Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Long Island City, NY

Photo of Taylor Britvan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Britvan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I have received extensive training in CBT and DBT as well as instruction in the use of Motivational Interviewing, and I utilize these evidence-based practices with my clients.
It is not easy to ask for help, but if you are reading my bio, you have already taken a big step towards it. I am a therapist who believes in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment to help foster the growth that you are looking to make. There a lot of therapists out there and it may feel confusing and overwhelming while searching for the right one for you, so I’d like to provide some information about myself in order to help with your search.
I have received extensive training in CBT and DBT as well as instruction in the use of Motivational Interviewing, and I utilize these evidence-based practices with my clients.
It is not easy to ask for help, but if you are reading my bio, you have already taken a big step towards it. I am a therapist who believes in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment to help foster the growth that you are looking to make. There a lot of therapists out there and it may feel confusing and overwhelming while searching for the right one for you, so I’d like to provide some information about myself in order to help with your search.
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Photo of Gloria Choi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gloria Choi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
I integrate therapeutic modalities like dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), CBT, EMDR, Somatic experiencing and mindfulness to help my clients become more aware and better equipped to manage problems with relationships, trauma, stress and emotional dysregulation.
I am a warm and dedicated therapist interested in helping you cope with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma and acculturation issues. I am also interested in helping you adjust to a new struggle or stage of life. I have been working in mental health for 20+ years and I am down to earth and solution-focused. I will help you identify a goal and work with you step-by-step to achieve that goal.
I integrate therapeutic modalities like dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), CBT, EMDR, Somatic experiencing and mindfulness to help my clients become more aware and better equipped to manage problems with relationships, trauma, stress and emotional dysregulation.
I am a warm and dedicated therapist interested in helping you cope with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma and acculturation issues. I am also interested in helping you adjust to a new struggle or stage of life. I have been working in mental health for 20+ years and I am down to earth and solution-focused. I will help you identify a goal and work with you step-by-step to achieve that goal.
(917) 746-0593 View (917) 746-0593
Photo of Veronica Green, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11104  (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
Photo of Bianca Hormaza Pesola, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bianca Hormaza Pesola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Certifications: Seminar in Field Instruction, McSilver MFG Training, Ackerman Institute for Family Training, DBT Skills Training, and Bilingual Education Assessment (BEA).
I have over nine years of direct practice experience in the field of mental health. I am committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults achieve mental wellness and overcome challenges in their lives. I have honed my skills in providing evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral difficulties to gain awareness and autonomy. We will discuss your feelings, examine behavioral patterns, and life events that impact your current functioning and enhance your inner resources to achieve your goals.
Certifications: Seminar in Field Instruction, McSilver MFG Training, Ackerman Institute for Family Training, DBT Skills Training, and Bilingual Education Assessment (BEA).
I have over nine years of direct practice experience in the field of mental health. I am committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults achieve mental wellness and overcome challenges in their lives. I have honed my skills in providing evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral difficulties to gain awareness and autonomy. We will discuss your feelings, examine behavioral patterns, and life events that impact your current functioning and enhance your inner resources to achieve your goals.
(347) 236-3581 View (347) 236-3581
Photo of Cici Yinxi W., LMSW, ACSW, LSW
Cici Yinxi W.
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, ACSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11106
I specialize in client-centered approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), as well as trauma-informed approaches.
My name is Cici. I'm a bilingual therapist, fluent in both English and Mandarin Chinese. Clients often describe me as compassionate, approachable, and someone they can truly trust and connect with. I value each person’s unique journey and believes in the healing power of mindful, heart-centered listening. I have been helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief/loss, life transitions, past and current trauma, and chronic illness/pain. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families.
I specialize in client-centered approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), as well as trauma-informed approaches.
My name is Cici. I'm a bilingual therapist, fluent in both English and Mandarin Chinese. Clients often describe me as compassionate, approachable, and someone they can truly trust and connect with. I value each person’s unique journey and believes in the healing power of mindful, heart-centered listening. I have been helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief/loss, life transitions, past and current trauma, and chronic illness/pain. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families.
(347) 618-8523 View (347) 618-8523
Photo of Tara Loftus, MSW, LMSW
Tara Loftus
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Using therapies like CBT, DBT, and trauma-focused approaches, we'll create a path that’s uniquely yours.
Hi there! I’m so glad you’re here. Life can feel overwhelming at times, whether you’re facing past traumas, navigating big changes, or seeking deeper connections. You deserve a therapy experience that truly speaks to you. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, supportive space where we work together to strengthen your well-being, nurture relationships, and find more joy and purpose in your life—at a pace that feels right for you.
Using therapies like CBT, DBT, and trauma-focused approaches, we'll create a path that’s uniquely yours.
Hi there! I’m so glad you’re here. Life can feel overwhelming at times, whether you’re facing past traumas, navigating big changes, or seeking deeper connections. You deserve a therapy experience that truly speaks to you. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, supportive space where we work together to strengthen your well-being, nurture relationships, and find more joy and purpose in your life—at a pace that feels right for you.
(332) 529-6843 View (332) 529-6843
Photo of Isabella Rosatone, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Isabella Rosatone
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have incorporated approaches such as CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and person-centered therapy into my practice.
Addressing life's difficulties can be overwhelming, and looking for someone to talk to can be even more daunting. Taking the step to begin therapy is brave, and is one of the best ways to better understand yourself. As a therapist, my approach is empathetic, understanding, and non-judgemental. I aim to create a safe space with my clients where you can process your emotions comfortably and address any uncertainties, anxieties, and unwanted thoughts. Inside the safe space of therapy, we will work to address the things you want to- learning new coping strategies, meeting a goal, processing life changes, or discussing daily stressors.
I have incorporated approaches such as CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and person-centered therapy into my practice.
Addressing life's difficulties can be overwhelming, and looking for someone to talk to can be even more daunting. Taking the step to begin therapy is brave, and is one of the best ways to better understand yourself. As a therapist, my approach is empathetic, understanding, and non-judgemental. I aim to create a safe space with my clients where you can process your emotions comfortably and address any uncertainties, anxieties, and unwanted thoughts. Inside the safe space of therapy, we will work to address the things you want to- learning new coping strategies, meeting a goal, processing life changes, or discussing daily stressors.
(718) 550-7784 View (718) 550-7784
Photo of Eryka Sajek, PsyD, Psychologist
Eryka Sajek
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11103  (Online Only)
I will help you move past the things that have happened to you with EMDR, a trauma-based therapy, and build the skills to achieve your goals through DBT and CBT.
Welcome to a space where your journey to greater meaning and connection begins. Life's transitions can feel daunting, yet they offer profound opportunities for growth and self-discovery. At the heart of my practice is a deep commitment to helping individuals like you explore and embrace these transformative moments. With a foundation in evidence-based therapies such as DBT, CBT, and EMDR, we'll explore your goals, unpack the barriers holding you back, and unearth the strengths that will propel you forward. I strive to bring warmth and approachability into our work together, creating a space where all identities are celebrated.
I will help you move past the things that have happened to you with EMDR, a trauma-based therapy, and build the skills to achieve your goals through DBT and CBT.
Welcome to a space where your journey to greater meaning and connection begins. Life's transitions can feel daunting, yet they offer profound opportunities for growth and self-discovery. At the heart of my practice is a deep commitment to helping individuals like you explore and embrace these transformative moments. With a foundation in evidence-based therapies such as DBT, CBT, and EMDR, we'll explore your goals, unpack the barriers holding you back, and unearth the strengths that will propel you forward. I strive to bring warmth and approachability into our work together, creating a space where all identities are celebrated.
(929) 641-0062 View (929) 641-0062
Photo of Victoria Lebron, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Lebron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11102  (Online Only)
I utilize various techniques in treatment, including EMDR, TF-CBT, and DBT in both English and Spanish.
Hello! I know those initial steps toward seeking therapy can feel overwhelming and you should feel proud of yourself for being here. I work with a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents, and adults, presenting with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I prioritize a trauma-informed approach and the utilization of mindfulness practices in order to support the mind and body in re-defining and re-establishing safety. My clients often come to me with valid stressors, worries, and fears; I balance the challenges with a strengths-based perspective, because we often don't know just how resilient we are.
I utilize various techniques in treatment, including EMDR, TF-CBT, and DBT in both English and Spanish.
Hello! I know those initial steps toward seeking therapy can feel overwhelming and you should feel proud of yourself for being here. I work with a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents, and adults, presenting with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I prioritize a trauma-informed approach and the utilization of mindfulness practices in order to support the mind and body in re-defining and re-establishing safety. My clients often come to me with valid stressors, worries, and fears; I balance the challenges with a strengths-based perspective, because we often don't know just how resilient we are.
(914) 350-5282 View (914) 350-5282
Photo of Jessica Hazard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Hazard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a caring, eclectic, and nonjudgmental therapist who specializes in working with adolescents, ages 12-24. I come from a place of empowerment and am trained in CBT, DBT, talk therapy, motivational interviewing, and superhero therapy. I am also in the process of getting certified in TF-CBT. I start where the person I am working with is and get to know them! I try different things with clients and see what they like and don't like, and we go from there. I don't believe therapy is one-size-fits-all. I love helping young people work toward their goals and feel better about themselves!
I am a caring, eclectic, and nonjudgmental therapist who specializes in working with adolescents, ages 12-24. I come from a place of empowerment and am trained in CBT, DBT, talk therapy, motivational interviewing, and superhero therapy. I am also in the process of getting certified in TF-CBT. I start where the person I am working with is and get to know them! I try different things with clients and see what they like and don't like, and we go from there. I don't believe therapy is one-size-fits-all. I love helping young people work toward their goals and feel better about themselves!
(347) 586-0529 View (347) 586-0529
Photo of Sarvin Azizgolshani, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Sarvin Azizgolshani
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Long Island City, 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 Shayne Snyder, MHC-LP
Shayne Snyder
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
Shayne's approach is an eclectic application of Dialectical Behavior Therapy with influences from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Feminist Theory, and Positive Psychology. She believes clients are the experts on their lives and strives to provide an empathetic environment to process life’s difficult moments. Her personable and enthusiastic nature creates a solid therapeutic alliance. The safe space is built with the rapport developed to make positive change.
Shayne's approach is an eclectic application of Dialectical Behavior Therapy with influences from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Feminist Theory, and Positive Psychology. She believes clients are the experts on their lives and strives to provide an empathetic environment to process life’s difficult moments. Her personable and enthusiastic nature creates a solid therapeutic alliance. The safe space is built with the rapport developed to make positive change.
(929) 470-1452 View (929) 470-1452
Photo of Dr. Courtney Deleasa, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Courtney Deleasa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11109  (Online Only)
I completed comprehensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, a mindfulness-based CBT treatment, training in Behavioral Activation, and certification in Parent Management Training from Yale Parenting Center.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Perfectionism, and Anxiety Disorders. I have expertise in and passion for treating Purely Obsessional subtypes of OCD. I received extensive training from an internationally-renowned expert on Pure-O and OCD and gained significant experience using Exposure & Response Prevention to treat OCD, anxiety, and Pure-O in both national and international populations. I work with clients to build creative, individualized treatment plans that incorporate research-based methods, and take into account a client’s unique needs, circumstances, culture, & values.
I completed comprehensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, a mindfulness-based CBT treatment, training in Behavioral Activation, and certification in Parent Management Training from Yale Parenting Center.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Perfectionism, and Anxiety Disorders. I have expertise in and passion for treating Purely Obsessional subtypes of OCD. I received extensive training from an internationally-renowned expert on Pure-O and OCD and gained significant experience using Exposure & Response Prevention to treat OCD, anxiety, and Pure-O in both national and international populations. I work with clients to build creative, individualized treatment plans that incorporate research-based methods, and take into account a client’s unique needs, circumstances, culture, & values.
(332) 239-2491 View (332) 239-2491
Photo of Stephanie Spielberger, PhD, Counselor
Stephanie Spielberger
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
Dr. Stephanie Spielberger is a Licensed Psychologist who specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults as well as conducting psychological and educational assessments. She takes a warm, collaborative, non-judgmental, and individualized approach that incorporates empirical research and evidence-based practice. Dr. Spielberger's therapeutic orientation is primarily Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral (CBT and DBT), as well as solution-focused and insight-oriented.
Dr. Stephanie Spielberger is a Licensed Psychologist who specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults as well as conducting psychological and educational assessments. She takes a warm, collaborative, non-judgmental, and individualized approach that incorporates empirical research and evidence-based practice. Dr. Spielberger's therapeutic orientation is primarily Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral (CBT and DBT), as well as solution-focused and insight-oriented.
(646) 502-7457 View (646) 502-7457
Photo of Neal Santacruz, LCSW, r, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neal Santacruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, r
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101
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 Erica K Rosenthal, PhD, Psychologist
Erica K Rosenthal
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
As a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in New York City with many years of clinical training and experience, I conduct psychotherapy with adults and adolescents who are looking to make significant and lasting changes in their lives. I work from a psychodynamic foundation and utilize CBT and DBT techniques to target symptoms and improve overall well-being.
As a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in New York City with many years of clinical training and experience, I conduct psychotherapy with adults and adolescents who are looking to make significant and lasting changes in their lives. I work from a psychodynamic foundation and utilize CBT and DBT techniques to target symptoms and improve overall well-being.
(347) 482-0745 View (347) 482-0745
Photo of David Martin, PhD, Psychologist
David Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in empirically supported treatment including IFS, EMDR, DBT and Emotion Focused Therapy.
Accepting Teletherapy Appointments Only. I work collaboratively with my clients, empowering them to find balance, wholeness, and greater happiness in life. My broad experience both in a variety of psychological treatment modalities (Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy), as well as in working with a wide range of clients, enables me to provide therapy that is both deeply compassionate and well-rooted in psychological science. I’m here to help you create stronger, more fulfilling relationships, make peace with yourself, and start living a life of fulfillment and connection.
I have specialized training in empirically supported treatment including IFS, EMDR, DBT and Emotion Focused Therapy.
Accepting Teletherapy Appointments Only. I work collaboratively with my clients, empowering them to find balance, wholeness, and greater happiness in life. My broad experience both in a variety of psychological treatment modalities (Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy), as well as in working with a wide range of clients, enables me to provide therapy that is both deeply compassionate and well-rooted in psychological science. I’m here to help you create stronger, more fulfilling relationships, make peace with yourself, and start living a life of fulfillment and connection.
(516) 715-3461 View (516) 715-3461
Photo of Dr. Vivi Wei-Chun Hua, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Vivi Wei-Chun Hua
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
My treatment grounds in psychodynamic theory and incorporates modalities including CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and non-violent communication, to help you confidently navigate stressors in life.
Do you feel like you've achieved some success in your education or career yet still find yourself struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, romantic relationships, family conflicts, cultural identity, or wanting to connect with your innermost desire? These things can often make people feel lost or unfulfilled. I'm dedicated to providing quality services to each client and helping them effectively resolve their problems, so they can build a meaningful and fulfilling life.
My treatment grounds in psychodynamic theory and incorporates modalities including CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and non-violent communication, to help you confidently navigate stressors in life.
Do you feel like you've achieved some success in your education or career yet still find yourself struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, romantic relationships, family conflicts, cultural identity, or wanting to connect with your innermost desire? These things can often make people feel lost or unfulfilled. I'm dedicated to providing quality services to each client and helping them effectively resolve their problems, so they can build a meaningful and fulfilling life.
(347) 308-6340 View (347) 308-6340
Photo of Marleah Noonan - Marleah Noonan - Expansive Therapy, LMHC
Marleah Noonan - Expansive Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LMHC
Not Verified Not Verified
Long Island City, NY 11103  (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.
(415) 949-6604 View (415) 949-6604
Photo of Kai Lin Fu, PsyD, Psychologist
Kai Lin Fu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
I am here to support you through your stressors and distress around your life experiences. I provide care for various forms of trauma, in particular complex intergenerational and racial wounds and their somatic impacts. Depression, anxiety and family conflict concerns are a few other areas I also specialize in. I integrate psychodynamic interpersonal theory, DBT and CBT techniques in your care.
I am here to support you through your stressors and distress around your life experiences. I provide care for various forms of trauma, in particular complex intergenerational and racial wounds and their somatic impacts. Depression, anxiety and family conflict concerns are a few other areas I also specialize in. I integrate psychodynamic interpersonal theory, DBT and CBT techniques in your care.
(347) 427-5698 View (347) 427-5698
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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.