Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Erdenheim, PA
Ashley Straub Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erdenheim, PA 19038
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused and Mindfulness.
Feeling stuck and wondering why? Or what you can do about it? Let’s work together to identify your goals and create a path towards them. Along the way we will work on self-acceptance, self-love and developing an understanding of all spheres of yourself. My ideal client struggles to find their words, has difficulties describing what’s happening to them, and often needs validation and acceptance. All stressors, regardless of intensity, can leave us feeling powerless and hopeless as they accumulate. Sometimes people fall short and are not sure why, working with a therapist can help you understand what might be getting in your way.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused and Mindfulness.
Feeling stuck and wondering why? Or what you can do about it? Let’s work together to identify your goals and create a path towards them. Along the way we will work on self-acceptance, self-love and developing an understanding of all spheres of yourself. My ideal client struggles to find their words, has difficulties describing what’s happening to them, and often needs validation and acceptance. All stressors, regardless of intensity, can leave us feeling powerless and hopeless as they accumulate. Sometimes people fall short and are not sure why, working with a therapist can help you understand what might be getting in your way.
Arika has had extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is working to be certified.
Arika Moody, LMFT is a Philadelphia Native who strives to service the community she grew up in, and to provide them with affordable therapeutic supports and resources. She has spent her college years in Syracuse University and LaSalle University, where she obtained a B.S. in Child and Family Studies and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has been dedicated to continuing to learn new ways to be effective in treating her clients and providing holistic treatment that includes processing, validation, and skill building.
Arika has had extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is working to be certified.
Arika Moody, LMFT is a Philadelphia Native who strives to service the community she grew up in, and to provide them with affordable therapeutic supports and resources. She has spent her college years in Syracuse University and LaSalle University, where she obtained a B.S. in Child and Family Studies and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has been dedicated to continuing to learn new ways to be effective in treating her clients and providing holistic treatment that includes processing, validation, and skill building.
Elizabeth Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Erdenheim, PA 19038
There came a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. ~Anais Nin. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing an empowerment and strength-based approach to support individuals in personal growth and change. I am a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor specializing in play therapy with children, family therapy, creative counseling for adolescents, and trauma-informed treatment. I utilize an integrative, mindful approach to address the whole individual and promote healing and wellness.
There came a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. ~Anais Nin. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing an empowerment and strength-based approach to support individuals in personal growth and change. I am a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor specializing in play therapy with children, family therapy, creative counseling for adolescents, and trauma-informed treatment. I utilize an integrative, mindful approach to address the whole individual and promote healing and wellness.
More Therapists Nearby
Risa Jinunarux-Shibata
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, C-DBT, IFS
Verified Verified
Abington, PA 19001 (Online Only)
I am certified in dialectical behavior therapy, received certification in trauma treatment.
As an Asian psychotherapist, I bring a unique perspective to my practice that values the rich diversity of experiences. I am committed to creating a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore and understand the intersection of their identities and mental health. My approach integrates various evidence-based modalities and my therapeutic style is rooted in unconditional positive regard and relational approach. Everybody can benefit from therapy today. During the intake appointment, we will discuss your treatment goals and what you have been struggling with. We will collaborate together to work toward your goals.
I am certified in dialectical behavior therapy, received certification in trauma treatment.
As an Asian psychotherapist, I bring a unique perspective to my practice that values the rich diversity of experiences. I am committed to creating a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore and understand the intersection of their identities and mental health. My approach integrates various evidence-based modalities and my therapeutic style is rooted in unconditional positive regard and relational approach. Everybody can benefit from therapy today. During the intake appointment, we will discuss your treatment goals and what you have been struggling with. We will collaborate together to work toward your goals.
Crystal Marco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
I’m trained in CBT and DBT.
Therapy can seem daunting and overwhelming if you have not experienced it or had a negative experience in the past. The most important part of therapy is establishing a trusting relationship with your therapist that allows you to feel comfortable, heard, and validated. In therapy (and in life), I take a strengths-based, growth stance. I truly believe you are doing your best AND you have room to grow. My place in the therapy room is to take the journey with you. I love helping adolescents and emerging adults with their identity exploration and helping them to be true and authentic to who they are (however that may apply to them).
I’m trained in CBT and DBT.
Therapy can seem daunting and overwhelming if you have not experienced it or had a negative experience in the past. The most important part of therapy is establishing a trusting relationship with your therapist that allows you to feel comfortable, heard, and validated. In therapy (and in life), I take a strengths-based, growth stance. I truly believe you are doing your best AND you have room to grow. My place in the therapy room is to take the journey with you. I love helping adolescents and emerging adults with their identity exploration and helping them to be true and authentic to who they are (however that may apply to them).
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Julia Ruane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Glenside, PA 19038 (Online Only)
I have training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and also have a certification in Applied Positive Psychology.
Hi! I'm Julia. I specialize and am certified in perinatal mental health. I work with clients through the unpredictability of trying to start a family, including adoption and fertility issues. I support families who are facing the pain of pregnancy loss, or dealing with the aftermath of birth trauma. I treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders that arise during pregnancy and/or the postpartum period. I provide a skilled perspective to help clients learn how to ride the waves of this delicate and vulnerable time.
I have training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and also have a certification in Applied Positive Psychology.
Hi! I'm Julia. I specialize and am certified in perinatal mental health. I work with clients through the unpredictability of trying to start a family, including adoption and fertility issues. I support families who are facing the pain of pregnancy loss, or dealing with the aftermath of birth trauma. I treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders that arise during pregnancy and/or the postpartum period. I provide a skilled perspective to help clients learn how to ride the waves of this delicate and vulnerable time.
Morgan Karcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
John Cappello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046 (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor, CBT-informed, and DBT-informed practitioner.
Currently accepting new clients with immediate availability for adults and adolescents, 12 years and older! Insurance is accepted. Beginning therapy can help you cope with life’s stressors and challenges in healthy and productive ways. Therapy offers a safe place to build meaningful skills you can use for the rest of your life. Working with people from all walks of life has given me a deep understanding of many issues and how difficult it can be to face those issues alone. I strive to create a strong rapport with my clients so we can effectively solve problems and increase happiness.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor, CBT-informed, and DBT-informed practitioner.
Currently accepting new clients with immediate availability for adults and adolescents, 12 years and older! Insurance is accepted. Beginning therapy can help you cope with life’s stressors and challenges in healthy and productive ways. Therapy offers a safe place to build meaningful skills you can use for the rest of your life. Working with people from all walks of life has given me a deep understanding of many issues and how difficult it can be to face those issues alone. I strive to create a strong rapport with my clients so we can effectively solve problems and increase happiness.
Amy LeFurge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Glenside, PA 19038 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Amy - a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist dedicated to helping children and teens identify and build upon strengths to overcome challenges. I have 10 years of experience working directly with children in individual and group settings. I rely heavily on CBT, Motivational Interviewing and DBT Principles to assist clients with identifying changes they want to make in their lives. I believe firmly that the best way to help teens and children is to build a strong rapport and assist them in building confidence and enhance their skills.
Hi, I'm Amy - a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist dedicated to helping children and teens identify and build upon strengths to overcome challenges. I have 10 years of experience working directly with children in individual and group settings. I rely heavily on CBT, Motivational Interviewing and DBT Principles to assist clients with identifying changes they want to make in their lives. I believe firmly that the best way to help teens and children is to build a strong rapport and assist them in building confidence and enhance their skills.
Are you a parent of a struggling TEEN who needs support or an ADULT who feels stuck and unsure of your path? I can help! I never forgot what it is like to be a teen, and I am pretty sure I am now an adult who also knows grief, anxiety, and depression. I understand what it is like to be out of the box and find a place in the world. I, too, feel I am out of the box, as are my techniques. I believe laughter should find its place even in the darkest places and weave humor wherever it may fit. I am also well versed in all methods, such as CBT, DBT, ACT, etc., but the connection between therapist and client is essential for growth.
Are you a parent of a struggling TEEN who needs support or an ADULT who feels stuck and unsure of your path? I can help! I never forgot what it is like to be a teen, and I am pretty sure I am now an adult who also knows grief, anxiety, and depression. I understand what it is like to be out of the box and find a place in the world. I, too, feel I am out of the box, as are my techniques. I believe laughter should find its place even in the darkest places and weave humor wherever it may fit. I am also well versed in all methods, such as CBT, DBT, ACT, etc., but the connection between therapist and client is essential for growth.
Kyra Woodworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abington, PA 19001 (Online Only)
I utilize Internal Family Systems and Narrative Therapy frameworks as well as skill-based therapies, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness.
Stories matter. More specifically, your story matters and, as a therapist, it is a privilege to hold your story. Furthermore, you are the expert in your own life. I see my role as creating a safe space to assist you in exploring your life, your story, your struggles, your challenges; starting wherever you are! My approach to therapy focuses on building a relationship that is warm, authentic, and compassionate. I support adolescents and young adults experiencing transition or life changes, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, or are affected by trauma. My approach is integrative, trauma-formed and draws on different modalities.
I utilize Internal Family Systems and Narrative Therapy frameworks as well as skill-based therapies, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness.
Stories matter. More specifically, your story matters and, as a therapist, it is a privilege to hold your story. Furthermore, you are the expert in your own life. I see my role as creating a safe space to assist you in exploring your life, your story, your struggles, your challenges; starting wherever you are! My approach to therapy focuses on building a relationship that is warm, authentic, and compassionate. I support adolescents and young adults experiencing transition or life changes, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, or are affected by trauma. My approach is integrative, trauma-formed and draws on different modalities.
Grimes approaches clinical work with an interdisciplinary focus and continues to educate himself in the areas of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychopharmacology.
Dr. Grimes is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has 16 years of experience. He has practiced in a variety of setting including inpatient psychiatric, addictions, and community mental health. He specializes in the treatment of anger, anxiety disorders, depression, grief/loss, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and co-occurring substance use disorders. Dr. Grimes holds an MA in clinical counseling psychology from La Salle University, a PhD in holistic psychology from the Institute of Metaphysical Humanistic Sciences, and certifications in addictions, co-occurring disorders, and trauma informed care.
Grimes approaches clinical work with an interdisciplinary focus and continues to educate himself in the areas of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychopharmacology.
Dr. Grimes is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has 16 years of experience. He has practiced in a variety of setting including inpatient psychiatric, addictions, and community mental health. He specializes in the treatment of anger, anxiety disorders, depression, grief/loss, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and co-occurring substance use disorders. Dr. Grimes holds an MA in clinical counseling psychology from La Salle University, a PhD in holistic psychology from the Institute of Metaphysical Humanistic Sciences, and certifications in addictions, co-occurring disorders, and trauma informed care.
I practice from an eclectic perspective, but utilize humanistic, DBT, EMDR, and other skill- and process-based interventions to help you manage challenging feelings and untangle emotional wounds.
Feeling stuck in life? Maybe it's time to get some help. Do you find yourself getting sad or angry at confusing moments in your life? Do others find you to be "primarily angry," "often sad," or in some other way dominated by one particular feeling? Expressing and/or making sense of negative emotions is sometimes challenging. I help people examine, understand, and process their feelings so that they can be more productive and self-secure. I am also particularly skilled in helping people with life and career transition problems.
I practice from an eclectic perspective, but utilize humanistic, DBT, EMDR, and other skill- and process-based interventions to help you manage challenging feelings and untangle emotional wounds.
Feeling stuck in life? Maybe it's time to get some help. Do you find yourself getting sad or angry at confusing moments in your life? Do others find you to be "primarily angry," "often sad," or in some other way dominated by one particular feeling? Expressing and/or making sense of negative emotions is sometimes challenging. I help people examine, understand, and process their feelings so that they can be more productive and self-secure. I am also particularly skilled in helping people with life and career transition problems.
Acacia Masso
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abington, PA 19001 (Online Only)
I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach primarily based in Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems, as well as therapies such as ACT, CBT, and DBT.
I view clients as the experts in their own lives, and my goal is to create a warm, empathetic, and supportive partnership. I support people experiencing trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. As someone raised in Uganda, South Sudan, and Kenya, moving to the United States as a young adult, I am interested in supporting people processing cross-cultural transition and bicultural identity, as well as intergenerational, communal trauma and survivor’s guilt. As a queer therapist, I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ clients as well.
I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach primarily based in Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems, as well as therapies such as ACT, CBT, and DBT.
I view clients as the experts in their own lives, and my goal is to create a warm, empathetic, and supportive partnership. I support people experiencing trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. As someone raised in Uganda, South Sudan, and Kenya, moving to the United States as a young adult, I am interested in supporting people processing cross-cultural transition and bicultural identity, as well as intergenerational, communal trauma and survivor’s guilt. As a queer therapist, I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ clients as well.
Carly Ellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSTS
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046 (Online Only)
My interventions include use of CBT and DBT skills infused in a relational/ psychodynamic model of treatment.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist with over 17 years of experience providing assistance to clients with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, trauma issues, eating disorders and postpartum depression. I work with children(5 and up), adolescents(ages 11 and up), young adults, couples, families and women. As a licensed clinical social worker I believe in focusing on all aspects of a person's well being; mental, physical, financial and social. I have a Masters degree in Social Work, Certified Shame-Informed Treatment Specialist, and pursuing PhD in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies.
My interventions include use of CBT and DBT skills infused in a relational/ psychodynamic model of treatment.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist with over 17 years of experience providing assistance to clients with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, trauma issues, eating disorders and postpartum depression. I work with children(5 and up), adolescents(ages 11 and up), young adults, couples, families and women. As a licensed clinical social worker I believe in focusing on all aspects of a person's well being; mental, physical, financial and social. I have a Masters degree in Social Work, Certified Shame-Informed Treatment Specialist, and pursuing PhD in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies.
I’ve been a practicing psychologist for over 10 years, utilizing therapeutic methods such as CBT, DBT, ACT and motivational interviewing.
When despite all that may feel out of your control, it’s empowering when you recognize there are things that you can do to make your life better. I want others to learn about themselves and what they are capable of is more than they believe. I begin this process by assessing all factors in a person’s life that be contributing to their overall health and distress. Therefore, my approach to treatment is fluid, dependent upon the issue, what is driving the issue (function/underlying factors) and which evidence-based treatment best fits the needs of the person.
I’ve been a practicing psychologist for over 10 years, utilizing therapeutic methods such as CBT, DBT, ACT and motivational interviewing.
When despite all that may feel out of your control, it’s empowering when you recognize there are things that you can do to make your life better. I want others to learn about themselves and what they are capable of is more than they believe. I begin this process by assessing all factors in a person’s life that be contributing to their overall health and distress. Therefore, my approach to treatment is fluid, dependent upon the issue, what is driving the issue (function/underlying factors) and which evidence-based treatment best fits the needs of the person.
Robin Axelrod Sabag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
In addition, I draw from other therapeutic modalities in my work including: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, & Narrative Techniques.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
In addition, I draw from other therapeutic modalities in my work including: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, & Narrative Techniques.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
Emily Salkever-Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046 (Online Only)
Trauma informed therapy, DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by, I am so glad that you are here & taking time to think about helping yourself &/or a loved one. Are you stressed, worried, feeling stuck, depressed, struggling with difficult emotions or a transition? My goal is to support you on this part of your Journey. Together, let’s find peace, purpose, self-compassion, joy, positive energy, & more reasons to hope. We all need support sometimes—me too! In therapy, I am Person-Centered & incorporate breathing, mindfulness, education, walking, nature, and the wisdom that lies within you. Because, no one knows you better than you! I look forward to meeting you soon.
Trauma informed therapy, DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by, I am so glad that you are here & taking time to think about helping yourself &/or a loved one. Are you stressed, worried, feeling stuck, depressed, struggling with difficult emotions or a transition? My goal is to support you on this part of your Journey. Together, let’s find peace, purpose, self-compassion, joy, positive energy, & more reasons to hope. We all need support sometimes—me too! In therapy, I am Person-Centered & incorporate breathing, mindfulness, education, walking, nature, and the wisdom that lies within you. Because, no one knows you better than you! I look forward to meeting you soon.
Lindsay Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
I utilize CBT, EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness integrated approaches.
I know it feels impossible to turn off your worried thoughts that are leaving you worn out and unfocused. It feels like nothing you do is ever enough and you are always beating yourself up, so much so that it impacts your mood... and you are tired of it. You deserve to live your best life. My purpose is to help you on your journey to create real change and deep healing. I help you feel empowered to set and reach goals. My approach is empathetic, positive, and supportive. We all benefit from having a consistent, supportive person in our lives. I'll cheer you on while also offering concrete skills to help you through challenges.
I utilize CBT, EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness integrated approaches.
I know it feels impossible to turn off your worried thoughts that are leaving you worn out and unfocused. It feels like nothing you do is ever enough and you are always beating yourself up, so much so that it impacts your mood... and you are tired of it. You deserve to live your best life. My purpose is to help you on your journey to create real change and deep healing. I help you feel empowered to set and reach goals. My approach is empathetic, positive, and supportive. We all benefit from having a consistent, supportive person in our lives. I'll cheer you on while also offering concrete skills to help you through challenges.
See more therapy options for Erdenheim
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Erdenheim
- Abington
- Cheltenham
- Elkins Park
- Flourtown
- Glenside
- Horsham
- Jenkintown
- Oreland
- Upper Dublin
- Willow Grove
- Wyncote
- Wyndmoor
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.