Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in North Central, Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Stacey Dillon, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey Dillon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Depending on patients’ needs, I utilize CBT, DBT, and Reality Therapy approaches in sessions.
In my time working as a counselor, I have helped patients manage and overcome obstacles like anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. From challenges with the overwhelming pressure of academic life, work life, career choices, relationship challenges, and more, I will be there to offer an objective perspective on your situation and provide healthy tips and resources to navigate it. My approach empowers personal growth while always ensuring you feel safe, seen, and heard.
Depending on patients’ needs, I utilize CBT, DBT, and Reality Therapy approaches in sessions.
In my time working as a counselor, I have helped patients manage and overcome obstacles like anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. From challenges with the overwhelming pressure of academic life, work life, career choices, relationship challenges, and more, I will be there to offer an objective perspective on your situation and provide healthy tips and resources to navigate it. My approach empowers personal growth while always ensuring you feel safe, seen, and heard.
(412) 419-2568 View (412) 419-2568
Photo of Brian Mullan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Mullan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Brian utilizes DBT-informed techniques, mindfulness-based stress reduction, acceptance and commitment therapy, and exposure and response prevention (ERP) techniques.
Brian Mullan is a Licensed Professional Counselor with almost 10 years of experience in the mental wellness field. He believes firmly in client empowerment and autonomy and works with individuals to overcome challenges in order to achieve their maximum possible growth. He specializes in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, survivors of racial trauma and injustice, and members of the LGBTQIA+ communities. Brian completed his Master of Counseling Psychology (MA) degree at Delaware Valley University, with a specialized focus in Social Justice counseling.
Brian utilizes DBT-informed techniques, mindfulness-based stress reduction, acceptance and commitment therapy, and exposure and response prevention (ERP) techniques.
Brian Mullan is a Licensed Professional Counselor with almost 10 years of experience in the mental wellness field. He believes firmly in client empowerment and autonomy and works with individuals to overcome challenges in order to achieve their maximum possible growth. He specializes in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, survivors of racial trauma and injustice, and members of the LGBTQIA+ communities. Brian completed his Master of Counseling Psychology (MA) degree at Delaware Valley University, with a specialized focus in Social Justice counseling.
(267) 291-0415 View (267) 291-0415
Photo of Xuewei Alex Li, LPC, MPhilEd, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Xuewei Alex Li
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPhilEd, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19123  (Online Only)
I have been using IFS, DBT, EMDR to assist clients to process not just their thoughts, but also their emotions and body sensations.
Do you feel the pressure to be perfect all the time? Do you tend to replay a moment from the day over and over again? Are you scared to go to sleep because of the nightmares? Do you feel that you cannot trust yourself? Do you procrastinate and struggle with focusing on tasks?. Is there always a “I should’ve …” in your head? Do you feel out of control or not “normal”? Do you sometimes wonder what you could’ve done without anxiety and past trauma? Would you like to feel "normal", confident, and calm? Would you like to be able to like yourself and be able to get things done?
I have been using IFS, DBT, EMDR to assist clients to process not just their thoughts, but also their emotions and body sensations.
Do you feel the pressure to be perfect all the time? Do you tend to replay a moment from the day over and over again? Are you scared to go to sleep because of the nightmares? Do you feel that you cannot trust yourself? Do you procrastinate and struggle with focusing on tasks?. Is there always a “I should’ve …” in your head? Do you feel out of control or not “normal”? Do you sometimes wonder what you could’ve done without anxiety and past trauma? Would you like to feel "normal", confident, and calm? Would you like to be able to like yourself and be able to get things done?
(484) 948-1714 View (484) 948-1714
Photo of Jotie Mondair, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jotie Mondair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Jotie is a licensed professional counselor located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with many years of experience working with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Jotie uses an attachment-based model to identify and address distorted thought patterns and improve relationships (between people, with themselves, or with food).
Jotie is a licensed professional counselor located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with many years of experience working with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Jotie uses an attachment-based model to identify and address distorted thought patterns and improve relationships (between people, with themselves, or with food).
(215) 974-0190 View (215) 974-0190
Photo of Emily Myer, LICSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Myer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I specialize in working with young adults, members of the LGBTQI community, folks going through major life transitions, and workers in "helping" professions. I deeply value the therapeutic relationship and often return to the core touch-stones: feel your feelings, strive for a more integrated sense of self, and boundaries.
Accepting new clients! I specialize in working with young adults, members of the LGBTQI community, folks going through major life transitions, and workers in "helping" professions. I deeply value the therapeutic relationship and often return to the core touch-stones: feel your feelings, strive for a more integrated sense of self, and boundaries.
(215) 544-2496 View (215) 544-2496
Photo of Janieth Celeste Burton, EdD, Psychologist
Janieth Celeste Burton
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121
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 Akirah Wyatt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Akirah Wyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121
Has OCD and anxiety held you back? They take and take while you suffer in so many ways because of it. I have heard these stories many times in my work as a therapist and I’m here to let you know that I can help you. Think for a second how different your life could be if you were free from OCD and other anxiety issues? Think about all that you could more easily do if it weren't for fear. Anxiety and OCD do not have to hold you back any longer. There is hope.
Has OCD and anxiety held you back? They take and take while you suffer in so many ways because of it. I have heard these stories many times in my work as a therapist and I’m here to let you know that I can help you. Think for a second how different your life could be if you were free from OCD and other anxiety issues? Think about all that you could more easily do if it weren't for fear. Anxiety and OCD do not have to hold you back any longer. There is hope.
(717) 523-9221 View (717) 523-9221
Photo of Kristi Annette West, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristi Annette West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you ever find yourself overwhelmed by multiple worries and anxious thoughts? Perhaps you even think, “If only I can have one day of happiness and peace?”It may be that the demands of caregiving are causing you to neglect your own health and well being.” The good news is that you do not have to struggle in isolation. I would love to partner with you and together build skills to weather life’s storms.
Do you ever find yourself overwhelmed by multiple worries and anxious thoughts? Perhaps you even think, “If only I can have one day of happiness and peace?”It may be that the demands of caregiving are causing you to neglect your own health and well being.” The good news is that you do not have to struggle in isolation. I would love to partner with you and together build skills to weather life’s storms.
(610) 819-5273 View (610) 819-5273
Photo of Shereema Molette - Trinity Creations Counseling, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trinity Creations Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Shereema Molette and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. I have been a therapist for 15 years working in numerous settings in the human service field. I have worked with children and adults addressing various issues and concerns. I currently work at non-profit supervising therapists that work in the Philadelphia School District. My passion has always been to help others and I feel fulfilled working in the field of psychology. My expertise spans many different areas but my true passion is working with children and adults as they navigate Bipolar Disorder and other clas
Hello, My name is Shereema Molette and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. I have been a therapist for 15 years working in numerous settings in the human service field. I have worked with children and adults addressing various issues and concerns. I currently work at non-profit supervising therapists that work in the Philadelphia School District. My passion has always been to help others and I feel fulfilled working in the field of psychology. My expertise spans many different areas but my true passion is working with children and adults as they navigate Bipolar Disorder and other clas
(856) 245-2316 View (856) 245-2316
Photo of Courteney Bender, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courteney Bender
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Change is an inevitable reality of life that can be difficult to navigate alone. As your therapist, I can walk alongside you on that journey. My focuses include working with adolescents and adults to address concerns like anxiety, depression, life transition, body image, and disordered eating. If you feel ready to take the first steps in healing, let's connect.
Change is an inevitable reality of life that can be difficult to navigate alone. As your therapist, I can walk alongside you on that journey. My focuses include working with adolescents and adults to address concerns like anxiety, depression, life transition, body image, and disordered eating. If you feel ready to take the first steps in healing, let's connect.
(724) 558-8002 View (724) 558-8002
Photo of Claire Rysavy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Rysavy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Central, Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I will work with you to validate your experiences and emotions and create true, positive change. I specialize in adults with ADHD, anxiety, and depression, life transitions, as well as people who are postpartum and/or parents of young children.
I will work with you to validate your experiences and emotions and create true, positive change. I specialize in adults with ADHD, anxiety, and depression, life transitions, as well as people who are postpartum and/or parents of young children.
(215) 608-2941 View (215) 608-2941

Online Therapists

Photo of Nastassja Hanna, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nastassja Hanna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Nastassja utilizes multiples treatment approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Christian Counseling, Family Systems, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Reality Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief (SFBT).
Nastassja Hanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with five years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction within the family, relationship issues, borderline personality, self-esteem, spiritual and religious issues, and life adjustments. Nastassja completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MACMHC) at Lancaster Bible College / Capital Seminary and Graduate School.
Nastassja utilizes multiples treatment approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Christian Counseling, Family Systems, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Reality Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief (SFBT).
Nastassja Hanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with five years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction within the family, relationship issues, borderline personality, self-esteem, spiritual and religious issues, and life adjustments. Nastassja completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MACMHC) at Lancaster Bible College / Capital Seminary and Graduate School.
(610) 756-8664 View (610) 756-8664
Photo of Shakea 'kea' Roper, LCSW, LSCSW, MRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shakea 'kea' Roper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, MRT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
In my sessions, I focus on using evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (thinking processes), Strengths Based, Brief Therapy, Problem Solving, DBT (mindfulness), Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), and Solution Focused to help clients improve all areas of their life.
Confidential talk without judgement. Hi, I’m Shakea “Kea” Roper. I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Do you need someone to talk to that will be understanding, compassionate, and encouraging? If so, you have reached the right therapist. I’m a single mother from the inner city. I’ve been through many struggles. From parenting, to family, to work, and just life. I’ve learned you can always work on yourself to help break cycles/patterns that once held you back. I value honesty and keeping it real. When there is free time, I like to sleep, spend time with family, board games, and of course diamond painting/other crafts.
In my sessions, I focus on using evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (thinking processes), Strengths Based, Brief Therapy, Problem Solving, DBT (mindfulness), Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), and Solution Focused to help clients improve all areas of their life.
Confidential talk without judgement. Hi, I’m Shakea “Kea” Roper. I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Do you need someone to talk to that will be understanding, compassionate, and encouraging? If so, you have reached the right therapist. I’m a single mother from the inner city. I’ve been through many struggles. From parenting, to family, to work, and just life. I’ve learned you can always work on yourself to help break cycles/patterns that once held you back. I value honesty and keeping it real. When there is free time, I like to sleep, spend time with family, board games, and of course diamond painting/other crafts.
(484) 255-4944 View (484) 255-4944
Photo of Maureen Zdanis, PhD, Psychologist
Maureen Zdanis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
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 Emily Seidle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Seidle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I integrate mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and elements of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, amongst other modalities to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Hello and welcome! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? As your therapist, I can help you manage anxiety, and depression, avoid burnout and learn how to develop more meaningful relationships with others and yourself. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole-self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit.
I integrate mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and elements of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, amongst other modalities to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Hello and welcome! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? As your therapist, I can help you manage anxiety, and depression, avoid burnout and learn how to develop more meaningful relationships with others and yourself. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole-self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit.
(215) 770-1673 View (215) 770-1673
Photo of Janon Wilson - Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC, LPC, ACS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Our clinicians have training in Emotionally Focused therapy CBT, DBT and TF-CBT.
"Life doesn't get easier or more forgiving , we get stronger and more resilient" Steve Maraboli. If you are reading this, you have already taken the hardest step toward feeling better- reaching out for help. At Compass we understand that it is important for you to feel understood, heard and supported. When we all are working as a team, those things will be automatic. Our approach is direct yet very compassionate. Our goal is for us together to identify the cause of your issues, to develop what is needed and how it can be achieved. We would like to get you unstuck and on the path to happiness.
Our clinicians have training in Emotionally Focused therapy CBT, DBT and TF-CBT.
"Life doesn't get easier or more forgiving , we get stronger and more resilient" Steve Maraboli. If you are reading this, you have already taken the hardest step toward feeling better- reaching out for help. At Compass we understand that it is important for you to feel understood, heard and supported. When we all are working as a team, those things will be automatic. Our approach is direct yet very compassionate. Our goal is for us together to identify the cause of your issues, to develop what is needed and how it can be achieved. We would like to get you unstuck and on the path to happiness.
(202) 998-5586 View (202) 998-5586
Photo of Abigail (Abby) Hawkins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail (Abby) Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
I’m trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and credentialed as an AEDP Level 2 therapist.
Hi, I'm so glad you found my page! When someone starts therapy with me, it's often because they've been having a hard time feeling connected to others or they struggle to be in the moment. Others deal with low self-worth, negative beliefs about themselves, or feeling they cannot get where they want to be in life. In our work together, I want to help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your strengths, feel empowered to manage emotions when life feels overwhelming, and build more fulfilling relationships. I take a warm, collaborative approach to getting to know you as an individual and what helps you.
I’m trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and credentialed as an AEDP Level 2 therapist.
Hi, I'm so glad you found my page! When someone starts therapy with me, it's often because they've been having a hard time feeling connected to others or they struggle to be in the moment. Others deal with low self-worth, negative beliefs about themselves, or feeling they cannot get where they want to be in life. In our work together, I want to help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your strengths, feel empowered to manage emotions when life feels overwhelming, and build more fulfilling relationships. I take a warm, collaborative approach to getting to know you as an individual and what helps you.
(610) 572-3756 View (610) 572-3756
Photo of Jenna Moore, MSEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jenna Moore
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I take a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach using tools from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Your story is important. Whatever you've experienced, your story deserves to be heard. Dialectically, there is power in that story, and there are times when it can influence our internal beliefs and shape how we navigate and experience life. I believe we are unique in our range and intensity of emotions. Sometimes, emotions get big and make us act in ways we didn't intend to or know ourselves to be. Sometimes, we were never taught the skills to cope, or we can't access skills in the moment. I aim to provide my clients with a space to safely explore their story and behavior patterns so they can create change.
I take a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach using tools from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Your story is important. Whatever you've experienced, your story deserves to be heard. Dialectically, there is power in that story, and there are times when it can influence our internal beliefs and shape how we navigate and experience life. I believe we are unique in our range and intensity of emotions. Sometimes, emotions get big and make us act in ways we didn't intend to or know ourselves to be. Sometimes, we were never taught the skills to cope, or we can't access skills in the moment. I aim to provide my clients with a space to safely explore their story and behavior patterns so they can create change.
(484) 435-3195 View (484) 435-3195
Photo of Allison (Allie) Beer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison (Allie) Beer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128
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 Jessica Wilson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Jessica and I am a licensed professional counselor specializing in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, co-occuring treatment, and trauma. I work with adolescents and adults in achieving their goals in a client-centered environment.
Hello! I am Jessica and I am a licensed professional counselor specializing in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, co-occuring treatment, and trauma. I work with adolescents and adults in achieving their goals in a client-centered environment.
(484) 989-6701 View (484) 989-6701
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.