Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Malvern, PA

Photo of Ginny Virginia Burke, MSW, LMSW, CGE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ginny Virginia Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, CGE
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
I specialize in addiction recovery, improving low self-esteem, managing depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma for Individuals and their Families struggling with SUD. Combining my knowledge of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, Grief Counseling and my own life experiences, I am able to bring a level of understanding, empathy and compassion to each session while teaching and collaborating with you to re-discover your self-worth, identity and purpose in life eradicating all negative thoughts, stigma and shame others would have you believe. It is all inside you, I can help you find who you already are.
I specialize in addiction recovery, improving low self-esteem, managing depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma for Individuals and their Families struggling with SUD. Combining my knowledge of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, Grief Counseling and my own life experiences, I am able to bring a level of understanding, empathy and compassion to each session while teaching and collaborating with you to re-discover your self-worth, identity and purpose in life eradicating all negative thoughts, stigma and shame others would have you believe. It is all inside you, I can help you find who you already are.
(610) 840-6162 View (610) 840-6162
Photo of Michele Chubb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Chubb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
My strengths are in dialectical behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Have you been struggling with depression, anxiety or relationship issues? Do you feel like you are stuck or in a spiral? Have you had trauma in your life? Do you feel like you have no one to talk to or that no one understands what you are going through? I can help with these issues and more. I offer a safe and accepting environment while using an eclectic approach that best fits your individual needs and strengths. I take the time to listen and understand. We will also take the time to develop the therapeutic relationship which is a key element to successful therapy.
My strengths are in dialectical behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Have you been struggling with depression, anxiety or relationship issues? Do you feel like you are stuck or in a spiral? Have you had trauma in your life? Do you feel like you have no one to talk to or that no one understands what you are going through? I can help with these issues and more. I offer a safe and accepting environment while using an eclectic approach that best fits your individual needs and strengths. I take the time to listen and understand. We will also take the time to develop the therapeutic relationship which is a key element to successful therapy.
(484) 406-3130 View (484) 406-3130
Photo of Patrick Dowling - Patrick Dowling, LPC, LPC, MFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrick Dowling, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
I want to help you claim your best life! Helping people change has been my life's work for over 20 years. I utilize the best practices that help my clients live the life they want....not to avoid the struggle but to embrace it and triumph. While I have studied various forms of therapy..CBT, DBT, Family systems, etc., what I find most fascinating is the ongoing triumph of the human spirit over adversity. I would love to help you utilize the resources you have to successfully meet your life's challenges. "How can I be Helpful?"
I want to help you claim your best life! Helping people change has been my life's work for over 20 years. I utilize the best practices that help my clients live the life they want....not to avoid the struggle but to embrace it and triumph. While I have studied various forms of therapy..CBT, DBT, Family systems, etc., what I find most fascinating is the ongoing triumph of the human spirit over adversity. I would love to help you utilize the resources you have to successfully meet your life's challenges. "How can I be Helpful?"
(610) 643-4893 View (610) 643-4893
Photo of Darah Manzione, LPC, ACS
Darah Manzione
LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Some of the evidence-based practices we utilize are Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), psychotherapy, trauma-informed strategies, among others.
The choice to begin counseling is a significant step in an individual's life and can be very intimidating. Helping you feel at ease during this process is one of our most important priorities. At Beyond Counseling, we utilize a person-centered approach to meet the individualized needs of each and every client. We focus on helping our clients work through adjustment issues (life changing events), teaching techniques to learn and manage mental health needs, and providing a safe and comfortable environment to discuss stressors that may be affecting your wellbeing and happiness.
Some of the evidence-based practices we utilize are Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), psychotherapy, trauma-informed strategies, among others.
The choice to begin counseling is a significant step in an individual's life and can be very intimidating. Helping you feel at ease during this process is one of our most important priorities. At Beyond Counseling, we utilize a person-centered approach to meet the individualized needs of each and every client. We focus on helping our clients work through adjustment issues (life changing events), teaching techniques to learn and manage mental health needs, and providing a safe and comfortable environment to discuss stressors that may be affecting your wellbeing and happiness.
(484) 276-1647 View (484) 276-1647
Photo of Megan Carlson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
Do you feel stuck and want to move forward into a life you love? I will help you on your journey to increase your self-understanding, learn new skills, and heal from past hurts. I specialize in trauma and use advanced techniques such as EMDR to help you process through your trauma and past hurts so that they stop negatively affecting you. If your thoughts or emotions are holding you back, I can teach you CBT and DBT skills to better manage them and help you regain control to lead you to a happier life.
Do you feel stuck and want to move forward into a life you love? I will help you on your journey to increase your self-understanding, learn new skills, and heal from past hurts. I specialize in trauma and use advanced techniques such as EMDR to help you process through your trauma and past hurts so that they stop negatively affecting you. If your thoughts or emotions are holding you back, I can teach you CBT and DBT skills to better manage them and help you regain control to lead you to a happier life.
(484) 282-1822 View (484) 282-1822
Photo of Anne Unterkoefler - Anne Unterkoefler LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Unterkoefler LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist for 25+ years, I believe it is important to recognize a person's strengths to help them deal with emotional difficulties when they occur. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and the elderly to enhance their coping skills, so they have a variety of options to deal with their life stresses. I enjoy working in collaboration with people of all ages and diagnoses to achieve their mental health goals. Being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy I have a wealth of knowledge in teaching coping skills to help a wide variety of diagnoses.
As a therapist for 25+ years, I believe it is important to recognize a person's strengths to help them deal with emotional difficulties when they occur. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and the elderly to enhance their coping skills, so they have a variety of options to deal with their life stresses. I enjoy working in collaboration with people of all ages and diagnoses to achieve their mental health goals. Being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy I have a wealth of knowledge in teaching coping skills to help a wide variety of diagnoses.
(484) 350-5345 View (484) 350-5345
Photo of Dustin N Kurtek, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dustin N Kurtek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Waitlist for new clients
Clinical approaches are grounded in cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, EMDR and mindfulness based approaches, while also being individualized, strength-based & eclectic to meet you and/or your family's needs.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, it is my goal in partnering with clients in navigating through life's twists and turns, being a guide towards a middle path of acceptance and change. My focus is to empower clients to transform coping strategies into skills of daily living, identify and release themselves from self-destructive patterns that led them to treatment, doing so in an environment that encourages growth and development.
Clinical approaches are grounded in cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, EMDR and mindfulness based approaches, while also being individualized, strength-based & eclectic to meet you and/or your family's needs.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, it is my goal in partnering with clients in navigating through life's twists and turns, being a guide towards a middle path of acceptance and change. My focus is to empower clients to transform coping strategies into skills of daily living, identify and release themselves from self-destructive patterns that led them to treatment, doing so in an environment that encourages growth and development.
(570) 541-4511 View (570) 541-4511
Photo of Grief Therapist Kelly Kowalchuk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grief Therapist Kelly Kowalchuk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355  (Online Only)
Your therapy care plan will use evidence-based interventions from mindfulness-based CBT and DBT, fostering resilience and well-being.
Grief can be an intricate and isolating experience for People Pleasers. The constant desire to please others adds a unique layer to the tasks faced during the grieving process, often leading individuals to disregard their own needs and emotions. You do not have to navigate this journey alone. We will embark on a compassionate and nonjudgmental narrative approach to address the tasks of grief. In our sessions, your goals to restore balance to your entire being—mind, body, and spirit—will be our focus, and one step at a time, we will work towards fostering healthy relationships and enhancing self-advocacy. Ask me about Walk & Talk!
Your therapy care plan will use evidence-based interventions from mindfulness-based CBT and DBT, fostering resilience and well-being.
Grief can be an intricate and isolating experience for People Pleasers. The constant desire to please others adds a unique layer to the tasks faced during the grieving process, often leading individuals to disregard their own needs and emotions. You do not have to navigate this journey alone. We will embark on a compassionate and nonjudgmental narrative approach to address the tasks of grief. In our sessions, your goals to restore balance to your entire being—mind, body, and spirit—will be our focus, and one step at a time, we will work towards fostering healthy relationships and enhancing self-advocacy. Ask me about Walk & Talk!
(484) 946-3989 View (484) 946-3989
Photo of Kaitlin Babyak, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlin Babyak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy, I help you shift your relationship with food and your body, enabling you to eat without doing math, listen to your body’s cues, and enjoy social events without fear.
You’re counting every calorie, overcompensating with exercise, and feeling guilt and shame after eating sweets alone. Social events are hard because menus don’t fit your strict meal plan. You feel overwhelmed from one cookie, hate looking in the mirror, and believe changing your body will bring happiness and love. I understand the struggle with food and body image is overwhelming. You deserve to find peace with food, enjoy eating without guilt, and achieve true self-acceptance. My approach focuses on helping you reconnect with your body and trust your inner wisdom.
Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy, I help you shift your relationship with food and your body, enabling you to eat without doing math, listen to your body’s cues, and enjoy social events without fear.
You’re counting every calorie, overcompensating with exercise, and feeling guilt and shame after eating sweets alone. Social events are hard because menus don’t fit your strict meal plan. You feel overwhelmed from one cookie, hate looking in the mirror, and believe changing your body will bring happiness and love. I understand the struggle with food and body image is overwhelming. You deserve to find peace with food, enjoy eating without guilt, and achieve true self-acceptance. My approach focuses on helping you reconnect with your body and trust your inner wisdom.
(610) 947-4326 View (610) 947-4326
Photo of Kylie Meyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kylie Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355  (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.
(484) 255-4371 View (484) 255-4371
Photo of Todd Shirley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Todd Shirley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
My therapy utilizes elements of Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT).
Waiting lists are long, things become urgent, and good help can be hard to find. Successful, compassionate therapeautic care for you or your struggling teen is available through the counseling services I offer. If you or someone you know is struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, academic struggles, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, self injury, sexual orientation, gender identity, or suicidal ideation reach out to set up an appointment or brief introductory virtual meeting. Weekend and evening appointment times are available. I know first hand how scary it can be to watch an adolescent you love struggle and suffer.
My therapy utilizes elements of Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT).
Waiting lists are long, things become urgent, and good help can be hard to find. Successful, compassionate therapeautic care for you or your struggling teen is available through the counseling services I offer. If you or someone you know is struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, academic struggles, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, self injury, sexual orientation, gender identity, or suicidal ideation reach out to set up an appointment or brief introductory virtual meeting. Weekend and evening appointment times are available. I know first hand how scary it can be to watch an adolescent you love struggle and suffer.
(610) 557-8332 View (610) 557-8332
Photo of Dr. Maddie Roxandich, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Dr. Maddie Roxandich
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
I am skilled in incorporating a variety of other therapies including ACT, DBT, and strengths-based therapy.
Are you struggling with managing stress or the symptoms of anxiety or depression? Are you exhausted trying to find balance among the many roles you must play day-to-day and simultaneously be more present in your life? You deserve to stop “going through the motions,” and you deserve to experience more joy in your life. My goal is to help you navigate life with increased hope and resiliency, as you develop the tools to better manage your symptoms and wellness. I enjoy helping clients build new patterns and insights that help to restore balance and connection to their lives.
I am skilled in incorporating a variety of other therapies including ACT, DBT, and strengths-based therapy.
Are you struggling with managing stress or the symptoms of anxiety or depression? Are you exhausted trying to find balance among the many roles you must play day-to-day and simultaneously be more present in your life? You deserve to stop “going through the motions,” and you deserve to experience more joy in your life. My goal is to help you navigate life with increased hope and resiliency, as you develop the tools to better manage your symptoms and wellness. I enjoy helping clients build new patterns and insights that help to restore balance and connection to their lives.
(267) 710-8426 View (267) 710-8426
Photo of Acacia Masso, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Acacia Masso
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355  (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.
(610) 421-0542 View (610) 421-0542
Photo of Kristy Kingan, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristy Kingan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
I focus on ACT and DBT to help address behaviors, while using psychoeducation, attachment theory, Family Systems, and trauma-informed care to determine their root causes.
I am a masters level clinician specializing in trauma, eating disorders, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), addiction and LGBTQIA+ issues. I have extensive experience working with individuals with severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, often with various co-occurring disorders ranging from addictions to schizophrenia.
I focus on ACT and DBT to help address behaviors, while using psychoeducation, attachment theory, Family Systems, and trauma-informed care to determine their root causes.
I am a masters level clinician specializing in trauma, eating disorders, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), addiction and LGBTQIA+ issues. I have extensive experience working with individuals with severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, often with various co-occurring disorders ranging from addictions to schizophrenia.
(267) 485-6513 View (267) 485-6513
Photo of Matthew Perugini, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Perugini
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
I am trained in Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and CBT.
I focus on providing non-judgmental, down-to-earth counseling for people dealing with this crazy world we love in. My style tends to be humor-filled, blunt, direct, empathetic, and accepting; regardless of what you are struggling with. Often my sessions are spent with a combination of deep introspection and humor. My ideal client is one who's looking for a change in their life, who is ready to do the work it takes to be happy and successful.
I am trained in Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and CBT.
I focus on providing non-judgmental, down-to-earth counseling for people dealing with this crazy world we love in. My style tends to be humor-filled, blunt, direct, empathetic, and accepting; regardless of what you are struggling with. Often my sessions are spent with a combination of deep introspection and humor. My ideal client is one who's looking for a change in their life, who is ready to do the work it takes to be happy and successful.
(610) 707-8073 View (610) 707-8073
Photo of Kathy Muhlenberg, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Muhlenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
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.
(610) 859-4830 View (610) 859-4830
Photo of Allison (Allie) Beer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison (Allie) Beer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
I draw from a range of techniques, such as parts work (IFS), DBT, EMDR, and more, all tailored to your specific needs.
As a trauma-informed and neurodivergent-affirming therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you as you navigate the challenges of life. Whether you're experiencing depression/burnout, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship stressors, or any other issue, I'm dedicated to providing you with compassionate support. Life's stressors can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling stuck or lost. Together, we'll explore these challenges, uncovering meaning and forging paths forward. I work with individuals across all ages and neurotypes, each with their own unique strengths and experiences.
I draw from a range of techniques, such as parts work (IFS), DBT, EMDR, and more, all tailored to your specific needs.
As a trauma-informed and neurodivergent-affirming therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you as you navigate the challenges of life. Whether you're experiencing depression/burnout, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship stressors, or any other issue, I'm dedicated to providing you with compassionate support. Life's stressors can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling stuck or lost. Together, we'll explore these challenges, uncovering meaning and forging paths forward. I work with individuals across all ages and neurotypes, each with their own unique strengths and experiences.
(484) 666-5931 View (484) 666-5931
Photo of Brigette A. Erwin, PhD, Psychologist
Brigette A. Erwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Brigette A. Erwin, PhD is Director of the Anxiety and OCD Center in Malvern, Pennsylvania. Dr. Erwin is also director of Dr. Erwin Consulting and www.CoachingforCalmandConfidence.com. Dr. Erwin is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families affected by anxiety, depression, and related problems. She is a nationally recognized speaker and author, and has written numerous professional journal articles and book chapters on the topic of the anxiety disorders. In addition, Dr. Erwin trains professionals in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders
Brigette A. Erwin, PhD is Director of the Anxiety and OCD Center in Malvern, Pennsylvania. Dr. Erwin is also director of Dr. Erwin Consulting and www.CoachingforCalmandConfidence.com. Dr. Erwin is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families affected by anxiety, depression, and related problems. She is a nationally recognized speaker and author, and has written numerous professional journal articles and book chapters on the topic of the anxiety disorders. In addition, Dr. Erwin trains professionals in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders
(484) 257-9190 View (484) 257-9190
Photo of Samantha Garrison, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Garrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355  (Online Only)
Hi! I take a Person-Centered trauma informed approach in therapy, working collaboratively with clients to build a strong therapeutic relationship. Together, we can develop deeper upstanding, identify patterns, and problem solve.
Hi! I take a Person-Centered trauma informed approach in therapy, working collaboratively with clients to build a strong therapeutic relationship. Together, we can develop deeper upstanding, identify patterns, and problem solve.
(484) 324-7725 View (484) 324-7725
Photo of Jenny Hoving, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Hoving
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
I work with individuals at all stages of life struggling with anxiety, OCD, and related challenges. Anxiety comes in many “flavors” and looks different on everyone. As a former teacher, I am especially passionate about working with children and adolescents. Parents often report feeling heartbroken and frustrated as they try to figure out ways to help their child. I work with parents to strengthen their relationship with their child while also going beyond temporary fixes to address core issues. I also have a special interest in working with young adults struggling with stress and anxiety.
I work with individuals at all stages of life struggling with anxiety, OCD, and related challenges. Anxiety comes in many “flavors” and looks different on everyone. As a former teacher, I am especially passionate about working with children and adolescents. Parents often report feeling heartbroken and frustrated as they try to figure out ways to help their child. I work with parents to strengthen their relationship with their child while also going beyond temporary fixes to address core issues. I also have a special interest in working with young adults struggling with stress and anxiety.
(267) 209-6523 View (267) 209-6523
1
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.