Photo of Elise Madeline Himes, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elise Madeline Himes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I incorporate mindfulness, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, and Narrative Therapy.
Ever made to feel never enough? Do you fear how others would react if you were to make a mistake, share your authentic self, or reveal your family or relationship is not as picture perfect? Are you haunted by your past, worried about the future, or feel in some way “broken”? We all learn ways to cope when in an invalidating environment. Perhaps you are the supportive rock for your friends that believe you have it all together. Maybe you learned it was safest to be invisible, perfect, or take care of everyone but yourself. These strategies have at one time helped, but are now keeping you from living the life that you want.
I incorporate mindfulness, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, and Narrative Therapy.
Ever made to feel never enough? Do you fear how others would react if you were to make a mistake, share your authentic self, or reveal your family or relationship is not as picture perfect? Are you haunted by your past, worried about the future, or feel in some way “broken”? We all learn ways to cope when in an invalidating environment. Perhaps you are the supportive rock for your friends that believe you have it all together. Maybe you learned it was safest to be invisible, perfect, or take care of everyone but yourself. These strategies have at one time helped, but are now keeping you from living the life that you want.
(971) 791-3165 View (971) 791-3165
Photo of Varsha Ruparel, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Varsha Ruparel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
My practice is based on an integrated approach that combines Mindfulness, Humanistic/Existential therapy, Attachment theory, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT! Are you living your best life? Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you struggle in relationships? If your story contains themes of depression, anxiety, addiction, interpersonal issues or just "seem to be stuck right now"; lets have a conversation to see how I can help you to create a better story. I'm a therapist, but I'm also a parent and wife who makes plenty of mistakes. Luckily, perfection isn't necessary or desirable. It often takes only small, positive changes to yield significant benefits. Things can get better, sometimes quickly, if you begin taking steps in the right direction.
My practice is based on an integrated approach that combines Mindfulness, Humanistic/Existential therapy, Attachment theory, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT! Are you living your best life? Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you struggle in relationships? If your story contains themes of depression, anxiety, addiction, interpersonal issues or just "seem to be stuck right now"; lets have a conversation to see how I can help you to create a better story. I'm a therapist, but I'm also a parent and wife who makes plenty of mistakes. Luckily, perfection isn't necessary or desirable. It often takes only small, positive changes to yield significant benefits. Things can get better, sometimes quickly, if you begin taking steps in the right direction.
(971) 339-0568 View (971) 339-0568
Photo of Kent Kreiselmaier, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kent Kreiselmaier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness and the contemplative traditions, pastoral counseling, EMDR for trauma, and DBT Skills.
Hello! Thank you for considering me to accompany you on this sacred journey. I believe counseling is a powerful tool for overcoming obstacles to well-being and human flourishing. I treat clients with a range of issues, from existential issues and coping with the demands of life, to mood disorders and anxiety, complex trauma and PTSD, spirituality concerns and religious trauma, and men's and LGBTQi issues. Together, we will examine these problems, trace their origins to childhood and significant adult relationships, and learn new skills and new ways of relating to others and ourselves to rediscover well-being and flourishing in life.
I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness and the contemplative traditions, pastoral counseling, EMDR for trauma, and DBT Skills.
Hello! Thank you for considering me to accompany you on this sacred journey. I believe counseling is a powerful tool for overcoming obstacles to well-being and human flourishing. I treat clients with a range of issues, from existential issues and coping with the demands of life, to mood disorders and anxiety, complex trauma and PTSD, spirituality concerns and religious trauma, and men's and LGBTQi issues. Together, we will examine these problems, trace their origins to childhood and significant adult relationships, and learn new skills and new ways of relating to others and ourselves to rediscover well-being and flourishing in life.
(503) 749-6327 View (503) 749-6327
Photo of Jeffrey A. Kiilsgaard, LCSW, LICSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey A. Kiilsgaard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Types of treatment modalities that I utilize in session include, but are not limited to: DBT, CBT, MBT, Schema-Focused Therapy, and psychodynamic therapies through an existential-humanistic lens.
My therapeutic approach is tailored to adults who are currently experiencing depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, interpersonal deficits, and other issues regarding the self. I am a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and work well with the individualistic and affirmative fashions in which human beings choose to self-identify. As a licensed clinical social worker, I believe that the individual is part of system: the micro (familial), the mezzo (immediate community), and the macro (the world at large). I look forward to speaking with you.
Types of treatment modalities that I utilize in session include, but are not limited to: DBT, CBT, MBT, Schema-Focused Therapy, and psychodynamic therapies through an existential-humanistic lens.
My therapeutic approach is tailored to adults who are currently experiencing depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, interpersonal deficits, and other issues regarding the self. I am a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and work well with the individualistic and affirmative fashions in which human beings choose to self-identify. As a licensed clinical social worker, I believe that the individual is part of system: the micro (familial), the mezzo (immediate community), and the macro (the world at large). I look forward to speaking with you.
(503) 386-9751 View (503) 386-9751
Photo of Rachel Iverson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Iverson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201  (Online Only)
I utilize an eclectic mix of CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR.
Are you tired of feeling stuck and ready to make a change, but unsure how or where to start? Let me guide you to your goal. Life presents us all with battles that become tiresome to fight over time. Whether you have been struggling to make big life decisions, experiencing stress from traumatic events, or are plagued by anxiety or depression that just won't ease up, you are welcomed here. In the many years of experience I have working with people of all walks of life, I have found that if we are willing and dedicated, we can achieve a life that brings us joy.
I utilize an eclectic mix of CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR.
Are you tired of feeling stuck and ready to make a change, but unsure how or where to start? Let me guide you to your goal. Life presents us all with battles that become tiresome to fight over time. Whether you have been struggling to make big life decisions, experiencing stress from traumatic events, or are plagued by anxiety or depression that just won't ease up, you are welcomed here. In the many years of experience I have working with people of all walks of life, I have found that if we are willing and dedicated, we can achieve a life that brings us joy.
(541) 940-8637 View (541) 940-8637
Photo of Sarah King - Yaga Healing Place, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yaga Healing Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
I utilize CBT, DBT, and schema therapy as a way to help you find acceptance and a sense of validation and understanding for all of the different shades of motherhood.
My clinical framework is rooted in attachment theory, which reiterates the delicate nature of the relationship between mother and baby. This relationship is integral to everything in our world and yet we often trivialize this relationship and assume that if there is a happy, healthy baby, then our mothers should remain perfectly aligned. The truth is, we know that the journey of motherhood is far more complex and intertwined, than how society portrays it.
I utilize CBT, DBT, and schema therapy as a way to help you find acceptance and a sense of validation and understanding for all of the different shades of motherhood.
My clinical framework is rooted in attachment theory, which reiterates the delicate nature of the relationship between mother and baby. This relationship is integral to everything in our world and yet we often trivialize this relationship and assume that if there is a happy, healthy baby, then our mothers should remain perfectly aligned. The truth is, we know that the journey of motherhood is far more complex and intertwined, than how society portrays it.
(971) 251-1850 View (971) 251-1850
Photo of Leslie Aragon, LCSW, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Aragon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I draw on a DBT, Schema Therapy, CBT, EMDR and creative and expressive arts based modalities to assist clients in resolving past trauma, anxiety and developing new skills to handle life’s challenges, as appropriate to client needs.
My primary therapeutic goal is to support individuals in their journey towards healthy and sustainable growth, including resolution of any past trauma. Often when faced with change or difficulty, people may feel anxious not knowing what to expect or they may fear a potential outcome. I enjoy providing space to be curious, explore factors in life contributing to these feelings and help individuals develop skills to help manage this distress. By learning how our past and current stressors impact our lives, we can learn about ourselves and grow.
I draw on a DBT, Schema Therapy, CBT, EMDR and creative and expressive arts based modalities to assist clients in resolving past trauma, anxiety and developing new skills to handle life’s challenges, as appropriate to client needs.
My primary therapeutic goal is to support individuals in their journey towards healthy and sustainable growth, including resolution of any past trauma. Often when faced with change or difficulty, people may feel anxious not knowing what to expect or they may fear a potential outcome. I enjoy providing space to be curious, explore factors in life contributing to these feelings and help individuals develop skills to help manage this distress. By learning how our past and current stressors impact our lives, we can learn about ourselves and grow.
(509) 635-3909 View (509) 635-3909
Photo of Louis Radie, MA
Louis Radie
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Do you have difficulty managing and coping with anxiety, which prevents you from achieving your goals and pursuing a meaningful, values-based life? Are you struggling with depression and hopelessness, and seeking more direction and purpose? Do you experience stress related to self-identity or a significant life transition? I help people to better understand themselves and what is most important to them so that they can overcome adversity and pursue meaningful change.
Do you have difficulty managing and coping with anxiety, which prevents you from achieving your goals and pursuing a meaningful, values-based life? Are you struggling with depression and hopelessness, and seeking more direction and purpose? Do you experience stress related to self-identity or a significant life transition? I help people to better understand themselves and what is most important to them so that they can overcome adversity and pursue meaningful change.
(503) 461-1699 View (503) 461-1699
Photo of Charlotte M Haefner - Manifest Counseling PDX, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Manifest Counseling PDX
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Are there old patterns stuck on repeat in your relationship that you’ve tried to change but can’t seem to? Is relationship stress or anxiety in general getting in the way of your feeling satisfied or in flow with your life? Maybe you feel invisible or unappreciated in your relationship. You may have even stopped trying due to repeated failures trying to "fix" what isn't working. The truth is every now and then we need support from someone who has the knowledge, training, and personal experience to help you with something like this. Imagine feeling more confident, calm, and in touch with yourself and in your relationships.
Are there old patterns stuck on repeat in your relationship that you’ve tried to change but can’t seem to? Is relationship stress or anxiety in general getting in the way of your feeling satisfied or in flow with your life? Maybe you feel invisible or unappreciated in your relationship. You may have even stopped trying due to repeated failures trying to "fix" what isn't working. The truth is every now and then we need support from someone who has the knowledge, training, and personal experience to help you with something like this. Imagine feeling more confident, calm, and in touch with yourself and in your relationships.
(503) 476-9475 View (503) 476-9475
Photo of David A Sangster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David A Sangster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97203
From struggling to THRIVING. Become more fully "yourself." Enjoy relationship satisfaction. Strengthen connection to something bigger that is meaningful. Get relief from depression and anxiety (really!). Improve effectiveness at work. Feel more at home in your body, content. Mindful and present. LAUGH. Choosing a therapist that is both really good AND a great fit is important. There is a difference here you will experience from the get go. The office is in a 1930's Cape Cod style house...inviting & comfortable. With warmth and character. David is unusually relational and "real." Sessions are 60, 75 or 90 minutes rather than 50.
From struggling to THRIVING. Become more fully "yourself." Enjoy relationship satisfaction. Strengthen connection to something bigger that is meaningful. Get relief from depression and anxiety (really!). Improve effectiveness at work. Feel more at home in your body, content. Mindful and present. LAUGH. Choosing a therapist that is both really good AND a great fit is important. There is a difference here you will experience from the get go. The office is in a 1930's Cape Cod style house...inviting & comfortable. With warmth and character. David is unusually relational and "real." Sessions are 60, 75 or 90 minutes rather than 50.
(503) 444-8649 View (503) 444-8649
Photo of Valentia Heart Counseling - Valentia Heart Counseling, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valentia Heart Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
For over 30 years, I've had the honor of assisting couples, families, and individuals of all ages, as they identify, clarify and find constructive coping strategies to deal with issues relating to anxiety, depression, grief, anger and relationships. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I especially enjoy working on issues such as affair recovery, attachment disorders and phase-of-life challenges. Whether you are struggling with a relationship in your life, overwhelming anxiety, or some other problem, I would be honored to work with you. I prefer to work with those who have clear goal goals, and who are solution-focused.
For over 30 years, I've had the honor of assisting couples, families, and individuals of all ages, as they identify, clarify and find constructive coping strategies to deal with issues relating to anxiety, depression, grief, anger and relationships. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I especially enjoy working on issues such as affair recovery, attachment disorders and phase-of-life challenges. Whether you are struggling with a relationship in your life, overwhelming anxiety, or some other problem, I would be honored to work with you. I prefer to work with those who have clear goal goals, and who are solution-focused.
(503) 743-6671 View (503) 743-6671
Photo of Karla Zehren, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Zehren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
My treatment approach combines Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies with mindfulness to provide you with a diverse set of tools to explore your past, understand your present, and enact meaningful change in your life. Together, we will explore how your present is influenced by your past and identify the patterns you are unconsciously repeating in your behaviors and choices.
My treatment approach combines Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies with mindfulness to provide you with a diverse set of tools to explore your past, understand your present, and enact meaningful change in your life. Together, we will explore how your present is influenced by your past and identify the patterns you are unconsciously repeating in your behaviors and choices.
(971) 265-8421 View (971) 265-8421
Photo of Marcy Kokinda, CADC-II, QMHA-II, CGAC-R, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Marcy Kokinda
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-II, QMHA-II, CGAC-R
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Accepting New Clients: Finding the right provider when you're struggling with substance abuse or a co-occurring disorder can be a daunting task, but I would like to take the fear and shame out of the process and let you know that change is possible if you're willing to take the first step. You may be someone seeking help for the first time or someone who has struggled with issues in the past, but no matter what brought you to this place, I would like to be an ally in your journey toward wellness. Client-centered therapy means that you get to be in control of the process, and I respect an individual's right to maintain autonomy.
Accepting New Clients: Finding the right provider when you're struggling with substance abuse or a co-occurring disorder can be a daunting task, but I would like to take the fear and shame out of the process and let you know that change is possible if you're willing to take the first step. You may be someone seeking help for the first time or someone who has struggled with issues in the past, but no matter what brought you to this place, I would like to be an ally in your journey toward wellness. Client-centered therapy means that you get to be in control of the process, and I respect an individual's right to maintain autonomy.
(503) 487-5052 View (503) 487-5052
Photo of Manola Kerr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Manola Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy for people who are feeling stuck and need support understanding how to get through a tough time. Many people benefit from an outside perspective for navigating life transitions, coping with stress, or dealing with family conflict and other important relationships. Often people struggle with conflicting needs as they evaluate their lives and relationships. When life feels out of control, I can provide compassionate guidance for gaining self-awareness and building confidence. Individuals can learn healthy communication, boundaries, and effective coping tools. Therapy can bring calm to the chaos.
I provide individual therapy for people who are feeling stuck and need support understanding how to get through a tough time. Many people benefit from an outside perspective for navigating life transitions, coping with stress, or dealing with family conflict and other important relationships. Often people struggle with conflicting needs as they evaluate their lives and relationships. When life feels out of control, I can provide compassionate guidance for gaining self-awareness and building confidence. Individuals can learn healthy communication, boundaries, and effective coping tools. Therapy can bring calm to the chaos.
(503) 782-5080 View (503) 782-5080
Photo of Rhyver Rudick, PhD, Psychologist
Rhyver Rudick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
As a queer therapist, I greatly honor and celebrate the uniqueness of our own life stories and personalities. The interventions I offer are carefully tailored to your concerns, needs, and personal style. I integrate empirically validated approaches with traditional therapy and metaphysical healing components. I provide a therapeutic presence that is grounding, nurturing, and sincere. Together, we will combine your own self-knowledge and life expertise with my clinical expertise. I will co-journey with you to explore the depths and peaks of your experiences, and to provide support and reminders of your greatness along the way.
As a queer therapist, I greatly honor and celebrate the uniqueness of our own life stories and personalities. The interventions I offer are carefully tailored to your concerns, needs, and personal style. I integrate empirically validated approaches with traditional therapy and metaphysical healing components. I provide a therapeutic presence that is grounding, nurturing, and sincere. Together, we will combine your own self-knowledge and life expertise with my clinical expertise. I will co-journey with you to explore the depths and peaks of your experiences, and to provide support and reminders of your greatness along the way.
(701) 809-9033 View (701) 809-9033
Photo of Katrina Clark - Katrina Clark: Beyond Healing LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina Clark: Beyond Healing LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
It takes courage to reach out for support. No matter where you're at on your journey, know that every part of you is welcome here. Over the years as a clinician, I've had the honor of helping hundreds of people recover from the effects of stress, anxiety, depression and trauma. My mission is to help you understand and heal the root of your struggles so that you can connect to the things that are most important to you in life. I offer EMDR Intensive therapy retreats as well as a limited amount of individual sessions.
It takes courage to reach out for support. No matter where you're at on your journey, know that every part of you is welcome here. Over the years as a clinician, I've had the honor of helping hundreds of people recover from the effects of stress, anxiety, depression and trauma. My mission is to help you understand and heal the root of your struggles so that you can connect to the things that are most important to you in life. I offer EMDR Intensive therapy retreats as well as a limited amount of individual sessions.
(503) 925-6994 View (503) 925-6994
Photo of Steven M Brown, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Steven M Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
A responsible social practitioner, I provide psychological care, and services using American Sign Language (ASL). I work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including various populations that encompass sign language users. My interests center on developing tailored, specific psychotherapy applications that benefit the patients with hearing losses. Much of my work places an emphasis on the importance of "courageous will" to empower individuals to make choices that are useful and practical.
A responsible social practitioner, I provide psychological care, and services using American Sign Language (ASL). I work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including various populations that encompass sign language users. My interests center on developing tailored, specific psychotherapy applications that benefit the patients with hearing losses. Much of my work places an emphasis on the importance of "courageous will" to empower individuals to make choices that are useful and practical.
(253) 466-7490 View (253) 466-7490
Photo of James B Whalen, MA
James B Whalen
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I provide neurodiversity-affirming care to adults with ADHD or other neurodivergence, and can provide perspective from my own lived experience. I specialize in working with men, and understand the ways that masculinity can complicate mental health and treatment. I take an eclectic, client-centered, evidence-based approach that focuses on combining the best available research with your individual preferences and learning/interaction styles. Our time in therapy will focus on teaching you skills to help you relate to yourself, your emotions, and your thoughts in more effective ways, while also exploring how those patterns formed.
I provide neurodiversity-affirming care to adults with ADHD or other neurodivergence, and can provide perspective from my own lived experience. I specialize in working with men, and understand the ways that masculinity can complicate mental health and treatment. I take an eclectic, client-centered, evidence-based approach that focuses on combining the best available research with your individual preferences and learning/interaction styles. Our time in therapy will focus on teaching you skills to help you relate to yourself, your emotions, and your thoughts in more effective ways, while also exploring how those patterns formed.
(971) 351-0140 View (971) 351-0140
Photo of Donna Keehn, LMFT, SAP, CISM, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna Keehn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SAP, CISM
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical background includes a robust, private practice with in depth expertise in working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, anger management, relationships and attachment disorders. In addition, I am also a SAP for the DOT, a CISM credentialed provider, with a focus on individual and mass community trauma, and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Specialist. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I held significant corporate positions at a Fortune 500 Company (IBM) and partnered with one of America's Largest Private Companies (New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc).
My clinical background includes a robust, private practice with in depth expertise in working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, anger management, relationships and attachment disorders. In addition, I am also a SAP for the DOT, a CISM credentialed provider, with a focus on individual and mass community trauma, and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Specialist. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I held significant corporate positions at a Fortune 500 Company (IBM) and partnered with one of America's Largest Private Companies (New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc).
(310) 361-3168 View (310) 361-3168
Photo of Joshua Beavers, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Beavers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
Hi, I am Joshua Beavers, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and I am excited to work alongside you! I completed a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2015. I have worked with clients in person at various mental health clinics and in a virtual environment since 2015. My focus in sessions is to help clients learn to regulate their emotions, cope with stress, improve relationships, and build a foundation of skills that will help them with long-term success. I'm always excited to see them recognize the positive changes that can come from meeting with a counselor.
Hi, I am Joshua Beavers, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and I am excited to work alongside you! I completed a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2015. I have worked with clients in person at various mental health clinics and in a virtual environment since 2015. My focus in sessions is to help clients learn to regulate their emotions, cope with stress, improve relationships, and build a foundation of skills that will help them with long-term success. I'm always excited to see them recognize the positive changes that can come from meeting with a counselor.
(503) 809-5941 View (503) 809-5941
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.