Photo of Melodie Foellmi, Psychologist
Melodie Foellmi
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I draw from therapies like DBT, CBT, ACT, and Narrative Therapy, and I adapt research-backed techniques to your specific needs.
I am here to be your compassionate, nonjudgmental, no-nonsense therapist. We can work together to tackle what's bothering you, no matter how serious it feels. Maybe you are at the end of your rope and you don't know how to face the obstacles life has thrown at you. Maybe you want more out of your life and relationships. Maybe you are dealing with troubling experiences but aren't sure if therapy will actually work. For each client, I blend my extensive knowledge of therapy techniques and research, my warmth and compassion, and my occasionally quirky personality to create a safe and useful space for you to heal and grow.
I draw from therapies like DBT, CBT, ACT, and Narrative Therapy, and I adapt research-backed techniques to your specific needs.
I am here to be your compassionate, nonjudgmental, no-nonsense therapist. We can work together to tackle what's bothering you, no matter how serious it feels. Maybe you are at the end of your rope and you don't know how to face the obstacles life has thrown at you. Maybe you want more out of your life and relationships. Maybe you are dealing with troubling experiences but aren't sure if therapy will actually work. For each client, I blend my extensive knowledge of therapy techniques and research, my warmth and compassion, and my occasionally quirky personality to create a safe and useful space for you to heal and grow.
(347) 580-6284 View (347) 580-6284
Photo of Eden Schwartz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eden Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I utilize psychodynamic, dialectical and cognitive behavioral, and creative arts clinical modalities with an anti-racist, gender-affirming, and anti-oppressive, strengths-based lens.
I believe that curiosity and connection are invaluable to the process of understanding and coping with our most overwhelming thoughts and feelings. We all deserve a collaborative and trusting relationship with a therapist who can offer warmth, consistency, and open-mindedness, during our most isolating emotional experiences. To that end, my aim as a clinician is to remind those I work with of their value when they are most insecure, to invite self-inquiry that sheds light on their innate resilience, and to offer coping tools to help manage their most destabilizing moments.
I utilize psychodynamic, dialectical and cognitive behavioral, and creative arts clinical modalities with an anti-racist, gender-affirming, and anti-oppressive, strengths-based lens.
I believe that curiosity and connection are invaluable to the process of understanding and coping with our most overwhelming thoughts and feelings. We all deserve a collaborative and trusting relationship with a therapist who can offer warmth, consistency, and open-mindedness, during our most isolating emotional experiences. To that end, my aim as a clinician is to remind those I work with of their value when they are most insecure, to invite self-inquiry that sheds light on their innate resilience, and to offer coping tools to help manage their most destabilizing moments.
(347) 767-5757 View (347) 767-5757
Photo of Tina Kahn, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Tina Kahn
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11230
I use Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, CBT/DBT, and EMDR among other methodologies.
I am a NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor and NYS Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25+ years of experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. I use guided imagery, and techniques for developing hopefulness. I also use more traditional insight modes of treatment. I also work through Headway which enables many clients to obtain insurance coverage. Please see my profile at headway.co/providers/tina-kahn for more information.
I use Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, CBT/DBT, and EMDR among other methodologies.
I am a NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor and NYS Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25+ years of experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. I use guided imagery, and techniques for developing hopefulness. I also use more traditional insight modes of treatment. I also work through Headway which enables many clients to obtain insurance coverage. Please see my profile at headway.co/providers/tina-kahn for more information.
(718) 569-8327 View (718) 569-8327
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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.