Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Samantha Kormanik - Cornerstone Family Connections , MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cornerstone Family Connections
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Gottman Methods.
Effective therapy is built on connection. Our mission is to provide a safe space for individuals, couples, and families to receive the tools needed to build a strong foundation. We will tailor our treatment techniques to accommodate your specific needs. At Cornerstone Family Connections, we are driven by a desire to empower you to face your fears, heal, grow, and achieve a healthy balance.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Gottman Methods.
Effective therapy is built on connection. Our mission is to provide a safe space for individuals, couples, and families to receive the tools needed to build a strong foundation. We will tailor our treatment techniques to accommodate your specific needs. At Cornerstone Family Connections, we are driven by a desire to empower you to face your fears, heal, grow, and achieve a healthy balance.
(412) 533-1517 View (412) 533-1517
Photo of Elise Klavon, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elise Klavon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I have been interested in helping people achieve peace and tranquility all my life. My great passion as a therapist is to bring healing through different therapeutic techniques. I most often utilize modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing in treatment. I received a Master’s in Science from Carlow University and am currently working towards my licensure in pursuit of achieving the title of a Licensed Professional Counselor. It has been a lifelong goal of mine to help people gain insight into challenging aspects of their life.
I have been interested in helping people achieve peace and tranquility all my life. My great passion as a therapist is to bring healing through different therapeutic techniques. I most often utilize modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing in treatment. I received a Master’s in Science from Carlow University and am currently working towards my licensure in pursuit of achieving the title of a Licensed Professional Counselor. It has been a lifelong goal of mine to help people gain insight into challenging aspects of their life.
(412) 850-2375 x005 View (412) 850-2375 x005
Photo of Casey O'Hara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey O'Hara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
When we’re struggling, it can help to talk with a trained professional who is able to offer empathy, understanding, and perspective. Casey has experience treating clients struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and bipolar disorder. Casey creates a non-judgmental space so that individuals can see the possibility of growth and change. She champions an integrative, person-centered approach, and incorporates her experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to achieve positive outcomes for her clients.
When we’re struggling, it can help to talk with a trained professional who is able to offer empathy, understanding, and perspective. Casey has experience treating clients struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and bipolar disorder. Casey creates a non-judgmental space so that individuals can see the possibility of growth and change. She champions an integrative, person-centered approach, and incorporates her experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to achieve positive outcomes for her clients.
(412) 318-9380 View (412) 318-9380
Photo of Evan Csir, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Evan Csir
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Evan uses person-centered, behavioral therapy, CBT, and DBT techniques.
Evan Csir is a Licensed Practicing Counselor with over 9 years of experience. He is passionate about working with people, especially autistic individuals. He is experienced in helping clients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD issues. Evan earned his BA in English and Psychology from Thiel College in 2007 and his MA in Counseling in 2013 at Edinboro University.
Evan uses person-centered, behavioral therapy, CBT, and DBT techniques.
Evan Csir is a Licensed Practicing Counselor with over 9 years of experience. He is passionate about working with people, especially autistic individuals. He is experienced in helping clients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD issues. Evan earned his BA in English and Psychology from Thiel College in 2007 and his MA in Counseling in 2013 at Edinboro University.
(412) 900-1125 View (412) 900-1125
Photo of Keri Spaw, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keri Spaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
My approach is Humanistic and Solution-Focused, I am skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Family Systems Theory.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors. I work with my clients to identify realistic and attainable personal goals and encourage them through the process of change. I provide a safe and relaxed environment to process life’s complications such as substance abuse, relationship issues, phase of life difficulties, anxiety and depression, workplace struggles and more.
My approach is Humanistic and Solution-Focused, I am skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Family Systems Theory.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors. I work with my clients to identify realistic and attainable personal goals and encourage them through the process of change. I provide a safe and relaxed environment to process life’s complications such as substance abuse, relationship issues, phase of life difficulties, anxiety and depression, workplace struggles and more.
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Photo of Elizabeth Wilson Bayley, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Wilson Bayley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I utilize a variety of therapy modalities-depending on the client's needs-including, but not limited to Family Systems, DBT, Structural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered Therapy, & Solution Focused.
Whether you’re ready to make a change, or need someone to hold space for you while you figure out the conditions needed to do so, I would be grateful to assist you on your journey to improved mental health. Feeling like one can be their authentic self is key to getting to the root of concerns like anxiety and depression—and I aim to create a space so this discovery may occur. As a Duquesne University graduate, with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy, I've worked in a variety of settings-including inpatient, mobile family therapy, and at substance abuse facilities. I am a LPC & Nationally Certified Counselor.
I utilize a variety of therapy modalities-depending on the client's needs-including, but not limited to Family Systems, DBT, Structural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered Therapy, & Solution Focused.
Whether you’re ready to make a change, or need someone to hold space for you while you figure out the conditions needed to do so, I would be grateful to assist you on your journey to improved mental health. Feeling like one can be their authentic self is key to getting to the root of concerns like anxiety and depression—and I aim to create a space so this discovery may occur. As a Duquesne University graduate, with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy, I've worked in a variety of settings-including inpatient, mobile family therapy, and at substance abuse facilities. I am a LPC & Nationally Certified Counselor.
(724) 577-7341 View (724) 577-7341
Photo of Molly Alvord - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh
Counselor
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(412) 284-5215 View (412) 284-5215
Photo of Jonathan McComas, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan McComas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I use a variety of approaches in therapy; CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing.
Jonathan McComas is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing in the mental health field since 2001. Jonathan has had success working with a wide variety of clients in a wide range of environments. Jonathan takes a multifaceted, holistic approach to therapy. Do you struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Trauma, Grief/Loss or managing Life Events? Our emotions can often impact our overall well-being and ability to enjoy life. Understanding and coping with our emotions can be difficult and overwhelming, often causing issues not just for us, but also for those in our lives as well.
I use a variety of approaches in therapy; CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing.
Jonathan McComas is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing in the mental health field since 2001. Jonathan has had success working with a wide variety of clients in a wide range of environments. Jonathan takes a multifaceted, holistic approach to therapy. Do you struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Trauma, Grief/Loss or managing Life Events? Our emotions can often impact our overall well-being and ability to enjoy life. Understanding and coping with our emotions can be difficult and overwhelming, often causing issues not just for us, but also for those in our lives as well.
(412) 386-0983 View (412) 386-0983
Photo of Brittany Echtler, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Echtler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Given my experience with both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, we can discuss skills that will help you better manage symptoms or even just provide a listening ear.
I enjoy working with various populations including, but not limited to, those struggling with day-to-day stressors, depressive/anxiety related symptoms, interpersonal stressors and trauma. Clients can vary from adolescents to adults in various settings including both individual and family sessions.
Given my experience with both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, we can discuss skills that will help you better manage symptoms or even just provide a listening ear.
I enjoy working with various populations including, but not limited to, those struggling with day-to-day stressors, depressive/anxiety related symptoms, interpersonal stressors and trauma. Clients can vary from adolescents to adults in various settings including both individual and family sessions.
(412) 214-8765 View (412) 214-8765
Photo of Jennifer Black, MSPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Waitlist for new clients
While I work closely with each individual person to develop a customized treatment plan, I utilize evidence-based approaches such as (not limited to) cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed treatment modalities including EMDR.
Life presents us with a variety of stressors and demands that at times may feel difficult to manage. Experiencing loss, depression, anxiety, or memories of disturbing past events may feel overwhelming and prevent us from fully living in the present. Or, we may feel stuck and unsure of what to do next. If you are experiencing similar challenges, I want to help you to process them, identify strengths, and utilize those strengths to heal. I will provide a safe, supportive, judgment-free space for you to share your story, help you to be present focused, and cope with difficult emotions and situations.
While I work closely with each individual person to develop a customized treatment plan, I utilize evidence-based approaches such as (not limited to) cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed treatment modalities including EMDR.
Life presents us with a variety of stressors and demands that at times may feel difficult to manage. Experiencing loss, depression, anxiety, or memories of disturbing past events may feel overwhelming and prevent us from fully living in the present. Or, we may feel stuck and unsure of what to do next. If you are experiencing similar challenges, I want to help you to process them, identify strengths, and utilize those strengths to heal. I will provide a safe, supportive, judgment-free space for you to share your story, help you to be present focused, and cope with difficult emotions and situations.
(878) 217-8245 View (878) 217-8245
Photo of Kimberly Kiesling, LSW, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kimberly Kiesling
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
My treatment approach is person-centered, trauma-focused, and blends therapeutic practices such as CBT, DBT, MI, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mind-Body Therapy, and Imagery.
It is not easy to take the first step to ask for help! My approach begins by listening and learning about you, because I believe that you are the expert on your own journey. I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes. Sometimes you just need to be empowered through compassionate support. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and respectful space for your therapeutic process.
My treatment approach is person-centered, trauma-focused, and blends therapeutic practices such as CBT, DBT, MI, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mind-Body Therapy, and Imagery.
It is not easy to take the first step to ask for help! My approach begins by listening and learning about you, because I believe that you are the expert on your own journey. I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes. Sometimes you just need to be empowered through compassionate support. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and respectful space for your therapeutic process.
(412) 693-6423 View (412) 693-6423
Photo of Chris Friend, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Friend
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224  (Online Only)
I utilize a CBT and DBT approach but believe therapy is very person-specific and will tailor our sessions to fit your specific needs.
Hi ya’ll, I’m Chris. The state of the world and our own well-being can often feel very fragile, especially after these last few years. Through counseling I am able to provide an outlet for processing your emotions and actions and finding a way to unstick yourself when you don’t like where you are. Therapy can be a frightening step for many, but I hope to make your journey to a healthier mindset as comfortable and rewarding as possible. My clinical experience and education are focused on working with those who struggle with severe depression and anxiety.
I utilize a CBT and DBT approach but believe therapy is very person-specific and will tailor our sessions to fit your specific needs.
Hi ya’ll, I’m Chris. The state of the world and our own well-being can often feel very fragile, especially after these last few years. Through counseling I am able to provide an outlet for processing your emotions and actions and finding a way to unstick yourself when you don’t like where you are. Therapy can be a frightening step for many, but I hope to make your journey to a healthier mindset as comfortable and rewarding as possible. My clinical experience and education are focused on working with those who struggle with severe depression and anxiety.
(412) 790-1466 View (412) 790-1466
Photo of DaiDra Thompson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
DaiDra Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I have specialized training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused therapy.
I believe everyone possesses a set of skills and strengths to navigate through life's ups and downs. Unfortunately, life happens and sometimes it may become harder to access or see your strengths. As your therapist I'm here to help aid you through your journey of healing, while helping you to access and gain more strengths to meet your goals. I don't believe therapy should be treated with a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, I take the time to listen and understand the uniqueness of your personal experiences. As a therapist I take a person-centered approach and meet you where you are.
I have specialized training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused therapy.
I believe everyone possesses a set of skills and strengths to navigate through life's ups and downs. Unfortunately, life happens and sometimes it may become harder to access or see your strengths. As your therapist I'm here to help aid you through your journey of healing, while helping you to access and gain more strengths to meet your goals. I don't believe therapy should be treated with a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, I take the time to listen and understand the uniqueness of your personal experiences. As a therapist I take a person-centered approach and meet you where you are.
(412) 960-6516 View (412) 960-6516
Photo of Audrey Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
In our therapeutic journey together, utilizing a blend of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and a psychodynamic approach, we will establish a safe and non-judgmental space.
Are you someone that has a history of struggling to make relationships work, whether it be with friends, family, or intimate partners? Do low mood, racing thoughts, and lack of energy often affect your functioning in day-to-day life? Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness or not being "enough"? As a therapist, I specialize in supporting adults of all ages who grapple with interpersonal issues, mood concerns, and self-esteem. Together, we'll address these challenges and work towards building fulfilling relationships and improving your overall well-being.
In our therapeutic journey together, utilizing a blend of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and a psychodynamic approach, we will establish a safe and non-judgmental space.
Are you someone that has a history of struggling to make relationships work, whether it be with friends, family, or intimate partners? Do low mood, racing thoughts, and lack of energy often affect your functioning in day-to-day life? Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness or not being "enough"? As a therapist, I specialize in supporting adults of all ages who grapple with interpersonal issues, mood concerns, and self-esteem. Together, we'll address these challenges and work towards building fulfilling relationships and improving your overall well-being.
(412) 991-2270 View (412) 991-2270
Photo of Heidi Eltschlager, LPC, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Eltschlager
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, but I lean most heavily into Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am happy that you are here. Seeking out support or making a change can be intimidating and oftentimes daunting. However, with the right support and tools, it is my belief that anyone can make the changes that they desire to lead a more fulfilling life. As a counselor, it is my role to provide a space to do so and listen through a lens of compassion, empathy and understanding as to just how difficult life can sometimes be. Together, we can address life’s challenges, develop therapeutic tools, identify and alter unhelpful thoughts/coping mechanisms and work towards creating a life that you’re proud of.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, but I lean most heavily into Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am happy that you are here. Seeking out support or making a change can be intimidating and oftentimes daunting. However, with the right support and tools, it is my belief that anyone can make the changes that they desire to lead a more fulfilling life. As a counselor, it is my role to provide a space to do so and listen through a lens of compassion, empathy and understanding as to just how difficult life can sometimes be. Together, we can address life’s challenges, develop therapeutic tools, identify and alter unhelpful thoughts/coping mechanisms and work towards creating a life that you’re proud of.
(412) 819-1966 View (412) 819-1966
Photo of Gwen F Melnick, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen F Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Prior jobs (Clinical Social Worker at The Pentagon, an EAP, hospitals; Fortune 500 Subject Matter Expert; Medical School Mentor; MSW Program Director) have informed my practice as has training in CBT, EMDR, DBT, & Psychodynamic Therapy.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
Prior jobs (Clinical Social Worker at The Pentagon, an EAP, hospitals; Fortune 500 Subject Matter Expert; Medical School Mentor; MSW Program Director) have informed my practice as has training in CBT, EMDR, DBT, & Psychodynamic Therapy.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
(412) 356-9859 View (412) 356-9859
Photo of Maria Lynn Guido, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Lynn Guido
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Waitlist for new clients
Maria has been practicing therapy for 8 years, specializing in family therapy, trauma, and attachment. She has experience in a variety of settings and uses techniques including but not limited to, EMDR, trauma-focused CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy. She also has extensive training on adoption/trauma issues, and how developmental trauma plays a role in maladaptive behaviors.
Maria has been practicing therapy for 8 years, specializing in family therapy, trauma, and attachment. She has experience in a variety of settings and uses techniques including but not limited to, EMDR, trauma-focused CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy. She also has extensive training on adoption/trauma issues, and how developmental trauma plays a role in maladaptive behaviors.
(412) 838-4677 View (412) 838-4677
Photo of Katy Jane Dunhoff, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy Jane Dunhoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I use a variety of different modalities; CBT, DBT, TF- CBT, Parent Child Interaction Therapy and DDP.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 17 years of experience, I have worked in families homes and outpatient clinics. My passion started working with children and their families then expanded to working with individuals of all ages. These experiences included working with clients with a variety of mental health symptoms; anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, ADHD, ASD, relationship challenges and life changes.
I use a variety of different modalities; CBT, DBT, TF- CBT, Parent Child Interaction Therapy and DDP.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 17 years of experience, I have worked in families homes and outpatient clinics. My passion started working with children and their families then expanded to working with individuals of all ages. These experiences included working with clients with a variety of mental health symptoms; anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, ADHD, ASD, relationship challenges and life changes.
(412) 981-1533 View (412) 981-1533
Photo of Laurel Casciato - 412 Therapy Co., LPC, PMHC, TCT, Licensed Professional Counselor
412 Therapy Co.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMHC, TCT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
I use a combo of biopsych, somatic, DBT and CBT therapies.
In-person or virtual daytime availability. Weaving movement (yoga and walking), art, EMDR, and other non-traditional approaches into a talk-therapy space, I can help you move through discomfort to help you experience your real self - not just the version you have to throw together for everyone else.
I use a combo of biopsych, somatic, DBT and CBT therapies.
In-person or virtual daytime availability. Weaving movement (yoga and walking), art, EMDR, and other non-traditional approaches into a talk-therapy space, I can help you move through discomfort to help you experience your real self - not just the version you have to throw together for everyone else.
(412) 415-7926 View (412) 415-7926
Photo of Monica Waitkus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Waitkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Depending on your personalized needs, I may incorporate the following treatment modalities into the therapeutic process: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Focused treatment.
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
Depending on your personalized needs, I may incorporate the following treatment modalities into the therapeutic process: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Focused treatment.
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
(412) 528-6365 View (412) 528-6365
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.