Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Columbia, SC
Sarah Todd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29205
I employ techniques utilizing Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapies to help you develop effective coping skills, positive thinking, and to utilize self-care techniques.
Being a new parent, no matter how you came into the role, can be difficult. It’s not unusual to experience feelings of sadness, anger, irritability, or intrusive, unsettling thoughts. My goal is to give you a safe place to vent your feelings, and work through your specific challenges in order to come to a happier place in your life, and love yourself for the awesome person you are. I have speciality training working with Postpartum depression and anxiety from Postpartum Support International, and I come to session as a fellow birthing person/parent who can empathize with your experience.
I employ techniques utilizing Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapies to help you develop effective coping skills, positive thinking, and to utilize self-care techniques.
Being a new parent, no matter how you came into the role, can be difficult. It’s not unusual to experience feelings of sadness, anger, irritability, or intrusive, unsettling thoughts. My goal is to give you a safe place to vent your feelings, and work through your specific challenges in order to come to a happier place in your life, and love yourself for the awesome person you are. I have speciality training working with Postpartum depression and anxiety from Postpartum Support International, and I come to session as a fellow birthing person/parent who can empathize with your experience.
Jessica Pena-Cabana
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, PsyD, CSC, NFCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29205
She is a member & certified AASECT/Sex Therapist, CBT, DBT, EMDR, TF-CBT, CEIP-MH , Play Therapy, Grief/Loss and ABA.
Jessica Pena-Cabana, PhD, PsyD, MEd, CSC, CEIP-MH, LPC-S. She has over 20 plus years working with children, adolescents, couples, families and adults with special needs and emotional issues. She is fully licensed Bilingual (Spanish) therapist. She accepts Medicaid, BCBS, Tricare, & most other insurances. She will also accepts private pay and work on a sliding scale if needed. She is trained in CBT, DBT, EMDR, Solution focused, Play therapy, Grief & Loss, PTSD, and trauma. Office line: 803-569-3101 fax: 800-915-8615. Addl website: https://www.hillcrestcps.co or find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/HillcrestBehavioralH.
She is a member & certified AASECT/Sex Therapist, CBT, DBT, EMDR, TF-CBT, CEIP-MH , Play Therapy, Grief/Loss and ABA.
Jessica Pena-Cabana, PhD, PsyD, MEd, CSC, CEIP-MH, LPC-S. She has over 20 plus years working with children, adolescents, couples, families and adults with special needs and emotional issues. She is fully licensed Bilingual (Spanish) therapist. She accepts Medicaid, BCBS, Tricare, & most other insurances. She will also accepts private pay and work on a sliding scale if needed. She is trained in CBT, DBT, EMDR, Solution focused, Play therapy, Grief & Loss, PTSD, and trauma. Office line: 803-569-3101 fax: 800-915-8615. Addl website: https://www.hillcrestcps.co or find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/HillcrestBehavioralH.
She has used cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness techniques to help her clients.
Cierra is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), providing therapeutic services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. She has provided therapy services in private practice, in-home, non-profit organizations, and private family doctor's office settings. She has experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Cierra is experienced in facilitating groups, and providing both individual and family therapy. Throughout her counseling experience, Cierra has been able to develop community events, such as back-to-school events and canned food drives for clients of low economic status.
She has used cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness techniques to help her clients.
Cierra is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), providing therapeutic services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. She has provided therapy services in private practice, in-home, non-profit organizations, and private family doctor's office settings. She has experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Cierra is experienced in facilitating groups, and providing both individual and family therapy. Throughout her counseling experience, Cierra has been able to develop community events, such as back-to-school events and canned food drives for clients of low economic status.
Ashley M Dais
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
I use various therapeutic models, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I use a holistic approach to therapy, considering all aspects of an individual’s life and well-being. I create a relaxed, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly. I aim to empower you to make positive changes, develop coping strategies, and find a sense of balance and fulfillment.
I use various therapeutic models, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I use a holistic approach to therapy, considering all aspects of an individual’s life and well-being. I create a relaxed, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly. I aim to empower you to make positive changes, develop coping strategies, and find a sense of balance and fulfillment.
Maya Rake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, `MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Are you struggling with a low mood, high anxiety, irritability, a mind that won't turn off, relationship issues, or just not feeling like yourself? Is your life really difficult now with all the changes we have to make and things we have to remember? Are you anxious, over worked, and over whelmed? Let's talk. I can help you. I do therapy via Telehealth as well as in-person sessions and can offer you a safe, experienced, non-judgmental place to explore problems and work through solutions. I can help you develop focus areas for treatment, work out a plan, follow through, and create a life that makes you happy.
I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Are you struggling with a low mood, high anxiety, irritability, a mind that won't turn off, relationship issues, or just not feeling like yourself? Is your life really difficult now with all the changes we have to make and things we have to remember? Are you anxious, over worked, and over whelmed? Let's talk. I can help you. I do therapy via Telehealth as well as in-person sessions and can offer you a safe, experienced, non-judgmental place to explore problems and work through solutions. I can help you develop focus areas for treatment, work out a plan, follow through, and create a life that makes you happy.
I have an eclectic approach that utilizes psychological interventions supported by research, specifically EMDR, DBT, CBT, as well as Psychodynamic perspectives.
It is often that when you have difficulties managing your emotions, they have a negative impact on your closest relationships. My goal is to support understanding of where these symptoms originate and how we can work to manage them. I specialize in working with people who have difficulties with their mood, relationships, and having the life they want. I also have expertise in conducting psychological assessment for diagnostic for school accommodations, by assessing for learning disorders and ADHD, as well as for diagnostic clarification and treatment recommendations.
I have an eclectic approach that utilizes psychological interventions supported by research, specifically EMDR, DBT, CBT, as well as Psychodynamic perspectives.
It is often that when you have difficulties managing your emotions, they have a negative impact on your closest relationships. My goal is to support understanding of where these symptoms originate and how we can work to manage them. I specialize in working with people who have difficulties with their mood, relationships, and having the life they want. I also have expertise in conducting psychological assessment for diagnostic for school accommodations, by assessing for learning disorders and ADHD, as well as for diagnostic clarification and treatment recommendations.
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, strengths-based, and mindfulness techniques to assist clients in empowering themselves.
It’s when we start working together that the real healing takes place. - David Hume. Perhaps you are new to therapy or are continuing your healing journey. Maybe life changes have been hard to overcome. In all that you are experiencing, I am here to join alongside you and offer professional support, psychoeducation, and advocacy. My approach aligns with helping individuals bring awareness to their thoughts and stories, how these are impacting their lives, and ways to cope and evolve.
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, strengths-based, and mindfulness techniques to assist clients in empowering themselves.
It’s when we start working together that the real healing takes place. - David Hume. Perhaps you are new to therapy or are continuing your healing journey. Maybe life changes have been hard to overcome. In all that you are experiencing, I am here to join alongside you and offer professional support, psychoeducation, and advocacy. My approach aligns with helping individuals bring awareness to their thoughts and stories, how these are impacting their lives, and ways to cope and evolve.
Child Advocacy and Recovery Center, DeAnna Rock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCMHC, NCC, SC, NC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29229
Depending on symptoms, treatment areas I am skilled are Behavioral Therapies; CBT, Trauma Focused, Emotion Focused Therapy, Dialectical ( DBT), Person-Centered, Art Therapy, Mindfulness, Breathwork, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Hello, I am a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor in SC and NC. I've spent several years working as a Licensed Nurse and LPC. I work with all ages; children, teens and adults, couples; excessive worry, depression, mood, impulsivity, ADHD, social anxiety, other serious emotional disturbances. Always emotion focused and person centered and/or trauma-focused. We each have a voice and when life is hard, sometimes we don't always feel we can speak up. In therapy we will find your voice and hopefully you will feel you can talk about the things going on in your life in a safe space, never with judgement.
Depending on symptoms, treatment areas I am skilled are Behavioral Therapies; CBT, Trauma Focused, Emotion Focused Therapy, Dialectical ( DBT), Person-Centered, Art Therapy, Mindfulness, Breathwork, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Hello, I am a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor in SC and NC. I've spent several years working as a Licensed Nurse and LPC. I work with all ages; children, teens and adults, couples; excessive worry, depression, mood, impulsivity, ADHD, social anxiety, other serious emotional disturbances. Always emotion focused and person centered and/or trauma-focused. We each have a voice and when life is hard, sometimes we don't always feel we can speak up. In therapy we will find your voice and hopefully you will feel you can talk about the things going on in your life in a safe space, never with judgement.
Opal A Fulwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR, LPCS-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29229 (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Trauma Focused Behavioral Therapy.
Some people have never had a safe place to be themselves and truly be vulnerable. Here you can find a safe place to explore personal issues, make difficult choices, experience personal growth, and find healing. Because of my lived experiences, I can relate to and understand your challenges. I see you, and I hear you. No one is beyond help. It is courageous and wise of you to seek therapy and share your difficulties and concerns. Change is possible. It takes work, but lasting change and transformation are possible. I can help you heal. Let us uncover and face your truth together.
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Trauma Focused Behavioral Therapy.
Some people have never had a safe place to be themselves and truly be vulnerable. Here you can find a safe place to explore personal issues, make difficult choices, experience personal growth, and find healing. Because of my lived experiences, I can relate to and understand your challenges. I see you, and I hear you. No one is beyond help. It is courageous and wise of you to seek therapy and share your difficulties and concerns. Change is possible. It takes work, but lasting change and transformation are possible. I can help you heal. Let us uncover and face your truth together.
Deana Tucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29202
Deana Tucker is a native of South Carolina and has worked in human services/helping profession for over 15 years. Deana is a Clinical Counselor, a Certified Addictions Counselor II for the state of South Carolina, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and well as a Grief Recovery Specialist. Deana has experience with providing services in outpatient, home, and residential settings. She has helped individuals work vital life issues that include of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, decision making, grief, anger / behavioral / and crisis management. Qualified in addictions and experience with Trauma Focused CBT, CBT, DBT and EMDR.
Deana Tucker is a native of South Carolina and has worked in human services/helping profession for over 15 years. Deana is a Clinical Counselor, a Certified Addictions Counselor II for the state of South Carolina, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and well as a Grief Recovery Specialist. Deana has experience with providing services in outpatient, home, and residential settings. She has helped individuals work vital life issues that include of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, decision making, grief, anger / behavioral / and crisis management. Qualified in addictions and experience with Trauma Focused CBT, CBT, DBT and EMDR.
I utilize interventions from Dialectal Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness in my work with clients.
My ultimate aim is to help you build a life worth living. I'm dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, gain insight into patterns, and cultivate change. When reading fantasy books, binge watching TV shows/anime, getting tattoos, and video games are not enough, let's chat! We'll work towards building essential skills, enhancing self-awareness, and improving your life quality.
I utilize interventions from Dialectal Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness in my work with clients.
My ultimate aim is to help you build a life worth living. I'm dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, gain insight into patterns, and cultivate change. When reading fantasy books, binge watching TV shows/anime, getting tattoos, and video games are not enough, let's chat! We'll work towards building essential skills, enhancing self-awareness, and improving your life quality.
15 Second Videos
Harold Kirby
Jolia Alexander
James H. Tunstall IV
Sarah Leitner
Daniel Long
Shanel Kaiser
Devorah Marrus
Clear Vision Counseling, LLC.
Coalesce Family Services, LLC
Ashlyn Bordelon
Brittany Bass Jones
Open Minds Therapy, LLC.
Elizabeth Carol Willits
Debra Smart
The Ultimate Choice Consulting, LLC
Teresa Quattlebaum Harris
Tanisha Tatum
Elissa Steffen Mount
Cindy Athey
Brightside Health
Alex Koszeghy - Let's Keep It Fun
Nell M Osborne
Georgia Harrison
Anxiety + Break Up And Divorce Emilea Richardson
Natasha Patel
Heather Anne Brister
Thais Deane
LaVerne H Collins
Marissa Hall
Audrey Williams
Kellyn Brooks
Shaniqua Lesesne
Rachel Christina Kelly
Sound Mind Counseling Solutions, Isatta Rockman
Brenda Patterson Ishmael
Melissa (Missa) Borah
Niral Patel is a clinical psychologist who completed her doctoral degree at an APA accredited institution, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, D.C. Niral enjoys working with the adolescent and adult populations in treating mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, ADHD/ADD, panic disorders, interpersonal conflict, adjustment issues and life transitions, and personality disorders. Niral primarily uses cognitive and behavioral techniques to help clients, while integrating dialectical and other therapies in her sessions.
Niral Patel is a clinical psychologist who completed her doctoral degree at an APA accredited institution, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, D.C. Niral enjoys working with the adolescent and adult populations in treating mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, ADHD/ADD, panic disorders, interpersonal conflict, adjustment issues and life transitions, and personality disorders. Niral primarily uses cognitive and behavioral techniques to help clients, while integrating dialectical and other therapies in her sessions.
Darius Poitier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29210
I utilize client centered, solution focused, CBT, DBT, and EMDR to assist clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
Are you having difficulty navigating your life currently? Are you experiencing anxiety and/or depression? Are you struggling to figure out the next steps in your life? Are you unhappy in your current relationship? Are struggling with the "new" normal? Are you asking yourself, why is this happening to me? Do you ask yourself "Now what" ? Having self-esteem issues? Are you struggling with anger management? If you answer yes to any of these questions I am the therapist for you. I am an experienced therapist who has assisted many clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
I utilize client centered, solution focused, CBT, DBT, and EMDR to assist clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
Are you having difficulty navigating your life currently? Are you experiencing anxiety and/or depression? Are you struggling to figure out the next steps in your life? Are you unhappy in your current relationship? Are struggling with the "new" normal? Are you asking yourself, why is this happening to me? Do you ask yourself "Now what" ? Having self-esteem issues? Are you struggling with anger management? If you answer yes to any of these questions I am the therapist for you. I am an experienced therapist who has assisted many clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
Hi! I am passionate about empowering my clients to identify and process trauma so they can move forward to a more regulated life. Working on trauma can be vulnerable and uncomfortable, which is why I intentionally utilize a calm and supportive approach. I am trained in a variety of counseling techniques including EMDR, CPT, CBT and DBT. I have a special interest in helping individuals struggling with challenges related to disordered eating, infertility, perinatal and postpartum difficulties, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I'm looking forward to joining you on your healing journey!
Hi! I am passionate about empowering my clients to identify and process trauma so they can move forward to a more regulated life. Working on trauma can be vulnerable and uncomfortable, which is why I intentionally utilize a calm and supportive approach. I am trained in a variety of counseling techniques including EMDR, CPT, CBT and DBT. I have a special interest in helping individuals struggling with challenges related to disordered eating, infertility, perinatal and postpartum difficulties, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I'm looking forward to joining you on your healing journey!
Harold Kirby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29205 (Online Only)
ACT, DBT, E/RP EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive and Grief Recovery.
It has been estimated that 3.3 to a reported high of 6 million people suffer from OCD in the US. OCD, in particular, continues to be misdiagnosed and as a result is often treated ineffectively. Using primarily CBT, ACT, E/RP and mindfulness based treatment my goal is to help you manage these debilitating conditions with empirically based strategies, helping you gain the means to get back on the path of your true potential and lead a life that is worth living. We can work together to effectively manage your OCD, anxiety, depression or grief in a way that supports living a life that you value.
ACT, DBT, E/RP EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive and Grief Recovery.
It has been estimated that 3.3 to a reported high of 6 million people suffer from OCD in the US. OCD, in particular, continues to be misdiagnosed and as a result is often treated ineffectively. Using primarily CBT, ACT, E/RP and mindfulness based treatment my goal is to help you manage these debilitating conditions with empirically based strategies, helping you gain the means to get back on the path of your true potential and lead a life that is worth living. We can work together to effectively manage your OCD, anxiety, depression or grief in a way that supports living a life that you value.
Chelsea Witherspoon
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29204
I have extensive knowledge in several different therapies such as CBT, Person-Centered, and DBT, etc.
Hey there ! If you are reading this you are in the right place. A judgment free zone, where me and you can take the journey of getting you to where you want to be. Sometimes life can become difficult and too much to bear. It's okay to need a listening ear and guidance on how to sort things out. That is where I come in . With years of experience in the counseling field I am equipped to offer a great therapeutic environment.
I have extensive knowledge in several different therapies such as CBT, Person-Centered, and DBT, etc.
Hey there ! If you are reading this you are in the right place. A judgment free zone, where me and you can take the journey of getting you to where you want to be. Sometimes life can become difficult and too much to bear. It's okay to need a listening ear and guidance on how to sort things out. That is where I come in . With years of experience in the counseling field I am equipped to offer a great therapeutic environment.
I utilize a person-centered, collaborative approach and have training in DBT and CBT.
Everyone has their own story to tell, let me help you find beauty and understanding in yours. As a therapist I offer an encouraging, supportive and non-judgmental space that is conducive for growth and healing. My goal is to make sure you feel heard, empowered and gain self-awareness through life’s difficulty. I help clients with a range of issues including depression, anger, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, trauma and PTSD.
I utilize a person-centered, collaborative approach and have training in DBT and CBT.
Everyone has their own story to tell, let me help you find beauty and understanding in yours. As a therapist I offer an encouraging, supportive and non-judgmental space that is conducive for growth and healing. My goal is to make sure you feel heard, empowered and gain self-awareness through life’s difficulty. I help clients with a range of issues including depression, anger, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, trauma and PTSD.
Sonja Middleton is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2000. She obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work and has a certificate in Gerontology. Her previous experience is working in hospitals, outpatient, nursing homes, and in the jail. She sees adults from 18 years up and from all ethnic groups. Sonja enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss issues, bipolar, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. She uses an eclectic approach pulling from CBT, DBT, and is person centered.
Sonja Middleton is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2000. She obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work and has a certificate in Gerontology. Her previous experience is working in hospitals, outpatient, nursing homes, and in the jail. She sees adults from 18 years up and from all ethnic groups. Sonja enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss issues, bipolar, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. She uses an eclectic approach pulling from CBT, DBT, and is person centered.
Monique Moultry-Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
I am warm, relatable, and flexible, and utilize CBT, DBT, Solution Focused and Mindfulness therapy that will be tailored to meet your needs.
Seeking healing is a courageous step to take, as life can be unpredictable! I believe the journey of healing and wholeness can be found in the comfort of a safe non-judgmental presence. I seek to cultivate a space for individuals to feel seen and supported during the triumphs and sorrows life holds while assisting you to gain insight into your experience. All parts of you are welcome here! As a therapist, I implement this through collaborative connection as we get to know each other and working with you toward your desired goals to create the hope change, and healing that you deserve.
I am warm, relatable, and flexible, and utilize CBT, DBT, Solution Focused and Mindfulness therapy that will be tailored to meet your needs.
Seeking healing is a courageous step to take, as life can be unpredictable! I believe the journey of healing and wholeness can be found in the comfort of a safe non-judgmental presence. I seek to cultivate a space for individuals to feel seen and supported during the triumphs and sorrows life holds while assisting you to gain insight into your experience. All parts of you are welcome here! As a therapist, I implement this through collaborative connection as we get to know each other and working with you toward your desired goals to create the hope change, and healing that you deserve.
Katie utilizes CBT, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, DBT, to tailor to create the client's specific treatment plan.
Katie Sayles is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families create a fulfilling life worth living. She will create a tailored, person-centered treatment plan to assist individuals, couples, and families dealing with interpersonal difficulties, depression, anxiety, and any major life changes. She has worked with people grieving loss as well as caregivers for 10 years. This, along with experience in the mental health field, allows her to provide support to meet the client's needs.
Katie utilizes CBT, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, DBT, to tailor to create the client's specific treatment plan.
Katie Sayles is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families create a fulfilling life worth living. She will create a tailored, person-centered treatment plan to assist individuals, couples, and families dealing with interpersonal difficulties, depression, anxiety, and any major life changes. She has worked with people grieving loss as well as caregivers for 10 years. This, along with experience in the mental health field, allows her to provide support to meet the client's needs.
See more therapy options for Columbia
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Columbia
See More Dialectical Behavior (DBT) TherapistsDialectical 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.