Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Huntington, NY

Photo of Anne Gallenstein, PMHNP, BC
Anne Gallenstein
PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Do you yearn for a sense of joy and deeper connections in your life? Do you feel stuck, struggling and like you're not living up to your best self? You are not alone, and I'm here to help. With over 30 years of experience, I've dedicated myself to guiding individuals towards a life filled with more satisfaction and meaning. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, parenting concerns, or addictive behaviors, I have the expertise to support you. My approach is rooted in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic principles, enriched by techniques such as DBT, IFS and Spiritual Direction.
Do you yearn for a sense of joy and deeper connections in your life? Do you feel stuck, struggling and like you're not living up to your best self? You are not alone, and I'm here to help. With over 30 years of experience, I've dedicated myself to guiding individuals towards a life filled with more satisfaction and meaning. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, parenting concerns, or addictive behaviors, I have the expertise to support you. My approach is rooted in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic principles, enriched by techniques such as DBT, IFS and Spiritual Direction.
(516) 774-2892 View (516) 774-2892
Photo of Kaitlin Loughren, MHC, CASAC-T, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kaitlin Loughren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
I utilize person-centered therapy, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Are you feeling lost and without direction? Are you hoping to learn more about yourself? We will collaborate to create the life that you dream off. We will collaborate to create a safe space for you to learn more about your patterns and behaviors, and set and achieve realistic goals to improve your quality of life!
I utilize person-centered therapy, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Are you feeling lost and without direction? Are you hoping to learn more about yourself? We will collaborate to create the life that you dream off. We will collaborate to create a safe space for you to learn more about your patterns and behaviors, and set and achieve realistic goals to improve your quality of life!
(516) 217-0833 View (516) 217-0833
Photo of Simona Noaghiul Yland, MD, MPH, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Simona Noaghiul Yland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MD, MPH, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
DBT skills treatment follows four modules system.
Finding the right psychotherapist is challenging and can be a lengthy process. Once the search is completed and the therapy is under way, it will become rewarding and healing. My approach to psychotherapy is mindful, accepting and supportive. Trained in individual, couple, and family therapy, complex trauma, as well as clinical medicine and public health epidemiology, I provide treatment from an individualized integrative perspective, based on what is most beneficial to each person. My cultural and crosscultural perspectives allow me to factor in the cultural impact on human behavior.
DBT skills treatment follows four modules system.
Finding the right psychotherapist is challenging and can be a lengthy process. Once the search is completed and the therapy is under way, it will become rewarding and healing. My approach to psychotherapy is mindful, accepting and supportive. Trained in individual, couple, and family therapy, complex trauma, as well as clinical medicine and public health epidemiology, I provide treatment from an individualized integrative perspective, based on what is most beneficial to each person. My cultural and crosscultural perspectives allow me to factor in the cultural impact on human behavior.
(631) 850-3051 View (631) 850-3051
Photo of Laurie Giannola, LCSW-C, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Giannola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience in evidence-based practices to include DBT, CBT, and Mindfulness Based Therapy.
Whatever struggle has brought you here, welcome! I believe the first step toward healing takes courage and making a connection with the right therapist is the most important part in beginning that journey. If you are feeling stuck in old patterns of thinking or behavior, or carry the burden of deep, unresolved pain from your past, or, if you need a safe, supportive place to be heard and heal, I would be honored to help.
I have over 20 years of experience in evidence-based practices to include DBT, CBT, and Mindfulness Based Therapy.
Whatever struggle has brought you here, welcome! I believe the first step toward healing takes courage and making a connection with the right therapist is the most important part in beginning that journey. If you are feeling stuck in old patterns of thinking or behavior, or carry the burden of deep, unresolved pain from your past, or, if you need a safe, supportive place to be heard and heal, I would be honored to help.
(631) 759-8112 View (631) 759-8112
Photo of Samantha L. Maietta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha L. Maietta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Samantha is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist and utilizes an integrative approach to treatment, which incorporates aspects of CBT, ACT, DBT, and ERP, along with the use of unique techniques, such as humor, self-disclosure, and hands-on learning.
Samantha L. Maietta, LCSW is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in treatment of complex and/or co-occurring mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, which include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and other behavioral, emotional, and social difficulties across the lifespan. She received her Master's degree from New York University's Silver School of Social Work. Samantha's clinical training has entailed providing evidence-based treatment at Einstein College of Medicine and Lenox Hill Hospital.
Samantha is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist and utilizes an integrative approach to treatment, which incorporates aspects of CBT, ACT, DBT, and ERP, along with the use of unique techniques, such as humor, self-disclosure, and hands-on learning.
Samantha L. Maietta, LCSW is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in treatment of complex and/or co-occurring mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, which include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and other behavioral, emotional, and social difficulties across the lifespan. She received her Master's degree from New York University's Silver School of Social Work. Samantha's clinical training has entailed providing evidence-based treatment at Einstein College of Medicine and Lenox Hill Hospital.
(631) 302-7969 View (631) 302-7969
Photo of Danielle Johnson, BA, MSEd, LMHC, NBCC, Counselor
Danielle Johnson
Counselor, BA, MSEd, LMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
In my private practice, I utilized a multi-modal approach including DBT, CBT, basic EMDR, family systems therapy as well as other techniques. I tailor all of my sessions to the client needs and modes of expression whether that is verbal, narrative or through play. I welcome clients from all walks of life who seek assistance in overcoming their obstacles to become the best that they can be.
In my private practice, I utilized a multi-modal approach including DBT, CBT, basic EMDR, family systems therapy as well as other techniques. I tailor all of my sessions to the client needs and modes of expression whether that is verbal, narrative or through play. I welcome clients from all walks of life who seek assistance in overcoming their obstacles to become the best that they can be.
(518) 636-0967 View (518) 636-0967
Photo of Meg Maginn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Maginn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
I collaborate with nutritionists, medical doctors, psychiatrists and wellness practitioners, utilizing EMDR/NLP/CBT/ DBT, alternative and evidence based treatment.
Seeking therapy is a courageous step. As an experienced therapist with over 35 years in the field, I create a safe, tailored space for each client's unique needs. My approach combines evidence-based treatments with compassionate care to help clients achieve lasting wellness. I offer insights into underlying issues, practical tools for changing thought patterns and behaviors, and coping strategies to improve quality of life. My goal is to empower clients with the skills to thrive independently after therapy ends. If you're ready to take the next step in your personal growth journey, I'm here to support you with expertise, empathy and
I collaborate with nutritionists, medical doctors, psychiatrists and wellness practitioners, utilizing EMDR/NLP/CBT/ DBT, alternative and evidence based treatment.
Seeking therapy is a courageous step. As an experienced therapist with over 35 years in the field, I create a safe, tailored space for each client's unique needs. My approach combines evidence-based treatments with compassionate care to help clients achieve lasting wellness. I offer insights into underlying issues, practical tools for changing thought patterns and behaviors, and coping strategies to improve quality of life. My goal is to empower clients with the skills to thrive independently after therapy ends. If you're ready to take the next step in your personal growth journey, I'm here to support you with expertise, empathy and
(631) 623-5362 View (631) 623-5362
Photo of Kristen Memoli, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristen Memoli
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
I infuse cognitive-behavioral elements from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness to increase clients' skills to cope with life.
Are you a parent noticing your child struggling at home, school, or with friends? Do you have a suspicion that your child might be on the autism spectrum or perhaps in the grip of a cycle of anxiety or anger? Does your child spend too much time online and not enough time connecting with others and the world around them? Perhaps you are not seeking support for a child, but instead for yourself. Many adults struggle with these very issues. All of these things can lead to a great amount of stress for children, adults, and their loved ones. I'm glad you're here and I'm here to help.
I infuse cognitive-behavioral elements from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness to increase clients' skills to cope with life.
Are you a parent noticing your child struggling at home, school, or with friends? Do you have a suspicion that your child might be on the autism spectrum or perhaps in the grip of a cycle of anxiety or anger? Does your child spend too much time online and not enough time connecting with others and the world around them? Perhaps you are not seeking support for a child, but instead for yourself. Many adults struggle with these very issues. All of these things can lead to a great amount of stress for children, adults, and their loved ones. I'm glad you're here and I'm here to help.
(516) 513-8327 View (516) 513-8327
Photo of Lisa Livermore, MS, MHC-LP
Lisa Livermore
MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
Therapeutic interventions I utilize include CBT, DBT & Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting and vulnerable task but know you have taken the first courageous step on a journey towards healing and growth. Life throws curveballs at us, and at times, it can feel overwhelming to navigate these challenges alone. As a counselor, my priority is to provide a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space for you to explore your emotions, thoughts and experiences. I believe in the power of empathy and validation and am here to offer you the support you seek.
Therapeutic interventions I utilize include CBT, DBT & Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting and vulnerable task but know you have taken the first courageous step on a journey towards healing and growth. Life throws curveballs at us, and at times, it can feel overwhelming to navigate these challenges alone. As a counselor, my priority is to provide a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space for you to explore your emotions, thoughts and experiences. I believe in the power of empathy and validation and am here to offer you the support you seek.
(516) 756-9618 View (516) 756-9618
Photo of Karen Kieser, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Karen Kieser
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Training, and Biofeedback have been proven to lower stress and anxiety while increasing our ability to function optimally.
Anxiety and worry, feelings of panic and lack of control can affect us at different times in our lives, but when these feelings become overwhelming, or are interfering with leading a happy, productive life, we search for help and answers. I commend you on taking the first step toward wholeness. Together we will work on building the necessary tools and skills utilizing evidence-based theraputic approaches. The goal is to empower you to work through your current issue and any future ones. We will start from where you are now and work towards where you are determined to go.
CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Training, and Biofeedback have been proven to lower stress and anxiety while increasing our ability to function optimally.
Anxiety and worry, feelings of panic and lack of control can affect us at different times in our lives, but when these feelings become overwhelming, or are interfering with leading a happy, productive life, we search for help and answers. I commend you on taking the first step toward wholeness. Together we will work on building the necessary tools and skills utilizing evidence-based theraputic approaches. The goal is to empower you to work through your current issue and any future ones. We will start from where you are now and work towards where you are determined to go.
(631) 405-4748 View (631) 405-4748
Photo of Jandy Choe, LMHC
Jandy Choe
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Trying to pick the right therapist can be a challenge. You can think of our first meeting more like a conversation, where we will go over what you are experiencing and how I can help you materialize your goals, values, and priorities. I offer a safe, comfortable, and compassionate space where we can explore how to reduce your suffering and help you get to where you want to be. For years, I have made it my purpose to help others resolve their internal pain and heartache. Although I tailor my approach for each client, I tend to consistently utilize EMDR, psychodynamic, gestalt, DBT, and narrative theoretical orientations.
Trying to pick the right therapist can be a challenge. You can think of our first meeting more like a conversation, where we will go over what you are experiencing and how I can help you materialize your goals, values, and priorities. I offer a safe, comfortable, and compassionate space where we can explore how to reduce your suffering and help you get to where you want to be. For years, I have made it my purpose to help others resolve their internal pain and heartache. Although I tailor my approach for each client, I tend to consistently utilize EMDR, psychodynamic, gestalt, DBT, and narrative theoretical orientations.
(516) 399-0534 View (516) 399-0534
Photo of Fatima Sandoval, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Fatima Sandoval
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
My interventions are based on DBT, managing anxiety and stress, and psychotherapy, but can also vary depending on your individual needs that garner the best support for your healing journey.
There are times in life where one can find themselves stuck in search of meaning and understanding. To be in touch with both your emotional and mental wellness is important to identify one’s emotions. It also gives you a chance to cultivate your own personal safe space to give yourself grace and compassion. My role is to offer support, empathy, and understanding to help you explore and create new patterns that encourage healing and growth.
My interventions are based on DBT, managing anxiety and stress, and psychotherapy, but can also vary depending on your individual needs that garner the best support for your healing journey.
There are times in life where one can find themselves stuck in search of meaning and understanding. To be in touch with both your emotional and mental wellness is important to identify one’s emotions. It also gives you a chance to cultivate your own personal safe space to give yourself grace and compassion. My role is to offer support, empathy, and understanding to help you explore and create new patterns that encourage healing and growth.
(585) 326-5375 View (585) 326-5375
Photo of Debra Linch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Linch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
Working with clients in crisis and their families, I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy.
I believe the fit between a patient and therapist plays an important role in healing and growth. My approach to therapy begins with respect and validation for your feelings and experiences. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment where dialogue can flow without fear of judgment. I specialize in treating people struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction and women's issues such as perinatal and postpartum depression. I will work with you to restructure your unhelpful beliefs that cause distress, develop new and healthier coping skills and improve your communication skills, confidence and self-esteem.
Working with clients in crisis and their families, I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy.
I believe the fit between a patient and therapist plays an important role in healing and growth. My approach to therapy begins with respect and validation for your feelings and experiences. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment where dialogue can flow without fear of judgment. I specialize in treating people struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction and women's issues such as perinatal and postpartum depression. I will work with you to restructure your unhelpful beliefs that cause distress, develop new and healthier coping skills and improve your communication skills, confidence and self-esteem.
(347) 433-8730 View (347) 433-8730
Photo of Ryan Hutchings - Handspring Health(Insurance Accepted!), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan Hutchings - Handspring Health(Insurance Accepted!)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
Handspring is a modern mental health clinic that provides personalized, evidence-based behavioral care for children, adolescents, and young adults. We currently serve children (ages 8-18) and young adults (over age 18) who are looking for treatment for anxiety, depression, or behavioral difficulties. Our therapeutic approaches include CBT, DBT, organizational skills training, behavior therapy, exposure & response prevention, and parent management training.
Handspring is a modern mental health clinic that provides personalized, evidence-based behavioral care for children, adolescents, and young adults. We currently serve children (ages 8-18) and young adults (over age 18) who are looking for treatment for anxiety, depression, or behavioral difficulties. Our therapeutic approaches include CBT, DBT, organizational skills training, behavior therapy, exposure & response prevention, and parent management training.
(646) 713-0548 View (646) 713-0548
Photo of Dr. Ellen Barbara Kanner - Ellen B. Kanner, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Ellen B. Kanner, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
In addition to psychotherapy that goes over a person's history I have added cognitive behavioral strategies, hypnotherapy, EMDR and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
With over 35 years experience I am able to successfully treat numerous diagnoses and life problems, from bipolar disorder, alcohol and other addictive problems to marital counseling. I work with adolescents and adults to help them to remove obstacles from their lives so they can enjoy the most fulfilling life. I love to engage with patients who are interested in the benefits of psychotherapy.
In addition to psychotherapy that goes over a person's history I have added cognitive behavioral strategies, hypnotherapy, EMDR and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
With over 35 years experience I am able to successfully treat numerous diagnoses and life problems, from bipolar disorder, alcohol and other addictive problems to marital counseling. I work with adolescents and adults to help them to remove obstacles from their lives so they can enjoy the most fulfilling life. I love to engage with patients who are interested in the benefits of psychotherapy.
(631) 759-8763 View (631) 759-8763
Photo of Risa Levenson, PhD, CH, Psychologist
Risa Levenson
Psychologist, PhD, CH
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Hello and thank you for viewing my profile. I am excited to get to know my clients and help them achieve their short and long-term goals. I use hypnosis and mindfulness practices for those who are interested in learning to heal self. I enjoy working with "the overthinker" and "worrier". I have specialized training in working with individuals that live with anxiety disorders and cope with various medical conditions. I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist that has training in DBT.
Hello and thank you for viewing my profile. I am excited to get to know my clients and help them achieve their short and long-term goals. I use hypnosis and mindfulness practices for those who are interested in learning to heal self. I enjoy working with "the overthinker" and "worrier". I have specialized training in working with individuals that live with anxiety disorders and cope with various medical conditions. I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist that has training in DBT.
(516) 758-1247 View (516) 758-1247
Photo of Jennifer Ryan, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Ryan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
I am a Mental Health Counselor-LP with a background in Psychology and Sociology. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, families, parents, and successfully coordinating with schools. We will target your maladaptive thoughts and behaviors by utilizing techniques tailored to your needs. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Play Therapy. Together we will learn how to manage our emotion regulation and distress tolerance, while building our interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness skills.
I am a Mental Health Counselor-LP with a background in Psychology and Sociology. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, families, parents, and successfully coordinating with schools. We will target your maladaptive thoughts and behaviors by utilizing techniques tailored to your needs. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Play Therapy. Together we will learn how to manage our emotion regulation and distress tolerance, while building our interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness skills.
(516) 973-1248 View (516) 973-1248
Photo of Scott Gulbransen, MA, MHC-LP
Scott Gulbransen
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
If you have been experiencing stressful emotions such as frequent worry, sadness, or anger that is taking you away from living your life or engaging in activities you once enjoyed then considering therapy is a healthy choice. As a mental health counselor, I have worked with individuals who experience various anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, PTSD, OCD, and self-esteem issues. In my work with clients I use a person-centered approach with a large focus on techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) that is tailored to your unique needs.
If you have been experiencing stressful emotions such as frequent worry, sadness, or anger that is taking you away from living your life or engaging in activities you once enjoyed then considering therapy is a healthy choice. As a mental health counselor, I have worked with individuals who experience various anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, PTSD, OCD, and self-esteem issues. In my work with clients I use a person-centered approach with a large focus on techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) that is tailored to your unique needs.
(631) 892-2811 View (631) 892-2811
Photo of Dr. Lisa Parker, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Lisa Parker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I am a certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) clinician who provides DBT-informed care to help those who feel out of control in their life develop skills to better able to understand their emotions and regulate their reactions.
I specialize in helping adolescents, young adults and adults with trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, suicidal ideation, self-harm or relationship issues. I am a Certified Family Trauma Professional and I have worked extensively with college students and young adults. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to feel heard and create change for themselves. People enter therapy in all different places of readiness. We will meet to discuss what brought you to therapy, your short and long term goals, and co-create a path to meet those goals.
I am a certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) clinician who provides DBT-informed care to help those who feel out of control in their life develop skills to better able to understand their emotions and regulate their reactions.
I specialize in helping adolescents, young adults and adults with trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, suicidal ideation, self-harm or relationship issues. I am a Certified Family Trauma Professional and I have worked extensively with college students and young adults. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to feel heard and create change for themselves. People enter therapy in all different places of readiness. We will meet to discuss what brought you to therapy, your short and long term goals, and co-create a path to meet those goals.
(516) 814-9620 View (516) 814-9620
Photo of Loretta Avallone-Goerke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Loretta Avallone-Goerke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Loretta M. Avallone-Goerke, LCSW-R is a licensed, clinical, social worker in the State of NY who enjoys providing client's the opportunity to address their mental health concerns in a safe, compassionate, non judgmental environment using up to date, effective techniques such as DBT and CBT to promote healing and growth.
Loretta M. Avallone-Goerke, LCSW-R is a licensed, clinical, social worker in the State of NY who enjoys providing client's the opportunity to address their mental health concerns in a safe, compassionate, non judgmental environment using up to date, effective techniques such as DBT and CBT to promote healing and growth.
(631) 614-6218 View (631) 614-6218
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.