Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Megan States, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan States
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122
I’m here to help you conquer anxiety, boost your self-esteem, and navigate life's transitions! Using DBT and CBT, I create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your emotions and develop practical coping strategies.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with self-esteem, or stuck in a life transition? I get it! Life throws curveballs, and sometimes you just need a helping hand. What makes me unique? I specialize in DBT and CBT, offering a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and develop practical coping strategies. Together, we'll tackle your challenges head-on, build your confidence, and help you thrive. Whether it's managing stress, improving relationships, or achieving personal growth, I'm here to guide you every step of the way.
I’m here to help you conquer anxiety, boost your self-esteem, and navigate life's transitions! Using DBT and CBT, I create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your emotions and develop practical coping strategies.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with self-esteem, or stuck in a life transition? I get it! Life throws curveballs, and sometimes you just need a helping hand. What makes me unique? I specialize in DBT and CBT, offering a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and develop practical coping strategies. Together, we'll tackle your challenges head-on, build your confidence, and help you thrive. Whether it's managing stress, improving relationships, or achieving personal growth, I'm here to guide you every step of the way.
(484) 573-7898 View (484) 573-7898
Photo of Kelly P. McSpedon, MS, MA, CAADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly P. McSpedon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MA, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122
Therapy offers the space to process emotions and experiences, develop a relationship with yourself, and gain insight. It is my goal to create a space for you to explore these areas, and to develop a therapeutic alliance that instills hope and encourages confidence. I utilize a psychodynamic approach rooted in attachment theory, and incorporate components of internal family systems, emotionally focused therapy, schema therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I take a person-centered, direct and compassionate approach, to create a space to reconstruct your view of yourself, others, and the world.
Therapy offers the space to process emotions and experiences, develop a relationship with yourself, and gain insight. It is my goal to create a space for you to explore these areas, and to develop a therapeutic alliance that instills hope and encourages confidence. I utilize a psychodynamic approach rooted in attachment theory, and incorporate components of internal family systems, emotionally focused therapy, schema therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I take a person-centered, direct and compassionate approach, to create a space to reconstruct your view of yourself, others, and the world.
(267) 762-1527 View (267) 762-1527
Photo of Robert Fauber - Psychological Services Center Temple University, PhD, Psychologist
Psychological Services Center Temple University
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122
The Psychological Services Center (PSC) is a nonprofit community mental health center established in the early 1970s. Our center provides counseling and psychological services for mental health and relationship issues, as well as comprehensive psychological assessments. We serve children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from Temple University and the surrounding communities. We welcome families and individuals from all backgrounds and lifestyles.
The Psychological Services Center (PSC) is a nonprofit community mental health center established in the early 1970s. Our center provides counseling and psychological services for mental health and relationship issues, as well as comprehensive psychological assessments. We serve children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from Temple University and the surrounding communities. We welcome families and individuals from all backgrounds and lifestyles.
(215) 278-4763 View (215) 278-4763
Photo of Maryann Owens, PhD, Psychologist
Maryann Owens
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122
If you're an adult who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by trauma, or stuck in the grip of depression, I'm here to walk alongside you. Perhaps you're battling relentless stress or you're finding that your relationships just aren't what they used to be—whatever it is, know that there's a space for you in my practice. I specialize in helping people like you manage the tough stuff: the anxiety that won't quiet down, the traumatic memories that linger, the heavy blanket of depression, and the stress that seems to color your every day.
If you're an adult who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by trauma, or stuck in the grip of depression, I'm here to walk alongside you. Perhaps you're battling relentless stress or you're finding that your relationships just aren't what they used to be—whatever it is, know that there's a space for you in my practice. I specialize in helping people like you manage the tough stuff: the anxiety that won't quiet down, the traumatic memories that linger, the heavy blanket of depression, and the stress that seems to color your every day.
(412) 207-3813 View (412) 207-3813
Photo of Liliana Ventura, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liliana Ventura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122
Waitlist for new clients
As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I draw upon my background as a working-class Latina to provide transformative therapeutic services to individuals, families, and groups. In our sessions, I offer not only emotional support but also psychoeducation, ensuring my clients have the knowledge and tools to navigate life's challenges confidently. At the heart of my therapeutic approach is a strength-based perspective, which empowers my clients to embrace their inherent resilience and make positive, healthy choices for their lives. See www.pereztherapyllc.com/liliana-ventura-lsw for more information.
As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I draw upon my background as a working-class Latina to provide transformative therapeutic services to individuals, families, and groups. In our sessions, I offer not only emotional support but also psychoeducation, ensuring my clients have the knowledge and tools to navigate life's challenges confidently. At the heart of my therapeutic approach is a strength-based perspective, which empowers my clients to embrace their inherent resilience and make positive, healthy choices for their lives. See www.pereztherapyllc.com/liliana-ventura-lsw for more information.
(267) 732-0952 View (267) 732-0952
Photo of Nora Telles, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nora Telles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm glad you are here. Are you are hoping to feel less overwhelmed, more at peace and connected, and more hopeful about your future? I know you have faced challenges throughout your life and these can lead to the disconnection, anxiety, guilt/shame, and changes in mood you are experiencing now. My clients are looking for a safe space to process and heal from tough experiences. Together, we will increase your sense of connection, identity, and belonging.
Hi! I'm glad you are here. Are you are hoping to feel less overwhelmed, more at peace and connected, and more hopeful about your future? I know you have faced challenges throughout your life and these can lead to the disconnection, anxiety, guilt/shame, and changes in mood you are experiencing now. My clients are looking for a safe space to process and heal from tough experiences. Together, we will increase your sense of connection, identity, and belonging.
(215) 647-0232 View (215) 647-0232
Photo of Gianna Damis, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gianna Damis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122  (Online Only)
When food feels like the enemy, and your feelings are dragging you down, it’s easy to feel isolated—but you don’t have to go through it alone. Together, we will create sessions that are tailored to fit your needs. I will encourage your joy and humor, note your strengths, and meet you in your vulnerability. My therapy approach has been described as empowering, authentic, and dynamic. I value the mind-body connection, building distress tolerance, and deepening our understanding of ourselves.
When food feels like the enemy, and your feelings are dragging you down, it’s easy to feel isolated—but you don’t have to go through it alone. Together, we will create sessions that are tailored to fit your needs. I will encourage your joy and humor, note your strengths, and meet you in your vulnerability. My therapy approach has been described as empowering, authentic, and dynamic. I value the mind-body connection, building distress tolerance, and deepening our understanding of ourselves.
(484) 435-7646 View (484) 435-7646
Photo of Madrone Bayan Phoenix - The Phoenix Rising Centers, LICSW, LMFT, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Phoenix Rising Centers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122  (Online Only)
We are a multiethnic and multiracial group practice that centralizes care for BIPoC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Clients who come to us are working though life challenges related to their identities. They are often in a process of self-exploration, working to make sense of their place and identity in the world where they are made to feel like "the other" and have been marginalized, traumatized, and blatantly microaggressed. We recognize the importance of finding providers who get it, from a shared and lived experience. Here, our aim is connect communities of color and queer communities with providers of color and queer providers.
We are a multiethnic and multiracial group practice that centralizes care for BIPoC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Clients who come to us are working though life challenges related to their identities. They are often in a process of self-exploration, working to make sense of their place and identity in the world where they are made to feel like "the other" and have been marginalized, traumatized, and blatantly microaggressed. We recognize the importance of finding providers who get it, from a shared and lived experience. Here, our aim is connect communities of color and queer communities with providers of color and queer providers.
(281) 609-3821 View (281) 609-3821
Photo of Donovan Richardson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donovan Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122
Waitlist for new clients
As a health services professional, I use a trauma-informed and culturally aware approach to assessment, treatment planning, and interventions. My background providing behavioral health services in schools, psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, psychological services clinics, and outpatient mental health centers allows me to connect to clients with a variety of mental health needs. My goal is to provide quality behavioral health care to those who are in needs to redefine and change their lives.
As a health services professional, I use a trauma-informed and culturally aware approach to assessment, treatment planning, and interventions. My background providing behavioral health services in schools, psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, psychological services clinics, and outpatient mental health centers allows me to connect to clients with a variety of mental health needs. My goal is to provide quality behavioral health care to those who are in needs to redefine and change their lives.
(215) 608-3459 View (215) 608-3459
Photo of Dr. Courtney L. Henry, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Courtney L. Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartranft, Philadelphia, PA 19122  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Our thoughts, feelings, and experiences are a lot like the weather; some we like and some we don't. Therapy helps us learn to notice the sunny days, get through the storms, and maybe even dance in the rain. Whether you're looking to improve your mood, change a habit, or just learn more about yourself, please reach out to me at Pewter Therapy Services. I offer teletherapy via video chat, so you can talk when and where it's convenient for you. And if you go out of state for vacation, college, or a move, there's usually no need to start over with a new therapist because I'm able to see clients in 40 states.
Our thoughts, feelings, and experiences are a lot like the weather; some we like and some we don't. Therapy helps us learn to notice the sunny days, get through the storms, and maybe even dance in the rain. Whether you're looking to improve your mood, change a habit, or just learn more about yourself, please reach out to me at Pewter Therapy Services. I offer teletherapy via video chat, so you can talk when and where it's convenient for you. And if you go out of state for vacation, college, or a move, there's usually no need to start over with a new therapist because I'm able to see clients in 40 states.
(856) 924-6558 View (856) 924-6558

Online Therapists

Photo of Jenna Rodjenski, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Rodjenski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
Together we'll combine my clinical knowledge ( DBT, ACT) and your lived experience, and come up with an individualized plan just for you.
My ideal client is ready for change, and open to the work that comes with it. It won't be easy, but I'm willing to work just as hard as you to make your goals a reality, and improve your quality of life. If you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, or the overwhelming impact of past trauma, let's chat.
Together we'll combine my clinical knowledge ( DBT, ACT) and your lived experience, and come up with an individualized plan just for you.
My ideal client is ready for change, and open to the work that comes with it. It won't be easy, but I'm willing to work just as hard as you to make your goals a reality, and improve your quality of life. If you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, or the overwhelming impact of past trauma, let's chat.
(215) 795-5348 View (215) 795-5348
Photo of Brenda Slagle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda Slagle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I utilize techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy (SFT), and strengths-based approaches.
I am Brenda Slagle, a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania with over 6 years of experience. I specialize in treating clients with complex PTSD, major depression, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University.
I utilize techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy (SFT), and strengths-based approaches.
I am Brenda Slagle, a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania with over 6 years of experience. I specialize in treating clients with complex PTSD, major depression, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University.
(412) 312-3960 View (412) 312-3960
Photo of Christine McGowan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine McGowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I pull from an eclectic mix of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and motivational interviewing.
I am a Professional Counselor who works with older adolescents and adults, always striving to view my clients through a compassionate lens to assist in understanding them as whole individuals, considering their life experiences, values, and unique needs. I am effective in supporting clients who struggle with self-esteem, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parental strategies, grief, trauma, Trichotillomania/BFRBs (body-focused repetitive behaviors), relationships, and life transitions at any age. I am also an LGBTQ+-affirming clinician.
I pull from an eclectic mix of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and motivational interviewing.
I am a Professional Counselor who works with older adolescents and adults, always striving to view my clients through a compassionate lens to assist in understanding them as whole individuals, considering their life experiences, values, and unique needs. I am effective in supporting clients who struggle with self-esteem, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parental strategies, grief, trauma, Trichotillomania/BFRBs (body-focused repetitive behaviors), relationships, and life transitions at any age. I am also an LGBTQ+-affirming clinician.
(610) 772-8557 View (610) 772-8557
Photo of Laura Goncalves - Anxiety and ADHD recovery, Day One Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anxiety and ADHD recovery, Day One Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I'm licensed in Pennsylvania and completed PESI courses in play therapy, DBT, and EMDR techniques.
Hi there my name is Laura. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from Marywood University and have been practicing for 6 years. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, ADHD, womens issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I am best positioned to serve teens, young adults, and middle age adults. My ideal clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their life and decisions related to it.
I'm licensed in Pennsylvania and completed PESI courses in play therapy, DBT, and EMDR techniques.
Hi there my name is Laura. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from Marywood University and have been practicing for 6 years. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, ADHD, womens issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I am best positioned to serve teens, young adults, and middle age adults. My ideal clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their life and decisions related to it.
(484) 946-9271 View (484) 946-9271
Photo of Annie Thacker, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Thacker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19124
I believe that people are naturally resilient, possessing a deep well of inner strength. Every experience, past and present, is relevant to therapeutic work, and I strive to create a collaborative space to explore the things that weigh us all down. I approach each session with empathy, curiosity and an open mind, and encourage you to approach your own relationships, thoughts, and day-to-day life the same way. My relational approach to therapy is strongly rooted in the psychodynamic tradition, integrating narrative, DBT, and mindfulness techniques to meet the specific needs of each person I work with.
I believe that people are naturally resilient, possessing a deep well of inner strength. Every experience, past and present, is relevant to therapeutic work, and I strive to create a collaborative space to explore the things that weigh us all down. I approach each session with empathy, curiosity and an open mind, and encourage you to approach your own relationships, thoughts, and day-to-day life the same way. My relational approach to therapy is strongly rooted in the psychodynamic tradition, integrating narrative, DBT, and mindfulness techniques to meet the specific needs of each person I work with.
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Photo of Crystal Widmann, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Widmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I offer a collaborative and warm approach that empowers clients to tap into their strengths to develop practical solutions. I integrate evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I create a supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued as we work together to develop strategies for positive change. By combining solution-focused techniques with a strengths-based perspective, I help clients recognize their inherent capabilities and build resilience. My aim is to equip clients with the tools to overcome challenges and thrive.
I offer a collaborative and warm approach that empowers clients to tap into their strengths to develop practical solutions. I integrate evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I create a supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued as we work together to develop strategies for positive change. By combining solution-focused techniques with a strengths-based perspective, I help clients recognize their inherent capabilities and build resilience. My aim is to equip clients with the tools to overcome challenges and thrive.
(484) 603-3864 View (484) 603-3864
Photo of Mitchell Rinn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mitchell Rinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
In our therapy we’ll address your needs by drawing from an array of researched-based models,including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavior therapy, trauma-informed care & motivational interviewing.
Do you feel like you’ve lost control? Are you plagued by unwelcome, often self-critical thoughts? Maybe you’ve experienced a significant life event like the loss of a loved one, job, or relationship? You’ve no doubt tried to manage on your own but despite your best efforts, things aren’t getting any better. Well you don’t have to go through this journey alone. Together, we can identify the challenges that are holding you back and help you to build the life that you deserve. Therapy can be intimidating, so if you’ve decided to seek help, then you’ve made a brave choice, and I believe, a wise one.
In our therapy we’ll address your needs by drawing from an array of researched-based models,including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavior therapy, trauma-informed care & motivational interviewing.
Do you feel like you’ve lost control? Are you plagued by unwelcome, often self-critical thoughts? Maybe you’ve experienced a significant life event like the loss of a loved one, job, or relationship? You’ve no doubt tried to manage on your own but despite your best efforts, things aren’t getting any better. Well you don’t have to go through this journey alone. Together, we can identify the challenges that are holding you back and help you to build the life that you deserve. Therapy can be intimidating, so if you’ve decided to seek help, then you’ve made a brave choice, and I believe, a wise one.
(484) 969-9741 View (484) 969-9741
Photo of Alexandra Moran, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Moran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I utilize EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy in my practice.
I am Alexandra Moran, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience in the mental health and substance use field. I am passionate about working with individuals who have a history of trauma and exploring how that trauma has shaped their beliefs about themselves and their relationships. I also specialize in helping people manage addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship challenges.
I utilize EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy in my practice.
I am Alexandra Moran, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience in the mental health and substance use field. I am passionate about working with individuals who have a history of trauma and exploring how that trauma has shaped their beliefs about themselves and their relationships. I also specialize in helping people manage addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship challenges.
(412) 435-5532 View (412) 435-5532
Photo of Kavita Tahilani, PhD, Psychologist
Kavita Tahilani
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
My training has been focused in the areas of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness.
I view therapy as a collaborative process and will work with you to identify appropriate goals, customize the treatment plan to fit your needs, and meet you where you are. I can flexibly implement evidence-based treatments to effect real, measurable change in your life based on therapeutic approaches that have known efficacy in the community. One of the most critical pieces of therapy is a strong therapeutic alliance so it is important to me to hear from you about your experience in therapy, what your strengths are and what makes your life worth living.
My training has been focused in the areas of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness.
I view therapy as a collaborative process and will work with you to identify appropriate goals, customize the treatment plan to fit your needs, and meet you where you are. I can flexibly implement evidence-based treatments to effect real, measurable change in your life based on therapeutic approaches that have known efficacy in the community. One of the most critical pieces of therapy is a strong therapeutic alliance so it is important to me to hear from you about your experience in therapy, what your strengths are and what makes your life worth living.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228
Photo of Nicole Henning, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Henning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I’m a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania, and I have been practicing for about a decade now. I enjoy working with my clients on cognitive behavioral therapy along with dialectical behavioral therapy, and also motivational interviewing tactics as well. I am very excited to work with clients that have been experiencing family conflict issues, along with anxiety and depression, and help tackle issues in their present day, personal and professional life’s.
I’m a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania, and I have been practicing for about a decade now. I enjoy working with my clients on cognitive behavioral therapy along with dialectical behavioral therapy, and also motivational interviewing tactics as well. I am very excited to work with clients that have been experiencing family conflict issues, along with anxiety and depression, and help tackle issues in their present day, personal and professional life’s.
(484) 573-7263 View (484) 573-7263

See more therapy options for Hartranft, Philadelphia

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.