Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Vandalia, OH

Photo of Charlotte Denyelle Harris, RN, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Denyelle Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vandalia, OH 45377
My approach is built upon the foundations of IFS, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, MI, and Reality Therapy.
As a Registered Nurse for the past 27 years, I have had the unique opportunity to care for patients in various stages of their physical, emotional, and mental health. It has been my calling to walk with patients as they navigate through difficult times. Unfortunately, people of color have been subjected to systemic disenfranchisement and social injustice, which has often resulted in trauma. As a therapist, I understand how this trauma can affect you mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. My goal is to accompany you on your journey, to help you unravel life's complexities, and to empower you to fulfill your destiny.
My approach is built upon the foundations of IFS, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, MI, and Reality Therapy.
As a Registered Nurse for the past 27 years, I have had the unique opportunity to care for patients in various stages of their physical, emotional, and mental health. It has been my calling to walk with patients as they navigate through difficult times. Unfortunately, people of color have been subjected to systemic disenfranchisement and social injustice, which has often resulted in trauma. As a therapist, I understand how this trauma can affect you mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. My goal is to accompany you on your journey, to help you unravel life's complexities, and to empower you to fulfill your destiny.
(937) 898-4942 View (937) 898-4942
Photo of Carla Urbanas - Professional Counseling Services of Ohio, LLC, MS, LPCC-S, LICDC, Counselor
Professional Counseling Services of Ohio, LLC
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vandalia, OH 45377
Life can be difficult at times. If you are in need of someone to listen and help you get through the hard parts of life, please call us. It can really help if you have someone to listen and give new perspectives when you get stuck or are struggling with a problem in your life. We have the best therapists in the area and have a strong reputation for quality, professional care.
Life can be difficult at times. If you are in need of someone to listen and help you get through the hard parts of life, please call us. It can really help if you have someone to listen and give new perspectives when you get stuck or are struggling with a problem in your life. We have the best therapists in the area and have a strong reputation for quality, professional care.
(937) 719-0612 View (937) 719-0612
Photo of Elizabeth Long-Hicks - Ray of Light Counseling , LPCC-S, Counselor
Ray of Light Counseling
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Vandalia, OH 45377
If you’re looking for high quality and personalized mental health therapy services, you’ve come to the right place. At Ray of Light Counseling we’ll give you the attention and personal service you’ll come to expect and enjoy. ​ We offer the best quality therapists you can find. We are all licensed in the state of Ohio and are current Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors, Licensed Professional Counselors, Independent Marriage and Family Therapists and Licensed Independent Social Workers.
If you’re looking for high quality and personalized mental health therapy services, you’ve come to the right place. At Ray of Light Counseling we’ll give you the attention and personal service you’ll come to expect and enjoy. ​ We offer the best quality therapists you can find. We are all licensed in the state of Ohio and are current Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors, Licensed Professional Counselors, Independent Marriage and Family Therapists and Licensed Independent Social Workers.
(937) 314-1659 View (937) 314-1659
Photo of Jordan A North - North Therapeutics LLC, LPC, LSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
North Therapeutics LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vandalia, OH 45377
Hello lovely people! I am a licensed professional counselor and school counselor experienced in working with an diverse range of clients. I specialize in serving adolescents but am available to work with adults and children as well - emphasis on life course issues, interpersonal conflicts and issues surrounding identity (race, class, sexuality, gender). Jordan has spent nearly a decade in the field including roles as a private practice owner, school counselor, case manager and school based therapist. Therapist emphasizes a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to everyday challenges.
Hello lovely people! I am a licensed professional counselor and school counselor experienced in working with an diverse range of clients. I specialize in serving adolescents but am available to work with adults and children as well - emphasis on life course issues, interpersonal conflicts and issues surrounding identity (race, class, sexuality, gender). Jordan has spent nearly a decade in the field including roles as a private practice owner, school counselor, case manager and school based therapist. Therapist emphasizes a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to everyday challenges.
(937) 582-8160 View (937) 582-8160
Photo of Bridgette D Herren - Divine Comfort and Counseling, LISW, LICDC, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Divine Comfort and Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LICDC, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vandalia, OH 45377
Not accepting new clients
I utilize traditional approaches (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, CBT, motivational enhancement, etc.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you." John 14:27 Counseling is sought for many reasons, but, the underlying goal remains: to seek a sense of balance, peace, and well-being. The core of my therapy work is to address and remove barriers that will allow one to gain a deeper connection to their inner self and the spirit within; to gain healing and move forward in a positive direction. Whether you are suffering from an addiction, negative emotions and/or behaviors, or if you are simply looking to improve mental health wellness, therapy sessions will be designed to meet your needs.
I utilize traditional approaches (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, CBT, motivational enhancement, etc.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you." John 14:27 Counseling is sought for many reasons, but, the underlying goal remains: to seek a sense of balance, peace, and well-being. The core of my therapy work is to address and remove barriers that will allow one to gain a deeper connection to their inner self and the spirit within; to gain healing and move forward in a positive direction. Whether you are suffering from an addiction, negative emotions and/or behaviors, or if you are simply looking to improve mental health wellness, therapy sessions will be designed to meet your needs.
(937) 754-7207 View (937) 754-7207
Photo of Erika Fontana, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Fontana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Vandalia, OH 45377
Not accepting new clients
I am currently unable to accept new clients. Clients with more immediate needs are welcome to contact my office to see if another provider is available. In my experience, clients who have experienced trauma often don’t feel heard and find the world extremely overwhelming. It can often feel like life will never get better but healing is possible. Our life experiences don’t have to define us and we don’t have to remain stuck in symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety or use substances to cover up the pain from all of these issues. Again, healing is possible.
I am currently unable to accept new clients. Clients with more immediate needs are welcome to contact my office to see if another provider is available. In my experience, clients who have experienced trauma often don’t feel heard and find the world extremely overwhelming. It can often feel like life will never get better but healing is possible. Our life experiences don’t have to define us and we don’t have to remain stuck in symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety or use substances to cover up the pain from all of these issues. Again, healing is possible.
(937) 468-3761 View (937) 468-3761

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Tiffany M Justice, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC, CCMHC, C-EMDR, Counselor
Dr. Tiffany M Justice
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC, CCMHC, C-EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45400  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Justice. I have a Ph.D., in Counseling and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling. I work with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, PSTD-trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, people pleasing, co-dependency, identity concerns, among many other related concerns. You are unique and therefore treatment should be tailored to best meet your individual needs. I am a Certified EMDR therapist, Certified in DBT and certified in ADHD-CCSP. I am open and help you to feel comfortable being your real self. Counseling is your space, a safe space to explore your inner world. Quality treatment should be tailored to your needs!
Hello! I am Dr. Justice. I have a Ph.D., in Counseling and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling. I work with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, PSTD-trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, people pleasing, co-dependency, identity concerns, among many other related concerns. You are unique and therefore treatment should be tailored to best meet your individual needs. I am a Certified EMDR therapist, Certified in DBT and certified in ADHD-CCSP. I am open and help you to feel comfortable being your real self. Counseling is your space, a safe space to explore your inner world. Quality treatment should be tailored to your needs!
(740) 370-4248 View (740) 370-4248
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 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 Kaitlyn Spitzer, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlyn Spitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
Hi, my name is Kate Spitzer. I'm a 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 a 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 Karen Scott-Pine, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Scott-Pine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
My Training includes Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior, Therapy, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, The Challenge of Co-parenting, Tech Addiction, etc.
“You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn to learn it for yourself”– The Wizard of Oz – Frank Baum". I believe that counseling is about providing a safe space to “Learn it for yourself”. A licensed Independent Social Worker for 30 years, I will provide you, your child, or your family strategies that allow you to work through and grow from your own unique situation. I am particularly interested in supporting parents and children as they navigate separations and divorce. Assisting parents in developing communication and co-parenting strategies and helping the new family adjust and thrive has become a passion.
My Training includes Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior, Therapy, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, The Challenge of Co-parenting, Tech Addiction, etc.
“You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn to learn it for yourself”– The Wizard of Oz – Frank Baum". I believe that counseling is about providing a safe space to “Learn it for yourself”. A licensed Independent Social Worker for 30 years, I will provide you, your child, or your family strategies that allow you to work through and grow from your own unique situation. I am particularly interested in supporting parents and children as they navigate separations and divorce. Assisting parents in developing communication and co-parenting strategies and helping the new family adjust and thrive has become a passion.
(937) 634-7817 View (937) 634-7817
Photo of Katie Allison, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Allison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45401  (Online Only)
Hello there! My name is Katie and I'm a licensed professional counselor in the state of Ohio. I have a passion for working with individuals of all ages who are struggling with, but not limited to; stress and anxiety, depression, OCD, self-esteem, and other phase of life issues. My approach to therapy involves utilizing Person-Centered Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to create an environment of problem-solving by building on personal interests and strengths. However, I adapt my approaches to best suit the needs of my clients!
Hello there! My name is Katie and I'm a licensed professional counselor in the state of Ohio. I have a passion for working with individuals of all ages who are struggling with, but not limited to; stress and anxiety, depression, OCD, self-esteem, and other phase of life issues. My approach to therapy involves utilizing Person-Centered Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to create an environment of problem-solving by building on personal interests and strengths. However, I adapt my approaches to best suit the needs of my clients!
(513) 596-6535 View (513) 596-6535
Photo of Jessica Martin, MSEd, LPCC, Counselor
Jessica Martin
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Huber Heights, OH 45424
Depending on the need of the client, I can provide insight-oriented therapy, CBT, DBT, and various skills training.
Accepting new clients. Evening hours available “There are many ways of getting strong, sometimes talking is the best way.”- Andre Agassi. Being able to express your experience is an important way to gain the insight that enables you to learn and grow. And because you know your story best, you also will know best what will and will not work for you. With that in mind, I see my role as a therapist as supporting clients in finding their personal strategies, skills, and paths that will allow them to effectively manage life challenges and stressors.
Depending on the need of the client, I can provide insight-oriented therapy, CBT, DBT, and various skills training.
Accepting new clients. Evening hours available “There are many ways of getting strong, sometimes talking is the best way.”- Andre Agassi. Being able to express your experience is an important way to gain the insight that enables you to learn and grow. And because you know your story best, you also will know best what will and will not work for you. With that in mind, I see my role as a therapist as supporting clients in finding their personal strategies, skills, and paths that will allow them to effectively manage life challenges and stressors.
(937) 897-9041 View (937) 897-9041
Photo of Christine Hotz-Steward, LISW S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Hotz-Steward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45407  (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 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 Tracy Leigh Wells, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Tracy Leigh Wells
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Englewood, OH 45322  (Online Only)
I also utilize cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and person centered therapy models during session.
I am honored to be on this healing journey with you. I would love to assist you with finding new vitality in your life and relationships. I have extensive experience with counseling diverse populations in the areas of trauma, anxiety, impulsivity, dissociative, and depressive symptomology. I can assist with stress management, relational problems, and navigating life adjustments. I am looking forward to working with military and first responders to assist with trauma processing and adjustments.
I also utilize cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and person centered therapy models during session.
I am honored to be on this healing journey with you. I would love to assist you with finding new vitality in your life and relationships. I have extensive experience with counseling diverse populations in the areas of trauma, anxiety, impulsivity, dissociative, and depressive symptomology. I can assist with stress management, relational problems, and navigating life adjustments. I am looking forward to working with military and first responders to assist with trauma processing and adjustments.
(937) 709-5800 View (937) 709-5800
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 Dwonna Thompson Lenoir
Dwonna Thompson Lenoir
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45424  (Online Only)
I am committed to helping people find the strength inside themselves to triumph in relationships, overall functioning and living a balanced life. I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, family and other specialized groups. Clients have presented with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication problems, marital concerns, parenting, ADHD, eating disorders, grief/loss, self-injury and social skills development. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I am committed to helping people find the strength inside themselves to triumph in relationships, overall functioning and living a balanced life. I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, family and other specialized groups. Clients have presented with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication problems, marital concerns, parenting, ADHD, eating disorders, grief/loss, self-injury and social skills development. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
(740) 458-8504 View (740) 458-8504
Photo of Kelli R Ott - Thrive Therapeutics, LLC, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thrive Therapeutics, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Englewood, OH 45322
Treatments used include Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, DBT and CBT.
Thrive-Therapeutics has a diverse team of Master's prepared counselors who work with all types of people in need of help with life's challenges. We have immediate openings for counseling services. We are interested in understanding your specific needs and working to help you find relief and hope. We have experience working with adults and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma history, anger issues and, various other challenges. Our therapists are DJ Gingrich, MSW, LSW; Kyrsten McGuinness, MSW, LSW, Cara Graham, MSW, LSW,Rachel Lanham, MSW student intern (Case Western Reserve). Englewood, OH or via telehealth.
Treatments used include Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, DBT and CBT.
Thrive-Therapeutics has a diverse team of Master's prepared counselors who work with all types of people in need of help with life's challenges. We have immediate openings for counseling services. We are interested in understanding your specific needs and working to help you find relief and hope. We have experience working with adults and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma history, anger issues and, various other challenges. Our therapists are DJ Gingrich, MSW, LSW; Kyrsten McGuinness, MSW, LSW, Cara Graham, MSW, LSW,Rachel Lanham, MSW student intern (Case Western Reserve). Englewood, OH or via telehealth.
(937) 971-4289 View (937) 971-4289
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

See more therapy options for Vandalia

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.