Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Franklin, TN

Photo of Rebecca Stewart - Dandelion Space the healing place, LCSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dandelion Space the healing place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
Therapists often rely on DBT, TF-CBT and strengths to build and create the space for positive change to thrive.
Dandelion Space was created with the intention of helping others heal from trauma, anxiety and depression with the purpose of assisting in bettering the self in meaningful and tangible ways. Dandelion Space is dedicated to providing high quality, modern mental and relational behavior health throughout the Tennessee and Alabama area.
Therapists often rely on DBT, TF-CBT and strengths to build and create the space for positive change to thrive.
Dandelion Space was created with the intention of helping others heal from trauma, anxiety and depression with the purpose of assisting in bettering the self in meaningful and tangible ways. Dandelion Space is dedicated to providing high quality, modern mental and relational behavior health throughout the Tennessee and Alabama area.
(629) 258-6488 View (629) 258-6488
Photo of Dee Ann Bass, TLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dee Ann Bass
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I work through an attachment lens using integrative therapy that includes, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting and others to help my clients heal from their past.
Do you feel overwhelmed by life? Have you had disappointments and things in your life that did not go as planned? Have you found yourself in a divorce and it feels like your world is falling apart? Maybe you are a couple that needs help getting back on track. Or perhaps you have things in your life that have happened that were traumatic to you? If so, you are in the right place! I love working with clients to help them heal from past wounds, teaching them skillsets that will help them grow and create new pathways in their brain. My goal is to be your guide in your healing journey.
I work through an attachment lens using integrative therapy that includes, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting and others to help my clients heal from their past.
Do you feel overwhelmed by life? Have you had disappointments and things in your life that did not go as planned? Have you found yourself in a divorce and it feels like your world is falling apart? Maybe you are a couple that needs help getting back on track. Or perhaps you have things in your life that have happened that were traumatic to you? If so, you are in the right place! I love working with clients to help them heal from past wounds, teaching them skillsets that will help them grow and create new pathways in their brain. My goal is to be your guide in your healing journey.
(615) 813-6369 View (615) 813-6369
Photo of Leiah Drew Hightower - The Therapuetic Studio, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Therapuetic Studio, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
Our licensed and seasoned therapists design an evidenced-based treatment plan derived from ABA, Brainspotting, EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory, CBT, DBT and Internal Family Systems.
Life is hard and we are all trying to heal from someone or something. The therapeutic process is the greatest gift you could give yourself or your child. We have one life, we are all learning daily and we are in this together. We have a deep passion for children, adolescents and families who have come from hard places and spaces.
Our licensed and seasoned therapists design an evidenced-based treatment plan derived from ABA, Brainspotting, EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory, CBT, DBT and Internal Family Systems.
Life is hard and we are all trying to heal from someone or something. The therapeutic process is the greatest gift you could give yourself or your child. We have one life, we are all learning daily and we are in this together. We have a deep passion for children, adolescents and families who have come from hard places and spaces.
(615) 488-8860 View (615) 488-8860
Photo of Jacqueline Huffaker, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline Huffaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
Jacque specializes in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Jacque Huffaker is a natural—she was born to be a therapist. She is that rare blend of clinician who possesses both strength and warmth which seem to magically combine to create “just the right fit” for just about any personality type. She can put you at ease while challenging you in the same moment. Jacque knows that it takes courage to be vulnerable, to speak your truth, and share raw emotions. Jacque believes that anyone willing to take on that challenge deserves the utmost respect. She is a problem-solver who never backs down from a challenge, while her wry and quirky sense of humor keep her from taking herself too seriously.
Jacque specializes in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Jacque Huffaker is a natural—she was born to be a therapist. She is that rare blend of clinician who possesses both strength and warmth which seem to magically combine to create “just the right fit” for just about any personality type. She can put you at ease while challenging you in the same moment. Jacque knows that it takes courage to be vulnerable, to speak your truth, and share raw emotions. Jacque believes that anyone willing to take on that challenge deserves the utmost respect. She is a problem-solver who never backs down from a challenge, while her wry and quirky sense of humor keep her from taking herself too seriously.
(615) 457-8402 View (615) 457-8402
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth West Krause - Elizabeth Krause, Ph.D. Telehealth Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Krause, Ph.D. Telehealth Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
Are you going through a challenging life circumstance making you vulnerable to depression or anxiety? Perhaps you're struggling with a medical diagnosis, trauma, chronic pain, or want to learn more about mindfulness or meditation. I am a dual licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. I have immediate openings for Telehealth sessions. I offer individual therapy for adults with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADD, Panic, Sleep Disorders, Chronic Pain, and Trauma. Additional services include Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) DBT, ACT, Self-Hypnosis, Meditation Training, and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
Are you going through a challenging life circumstance making you vulnerable to depression or anxiety? Perhaps you're struggling with a medical diagnosis, trauma, chronic pain, or want to learn more about mindfulness or meditation. I am a dual licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. I have immediate openings for Telehealth sessions. I offer individual therapy for adults with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADD, Panic, Sleep Disorders, Chronic Pain, and Trauma. Additional services include Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) DBT, ACT, Self-Hypnosis, Meditation Training, and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
(615) 527-8627 View (615) 527-8627
Photo of Abby West, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby West
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I use a person-centered approach and incorporate elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior strategies, and mindfulness.
It is truly a privilege to witness people experience growth, healing, and long lasting change. I find joy in creating a warm, collaborative environment for individuals who desire to process and grow through life’s challenges and transitions. It is my hope that the individuals I work with leave therapy feeling deeply understood yet gently challenged. I have experience working with people in various seasons of life, however, I primarily work with preteens, teens, young adults, and women working through issues related to anxiety, depression, loss, life transitions, self esteem issues, difficult relationships, and trauma.
I use a person-centered approach and incorporate elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior strategies, and mindfulness.
It is truly a privilege to witness people experience growth, healing, and long lasting change. I find joy in creating a warm, collaborative environment for individuals who desire to process and grow through life’s challenges and transitions. It is my hope that the individuals I work with leave therapy feeling deeply understood yet gently challenged. I have experience working with people in various seasons of life, however, I primarily work with preteens, teens, young adults, and women working through issues related to anxiety, depression, loss, life transitions, self esteem issues, difficult relationships, and trauma.
(629) 263-7974 View (629) 263-7974
Photo of Joe Dabbs, LCSW, LADACII, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joe Dabbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADACII, CAADC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I am trained and certified in CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Don't let anxiety, depression, or addiction hold you back any longer. I have over 13 years of experience helping people like you. Getting started is easy; give me a call or send me a quick email. Together, we’ll map out a path to a brighter, happier you.
I am trained and certified in CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Don't let anxiety, depression, or addiction hold you back any longer. I have over 13 years of experience helping people like you. Getting started is easy; give me a call or send me a quick email. Together, we’ll map out a path to a brighter, happier you.
(615) 219-4827 View (615) 219-4827
Photo of Brenda Anderson Menzies, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda Anderson Menzies
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Gestalt therapies.
Counseling individuals and couples who are looking to improve their relationships, increase self awareness, and move towards greater levels of success and happiness in their personal and professional lives is my greatest source of fulfillment as a therapist. Modern life presents all of us with many challenges including anxiety, depression, and issues with core beliefs. Having an experienced, compassionate therapist to help navigate the journey of personal growth can make all the difference.
I use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Gestalt therapies.
Counseling individuals and couples who are looking to improve their relationships, increase self awareness, and move towards greater levels of success and happiness in their personal and professional lives is my greatest source of fulfillment as a therapist. Modern life presents all of us with many challenges including anxiety, depression, and issues with core beliefs. Having an experienced, compassionate therapist to help navigate the journey of personal growth can make all the difference.
(615) 205-7558 View (615) 205-7558
Photo of Jen Adams Biddle, MEd, LPC, MHSP, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Adams Biddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I have training in Developmental and Relational Trauma Therapy (DARTT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radically Open DBT, CBT, and the Gottman Method for couples.
Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns? Feel like you've tried everything you know? Don't give up. I'm willing to go all in. My style is relational, straightforward, and genuine. I enjoy working with couples and individuals who are seeking deeper connections relationally. I seek to help heal developmental trauma and attachment wounds experienced by individuals and couples. I also have experience and interest helping neurodivergent people understand themselves better and develop neurodivergent-affirming coping strategies.
I have training in Developmental and Relational Trauma Therapy (DARTT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radically Open DBT, CBT, and the Gottman Method for couples.
Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns? Feel like you've tried everything you know? Don't give up. I'm willing to go all in. My style is relational, straightforward, and genuine. I enjoy working with couples and individuals who are seeking deeper connections relationally. I seek to help heal developmental trauma and attachment wounds experienced by individuals and couples. I also have experience and interest helping neurodivergent people understand themselves better and develop neurodivergent-affirming coping strategies.
(615) 640-1397 View (615) 640-1397
Photo of Elizabeth Lee Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Lee Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Lee worked with trauma and addiction for the past 5 years utilizing EMDR, narrative therapy, emotional freedom technique (tapping), DBT and CBT.
Worry happens in your mind, stress happens in your body, and anxiety happens in your mind and your body. In small doses, worry, stress and anxiety can be positive forces in our lives. But most of us are too worried, too stressed, and too anxious. How do we manage this worry, stress, and anxiety in a healthy manner? Lee’s strength is building rapport and holding space for her clients by listening and utilizing curiosity to learn about her clients.
Lee worked with trauma and addiction for the past 5 years utilizing EMDR, narrative therapy, emotional freedom technique (tapping), DBT and CBT.
Worry happens in your mind, stress happens in your body, and anxiety happens in your mind and your body. In small doses, worry, stress and anxiety can be positive forces in our lives. But most of us are too worried, too stressed, and too anxious. How do we manage this worry, stress, and anxiety in a healthy manner? Lee’s strength is building rapport and holding space for her clients by listening and utilizing curiosity to learn about her clients.
(615) 703-5063 View (615) 703-5063
Photo of Cindy Butler Mancini, PhD, Psychologist
Cindy Butler Mancini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
My diverse training in both psychodynamic therapies (which focus largely on gaining insight/ understanding) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (which focuses on behavior and the present moment) allows me great range and flexibility in tailoring a treatment to meet my clients' goals.
I believe we all do our very best to cope with life’s challenges. Allowing someone to face those challenges with you can be one of the hardest aspects of starting psychotherapy. I approach therapy as a partner in exploration and discovery. I work toward creating a safe, warm environment that facilitates connection, understanding, and positive change. Every person is unique and so are their strengths, struggles, and goals, so I focus on tailoring treatment to the specific needs of each client.
My diverse training in both psychodynamic therapies (which focus largely on gaining insight/ understanding) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (which focuses on behavior and the present moment) allows me great range and flexibility in tailoring a treatment to meet my clients' goals.
I believe we all do our very best to cope with life’s challenges. Allowing someone to face those challenges with you can be one of the hardest aspects of starting psychotherapy. I approach therapy as a partner in exploration and discovery. I work toward creating a safe, warm environment that facilitates connection, understanding, and positive change. Every person is unique and so are their strengths, struggles, and goals, so I focus on tailoring treatment to the specific needs of each client.
(615) 270-9994 View (615) 270-9994
Photo of Kathy Huckaby, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Huckaby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I feel truly honored to work with you during times of struggle, change, and growth. I strive to create a safe space to grow, heal, and reach your therapeutic goals. I have experience working with various challenges including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, school issues and other behavioral challenges. I utilize a relational, strengths-based approach while incorporating evidenced based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness practices, and play-based interventions.
I feel truly honored to work with you during times of struggle, change, and growth. I strive to create a safe space to grow, heal, and reach your therapeutic goals. I have experience working with various challenges including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, school issues and other behavioral challenges. I utilize a relational, strengths-based approach while incorporating evidenced based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness practices, and play-based interventions.
(615) 560-8760 View (615) 560-8760
Photo of Joseph W Dabbs, LCSW, LADACII, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph W Dabbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADACII, LCADC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, MI, and ACT interventions.
I work with clients who have mental health concerns (anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use concerns, etc) family concerns/relationship concerns, loss/grief concerns, and transition/adjustment concerns.
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, MI, and ACT interventions.
I work with clients who have mental health concerns (anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use concerns, etc) family concerns/relationship concerns, loss/grief concerns, and transition/adjustment concerns.
(615) 857-3371 View (615) 857-3371
Photo of Jack Justin Dreher, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jack Justin Dreher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
At the Village of Kairos, I specialize in comprehensive, adherent, and trauma-focused DBT.
I recognize that the journey that brought you to therapy may not have been an easy one. I work to assist you in your self-exploration, learning, and growth by creating a safe, nurturing, respectful, yet challenging environment. I prioritize your autonomy and personal responsibility throughout the healing process.
At the Village of Kairos, I specialize in comprehensive, adherent, and trauma-focused DBT.
I recognize that the journey that brought you to therapy may not have been an easy one. I work to assist you in your self-exploration, learning, and growth by creating a safe, nurturing, respectful, yet challenging environment. I prioritize your autonomy and personal responsibility throughout the healing process.
(615) 488-7683 View (615) 488-7683
Photo of Peggy Miller Allbritten, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peggy Miller Allbritten
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is rooted in connection and safety. I believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship for healing and growth, and I strive to create a safe, accepting space for each of my clients. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed, psychodynamic perspective, exploring with clients how past experiences, attachment, and trauma have impacted them. I believe in the importance of acknowledging the whole self in the healing process, and I often incorporate ideas from Somatic Experiencing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, playtherapy/expressive arts, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy into counseling.
My approach to therapy is rooted in connection and safety. I believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship for healing and growth, and I strive to create a safe, accepting space for each of my clients. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed, psychodynamic perspective, exploring with clients how past experiences, attachment, and trauma have impacted them. I believe in the importance of acknowledging the whole self in the healing process, and I often incorporate ideas from Somatic Experiencing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, playtherapy/expressive arts, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy into counseling.
(615) 551-9398 View (615) 551-9398
Photo of Lara Branscomb Jackson, PhD, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lara Branscomb Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Prepare Enrich couples assessment and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I believe that understanding our attachment style is one avenue to self-discovery. I use an integrative approach to help clients improve their connection with others and create a life of hope and purpose. My goal is to help clients improve their quality of life, increase self compassion, develop coping skills boundaries, decrease suffering, and improve body image. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who struggle with relationships, chronic illness, stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, marital or family problems, grief and/or co-occurring disorders
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Prepare Enrich couples assessment and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I believe that understanding our attachment style is one avenue to self-discovery. I use an integrative approach to help clients improve their connection with others and create a life of hope and purpose. My goal is to help clients improve their quality of life, increase self compassion, develop coping skills boundaries, decrease suffering, and improve body image. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who struggle with relationships, chronic illness, stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, marital or family problems, grief and/or co-occurring disorders
(615) 861-2526 View (615) 861-2526
Photo of Samantha Lacheta, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Lacheta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I believe in incorporating CBT, DBT, Reality Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, depending on each client's needs.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trouble at school or with friendships, career stress, marital issues, divorce, parenting, neurodiversity including Autism/Asperger’s, ADHD or neurocognitive deficits, or anything that is preventing you from living a joyful, fulfilled life, let’s talk! I primarily work with adolescents and adults, but am open to younger clients as well. Therapy is like auto maintenance. If we don't keep up with oil changes, something major is bound to break eventually. So whether it's a tune-up or major repair you're looking for, I'm here to help.
I believe in incorporating CBT, DBT, Reality Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, depending on each client's needs.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trouble at school or with friendships, career stress, marital issues, divorce, parenting, neurodiversity including Autism/Asperger’s, ADHD or neurocognitive deficits, or anything that is preventing you from living a joyful, fulfilled life, let’s talk! I primarily work with adolescents and adults, but am open to younger clients as well. Therapy is like auto maintenance. If we don't keep up with oil changes, something major is bound to break eventually. So whether it's a tune-up or major repair you're looking for, I'm here to help.
(615) 552-1489 View (615) 552-1489
Photo of Dr. Eboni N Webb - The Village of Kairos, PsyD, HSP, Psychologist
The Village of Kairos
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
We offer comprehensive, adherent DBT, traditional therapy, Sensorimotor, Mindfulness, Psychological Evaluations, and various rotating Groups.
Trauma and other developmental wounds often show up as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and a variety of diagnoses. At The Village of Kairos, our therapists are master-doctoral practitioners specializing in trauma-focused therapies and interventions so that our clients find hope, help, and how-to's in order to build a life worth living.
We offer comprehensive, adherent DBT, traditional therapy, Sensorimotor, Mindfulness, Psychological Evaluations, and various rotating Groups.
Trauma and other developmental wounds often show up as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and a variety of diagnoses. At The Village of Kairos, our therapists are master-doctoral practitioners specializing in trauma-focused therapies and interventions so that our clients find hope, help, and how-to's in order to build a life worth living.
(615) 745-1066 View (615) 745-1066
Photo of Blake M Howard, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blake M Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I love to bring different approaches and modalities into my work including narrative therapy, TF-CBT, parts work, ACT, mindfulness, and DBT.
Life can be really hard sometimes, and nobody should have to go through it alone. Human connection and compassion can be so powerful and our greatest tool towards healing. I believe that we are all experts of our own experience and that sometimes we need someone to walk alongside with us because it's okay to not be 'okay'. I work primarily with trauma (complex and acute), grief/depression, anxiety, personality disorders, relational issues, and sitting through difficult life transitions and stressors. I am eager to work collaboratively with you to begin your work towards inner peace and healing.
I love to bring different approaches and modalities into my work including narrative therapy, TF-CBT, parts work, ACT, mindfulness, and DBT.
Life can be really hard sometimes, and nobody should have to go through it alone. Human connection and compassion can be so powerful and our greatest tool towards healing. I believe that we are all experts of our own experience and that sometimes we need someone to walk alongside with us because it's okay to not be 'okay'. I work primarily with trauma (complex and acute), grief/depression, anxiety, personality disorders, relational issues, and sitting through difficult life transitions and stressors. I am eager to work collaboratively with you to begin your work towards inner peace and healing.
(615) 857-3166 View (615) 857-3166
Photo of Carla Murray, LPC-MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carla Murray
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37069
Her approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Brief Focused Solution Therapy, and Mindfulness/Meditation.
Carla Murray is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider with more than 12 years of experience. She specializes in helping clients to overcome daily life concerns, including physical, mental, and emotional abuse, anxiety, anger, depression, coping with grief, family issues, conflict resolution, midlife changes/crisis, low self-esteem, and self-care, so that they can once again live purposeful and joy-filled lives. Having overcome life-altering losses or stressors of my own, Carla has given the tools to help others do the same.
Her approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Brief Focused Solution Therapy, and Mindfulness/Meditation.
Carla Murray is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider with more than 12 years of experience. She specializes in helping clients to overcome daily life concerns, including physical, mental, and emotional abuse, anxiety, anger, depression, coping with grief, family issues, conflict resolution, midlife changes/crisis, low self-esteem, and self-care, so that they can once again live purposeful and joy-filled lives. Having overcome life-altering losses or stressors of my own, Carla has given the tools to help others do the same.
(615) 802-6737 View (615) 802-6737
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.