Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Dayton, OH

Photo of Dr. Bridget Jones, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Bridget Jones
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45429
I use an integrative approach using CBT, ACT, and DBT.
I'm happy you are here. I work with women and new parents who are struggling with the transition to pregnancy or parenting and want to feel more enjoyment and confidence in their new identity and relationships. I know it can be intimidating to consider therapy. You may be pregnant or newly postpartum, grappling with the physical, emotional, and environmental changes that come with such a transition. You may be a tired or stressed out parent, trying to “have it all” but always falling behind the endless to-dos. I understand the difficulties that come with expanding your family. We can work together to improve your wellbeing.
I use an integrative approach using CBT, ACT, and DBT.
I'm happy you are here. I work with women and new parents who are struggling with the transition to pregnancy or parenting and want to feel more enjoyment and confidence in their new identity and relationships. I know it can be intimidating to consider therapy. You may be pregnant or newly postpartum, grappling with the physical, emotional, and environmental changes that come with such a transition. You may be a tired or stressed out parent, trying to “have it all” but always falling behind the endless to-dos. I understand the difficulties that come with expanding your family. We can work together to improve your wellbeing.
(937) 930-4329 View (937) 930-4329
James Sean Okolica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45429  (Online Only)
Some techniques I use include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
Courage isn’t the absence of fear. It’s being afraid and doing it anyway because it needs doing. Thank you for having the courage to do the work. Psychotherapists generally see you one hour per week. You are the one doing the work for the other 167 hours. You are the expert on your life. Psychotherapists may know a few skills you don’t. Psychotherapy is about working collaboratively to help with the problems you want to address. Common, normal issues include anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship skills, or facing past trauma.
Some techniques I use include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
Courage isn’t the absence of fear. It’s being afraid and doing it anyway because it needs doing. Thank you for having the courage to do the work. Psychotherapists generally see you one hour per week. You are the one doing the work for the other 167 hours. You are the expert on your life. Psychotherapists may know a few skills you don’t. Psychotherapy is about working collaboratively to help with the problems you want to address. Common, normal issues include anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship skills, or facing past trauma.
(937) 787-6112 View (937) 787-6112
Photo of Rebecca Ingram, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Ingram
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45459
Not accepting new clients
In session I use a multimodal approach pulling interventions from several therapeutical approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, and Existential.
I believe that everyone needs a safe place to talk through events and challenges in life. Using a strengths-based approach, I work with clients to identify goals and develop strategies to achieve those goals. I have significant experience working with children and teens, however, I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, adults and couples.
In session I use a multimodal approach pulling interventions from several therapeutical approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, and Existential.
I believe that everyone needs a safe place to talk through events and challenges in life. Using a strengths-based approach, I work with clients to identify goals and develop strategies to achieve those goals. I have significant experience working with children and teens, however, I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, adults and couples.
(937) 892-4519 View (937) 892-4519
Photo of Marisa M Badgley, MS, LPCC-S, LICDC, Counselor
Marisa M Badgley
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45429
Not accepting new clients
I have special training and experience in the following areas: Addictions, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Mindful Self Compassion.
It is my belief there is no crisis or concern too insurmountable or insignificant where the presence of a supportive therapeutic relationship cannot be beneficial. Seeking counseling is the first step on the path toward gaining insight, meaning and healing. I support clients in understanding and shifting emotions, thoughts and behaviors that may be causing suffering and impairing healthy functioning. I am humbled to walk alongside you on your path to healing. I counsel adults who have struggles with relationships, depression, anxiety, alcohol or drugs, communication, life transitions, family dynamics, anger, stress, and trauma.
I have special training and experience in the following areas: Addictions, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Mindful Self Compassion.
It is my belief there is no crisis or concern too insurmountable or insignificant where the presence of a supportive therapeutic relationship cannot be beneficial. Seeking counseling is the first step on the path toward gaining insight, meaning and healing. I support clients in understanding and shifting emotions, thoughts and behaviors that may be causing suffering and impairing healthy functioning. I am humbled to walk alongside you on your path to healing. I counsel adults who have struggles with relationships, depression, anxiety, alcohol or drugs, communication, life transitions, family dynamics, anger, stress, and trauma.
(937) 639-1308 View (937) 639-1308
Photo of Lauren Stone, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45459
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist who relies heavily on empathy, acceptance and understanding, along with framework from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
I connect best with individuals and couples who have a lot of emotions, but have trouble communicating their emotional experiences to people in their lives. These individuals may feel misunderstood, unaccepted, different, or alone, but want desperately to feel understood and accepted.
I am a therapist who relies heavily on empathy, acceptance and understanding, along with framework from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
I connect best with individuals and couples who have a lot of emotions, but have trouble communicating their emotional experiences to people in their lives. These individuals may feel misunderstood, unaccepted, different, or alone, but want desperately to feel understood and accepted.
(937) 705-0569 View (937) 705-0569
Photo of Liz Barclay, MA, LPC, LICDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liz Barclay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45458
Experienced in both substance use and mental health counseling, Liz has worked with a broad array of clients, from those suffering from alcohol use disorder to schizophrenia, and dual diagnoses (both substance use and mental health disorders). She uses a trauma-sensitive approach that incorporates mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and strengths-based interventions to empower clients to be more effective in their lives. She is also a registered yoga teacher and incorporates movement and breath into her techniques to help clients reclaim their sense of self by integrating body, mind, and spirit.
Experienced in both substance use and mental health counseling, Liz has worked with a broad array of clients, from those suffering from alcohol use disorder to schizophrenia, and dual diagnoses (both substance use and mental health disorders). She uses a trauma-sensitive approach that incorporates mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and strengths-based interventions to empower clients to be more effective in their lives. She is also a registered yoga teacher and incorporates movement and breath into her techniques to help clients reclaim their sense of self by integrating body, mind, and spirit.
View
Photo of Amy L. Dudley, MSW, LSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy L. Dudley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45431
Waitlist for new clients
Finding the “right fit” in therapy can be overwhelming and time-consuming. Healing is possible, and it shouldn't take a lifetime to get there! My primary focus is to create a safe and supportive space while promoting individual and/or posttraumatic growth. My goal is to empower you to share your stories and encourage healing from those experiences, by using a combination of deep listening, CBT/DBT, narrative exposure therapy and other evidence-based modalities for profound and lasting change.
Finding the “right fit” in therapy can be overwhelming and time-consuming. Healing is possible, and it shouldn't take a lifetime to get there! My primary focus is to create a safe and supportive space while promoting individual and/or posttraumatic growth. My goal is to empower you to share your stories and encourage healing from those experiences, by using a combination of deep listening, CBT/DBT, narrative exposure therapy and other evidence-based modalities for profound and lasting change.
(937) 719-8528 View (937) 719-8528
Photo of Emily Riggs, LISW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Riggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RYT
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45419  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about women feeling empowered to make changes to help them hope, heal, and live wholeheartedly. I specialize in grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I work with a variety of therapeutic models and skills, including EMDR, DBT, and ACT, to best come alongside my clients on their unique journeys.
I am passionate about women feeling empowered to make changes to help them hope, heal, and live wholeheartedly. I specialize in grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I work with a variety of therapeutic models and skills, including EMDR, DBT, and ACT, to best come alongside my clients on their unique journeys.
(937) 568-7300 View (937) 568-7300
Photo of Kathryn L Streiff, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn L Streiff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45414  (Online Only)
I work with individuals to help them overcome issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy, CBT Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Problem Solving Therapy.
I work with individuals to help them overcome issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy, CBT Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Problem Solving Therapy.
(513) 854-0370 View (513) 854-0370
Photo of Angie Kaskocsak, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angie Kaskocsak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45402
Finding the right therapist can be frustrating and challenging! Hopefully, I can make your search a little easier. With a warm and empathetic approach, I provide the judgment-free, trusting environment necessary to explore vulnerabilities and foster healing. I work with a diverse client base including people of various ages, backgrounds, and mental health diagnoses. I have advanced training in CBT, DBT and and I’m also well-versed in cognitive, mindfulness.
Finding the right therapist can be frustrating and challenging! Hopefully, I can make your search a little easier. With a warm and empathetic approach, I provide the judgment-free, trusting environment necessary to explore vulnerabilities and foster healing. I work with a diverse client base including people of various ages, backgrounds, and mental health diagnoses. I have advanced training in CBT, DBT and and I’m also well-versed in cognitive, mindfulness.
(937) 897-9583 View (937) 897-9583
Photo of Kaitlyn Spitzer, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlyn Spitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, my name is Kate Spitzer. I'm an adult and youth therapist who has experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, neurodivergency. I am LGBT+ affirming, and strive to create an environment where my clients feel understood and accepted. I believe that therapy can be fun, which is why I love utilizing crafts and board games in session. Feel free to bring a snack, blanket, or whatever you need to feel comfortable! I utilize CBT, DBT, Motivational techniques, and employ a strengths based and humanistic approach.
Hi, my name is Kate Spitzer. I'm an adult and youth therapist who has experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, neurodivergency. I am LGBT+ affirming, and strive to create an environment where my clients feel understood and accepted. I believe that therapy can be fun, which is why I love utilizing crafts and board games in session. Feel free to bring a snack, blanket, or whatever you need to feel comfortable! I utilize CBT, DBT, Motivational techniques, and employ a strengths based and humanistic approach.
(937) 826-3863 View (937) 826-3863
Photo of Kelley Summers, LISW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45459
I provide an eclectic approach utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills, CBT, Polyvagal therapeutic approach, and trauma informed approaches, including Dr.
I am a queer, affirming therapist. I am non-denominational, but am spiritual in realms of Pagan and Astrology with a splash of Buddhist practices. I am what you get and know my style isn’t for everyone. I believe I can provide a safe, inclusive, and inviting energy and space whether online or in person.
I provide an eclectic approach utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills, CBT, Polyvagal therapeutic approach, and trauma informed approaches, including Dr.
I am a queer, affirming therapist. I am non-denominational, but am spiritual in realms of Pagan and Astrology with a splash of Buddhist practices. I am what you get and know my style isn’t for everyone. I believe I can provide a safe, inclusive, and inviting energy and space whether online or in person.
(937) 954-2834 View (937) 954-2834
Photo of Taylor Shear, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Shear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45414
Through evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Couples/Marital Counseling, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), she assists her clients in developing coping skills and strategies to navigate life's challenges.
Taylor Shear provides a safe space for individuals to process their thoughts and emotions, whether navigating difficult times or seeking support in general. With a warm and compassionate approach, Taylor empowers her clients to explore their feelings and experiences, fostering healing and growth. Specializing in trauma therapy, Taylor is deeply passionate about helping clients overcome past traumas and rebuild their lives with resilience and strength. She understands the unique challenges that individuals face and tailors her therapy sessions to meet the specific needs of each person.
Through evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Couples/Marital Counseling, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), she assists her clients in developing coping skills and strategies to navigate life's challenges.
Taylor Shear provides a safe space for individuals to process their thoughts and emotions, whether navigating difficult times or seeking support in general. With a warm and compassionate approach, Taylor empowers her clients to explore their feelings and experiences, fostering healing and growth. Specializing in trauma therapy, Taylor is deeply passionate about helping clients overcome past traumas and rebuild their lives with resilience and strength. She understands the unique challenges that individuals face and tailors her therapy sessions to meet the specific needs of each person.
(937) 882-5262 View (937) 882-5262
Photo of Lorri A Parker, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lorri A Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45459
However, I mostly subscribe to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and person-centered therapy.
Going to therapy can be a difficult decision; to go to a foreign environment and meet with a complete stranger. However, I am here to support you, and to set and achieve your goals. I will actively listen, provide a safe place, and a confidential/non-judgmental environment. I offer my empthy, my consideration, and my respect. I will provide you with feeback via recommendations, providing options, coping strategies, and more. Therapy is not a one size fits all; I will work with you to find the methods/coping skills that work best for you. It is my professional, ethical, and personal goal to earn your trust, and bring you peace.
However, I mostly subscribe to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and person-centered therapy.
Going to therapy can be a difficult decision; to go to a foreign environment and meet with a complete stranger. However, I am here to support you, and to set and achieve your goals. I will actively listen, provide a safe place, and a confidential/non-judgmental environment. I offer my empthy, my consideration, and my respect. I will provide you with feeback via recommendations, providing options, coping strategies, and more. Therapy is not a one size fits all; I will work with you to find the methods/coping skills that work best for you. It is my professional, ethical, and personal goal to earn your trust, and bring you peace.
(937) 446-6186 View (937) 446-6186
Photo of Ashley Kight, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Kight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45414
Ashley Kight, has a mission to assist clients in navigating life’s challenges. She specializes in helping individuals develop crucial skills to manage daily stressors, enhance relationships, cope with anxiety and depression, boost self-esteem, and improve overall well-being. Drawing from her extensive training and experience, Ashley utilizes evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) to tailor treatment plans to meet the specific needs of each individual. With a focus on anxiety, depression, eating disorders, later life transition
Ashley Kight, has a mission to assist clients in navigating life’s challenges. She specializes in helping individuals develop crucial skills to manage daily stressors, enhance relationships, cope with anxiety and depression, boost self-esteem, and improve overall well-being. Drawing from her extensive training and experience, Ashley utilizes evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) to tailor treatment plans to meet the specific needs of each individual. With a focus on anxiety, depression, eating disorders, later life transition
(937) 442-8359 View (937) 442-8359
Photo of Christine Hotz-Steward, LISW S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Hotz-Steward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45420  (Online Only)
I have experience and training in Motivational Interviewing, DBT,Trauma Based Treatment and EMDR.
1) There is nothing stronger than a person who has remade themselves. 2) Real strength is acquired resiliency. 3) Enjoy and stay in the present moment. These are 3 ideas (from others who are very smart) that inspire both my life and my therapeutic approach. I have a strong strength based and mental health recovery based approach. This provides me with the flexibility to work with a wide variety of people. With over 35 years experience I have worked with all ages from 7 to 90+ years old. I currently work with young adults or adults age 18 to 99+ years old.
I have experience and training in Motivational Interviewing, DBT,Trauma Based Treatment and EMDR.
1) There is nothing stronger than a person who has remade themselves. 2) Real strength is acquired resiliency. 3) Enjoy and stay in the present moment. These are 3 ideas (from others who are very smart) that inspire both my life and my therapeutic approach. I have a strong strength based and mental health recovery based approach. This provides me with the flexibility to work with a wide variety of people. With over 35 years experience I have worked with all ages from 7 to 90+ years old. I currently work with young adults or adults age 18 to 99+ years old.
(937) 806-4752 View (937) 806-4752
Photo of Danielle Deike, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Deike
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45432
Not accepting new clients
I have training in Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Inherited Family Trauma (IFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
The most important relationship you have is the one with yourself. We all have a story. Telling your story to an attuned listener can be transformational. Healing is a collaborative endeavor. As you share your experiences and I listen, you can become more connected to yourself. I work best with clients looking to address symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, and parenting problems. I believe digging deep into ourselves and learning how our early relationships in life impact our present coping strategies and feelings can help us move towards the future we want.
I have training in Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Inherited Family Trauma (IFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
The most important relationship you have is the one with yourself. We all have a story. Telling your story to an attuned listener can be transformational. Healing is a collaborative endeavor. As you share your experiences and I listen, you can become more connected to yourself. I work best with clients looking to address symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, and parenting problems. I believe digging deep into ourselves and learning how our early relationships in life impact our present coping strategies and feelings can help us move towards the future we want.
(937) 882-5454 View (937) 882-5454
Photo of Taylor Williams, LPCC
Taylor Williams
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45406  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Taylor Williams, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. I am trauma certified and DBT-focused on helping diverse individuals who have Borderline Personality, Trauma, PTSD, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I utilize a combination of Dialectical (DBT), Trauma Focused, Existential, Feminist, and Holistic therapies. From my experiences, I believe life can improve after learning healthy coping skills and processing the past.
Hello, I am Taylor Williams, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. I am trauma certified and DBT-focused on helping diverse individuals who have Borderline Personality, Trauma, PTSD, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I utilize a combination of Dialectical (DBT), Trauma Focused, Existential, Feminist, and Holistic therapies. From my experiences, I believe life can improve after learning healthy coping skills and processing the past.
(740) 631-6471 View (740) 631-6471
Photo of Emily Broad, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Broad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45440
Emily Broad is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2013. Emily helps clients manage and regulate difficult emotions by using DBT informed skills, CBT, MI, and a solution focused approach. She empowers clients with a client centered approach. Emily helps clients process trauma and cope with the effects of trauma using a trauma informed approach and EMDR.
Emily Broad is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2013. Emily helps clients manage and regulate difficult emotions by using DBT informed skills, CBT, MI, and a solution focused approach. She empowers clients with a client centered approach. Emily helps clients process trauma and cope with the effects of trauma using a trauma informed approach and EMDR.
(937) 858-6273 View (937) 858-6273
Photo of Rachel Kay Kingswood, LSW, CDCA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Kay Kingswood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CDCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45459  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I use an ecclectic approach that borrows from multiple techniques and schools of thought based on your unique needs including: mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, narrative therapy, DBT, and psychoeducation.
Have you tried therapy before, but it didn't help? Feeling stuck or unsure of what you need to heal? Using a holistic integrative approach, I can help you find your footing, learn to trust yourself more, and worry less about things outside your control. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, chronic pain/illness, and anxiety disorders learn to work with their brain and body to live their most authentic and joyful lives. I also enjoy helping couples and families of all kinds (poly, blended, foster/adoptive, etc.) learn how to build relationships based on respect, empathy, and curiosity.
I use an ecclectic approach that borrows from multiple techniques and schools of thought based on your unique needs including: mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, narrative therapy, DBT, and psychoeducation.
Have you tried therapy before, but it didn't help? Feeling stuck or unsure of what you need to heal? Using a holistic integrative approach, I can help you find your footing, learn to trust yourself more, and worry less about things outside your control. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, chronic pain/illness, and anxiety disorders learn to work with their brain and body to live their most authentic and joyful lives. I also enjoy helping couples and families of all kinds (poly, blended, foster/adoptive, etc.) learn how to build relationships based on respect, empathy, and curiosity.
(216) 677-2965 View (216) 677-2965
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.