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

Photo of Tiffany D Hayes, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany D Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
Waitlist for new clients
I consider myself an eclectic therapist who uses a multitude of therapies to create the best fit for each client. Including but not limited to EMDR, IFS informed EMDR, DBT, CBT, solution focused and somatic therapy. I am trauma focused and I believe that no trauma is too small. My goal is to help each of my clients work through their traumas, embrace their strengths and become an empowered and confident person. I do have a therapy dog in training named Mollie.
I consider myself an eclectic therapist who uses a multitude of therapies to create the best fit for each client. Including but not limited to EMDR, IFS informed EMDR, DBT, CBT, solution focused and somatic therapy. I am trauma focused and I believe that no trauma is too small. My goal is to help each of my clients work through their traumas, embrace their strengths and become an empowered and confident person. I do have a therapy dog in training named Mollie.
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Photo of Kimberly Christine Johnson-Smith - KJS Counseling & Consultation , MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
KJS Counseling & Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
I was trained psychodynamically and draw from this approach as well as integrate ego state / parts work, somatic integration, mindfulness, CBT & DBT therapy.
Welcome, I hope this finds you well. Therapy is a journey I join my clients in & I look forward to working with you to reach whatever goals you have for yourself. I approach therapy from a collaborative, strengths based perspective. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD which includes complex trauma, traumatic loss, single incident trauma, and dissociative disorders in adults. I also treat depression, anxiety, social anxiety, complicated grief and the unavoidable issues that arise from living life.
I was trained psychodynamically and draw from this approach as well as integrate ego state / parts work, somatic integration, mindfulness, CBT & DBT therapy.
Welcome, I hope this finds you well. Therapy is a journey I join my clients in & I look forward to working with you to reach whatever goals you have for yourself. I approach therapy from a collaborative, strengths based perspective. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD which includes complex trauma, traumatic loss, single incident trauma, and dissociative disorders in adults. I also treat depression, anxiety, social anxiety, complicated grief and the unavoidable issues that arise from living life.
(740) 498-2436 View (740) 498-2436
Photo of S. Lee Tepper, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
S. Lee Tepper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
I use a combination of approaches including Gender Affirming Care, CBT, EMDR, DBT techniques, Strength’s Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Working collaboratively with clients and using a person-centered approach to therapy is central to the care I provide to all clients. I have robust experience and enjoy working with individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, experience substance use addiction, poly/kink populations, young adults, and those who experience depression, anxiety, and (C)PTSD. As my client, you can expect a confidential, collaborative, and healthy working relationship to best meet your unique goals.
I use a combination of approaches including Gender Affirming Care, CBT, EMDR, DBT techniques, Strength’s Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Working collaboratively with clients and using a person-centered approach to therapy is central to the care I provide to all clients. I have robust experience and enjoy working with individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, experience substance use addiction, poly/kink populations, young adults, and those who experience depression, anxiety, and (C)PTSD. As my client, you can expect a confidential, collaborative, and healthy working relationship to best meet your unique goals.
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Photo of Alexandra Gilbert, LISW-S, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
I use evidence-based treatments of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) including Trauma-Focused (TF-CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Therapy can be a comfortable place to unpack life’s “uncomfortable” moments. I believe therapy is collaborative and that a relaxed, honest and, at times humorous, communication style is important to creating an authentic environment. Personal growth best happens in a compassionate and supportive atmosphere. I am a licensed independent social worker who specializes in treating children, adults and families who seek a greater understanding of how their behaviors and emotions are connected to their life experiences. I can help you discover how your own natural strengths can be used to foster resilience and independence.
I use evidence-based treatments of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) including Trauma-Focused (TF-CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Therapy can be a comfortable place to unpack life’s “uncomfortable” moments. I believe therapy is collaborative and that a relaxed, honest and, at times humorous, communication style is important to creating an authentic environment. Personal growth best happens in a compassionate and supportive atmosphere. I am a licensed independent social worker who specializes in treating children, adults and families who seek a greater understanding of how their behaviors and emotions are connected to their life experiences. I can help you discover how your own natural strengths can be used to foster resilience and independence.
(740) 273-8307 View (740) 273-8307
Photo of Keera Wilmoth, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keera Wilmoth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
Hey there, I'm Keera! I use a person-centered approach to create a laid-back environment. Therapy should be both fun and challenging. I believe that the opportunity to learn about and alongside clients is an incredible privilege, and I admire the decision to begin any healing journey. I work with clients with anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, depression, stress, and life transitions.
Hey there, I'm Keera! I use a person-centered approach to create a laid-back environment. Therapy should be both fun and challenging. I believe that the opportunity to learn about and alongside clients is an incredible privilege, and I admire the decision to begin any healing journey. I work with clients with anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, depression, stress, and life transitions.
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Photo of Ann Naumoff, LPCC, ATR, SEP
Ann Naumoff
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, ATR, SEP
Verified Verified
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
I want you to come in, feel comfortable and feel like you can talk about what's happening in your life. My job is to create an open environment to give you the opportunity to work through anything that may be heavy on your mind. As we talk we can pull out what's happening and help you find the right solution to give you peace in your world. Come and experience a safe, judgement free, confidential space that is created for your particular needs. Grab a cup of coffee and let's spend some time just for you.
I want you to come in, feel comfortable and feel like you can talk about what's happening in your life. My job is to create an open environment to give you the opportunity to work through anything that may be heavy on your mind. As we talk we can pull out what's happening and help you find the right solution to give you peace in your world. Come and experience a safe, judgement free, confidential space that is created for your particular needs. Grab a cup of coffee and let's spend some time just for you.
(614) 450-1524 View (614) 450-1524
Photo of Olivia Shagla, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olivia Shagla
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
Does life have you feeling isolated, lost, or stuck? Do you have panic attacks or flashbacks? Are you suffering from the effects of trauma? Do you often feel anxious, and for no reason? Do you have unhealed wounds from your past or thoughts that feel negative or even scary? Have your relationships suffered because of these symptoms? If so, we will explore and work through life's issues together.
Does life have you feeling isolated, lost, or stuck? Do you have panic attacks or flashbacks? Are you suffering from the effects of trauma? Do you often feel anxious, and for no reason? Do you have unhealed wounds from your past or thoughts that feel negative or even scary? Have your relationships suffered because of these symptoms? If so, we will explore and work through life's issues together.
(740) 224-2097 View (740) 224-2097
Photo of Sarah L Sparhawk, MSEd, LPCC, Counselor
Sarah L Sparhawk
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
In addition to working on social skills and behavior management with clients and their families, Sarah has extensive experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art therapy and play therapy to help children who've been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder. Empowering children to navigate the every day stressors that accompany mental health issues is Sarah's priority.
In addition to working on social skills and behavior management with clients and their families, Sarah has extensive experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art therapy and play therapy to help children who've been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder. Empowering children to navigate the every day stressors that accompany mental health issues is Sarah's priority.
(614) 412-9798 View (614) 412-9798
Photo of Kathleen Cruse-Grasser, MS, LPCC-S, Counselor
Kathleen Cruse-Grasser
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
Navigating childhood and adolescence can be hard enough for an individual, but it's also tough on parents. There are no manuals that come with being a parent. When one person in the family is struggling, the entire family system struggles. I work with children, teens, and their caregivers on finding the tools to navigate through difficult issues. I am a clinician who is experienced to help with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, school issues, behavioral challenges, suicidal ideation/self-harm, social challenges, and other mood-related concerns. I believe if the child is thriving, then the family system thrives.
Navigating childhood and adolescence can be hard enough for an individual, but it's also tough on parents. There are no manuals that come with being a parent. When one person in the family is struggling, the entire family system struggles. I work with children, teens, and their caregivers on finding the tools to navigate through difficult issues. I am a clinician who is experienced to help with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, school issues, behavioral challenges, suicidal ideation/self-harm, social challenges, and other mood-related concerns. I believe if the child is thriving, then the family system thrives.
(740) 908-8383 View (740) 908-8383
Photo of Tanice Prince, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanice Prince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
Do you feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed? Have you experienced past trauma? Are your feelings having a negative impact on your life? I have a passion for helping people reach their personal goals and improve their mental health, including learning to apply coping skills or work through life changes. My treatment interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual assault. As a therapist, I can provide a safe and non-judgmental space, and show empathy as you process your thoughts and feelings. I'm here to listen and work with you. You deserve support.
Do you feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed? Have you experienced past trauma? Are your feelings having a negative impact on your life? I have a passion for helping people reach their personal goals and improve their mental health, including learning to apply coping skills or work through life changes. My treatment interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual assault. As a therapist, I can provide a safe and non-judgmental space, and show empathy as you process your thoughts and feelings. I'm here to listen and work with you. You deserve support.
(614) 602-5999 View (614) 602-5999
Photo of Andy Erkis, PhD, Psychologist
Andy Erkis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
Andy is an accomplished psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and their families. He is the founder of four different mental health practices each designed to serve a specific population/client at a high level. See below for information on each and feel free to reach out if you or a loved one might benefit from any of our services!
Andy is an accomplished psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and their families. He is the founder of four different mental health practices each designed to serve a specific population/client at a high level. See below for information on each and feel free to reach out if you or a loved one might benefit from any of our services!
(740) 997-1747 View (740) 997-1747
Photo of Hollie Zinn (Swain), MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hollie Zinn (Swain)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
Hi I am Hollie, a dedicated and passionate board-certified licensed social worker, who is thrilled to bring my expertise and warmth to clients. Born and raised just north of Delaware, Ohio! My journey in the mental health field is driven by a deep-seated passion for empowering individuals and families to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and strength. After earning my master's degree from The Ohio State University, I have enriched the Behavioral Health field with my dedication since 2019. My experience spans across a diverse array of settings!
Hi I am Hollie, a dedicated and passionate board-certified licensed social worker, who is thrilled to bring my expertise and warmth to clients. Born and raised just north of Delaware, Ohio! My journey in the mental health field is driven by a deep-seated passion for empowering individuals and families to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and strength. After earning my master's degree from The Ohio State University, I have enriched the Behavioral Health field with my dedication since 2019. My experience spans across a diverse array of settings!
(740) 224-2465 View (740) 224-2465
Photo of Dr. Erica Rampelberg, PhD, LPCC, LMHC, CCMHC, Counselor
Dr. Erica Rampelberg
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LMHC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
Each day we strive to know better and do better. Each day we can reflect on how things went and adapt for the next day. We get to celebrate successes and, with or without success, we get to celebrate growth. Growth can be uncomfortable and yet continuous lifelong growth is necessary to live a life of fulfillment. Sometimes we all need someone with us on our life journey of making meaning of our experiences and finding purpose and reaching goals.
Each day we strive to know better and do better. Each day we can reflect on how things went and adapt for the next day. We get to celebrate successes and, with or without success, we get to celebrate growth. Growth can be uncomfortable and yet continuous lifelong growth is necessary to live a life of fulfillment. Sometimes we all need someone with us on our life journey of making meaning of our experiences and finding purpose and reaching goals.
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Photo of Samara Sauls, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samara Sauls
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Northwoods, Columbus, OH 43235
Do you feel stuck in life, or haunted by the past? Perhaps you are dealing with a stressful life transition. I know reaching out can be hard and I don't take that lightly. When we work together, I use a compassionate lens with the goal of helping you heal, enhance and grow your strengths, and ease areas of challenge. Currently my practice areas are in working with adults struggling with: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, perfectionism, stress, relationship issues, loss/grief, life transitions, postpartum, and trauma.
Do you feel stuck in life, or haunted by the past? Perhaps you are dealing with a stressful life transition. I know reaching out can be hard and I don't take that lightly. When we work together, I use a compassionate lens with the goal of helping you heal, enhance and grow your strengths, and ease areas of challenge. Currently my practice areas are in working with adults struggling with: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, perfectionism, stress, relationship issues, loss/grief, life transitions, postpartum, and trauma.
(740) 619-2915 View (740) 619-2915

Online Therapists

Photo of Chris Palcsak, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Palcsak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
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 Sophie Hans, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
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 Daniel Amparbeng, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC, Counselor
Daniel Amparbeng
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
My approach to treatment draw from aspects of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
As we cope with the challenges in life, we might get stuck sometimes, and asking for help is a huge positive step! As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I take pride in my ability to work with clients to cope with life's stressors to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals. I utilize client-centered interpersonal relationship in which both my clients and I collaborate to develop strategies and potential solutions to cope and overcome obstacles and personal challenges. I am committed to providing a safe and conducive environment free of judgements to help my clients explore and process their issues.
My approach to treatment draw from aspects of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
As we cope with the challenges in life, we might get stuck sometimes, and asking for help is a huge positive step! As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I take pride in my ability to work with clients to cope with life's stressors to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals. I utilize client-centered interpersonal relationship in which both my clients and I collaborate to develop strategies and potential solutions to cope and overcome obstacles and personal challenges. I am committed to providing a safe and conducive environment free of judgements to help my clients explore and process their issues.
(614) 714-3793 View (614) 714-3793
Photo of Damara Ferguson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Damara Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43230  (Online Only)
My name is Damara C Ferguson, LICSW in the state of Ohio. Currently I see clients through telehealth/video sessions only. I have over 15 years of experience and I love providing therapy; I consider it a privilege to walk alongside client's as they heal, grow and learn ways to cope with life's difficulties. I work utilizing a wide range of clinical modalities such as CBT, DBT, Behavioral therapy, Trauma-informed therapy, Christian Counseling, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance Therapy to name a few.
My name is Damara C Ferguson, LICSW in the state of Ohio. Currently I see clients through telehealth/video sessions only. I have over 15 years of experience and I love providing therapy; I consider it a privilege to walk alongside client's as they heal, grow and learn ways to cope with life's difficulties. I work utilizing a wide range of clinical modalities such as CBT, DBT, Behavioral therapy, Trauma-informed therapy, Christian Counseling, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance Therapy to name a few.
(380) 225-5584 View (380) 225-5584
Photo of Erica Bass, MSEd, LPCC, Counselor
Erica Bass
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
I take an eclectic, client-focused approach to therapy and use CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment strategies, as well trauma-focused therapy such as EMDR.
I help clients learn to effectively manage life challenges and build emotional resilience through improved coping, communication and relationship skills. I am also a certified food and eating wellness coach, and can help clients address some of the nutritional underpinnings of mood issues, including anger, anxiety and depression. I work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, behavioral addiction, and disordered eating, as well those who have experienced grief, co-dependency, low self-esteem, physical/ emotional abuse and family of origin dysfunction.
I take an eclectic, client-focused approach to therapy and use CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment strategies, as well trauma-focused therapy such as EMDR.
I help clients learn to effectively manage life challenges and build emotional resilience through improved coping, communication and relationship skills. I am also a certified food and eating wellness coach, and can help clients address some of the nutritional underpinnings of mood issues, including anger, anxiety and depression. I work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, behavioral addiction, and disordered eating, as well those who have experienced grief, co-dependency, low self-esteem, physical/ emotional abuse and family of origin dysfunction.
(380) 207-1273 View (380) 207-1273
Photo of Theresa McClurg-Genevese, LPCC-S, Counselor
Theresa McClurg-Genevese
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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

See more therapy options for Northwoods, Columbus

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.