Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Collegeville, PA
![Photo of Megan States, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f92418d1-7f0d-4fcb-a0ca-db2b32cfea7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan States
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
I’m here to help you conquer anxiety, boost your self-esteem, and navigate life's transitions! Using DBT and CBT, I create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your emotions and develop practical coping strategies.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with self-esteem, or stuck in a life transition? I get it! Life throws curveballs, and sometimes you just need a helping hand. What makes me unique? I specialize in DBT and CBT, offering a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and develop practical coping strategies. Together, we'll tackle your challenges head-on, build your confidence, and help you thrive. Whether it's managing stress, improving relationships, or achieving personal growth, I'm here to guide you every step of the way.
I’m here to help you conquer anxiety, boost your self-esteem, and navigate life's transitions! Using DBT and CBT, I create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your emotions and develop practical coping strategies.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with self-esteem, or stuck in a life transition? I get it! Life throws curveballs, and sometimes you just need a helping hand. What makes me unique? I specialize in DBT and CBT, offering a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and develop practical coping strategies. Together, we'll tackle your challenges head-on, build your confidence, and help you thrive. Whether it's managing stress, improving relationships, or achieving personal growth, I'm here to guide you every step of the way.
![Photo of Kylie Meyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aacf2473-d0a3-4082-88c0-d9876debe4b2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kylie Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Collegeville, PA 19426 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Kylie and I am a PA Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm passionate about helping adolescents and adults learn how to regulate emotions, incorporate daily mindfulness, and challenge thoughts that keep them stuck. I also teach how to decrease the connection between feeling and doing, and how to maintain healthy relationships . The majority or my practice focuses on self-harm behavior, suicidal ideation, intense emotions, and impulsive behaviors. My approach is to utilize DBT throughout treatment while also incorporating CBT and trauma-focused care.
Hello! My name is Kylie and I am a PA Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm passionate about helping adolescents and adults learn how to regulate emotions, incorporate daily mindfulness, and challenge thoughts that keep them stuck. I also teach how to decrease the connection between feeling and doing, and how to maintain healthy relationships . The majority or my practice focuses on self-harm behavior, suicidal ideation, intense emotions, and impulsive behaviors. My approach is to utilize DBT throughout treatment while also incorporating CBT and trauma-focused care.
![Photo of Kathy Muhlenberg, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ddbdd12-7d0a-4189-89ba-060358602f62/5/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Muhlenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
In addition, my therapy utilizes elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, narrative therapy, person centered therapy, ecotherapy, and mindfulness.
I am so glad you’re here! I work with teens and adults. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and major life events. Life can be hard, and challenges often come our way when we least expect it. Nobody achieves anything alone. Weekend and evening appointment times are available.
In addition, my therapy utilizes elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, narrative therapy, person centered therapy, ecotherapy, and mindfulness.
I am so glad you’re here! I work with teens and adults. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and major life events. Life can be hard, and challenges often come our way when we least expect it. Nobody achieves anything alone. Weekend and evening appointment times are available.
![Photo of Cynthia Dempsey, MS, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7704a18-18f5-411e-bce9-972613537cf5/1/320x400.png)
Cynthia Dempsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
Hello! I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and can see clients anywhere in PA. I hold a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware and an MS in Clinical Health and Counseling Psychology from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. I work with teens and adults dealing with stress, anxiety and trauma-related issues and I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist as well a CBT and DBT trained therapist. I use a mix of many different styles in order to customize therapy to the direct needs of each individual client. I would be happy to discuss more and answer any questions you might have!
Hello! I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and can see clients anywhere in PA. I hold a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware and an MS in Clinical Health and Counseling Psychology from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. I work with teens and adults dealing with stress, anxiety and trauma-related issues and I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist as well a CBT and DBT trained therapist. I use a mix of many different styles in order to customize therapy to the direct needs of each individual client. I would be happy to discuss more and answer any questions you might have!
![Photo of Antoinette Lyle - Rainbow Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6997d75-0b24-481a-9cf1-d126d6e4477a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rainbow Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Collegeville, PA 19426
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I view my role as helping clients learn and apply the therapeutic coping skills from DBT and CBT via Talk Therapy; where my clients can experience unconditional positive regard and can feel safe and not judged.
Rainbows represent HOPE. Effective counseling can be a journey of healing and hope: Talking out your thoughts and feelings in a confidential, non-judgmental, safe place; learning coping skills to heal and to more effectively manage your life’s stressful challenges; acquiring effective, healthy interpersonal skills that help improve the quality of your important relationships—your therapy at Rainbow Counseling can produce these awesome rewards for you or for you and your partner. Effective counseling can be very empowering and create hope when there seems to be no hope. Individual Counseling and Couples/Marriage Counseling sessions.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I view my role as helping clients learn and apply the therapeutic coping skills from DBT and CBT via Talk Therapy; where my clients can experience unconditional positive regard and can feel safe and not judged.
Rainbows represent HOPE. Effective counseling can be a journey of healing and hope: Talking out your thoughts and feelings in a confidential, non-judgmental, safe place; learning coping skills to heal and to more effectively manage your life’s stressful challenges; acquiring effective, healthy interpersonal skills that help improve the quality of your important relationships—your therapy at Rainbow Counseling can produce these awesome rewards for you or for you and your partner. Effective counseling can be very empowering and create hope when there seems to be no hope. Individual Counseling and Couples/Marriage Counseling sessions.
![Photo of Katlyn Walters, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9846a22f-1653-4e4b-9774-e74ed1db2824/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katlyn Walters
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
eco systemic family systems, DBT, IFS and narrative therapy etc.
Empathy for the realities of human suffering and trauma in our world, drew me to devote my career to therapy. I have a passion for helping children, teens, young adults, parents and families understand the patterns of harm that are contributing to their suffering. I believe each individual who enters the therapy process possesses the ability to explore the roots of their suffering and begin the journey toward healing.
eco systemic family systems, DBT, IFS and narrative therapy etc.
Empathy for the realities of human suffering and trauma in our world, drew me to devote my career to therapy. I have a passion for helping children, teens, young adults, parents and families understand the patterns of harm that are contributing to their suffering. I believe each individual who enters the therapy process possesses the ability to explore the roots of their suffering and begin the journey toward healing.
![Photo of Alexandra D. Pomponio - reNEW YOU Counseling and Wellness LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c678a16-d84f-4864-b9df-1c631919f478/2/320x400.jpeg)
reNEW YOU Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
Treatment modalities include but are not limited to: Play Therapy, CBT, EMDR, DBT, TF-CBT, Trauma Art Therapy.
There is help for you, your child, teen, young adult, and family! We passionately serve all of our clients with the goal to help them reach their highest potential. We believe in early intervention and supporting people through their feelings, thoughts, transitions, and adversities as early as possible in order to reduce the onset of more serious psychopathology in later years. We also believe in compassionately supporting the family system and educating parents on childhood development, parenting strategies, healthier ways to manage their own emotions, breaking generational trauma, and learn healthier communication and connection.
Treatment modalities include but are not limited to: Play Therapy, CBT, EMDR, DBT, TF-CBT, Trauma Art Therapy.
There is help for you, your child, teen, young adult, and family! We passionately serve all of our clients with the goal to help them reach their highest potential. We believe in early intervention and supporting people through their feelings, thoughts, transitions, and adversities as early as possible in order to reduce the onset of more serious psychopathology in later years. We also believe in compassionately supporting the family system and educating parents on childhood development, parenting strategies, healthier ways to manage their own emotions, breaking generational trauma, and learn healthier communication and connection.
![Photo of Ashleigh Weidner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22371691-c55f-431b-b53d-1610370d6d68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashleigh Weidner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
I want to start off by giving you a virtual high five for taking your first step in the counseling process! You deserve to be here. You deserve to be heard, listened to, cared for, and respected. You deserve the opportunity to be a part of a process where you are able to grow and heal. Oftentimes, life has a funny way of throwing us some curveballs. Sometimes you might feel like you can’t handle it, but I’m here to tell you that you can. I believe that you are the expert on yourself and your life, and what we do with our time together is up to you!
I want to start off by giving you a virtual high five for taking your first step in the counseling process! You deserve to be here. You deserve to be heard, listened to, cared for, and respected. You deserve the opportunity to be a part of a process where you are able to grow and heal. Oftentimes, life has a funny way of throwing us some curveballs. Sometimes you might feel like you can’t handle it, but I’m here to tell you that you can. I believe that you are the expert on yourself and your life, and what we do with our time together is up to you!
![Photo of Sarah Humphreys, LPC, CAADC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10d3db35-a5ae-4c76-bbd6-48238cd5c2bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Humphreys
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Collegeville, PA 19426
I am grateful you are here. I know the courage it takes to decide to seek counseling and the work it takes to find the right fit in a therapist. My mission is to ensure that you receive individualized, quality care, using evidenced based practices all while supported with compassion and non-judgement. I specialize in the relationship between the mind and body in trauma recovery, substance abuse (both for individuals and families of addiction), grief and loss, life transition support, sexuality, & health psychology (including terminal illness and reproductive health)
I am grateful you are here. I know the courage it takes to decide to seek counseling and the work it takes to find the right fit in a therapist. My mission is to ensure that you receive individualized, quality care, using evidenced based practices all while supported with compassion and non-judgement. I specialize in the relationship between the mind and body in trauma recovery, substance abuse (both for individuals and families of addiction), grief and loss, life transition support, sexuality, & health psychology (including terminal illness and reproductive health)
![Photo of Shalyn Leigh, LPC, LPCMH, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7aa767b-0d51-42be-8e06-ce168d3981e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shalyn Leigh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, obsessive thoughts, or grief, know that you're not alone and there is hope. Are you struggling to cope with these challenges on your own? Do you feel like your current situation is defining and isolating you? I'm Shalyn Leigh, a licensed professional counselor dedicated to helping young adults like you navigate these difficult times. Together, we will explore and address the thought patterns and behaviors that are holding you back, working towards a brighter, more resilient future. You don’t have to face these challenges alone; I’m here to support you every step of the way.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, obsessive thoughts, or grief, know that you're not alone and there is hope. Are you struggling to cope with these challenges on your own? Do you feel like your current situation is defining and isolating you? I'm Shalyn Leigh, a licensed professional counselor dedicated to helping young adults like you navigate these difficult times. Together, we will explore and address the thought patterns and behaviors that are holding you back, working towards a brighter, more resilient future. You don’t have to face these challenges alone; I’m here to support you every step of the way.
![Photo of David Rubenstein - David Rubenstein, Psy.D., LLC, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1f7f825-1960-4af9-8356-cb47bd9648ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Rubenstein, Psy.D., LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Collegeville, PA 19426 (Online Only)
Discover where your horizons take you. I work with successful professionals to help them explore and ignite potential. Feeling heard, listened to and understood can be a powerful experience. In that atmosphere, we work collaboratively to uncover what you value, what gives you a sense of meaning, and unlock motivation towards living a life with purpose and direction.
Discover where your horizons take you. I work with successful professionals to help them explore and ignite potential. Feeling heard, listened to and understood can be a powerful experience. In that atmosphere, we work collaboratively to uncover what you value, what gives you a sense of meaning, and unlock motivation towards living a life with purpose and direction.
![Photo of Emily Cody, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1336f2c2-88a0-45c7-a2a7-7a0643a03210/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a master’s-level clinician, I specialize in working with adults and couples who are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and building self-esteem. I have specialized training in family systems dynamics and sex therapy. My approach to therapy includes a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solutions-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and mindfulness skills. I focus on taking an open approach with each client to understand their specific needs in treatment.
As a master’s-level clinician, I specialize in working with adults and couples who are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and building self-esteem. I have specialized training in family systems dynamics and sex therapy. My approach to therapy includes a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solutions-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and mindfulness skills. I focus on taking an open approach with each client to understand their specific needs in treatment.
![Photo of Ashley Simmons, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d412a27-d765-4c75-b0c0-e4bbbc72aaf2/2/320x400.jpeg)
College can be a wild ride—exciting, but also stressful and overwhelming. My ideal clients are college students who are juggling academic pressures, social challenges, and the big questions about identity and future goals. They might be dealing with anxiety, feeling lost or disconnected, or struggling to balance it all. What they need most is a safe space to talk things out, someone who really gets what they’re going through, and practical tools to manage stress and build resilience.
College can be a wild ride—exciting, but also stressful and overwhelming. My ideal clients are college students who are juggling academic pressures, social challenges, and the big questions about identity and future goals. They might be dealing with anxiety, feeling lost or disconnected, or struggling to balance it all. What they need most is a safe space to talk things out, someone who really gets what they’re going through, and practical tools to manage stress and build resilience.
![Photo of Colleen Valerio, MS, MPS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7868e445-b975-442f-ac9b-7f7a60e36443/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to therapy is best stated by the timeless lyricist, Vanilla Ice, “if there is a problem, yo, I'll solve it. Check out the hook while my DJ revolves it.” While I will not rap during our session, I will help address whatever difficulties are presenting in your life, be that depression, anxiety, addiction, or an eating disorder. Whether this is your first time thinking about therapy or you're a seasoned client looking for a new therapist, I’m here, I get it, let’s get started.
My approach to therapy is best stated by the timeless lyricist, Vanilla Ice, “if there is a problem, yo, I'll solve it. Check out the hook while my DJ revolves it.” While I will not rap during our session, I will help address whatever difficulties are presenting in your life, be that depression, anxiety, addiction, or an eating disorder. Whether this is your first time thinking about therapy or you're a seasoned client looking for a new therapist, I’m here, I get it, let’s get started.
![Photo of Gail Duffy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46bd1567-6443-4ffd-9adb-20b174d7f83f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gail has over 20 years’ experience working with substance use disorder (SUD) and Mental Health clients in a variety of settings including detox, inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient (IOP). She specializes in Relapse Prevention, Co-Occurring disorders and family programing. Gail is a graduate of West Chester and Eastern Universities and currently pursuing her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Gail has experience working with children, adolescents and adults.
Gail has over 20 years’ experience working with substance use disorder (SUD) and Mental Health clients in a variety of settings including detox, inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient (IOP). She specializes in Relapse Prevention, Co-Occurring disorders and family programing. Gail is a graduate of West Chester and Eastern Universities and currently pursuing her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Gail has experience working with children, adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Kellie Jackson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/629d8bbf-d0b1-42ac-be3b-727ebe1262b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
Finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task especially when you are overwhelmed, trying to manage a challenging relationship, or adjusting to life's twists and turns. I specialize in couples therapy, anxiety, depression, support with parenting, and perinatal mood disorders. I support clients experiencing life transitions such as grief, caring for aging parents, retirement, divorce, career changes, empty nest, and emotional trauma. I strive to provide a warm, collaborative space for my clients, while offering a direct approach to therapy.
Finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task especially when you are overwhelmed, trying to manage a challenging relationship, or adjusting to life's twists and turns. I specialize in couples therapy, anxiety, depression, support with parenting, and perinatal mood disorders. I support clients experiencing life transitions such as grief, caring for aging parents, retirement, divorce, career changes, empty nest, and emotional trauma. I strive to provide a warm, collaborative space for my clients, while offering a direct approach to therapy.
![Photo of Kristine Boward - The Center, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d11c4f7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Center, LLC is a group psychology practice dedicated to providing top-notch, warm, personal psychological and nutritional counseling services as well as biofeedback and neurofeedback. We have 24 psychologists and a registered dietitian with offices in King of Prussia, West Chester and via Telehealth. Our psychologists specialize in a range of presenting concerns and work with all children, teens and adults. Only doctorate level psychologists are invited to join our team. Our scheduling specialists work hard to match you with a psychologist who fits your personality and specializes in the concerns bringing you into therapy.
The Center, LLC is a group psychology practice dedicated to providing top-notch, warm, personal psychological and nutritional counseling services as well as biofeedback and neurofeedback. We have 24 psychologists and a registered dietitian with offices in King of Prussia, West Chester and via Telehealth. Our psychologists specialize in a range of presenting concerns and work with all children, teens and adults. Only doctorate level psychologists are invited to join our team. Our scheduling specialists work hard to match you with a psychologist who fits your personality and specializes in the concerns bringing you into therapy.
![Photo of Frank D LoRiggio, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f838656-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Frank D LoRiggio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426 (Online Only)
You made it to this website either for yourself or for a loved one you care deeply about. Life can bring many challenges and struggles. Pain, fear, and suffering can hold you back and prevent you from being the person you were meant to be. Imagine what your life would look like after getting past those barriers. See yourself go from just getting by to thriving in your life. Where your health is a strength rather than a challenge. You can do it and I would like to accompany you on your journey. Call to see how I can help.
You made it to this website either for yourself or for a loved one you care deeply about. Life can bring many challenges and struggles. Pain, fear, and suffering can hold you back and prevent you from being the person you were meant to be. Imagine what your life would look like after getting past those barriers. See yourself go from just getting by to thriving in your life. Where your health is a strength rather than a challenge. You can do it and I would like to accompany you on your journey. Call to see how I can help.
![Photo of Lauren C. Ostrowski, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CCH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ab6706-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren C. Ostrowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CCH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
I enjoy working with clients with many different types of concerns or areas in which they would like to grow. I have been working with children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families since 2007. I tailor my treatment approach to each client and I believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have assisted clients with many different reasons for coming into counseling, and only some of those topics are highlighted here.
I enjoy working with clients with many different types of concerns or areas in which they would like to grow. I have been working with children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families since 2007. I tailor my treatment approach to each client and I believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have assisted clients with many different reasons for coming into counseling, and only some of those topics are highlighted here.
![Photo of Hannah Griffin, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e37411f1-52d2-4333-887a-45513b191e83/3/320x400.png)
Hannah Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
Are you feeling weighed down by overwhelming anxiety or struggling to stay focused due to ADHD? I want you to know that you are not alone, and I am here to provide the compassionate support and professional expertise you need to navigate through these challenges. Living with anxiety and ADHD can be incredibly tough, and it's okay to feel the weight of these emotions. I want you to know that I genuinely care about your well-being, and my goal is to help you find relief and regain control over your life. I have helped many people just like you to find healing and real hope.
Are you feeling weighed down by overwhelming anxiety or struggling to stay focused due to ADHD? I want you to know that you are not alone, and I am here to provide the compassionate support and professional expertise you need to navigate through these challenges. Living with anxiety and ADHD can be incredibly tough, and it's okay to feel the weight of these emotions. I want you to know that I genuinely care about your well-being, and my goal is to help you find relief and regain control over your life. I have helped many people just like you to find healing and real hope.
See more therapy options for Collegeville
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Collegeville
- Audubon
- Bridgeport
- Devon
- Eagleville
- Harleysville
- King Of Prussia
- Lansdale
- Limerick
- Linfield
- Norristown
- Phoenixville
- Royersford
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.