Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH

Photo of Emily Getschman, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Getschman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in several evidence based treatments including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Work Board. I have over 10+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and families in a variety of settings (including the school setting and psychiatric hospital setting). I work with children and adolescents ages 10-21 and treat a range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, parenting challenges, school concerns and mood disorders. Whatever the presenting problem, I place a strong emphasis on family focused treatment and use a collaborative approach to every client.
I am trained in several evidence based treatments including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Work Board. I have over 10+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and families in a variety of settings (including the school setting and psychiatric hospital setting). I work with children and adolescents ages 10-21 and treat a range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, parenting challenges, school concerns and mood disorders. Whatever the presenting problem, I place a strong emphasis on family focused treatment and use a collaborative approach to every client.
(614) 858-8395 View (614) 858-8395
Photo of Nicole Summers, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
“Changing the memories that form the way we see ourselves also changes the way we view others”. I appreciate building an alliance in therapy to create a safe space a client can use to process thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I use a cognitive behavioral approach, or IFS, to help clients find emotional freedom and produce change. I also have training in DBT for emotional regulation and anxiety, and EMDR to treat trauma and emotional distress. A hope I have for clients is to train the brain to live in the "gray" or to walk the middle path. I aim to help clients decrease emotional suffering that living in extremes can cause.
“Changing the memories that form the way we see ourselves also changes the way we view others”. I appreciate building an alliance in therapy to create a safe space a client can use to process thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I use a cognitive behavioral approach, or IFS, to help clients find emotional freedom and produce change. I also have training in DBT for emotional regulation and anxiety, and EMDR to treat trauma and emotional distress. A hope I have for clients is to train the brain to live in the "gray" or to walk the middle path. I aim to help clients decrease emotional suffering that living in extremes can cause.
(800) 570-1509 View (800) 570-1509
Photo of Angie Willeford, LPCC, MA, LPCC-S, Counselor
Angie Willeford
Counselor, LPCC, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43214
The approaches I use in treatment are a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and mindfulness.
My primary goal is to help you feel comfortable, secure and heard. After the first session my clients will feel hopeful that their goals, for a more satisfying life, are obtainable. I approach my clients with unconditional positive regard, that translates for me as seeing the utmost value in every single one of my clients. I am honored to be a part of your healing journey. I am devoted to finding the best way to support your emotional healing. I encourage my clients to apply the skills learned in therapy, and do periodic check-ins to gauge progress in reaching their goals. I'm located in Polaris near Polaris mall.
The approaches I use in treatment are a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and mindfulness.
My primary goal is to help you feel comfortable, secure and heard. After the first session my clients will feel hopeful that their goals, for a more satisfying life, are obtainable. I approach my clients with unconditional positive regard, that translates for me as seeing the utmost value in every single one of my clients. I am honored to be a part of your healing journey. I am devoted to finding the best way to support your emotional healing. I encourage my clients to apply the skills learned in therapy, and do periodic check-ins to gauge progress in reaching their goals. I'm located in Polaris near Polaris mall.
(740) 570-4915 View (740) 570-4915
Photo of Chris Palcsak, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Palcsak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
I offer person-centered therapy rooted in evidenced-based treatments, blending elements of acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a diverse background that enriches my approach to therapy. My academic journey included studies in hospitality, Spanish, and geography, culminating in a master’s degree in social work from Ohio University in 2018. I have worked with adults and older teenagers from various backgrounds, with a focus on serving the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV. In community mental health and private practice settings, I have supported clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, & interpersonal issues.
I offer person-centered therapy rooted in evidenced-based treatments, blending elements of acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a diverse background that enriches my approach to therapy. My academic journey included studies in hospitality, Spanish, and geography, culminating in a master’s degree in social work from Ohio University in 2018. I have worked with adults and older teenagers from various backgrounds, with a focus on serving the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV. In community mental health and private practice settings, I have supported clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, & interpersonal issues.
(614) 820-8576 View (614) 820-8576
Photo of LAURA B Donnelly - Laura Donnelly Counseling, LLC, MA, LPCC-S
Laura Donnelly Counseling, LLC
MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I am well versed in treating anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, trauma, attachment issues, ADHD, personality quirks, and much more. I approach each client in a unique manner, meeting them where they are at and taking time to build a therapeutic relationship. I use evidenced based treatment strategies inclusive of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused, Choice Theory, and more including trauma informed methods. I attempt to incorporate the client’s hobbies and interests into treatment and offer a hopeful, optimistic, client centered approach.
I am well versed in treating anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, trauma, attachment issues, ADHD, personality quirks, and much more. I approach each client in a unique manner, meeting them where they are at and taking time to build a therapeutic relationship. I use evidenced based treatment strategies inclusive of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused, Choice Theory, and more including trauma informed methods. I attempt to incorporate the client’s hobbies and interests into treatment and offer a hopeful, optimistic, client centered approach.
(614) 943-8848 View (614) 943-8848
Photo of Abigail Hall, MSEd, LPCC
Abigail Hall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
My clinical approach is client-centered primarily using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy modalities.
I enjoy working with adults and adolescents from diverse backgrounds. I have a background in school counseling with years of experience working with older children and adolescents. I currently work with clients of any age who are looking for help to improve their mental and emotional wellness. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment.
My clinical approach is client-centered primarily using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy modalities.
I enjoy working with adults and adolescents from diverse backgrounds. I have a background in school counseling with years of experience working with older children and adolescents. I currently work with clients of any age who are looking for help to improve their mental and emotional wellness. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment.
(380) 204-9111 View (380) 204-9111
Photo of Jaida Green, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaida Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
My preferred therapeutic approaches include the use of Enhanced Cognitive Behavior Therapy for eating disorders (CBT-E), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing with elements of Mindfulness and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
I have immediate availability and look forward to meeting you! I work closely with individuals struggling to maintain behaviors specifically tied to disordered eating habits, as well as frequent comorbidities such as trauma, depression, and anxiety.
My preferred therapeutic approaches include the use of Enhanced Cognitive Behavior Therapy for eating disorders (CBT-E), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing with elements of Mindfulness and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
I have immediate availability and look forward to meeting you! I work closely with individuals struggling to maintain behaviors specifically tied to disordered eating habits, as well as frequent comorbidities such as trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(614) 502-6123 View (614) 502-6123
Photo of Sophie Hans, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
(380) 333-4284 View (380) 333-4284
Photo of Madison Piehl, PhD, Psychologist
Madison Piehl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I received intensive training in comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) through Behavioral Tech and specialized in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with emotion dysregulation, trauma, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
I work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to treat a wide range of eating-related concerns, as well as anxiety, depression, and associated conditions. I also provide Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for adults seeking trauma therapy, and I provide couples therapy using Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT).
I received intensive training in comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) through Behavioral Tech and specialized in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with emotion dysregulation, trauma, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
I work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to treat a wide range of eating-related concerns, as well as anxiety, depression, and associated conditions. I also provide Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for adults seeking trauma therapy, and I provide couples therapy using Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT).
(614) 532-2576 View (614) 532-2576
Photo of Jennifer Barney, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Barney
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I currently work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) frameworks to treat eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and co-morbid mental health concerns.
I currently work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) frameworks to treat eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and co-morbid mental health concerns.
(614) 714-5842 View (614) 714-5842
Photo of Lyndsey Pruett, LPCC-S, Counselor
Lyndsey Pruett
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I use evidence-based approaches (CBT and DBT-informed) to help those who struggle with behavioral health concerns.
I work primarily with young adults and adults who struggle with eating disorders of all types, but I also have extensive training to treat and support the often co-occurring disorders that can accompany eating disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and past trauma. My clinical work and years of experience have shaped my therapeutic practice in a way that attends to the entire continuum of my patient’s care. From the initial meeting, to the celebration that successful termination brings, I work hard to foster trust and learning as we navigate eating disorder recovery together.
I use evidence-based approaches (CBT and DBT-informed) to help those who struggle with behavioral health concerns.
I work primarily with young adults and adults who struggle with eating disorders of all types, but I also have extensive training to treat and support the often co-occurring disorders that can accompany eating disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and past trauma. My clinical work and years of experience have shaped my therapeutic practice in a way that attends to the entire continuum of my patient’s care. From the initial meeting, to the celebration that successful termination brings, I work hard to foster trust and learning as we navigate eating disorder recovery together.
(614) 762-9407 View (614) 762-9407
Photo of Mark A Stover, MSEd, LPCC-S
Mark A Stover
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I have extensive clinical experience working with individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have practiced in various settings, including private practice, community settings, Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP) programs, as well as psychiatric inpatient hospitals. My therapeutic approach is centered around the needs of my clients and is based on evidence-based modalities such as solution-focused therapy (SFBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), & trauma-informed therapy (TF-CBT, Narrative, & EMDR).
I have extensive clinical experience working with individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have practiced in various settings, including private practice, community settings, Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP) programs, as well as psychiatric inpatient hospitals. My therapeutic approach is centered around the needs of my clients and is based on evidence-based modalities such as solution-focused therapy (SFBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), & trauma-informed therapy (TF-CBT, Narrative, & EMDR).
(614) 389-9887 View (614) 389-9887
Photo of Sarah E Altman, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah E Altman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I use evidence-based approaches (CBT and DBT) to help those who struggle with behavioral health concerns.
Extremes in our emotional and psychological states can lead to imbalance, avoidance and mindlessness, and can be related to extremes in other areas of our health, such as eating, activity, and sleep. Eating too much or not fueling our bodies enough, stress or emotional eating-these are ways we cope with or respond to extremes in our thoughts and emotions, and distracts and disonnects us from our life values and goals. I am here to help you reestablish your values and goals by focusing on a more balanced perspective and awareness of your mind, body and behaviors.
I use evidence-based approaches (CBT and DBT) to help those who struggle with behavioral health concerns.
Extremes in our emotional and psychological states can lead to imbalance, avoidance and mindlessness, and can be related to extremes in other areas of our health, such as eating, activity, and sleep. Eating too much or not fueling our bodies enough, stress or emotional eating-these are ways we cope with or respond to extremes in our thoughts and emotions, and distracts and disonnects us from our life values and goals. I am here to help you reestablish your values and goals by focusing on a more balanced perspective and awareness of your mind, body and behaviors.
(614) 350-3540 View (614) 350-3540
Photo of Theresa McClurg-Genevese, LPCC-S, Counselor
Theresa McClurg-Genevese
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I am dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment (CBT and DBT) for all types of eating disorders and specialize in working with those who struggle with Binge Eating Disorder and body image concerns.
No matter what our body size, we can find ourselves out of balance with our eating, thoughts, and emotions when we are desperately trying to stay afloat with the demands of life, family, work, and other obligations. Instead of acknowledging what we do well, we may focus on our shortcomings and criticize our abilities and bodies. A vicious cycle of trying to control our weight and eating can lead to further criticism, guilt and disappoinment. At Eating & Behavioral Health Associates, I work with adults of all sizes and body types to find compassion and ease in their life by bringing balance into their thinking, eating and behaviors.
I am dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment (CBT and DBT) for all types of eating disorders and specialize in working with those who struggle with Binge Eating Disorder and body image concerns.
No matter what our body size, we can find ourselves out of balance with our eating, thoughts, and emotions when we are desperately trying to stay afloat with the demands of life, family, work, and other obligations. Instead of acknowledging what we do well, we may focus on our shortcomings and criticize our abilities and bodies. A vicious cycle of trying to control our weight and eating can lead to further criticism, guilt and disappoinment. At Eating & Behavioral Health Associates, I work with adults of all sizes and body types to find compassion and ease in their life by bringing balance into their thinking, eating and behaviors.
(614) 681-8453 View (614) 681-8453
Photo of Diana Cofsky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(380) 333-5421 View (380) 333-5421
Photo of Elizabeth Kakungulu, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Kakungulu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I believe that every client is unique and therefore use a variety of therapeutic techniques and modalities including but not limited to person centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, parts work (IFS), solution focused therapy, play based therapy, EMDR and trauma informed therapy.
Welcome! I am now offering EMDR Intensives! I am a licensed clinical social worker with several years of experience working with diverse populations and clientele. I am passionate about working with children, teens and female identifying adults ages 5-50 struggling to cope with PTSD, anxiety, depression, phase of life adjustments and transitions, self esteem and self confidence issues, self sabotaging behaviors and emotion regulation difficulties.
I believe that every client is unique and therefore use a variety of therapeutic techniques and modalities including but not limited to person centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, parts work (IFS), solution focused therapy, play based therapy, EMDR and trauma informed therapy.
Welcome! I am now offering EMDR Intensives! I am a licensed clinical social worker with several years of experience working with diverse populations and clientele. I am passionate about working with children, teens and female identifying adults ages 5-50 struggling to cope with PTSD, anxiety, depression, phase of life adjustments and transitions, self esteem and self confidence issues, self sabotaging behaviors and emotion regulation difficulties.
(380) 208-0988 View (380) 208-0988
Photo of Andrea Alpers Sikon, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Alpers Sikon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Hakomi Mindfulness-Centered Somatic Psychotherapy.
I am a psychotherapist who is accepting new clients at my private practice in German Village. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples. My approach to therapy is genuine, authentic, and collaborative. Many of the clients I work with struggle with attachment related issues, are having difficulty navigating dating relationships, or are feeling unsatisfied or disconnected in their current relationships. I am trained in a variety of evidence based therapies and will use my knowledge and expertise, as well as compassion and warmth, to help you create the type of relationships that you desire.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Hakomi Mindfulness-Centered Somatic Psychotherapy.
I am a psychotherapist who is accepting new clients at my private practice in German Village. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples. My approach to therapy is genuine, authentic, and collaborative. Many of the clients I work with struggle with attachment related issues, are having difficulty navigating dating relationships, or are feeling unsatisfied or disconnected in their current relationships. I am trained in a variety of evidence based therapies and will use my knowledge and expertise, as well as compassion and warmth, to help you create the type of relationships that you desire.
(614) 682-7036 View (614) 682-7036
Photo of Andrew L Woody, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew L Woody
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
There are issues in your life, and you feel stuck. You want a better life. Better based on what? RE-define, Re-Think, Re-Phrase, and Re-Define your Better!
There are issues in your life, and you feel stuck. You want a better life. Better based on what? RE-define, Re-Think, Re-Phrase, and Re-Define your Better!
(614) 412-0424 View (614) 412-0424
Photo of Gwen Verhoff, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gwen Verhoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, and hopeless? You are not alone and don’t have to navigate these challenges by yourself. We all need help at some point in our lives. I believe that you have within you the capacity to heal, grow, and find peace within your life. My role is to walk alongside you, in a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to help you uncover who you truly are underneath the pain. Individuals see me for a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, and life transitions.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, and hopeless? You are not alone and don’t have to navigate these challenges by yourself. We all need help at some point in our lives. I believe that you have within you the capacity to heal, grow, and find peace within your life. My role is to walk alongside you, in a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to help you uncover who you truly are underneath the pain. Individuals see me for a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, and life transitions.
(614) 858-8853 x814 View (614) 858-8853 x814
Photo of Tracy Wheeler, MSW, LISW-S, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Northwest Columbus, Columbus, OH 43220
I assist clients who struggle with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression and want to bring about change in their lives. I help clients who want to find a balance and stability within themselves to learn and reconnect to a more desired life.
I assist clients who struggle with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression and want to bring about change in their lives. I help clients who want to find a balance and stability within themselves to learn and reconnect to a more desired life.
(380) 600-8722 View (380) 600-8722
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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.