Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Nipa Desai, LPC, CCTP-II, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nipa Desai
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I utilize different treatment modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic/Mindfulness approaches, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) while individualizing interventions based on identity and cultural backgrounds.
What does therapy mean to you? What makes it so beneficial? How many thoughts, feelings, expectations, questions are you noticing as you take the first step in finding the “right” therapist? You are not alone. Therapy is a collaborative relationship in which I cultivate an open and non-judgmental atmosphere to equip you in facilitating change, fostering vulnerability, and promoting a rich and meaningful life. Whether you want to work towards specific life goals, change, or stressors including complex trauma, cultural issues, anxiety/depression, I strive to guide you through the process and help tackle the "But what will people say?"
I utilize different treatment modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic/Mindfulness approaches, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) while individualizing interventions based on identity and cultural backgrounds.
What does therapy mean to you? What makes it so beneficial? How many thoughts, feelings, expectations, questions are you noticing as you take the first step in finding the “right” therapist? You are not alone. Therapy is a collaborative relationship in which I cultivate an open and non-judgmental atmosphere to equip you in facilitating change, fostering vulnerability, and promoting a rich and meaningful life. Whether you want to work towards specific life goals, change, or stressors including complex trauma, cultural issues, anxiety/depression, I strive to guide you through the process and help tackle the "But what will people say?"
(267) 641-9189 View (267) 641-9189
Photo of Christine Gehringer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Gehringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In our work together, I will draw upon your innate strengths, psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapies including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Problem Solving Therapy.
If you are experiencing difficulty resolving the current challenges in your life, I am here to help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has spent over a decade working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences, treating issues of trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship conflict. As a social worker, I believe that seeing, hearing and serving those who are oppressed is crucial to addressing the injustices within our society. My practice with you will be respectful and non-judgmental as we all struggle at times, and it is critical to have a source of support with whom we feel safe and can be open.
In our work together, I will draw upon your innate strengths, psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapies including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Problem Solving Therapy.
If you are experiencing difficulty resolving the current challenges in your life, I am here to help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has spent over a decade working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences, treating issues of trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship conflict. As a social worker, I believe that seeing, hearing and serving those who are oppressed is crucial to addressing the injustices within our society. My practice with you will be respectful and non-judgmental as we all struggle at times, and it is critical to have a source of support with whom we feel safe and can be open.
(267) 609-8586 View (267) 609-8586
Photo of Brooke Garwood, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brooke Garwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression often prevent us from living the life we desire. However, with the help of a trained therapist, that can change. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who utilizes various therapeutic techniques to provide comprehensive care. My experience and expertise is in the treatment of Anxiety and Depressive disorders, with a special interest in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I am trained in various interventions, including Exposure/Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and the ComB method for trichotillomania.
Anxiety and depression often prevent us from living the life we desire. However, with the help of a trained therapist, that can change. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who utilizes various therapeutic techniques to provide comprehensive care. My experience and expertise is in the treatment of Anxiety and Depressive disorders, with a special interest in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I am trained in various interventions, including Exposure/Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and the ComB method for trichotillomania.
(215) 598-6246 View (215) 598-6246
Photo of Honora Feinberg, Pre-Licensed Professional
Honora Feinberg
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
My counseling approach incorporates modalities like Attachment theory, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and IFS (Internal Family Systems) to create an environment that honors your lived experience and allows for non-judgemental self-exploration.
I specialize in working with queer folks, individuals and couples exploring alternative lifestyles, and adolescent women looking to develop healthy relationship skills and receive supplemental, trauma-informed, sex education.  I am a firm believer that healing begins with getting to know yourself. That can mean identifying attachment wounds, exploring the impacts of the systems that inform you, and disassembling worn-out patterns that no longer serve you. My goal is to help you build a foundation of intimacy with the self that unlocks your ability to be more present in your relationships and more connected with your values.
My counseling approach incorporates modalities like Attachment theory, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and IFS (Internal Family Systems) to create an environment that honors your lived experience and allows for non-judgemental self-exploration.
I specialize in working with queer folks, individuals and couples exploring alternative lifestyles, and adolescent women looking to develop healthy relationship skills and receive supplemental, trauma-informed, sex education.  I am a firm believer that healing begins with getting to know yourself. That can mean identifying attachment wounds, exploring the impacts of the systems that inform you, and disassembling worn-out patterns that no longer serve you. My goal is to help you build a foundation of intimacy with the self that unlocks your ability to be more present in your relationships and more connected with your values.
(215) 621-8493 View (215) 621-8493
Photo of Karla Pazzi, LCSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Pazzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
While I use a variety of styles of therapy, I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as well as more traditional "talk" therapy.
As a therapist, my passion is helping clients develop a greater ability to understand themselves and handle what happens to them. I use an integrative approach which is grounded in research and shows that the most effective healing occurs in the context of a strong client-therapist relationship. Beginning therapy can be intimidating so I try to create a warm, safe space by using an empathic, nonjudgmental, and, at times, humorous approach. Clients have described my style as compassionate and supportive while also being honest and direct.
While I use a variety of styles of therapy, I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as well as more traditional "talk" therapy.
As a therapist, my passion is helping clients develop a greater ability to understand themselves and handle what happens to them. I use an integrative approach which is grounded in research and shows that the most effective healing occurs in the context of a strong client-therapist relationship. Beginning therapy can be intimidating so I try to create a warm, safe space by using an empathic, nonjudgmental, and, at times, humorous approach. Clients have described my style as compassionate and supportive while also being honest and direct.
(484) 380-9227 View (484) 380-9227
Photo of David Goneau, LPC, EMDR, Counselor
David Goneau
Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
I am trained in DBT, EMDR and Prepare Enrich training for marriage.
I primarily work with clients who struggle with their emotional and spiritual identity. This includes people working through addictions, abuse, anxiety and depression. I am trained in DBT and EMDR. My hope with counseling is to help empower people to confidently engage the challenges of their lives. I also work with married couples or those who are preparing for marriage.
I am trained in DBT, EMDR and Prepare Enrich training for marriage.
I primarily work with clients who struggle with their emotional and spiritual identity. This includes people working through addictions, abuse, anxiety and depression. I am trained in DBT and EMDR. My hope with counseling is to help empower people to confidently engage the challenges of their lives. I also work with married couples or those who are preparing for marriage.
(610) 665-3672 View (610) 665-3672
Photo of Kim Woynowskie, PsyD, Psychologist
Kim Woynowskie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
I am trained in a number of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapies.
Welcome. I am a licensed therapist with 8 years of professional experience. Therapy is a journey tailored to your needs and goals. My pragmatic, evidence-based approach combines compassion and candor to facilitate meaningful progress. Together, we will explore old patterns, discover new perspectives, and engage in exercises to enhance your well-being.
I am trained in a number of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapies.
Welcome. I am a licensed therapist with 8 years of professional experience. Therapy is a journey tailored to your needs and goals. My pragmatic, evidence-based approach combines compassion and candor to facilitate meaningful progress. Together, we will explore old patterns, discover new perspectives, and engage in exercises to enhance your well-being.
(215) 770-9021 View (215) 770-9021
Photo of Maureen Zdanis, PhD, Psychologist
Maureen Zdanis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
For children and teens I draw from CBT, DBT and play therapy.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
For children and teens I draw from CBT, DBT and play therapy.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
(267) 376-8313 View (267) 376-8313
Photo of Nitasha Strait - The Better You Institute, PhD, MEd, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Better You Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Experience personalized care with our therapists' eclectic approach, blending CBT, Trauma-Focused, EFT, Gottman, IFS, DBT, etc.
You’re a successful person, and yet you feel like something is missing. It feels as if you're caught in a cycle of conflict and negativity, both within yourself and with others. What you really desire is the sense of calmness that comes with confidence. Instead, frustration and exhaustion seem to be your constant companions. You're ready for a transformation! Let's embark on this journey together, igniting your potential, unveiling new possibilities, and sculpting the life you envision. Or, maybe you're here for your child or teen. You sense their struggle, understanding their pain even when words fail them. You both feel stuck.
Experience personalized care with our therapists' eclectic approach, blending CBT, Trauma-Focused, EFT, Gottman, IFS, DBT, etc.
You’re a successful person, and yet you feel like something is missing. It feels as if you're caught in a cycle of conflict and negativity, both within yourself and with others. What you really desire is the sense of calmness that comes with confidence. Instead, frustration and exhaustion seem to be your constant companions. You're ready for a transformation! Let's embark on this journey together, igniting your potential, unveiling new possibilities, and sculpting the life you envision. Or, maybe you're here for your child or teen. You sense their struggle, understanding their pain even when words fail them. You both feel stuck.
(267) 390-4604 View (267) 390-4604
Photo of Amy S Langsam, PsyD, Psychologist
Amy S Langsam
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
I specialize in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, trauma, addictions, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. I believe the most important aspect of effective psychotherapy is developing a trusting relationship between the client and therapist. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and empathetic. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and often use this approach in my clinical practice. Additionally, I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and client-centered interventions that are empirically supported to provide symptom relief.
I specialize in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, trauma, addictions, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. I believe the most important aspect of effective psychotherapy is developing a trusting relationship between the client and therapist. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and empathetic. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and often use this approach in my clinical practice. Additionally, I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and client-centered interventions that are empirically supported to provide symptom relief.
(267) 867-0724 View (267) 867-0724
Photo of Victoria DiPinto, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria DiPinto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Tori DiPinto is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 4 years of experience in the mental health field. In those years she has worked with eating disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, relationship issues, and the LGBTQA+ population. She is proficient in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Tori DiPinto is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 4 years of experience in the mental health field. In those years she has worked with eating disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, relationship issues, and the LGBTQA+ population. She is proficient in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
(484) 760-0053 View (484) 760-0053
Photo of Harold Kirby, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harold Kirby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
ACT, DBT, E/RP EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive and Grief Recovery.
It has been estimated that 3.3 to a reported high of 6 million people suffer from OCD in the US. OCD, in particular, continues to be misdiagnosed and as a result is often treated ineffectively. Using primarily CBT, ACT, E/RP and mindfulness based treatment my goal is to help you manage these debilitating conditions with empirically based strategies, helping you gain the means to get back on the path of your true potential and lead a life that is worth living. We can work together to effectively manage your OCD, anxiety, depression or grief in a way that supports living a life that you value.
ACT, DBT, E/RP EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive and Grief Recovery.
It has been estimated that 3.3 to a reported high of 6 million people suffer from OCD in the US. OCD, in particular, continues to be misdiagnosed and as a result is often treated ineffectively. Using primarily CBT, ACT, E/RP and mindfulness based treatment my goal is to help you manage these debilitating conditions with empirically based strategies, helping you gain the means to get back on the path of your true potential and lead a life that is worth living. We can work together to effectively manage your OCD, anxiety, depression or grief in a way that supports living a life that you value.
(610) 898-3155 View (610) 898-3155
Photo of John Applegate - John Applegate, MD & Associates, LLC, MD
John Applegate, MD & Associates, LLC
MD
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
With years of experience and having earned the trust and respect of the Philadelphia Christian community, we are prepared to help you navigate the storms of life in good hands. With competent Christian psychiatrists, Christian psychologists, Biblical counselors and health coaching, we are well trained to address the complex interplay of body and soul.
With years of experience and having earned the trust and respect of the Philadelphia Christian community, we are prepared to help you navigate the storms of life in good hands. With competent Christian psychiatrists, Christian psychologists, Biblical counselors and health coaching, we are well trained to address the complex interplay of body and soul.
(215) 515-2821 View (215) 515-2821
Photo of Janieth Celeste Burton, EdD, Psychologist
Janieth Celeste Burton
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
I have more than twenty five years of experience in psychological and educational assessment for children and adults. The focus of the practice includes children who need behavioral and school evaluations for Special Education, private school admission evaluations. Services are also available for adults who need therapy for mental health and adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, evaluations for college students needing accommodations, work or personal issues. Therapy and evaluations for adults 55 and older are also available. Cigna, Optum, United Health Care Insurances are accepted, as well as affordable fee for service payments.
I have more than twenty five years of experience in psychological and educational assessment for children and adults. The focus of the practice includes children who need behavioral and school evaluations for Special Education, private school admission evaluations. Services are also available for adults who need therapy for mental health and adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, evaluations for college students needing accommodations, work or personal issues. Therapy and evaluations for adults 55 and older are also available. Cigna, Optum, United Health Care Insurances are accepted, as well as affordable fee for service payments.
(267) 551-6411 View (267) 551-6411
Photo of Helen Suntag, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Helen Suntag
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Whether you are just starting to explore ways to improve your mental wellbeing or have been struggling for many years, you don't have to navigate it alone. As an experienced therapist, I have supported college students navigating life transitions, chronic trauma survivors who feel disconnected from the people around them, and high-performing professionals struggling to balance the demands of work and home. We all want relief from our current symptoms and to have the ability to set and accomplish future goals. Through private telehealth sessions, I help empower men, women, and non-binary adults to do just that.
Whether you are just starting to explore ways to improve your mental wellbeing or have been struggling for many years, you don't have to navigate it alone. As an experienced therapist, I have supported college students navigating life transitions, chronic trauma survivors who feel disconnected from the people around them, and high-performing professionals struggling to balance the demands of work and home. We all want relief from our current symptoms and to have the ability to set and accomplish future goals. Through private telehealth sessions, I help empower men, women, and non-binary adults to do just that.
(215) 948-2223 View (215) 948-2223
Photo of Sonja Spangler, LSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonja Spangler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
What is your story? It's common to have a running narrative about who you are in this world. We use certain words to describe ourselves, like “I’m too shy.” “I’m an anxious person.” “I’m not good enough.” While these stories are based on real experiences, they can also hold power over our self-esteem, our decision-making, and our relationships. In therapy, we will work to understand yourself in new ways that feel more accepting, empowering and expansive.
What is your story? It's common to have a running narrative about who you are in this world. We use certain words to describe ourselves, like “I’m too shy.” “I’m an anxious person.” “I’m not good enough.” While these stories are based on real experiences, they can also hold power over our self-esteem, our decision-making, and our relationships. In therapy, we will work to understand yourself in new ways that feel more accepting, empowering and expansive.
(215) 882-9785 View (215) 882-9785
Photo of Kate M. Sobon, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate M. Sobon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
Let's Talk Therapy! Do you feel stuck in a spiral of negative thinking and self doubt that seems to be never-ending? Do you want to get out of your head and into your life? Our thoughts have a direct impact on our emotions and behaviors; which can seem like a vicious cycle. I am here to help YOU! I am assertive, interactive and collaborative. I provide tangible action items to implement in your life. I will honor your personal experiences and perspectives, and appropriately provide feedback and insight based upon professional expertise, observations and assessment.
Let's Talk Therapy! Do you feel stuck in a spiral of negative thinking and self doubt that seems to be never-ending? Do you want to get out of your head and into your life? Our thoughts have a direct impact on our emotions and behaviors; which can seem like a vicious cycle. I am here to help YOU! I am assertive, interactive and collaborative. I provide tangible action items to implement in your life. I will honor your personal experiences and perspectives, and appropriately provide feedback and insight based upon professional expertise, observations and assessment.
(215) 795-5305 View (215) 795-5305
Photo of Cliff Koos, M Ed
Cliff Koos
M Ed
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed, integrative, EMDR therapist. I use ego states and parts work in conjunction with somatic work to help bring ‘online’ the left and right hemispheres of your brain. I am focused on treating the whole person and would like to have an open, honest conversation about what you are looking for and your treatment wants and needs.
I am a trauma-informed, integrative, EMDR therapist. I use ego states and parts work in conjunction with somatic work to help bring ‘online’ the left and right hemispheres of your brain. I am focused on treating the whole person and would like to have an open, honest conversation about what you are looking for and your treatment wants and needs.
(267) 651-9198 View (267) 651-9198
Photo of Beth Rosenwasser, PhD, LPC, BCBA-D, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Rosenwasser
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Reaching out is the 1st step toward feeling relief and achieving personal, family or professional goals. Therapy offers private time with support to take a fresh look at your situation and evaluate options. I bring to the room more than 20 years of experience in clinical practice, as well as designing and directing treatment programs, training therapists, and publishing in the field. People I work with tell me I am easy to talk to, warm and non-judgmental. They appreciate my ability to 'keep it real,' helping develop practical solutions in 3 - 12 sessions, or in longer-term therapy.
Reaching out is the 1st step toward feeling relief and achieving personal, family or professional goals. Therapy offers private time with support to take a fresh look at your situation and evaluate options. I bring to the room more than 20 years of experience in clinical practice, as well as designing and directing treatment programs, training therapists, and publishing in the field. People I work with tell me I am easy to talk to, warm and non-judgmental. They appreciate my ability to 'keep it real,' helping develop practical solutions in 3 - 12 sessions, or in longer-term therapy.
(484) 334-2963 View (484) 334-2963
Photo of Yolanda Aguinaga - PRANA, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
PRANA
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmount-Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Psychology for YOU. If you are experiencing a problem or something troubles you in your mind, this is the moment to address it. The opportunity for you to express yourself and receive professional attention is in your hands now. If we work together we can reach your goals. “Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.” ― Roy T. Bennett
Psychology for YOU. If you are experiencing a problem or something troubles you in your mind, this is the moment to address it. The opportunity for you to express yourself and receive professional attention is in your hands now. If we work together we can reach your goals. “Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.” ― Roy T. Bennett
(484) 214-2772 View (484) 214-2772
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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.