Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Jefferson City, TN

Photo of Alexis Castle, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Castle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize trauma informed and attachment based modalities such as Ego State Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and ACT for cognitive skill building.
Hello! I'm Alexis, a creative therapist with a direct approach. I enjoy working side by side with my clients to help them reach their goals. Starting therapy is a difficult step for many and I aim to present a welcoming and safe environment for each of my clients. My clinical focus is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, have complex PTSD, or are working through dissociative disorders. In addition, I work with women who have ADHD— especially those that have been diagnosed in adulthood. I am trained in EMDR and in DBR levels 1-3 as well as adjunctive DBR trainings.
I utilize trauma informed and attachment based modalities such as Ego State Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and ACT for cognitive skill building.
Hello! I'm Alexis, a creative therapist with a direct approach. I enjoy working side by side with my clients to help them reach their goals. Starting therapy is a difficult step for many and I aim to present a welcoming and safe environment for each of my clients. My clinical focus is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, have complex PTSD, or are working through dissociative disorders. In addition, I work with women who have ADHD— especially those that have been diagnosed in adulthood. I am trained in EMDR and in DBR levels 1-3 as well as adjunctive DBR trainings.
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Photo of Heather Webb, MEd, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
My therapeutic approach consists of knowledge regarding the diagnosis,Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Orientated Guidance, Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Mindfulness and Meditation, DBT, ABA and genuine concern,care and concentration for each client.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** I welcome adults, teenagers, children, and couples. I have 21 years experience in the Mental Health field and always continue to learn how to best help a variety of populations. I have experience in and am able to treat people who have Anxiety, Depression, on the Autism Spectrum,Bi-polar, ADHD, OCD, Addictions, Phobias, ODD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders and low self-esteem.
My therapeutic approach consists of knowledge regarding the diagnosis,Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Orientated Guidance, Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Mindfulness and Meditation, DBT, ABA and genuine concern,care and concentration for each client.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** I welcome adults, teenagers, children, and couples. I have 21 years experience in the Mental Health field and always continue to learn how to best help a variety of populations. I have experience in and am able to treat people who have Anxiety, Depression, on the Autism Spectrum,Bi-polar, ADHD, OCD, Addictions, Phobias, ODD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders and low self-esteem.
(865) 217-2692 View (865) 217-2692
Photo of Alesha Williams, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alesha Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
I utilize evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, ACT and motivational interviewing.
Accepting new clients! Sometimes, the weight of our emotions can become too much to carry alone. When life feels overwhelming, therapy can provide the support and guidance needed to move toward change. It is important to remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength and self-awareness. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space to be who you are without judgement.
I utilize evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, ACT and motivational interviewing.
Accepting new clients! Sometimes, the weight of our emotions can become too much to carry alone. When life feels overwhelming, therapy can provide the support and guidance needed to move toward change. It is important to remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength and self-awareness. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space to be who you are without judgement.
(865) 737-1987 View (865) 737-1987
Photo of Shannon McBride, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760  (Online Only)
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
(865) 324-0783 View (865) 324-0783
Photo of Jada N. Smith, LMFT-T, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jada N. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760
“We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship". Rooted in a deep, personal, and lifelong passion for therapy, I understand the strength and the vulnerability it takes to seek help among the many struggles life has to offer. I desire to provide each of my clients with gentle, affordable, and effective care.
“We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship". Rooted in a deep, personal, and lifelong passion for therapy, I understand the strength and the vulnerability it takes to seek help among the many struggles life has to offer. I desire to provide each of my clients with gentle, affordable, and effective care.
(865) 205-6292 View (865) 205-6292
Photo of Alisha L Cobb, MSc, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alisha L Cobb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Special interest in helping people work through difficulties they are facing in order to get to a better place in life. Everyone faces various types of struggles throughout life and it is nice to find someone who can help you navigate through those times. It's very important to me to develop strong, trusting relationships with my clients. This creates a safe environment for issues to be discussed and goals to be set. A solid working relationship helps people feel comfortable in discussing difficult things and situations they are going through which helps to get to the root of a problem & find a true solution.
Special interest in helping people work through difficulties they are facing in order to get to a better place in life. Everyone faces various types of struggles throughout life and it is nice to find someone who can help you navigate through those times. It's very important to me to develop strong, trusting relationships with my clients. This creates a safe environment for issues to be discussed and goals to be set. A solid working relationship helps people feel comfortable in discussing difficult things and situations they are going through which helps to get to the root of a problem & find a true solution.
(865) 737-2133 View (865) 737-2133
Photo of Morgan Daniels Dudash, MA, NCC, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan Daniels Dudash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760
I am driven to support individuals in their personal growth and development, as well as help them make positive changes in their lives. I enjoy working with those who have a strong desire to understand themselves better, identify their core values and beliefs, and develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance. I appreciate individuals who are open to exploring their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and who are willing to challenge themselves to try new things and take risks. I understand that it can be difficult to step out of one’s comfort zone, but I am here to support and encourage individuals.
I am driven to support individuals in their personal growth and development, as well as help them make positive changes in their lives. I enjoy working with those who have a strong desire to understand themselves better, identify their core values and beliefs, and develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance. I appreciate individuals who are open to exploring their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and who are willing to challenge themselves to try new things and take risks. I understand that it can be difficult to step out of one’s comfort zone, but I am here to support and encourage individuals.
(865) 375-9257 View (865) 375-9257
Photo of Connie D O’Neal, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connie D O’Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
A client’s growth process starts with the desire for change and continues with a trusting therapeutic relationship. My desire is to provide that therapeutic relationship as well as counseling services to nurture emotional & mental well-being leading to healing and growth for pre-teens, teens, adults, seniors, and couples, with a wide range of issues. Setting goals, making a treatment plan, & working toward developing coping skills to reduce anxiety, depression &/or working on such problems as school issues, self-esteem, or grief/loss. Whatever the need, there is support available. Reach out today & we will start the healing journey
A client’s growth process starts with the desire for change and continues with a trusting therapeutic relationship. My desire is to provide that therapeutic relationship as well as counseling services to nurture emotional & mental well-being leading to healing and growth for pre-teens, teens, adults, seniors, and couples, with a wide range of issues. Setting goals, making a treatment plan, & working toward developing coping skills to reduce anxiety, depression &/or working on such problems as school issues, self-esteem, or grief/loss. Whatever the need, there is support available. Reach out today & we will start the healing journey
(865) 503-4882 View (865) 503-4882
Photo of Samantha Dickens, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Dickens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Arts in Counseling. I provide personalized support to individuals and families, focusing on the unique challenges faced by children, young adults, and those struggling with self-esteem issues. My areas of expertise include helping clients prioritize tasks, manage ADHD, find a healthy work-life balance, overcome high-performance challenges, rebuild their lives after divorce, and explore LGBTQ+ matters. I strive to create a nurturing environment for those dealing with PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and confidence issues.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Arts in Counseling. I provide personalized support to individuals and families, focusing on the unique challenges faced by children, young adults, and those struggling with self-esteem issues. My areas of expertise include helping clients prioritize tasks, manage ADHD, find a healthy work-life balance, overcome high-performance challenges, rebuild their lives after divorce, and explore LGBTQ+ matters. I strive to create a nurturing environment for those dealing with PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and confidence issues.
(865) 213-9145 View (865) 213-9145
Photo of Kay C Free - KCF Counseling LLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
KCF Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Greetings! My name is Kay C Free, and I am here to help you on your journey to wellness. Life on life's terms can be challenging at best. Experiencing life's hardships, whether current or past, grief, anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma or drug/alcohol struggles, can only add to those challenges. I believe, however, that everyone has the capacity to move beyond those challenges and experience strong, healthy lives and relationships! Taking the first step toward seeking help is often the hardest part of the journey but seeking in itself shows inner strength and the capacity for resilience.
Greetings! My name is Kay C Free, and I am here to help you on your journey to wellness. Life on life's terms can be challenging at best. Experiencing life's hardships, whether current or past, grief, anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma or drug/alcohol struggles, can only add to those challenges. I believe, however, that everyone has the capacity to move beyond those challenges and experience strong, healthy lives and relationships! Taking the first step toward seeking help is often the hardest part of the journey but seeking in itself shows inner strength and the capacity for resilience.
(865) 344-1191 View (865) 344-1191
Photo of Jacob Ramsey, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacob Ramsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Not accepting new clients
Are you looking for targeted treatment for your problems? Do you feel alone in a struggle? Are you or a loved one dealing with anxiety or depression? Healing in our lives can begin when we share our joys and pains, and if you have found yourself stuck, alone or just unsure about where to start, I would like to offer to be a part of that healing process. Scheduling is as simple as calling my office or booking online at my website. If you would like to speak with me for a brief introductory phone call, give my office a call to schedule that as well.
Are you looking for targeted treatment for your problems? Do you feel alone in a struggle? Are you or a loved one dealing with anxiety or depression? Healing in our lives can begin when we share our joys and pains, and if you have found yourself stuck, alone or just unsure about where to start, I would like to offer to be a part of that healing process. Scheduling is as simple as calling my office or booking online at my website. If you would like to speak with me for a brief introductory phone call, give my office a call to schedule that as well.
(865) 375-8129 View (865) 375-8129

Online Therapists

Photo of Krystal Bryant, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krystal Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
She has received extensive training in trauma-informed practices as well as dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy (MBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and addiction recovery (A-CRA).
Krystal Bryant is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. Krystal has worked with a variety of populations including adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. Krystal has worked in general mental health, as well as addiction recovery and crisis management scenarios. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, OCD, social performance, stress, bipolar, addiction, codependency, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, PTSD, and grief.
She has received extensive training in trauma-informed practices as well as dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy (MBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and addiction recovery (A-CRA).
Krystal Bryant is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. Krystal has worked with a variety of populations including adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. Krystal has worked in general mental health, as well as addiction recovery and crisis management scenarios. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, OCD, social performance, stress, bipolar, addiction, codependency, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, PTSD, and grief.
(865) 672-0162 View (865) 672-0162
Photo of Robin Campbell, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
She is a Certified DBT therapist and is currently becoming certified in EMDR therapy.
Dr. Robin C. Campbell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Campbell has extensive training in marital and family therapy, grief counseling, cognitive therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, and Couples with Trauma and Addiction issues; she also has experience leading Celebrate Recovery which started under Pastor Rick Warren. Additionally, she has worked for the department of corrections for incarcerated drug offenders, where she conducted individual counseling and group 12-Step meetings.
She is a Certified DBT therapist and is currently becoming certified in EMDR therapy.
Dr. Robin C. Campbell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Campbell has extensive training in marital and family therapy, grief counseling, cognitive therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, and Couples with Trauma and Addiction issues; she also has experience leading Celebrate Recovery which started under Pastor Rick Warren. Additionally, she has worked for the department of corrections for incarcerated drug offenders, where she conducted individual counseling and group 12-Step meetings.
(865) 830-3194 View (865) 830-3194
Photo of Melissa Rose, LPC, -MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, -MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Types of Therapy Utilized: Solution Focused Brief Therapy, CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, Mindfulness, & TF-CBT/trauma-focused interventions.
As an experienced child and family therapist, I am committed to helping families become happy, healthy, and whole. My area of expertise includes early childhood development, trauma, and childhood mental health. I am experienced in the treatment of a wide range of issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, and behavioral issues. Other issues I commonly work with are emotion dysregulation, school-related difficulties, and parenting challenges.
Types of Therapy Utilized: Solution Focused Brief Therapy, CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, Mindfulness, & TF-CBT/trauma-focused interventions.
As an experienced child and family therapist, I am committed to helping families become happy, healthy, and whole. My area of expertise includes early childhood development, trauma, and childhood mental health. I am experienced in the treatment of a wide range of issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, and behavioral issues. Other issues I commonly work with are emotion dysregulation, school-related difficulties, and parenting challenges.
(865) 269-9047 View (865) 269-9047
Photo of Julie Jerrolds, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Jerrolds
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Seymour, TN 37865
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor & Mental Health Service Provider (LPC, MHSP) with over 28 years in the field of counseling. I offer EMDR & EMDR Intensives for Accelerated healing. I am certified in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), OK Corral-Equine therapy, Equilateral: Equine-Assisted EMDR & DBT. I can help offer a different perspective to help you grow through what is bringing you to therapy. I also provide individual & group Supervision for counselors wanting to obtain their LPC-MHSP. I look forward to meeting you and coming up with a plan together!
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor & Mental Health Service Provider (LPC, MHSP) with over 28 years in the field of counseling. I offer EMDR & EMDR Intensives for Accelerated healing. I am certified in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), OK Corral-Equine therapy, Equilateral: Equine-Assisted EMDR & DBT. I can help offer a different perspective to help you grow through what is bringing you to therapy. I also provide individual & group Supervision for counselors wanting to obtain their LPC-MHSP. I look forward to meeting you and coming up with a plan together!
(865) 366-0539 View (865) 366-0539
Photo of Carol Omos Crawley, MA, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Omos Crawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farragut, TN 37934  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
(865) 509-9254 View (865) 509-9254
Photo of Elizabeth Baker, PsyD, LCP, HSP, Psychologist
Elizabeth Baker
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, HSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I am trained in a variety of approaches, including EMDR, client centered, trauma informed therapies, and DBT, which allows me to tailor my approach to my client's specific needs.
Immediate Openings Available! Taking the first step to engage in therapy is a big step and I'm so happy you have considered me as a possible companion on this journey. Whether you are new to the process of therapy or coming back , it can be hard to find a therapist that is right for you. Most often, I work with young and emerging adults as they are moving away from home, launching into new careers, and starting their own families. This is an exciting and challenging time in life, which can bring about a host of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, identity formation concerns, trauma, shame, and much more.
I am trained in a variety of approaches, including EMDR, client centered, trauma informed therapies, and DBT, which allows me to tailor my approach to my client's specific needs.
Immediate Openings Available! Taking the first step to engage in therapy is a big step and I'm so happy you have considered me as a possible companion on this journey. Whether you are new to the process of therapy or coming back , it can be hard to find a therapist that is right for you. Most often, I work with young and emerging adults as they are moving away from home, launching into new careers, and starting their own families. This is an exciting and challenging time in life, which can bring about a host of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, identity formation concerns, trauma, shame, and much more.
(865) 672-0558 View (865) 672-0558
Photo of Wendy Foster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37914  (Online Only)
We are all ultimately seeking happiness and to decrease our suffering. It is especially difficult during these times to believe that we are valuable, lovable, and have a hope of happiness. We can work together to help you build a life worth living. You will believe there is some hope when you start to see a glimmer of results. I can help by using the Dialectical Behavioral Therapy informed treatment approach. This approach will give you the skills to keep you safe and replace your feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness with happiness and peace. I invite you to take a leap with me.
We are all ultimately seeking happiness and to decrease our suffering. It is especially difficult during these times to believe that we are valuable, lovable, and have a hope of happiness. We can work together to help you build a life worth living. You will believe there is some hope when you start to see a glimmer of results. I can help by using the Dialectical Behavioral Therapy informed treatment approach. This approach will give you the skills to keep you safe and replace your feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness with happiness and peace. I invite you to take a leap with me.
(901) 621-8589 View (901) 621-8589
Photo of Jessica Dutkosky, MS, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Dutkosky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
The therapeutic techniques I use include, but are not limited to, Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed because you don’t know the next steps to take to help your child? Does it feel like every time you try and have a conversation with your child it turns into a fight? If the answer is yes, I would love to have the opportunity to work with you! Your child will be able to recognize why they are upset and let you know what they need. They will be able to regulate their anxiety and know when they are starting to become dysregulated. They will be able to fall asleep easier and stay asleep without having nightmares or night terrors.
The therapeutic techniques I use include, but are not limited to, Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed because you don’t know the next steps to take to help your child? Does it feel like every time you try and have a conversation with your child it turns into a fight? If the answer is yes, I would love to have the opportunity to work with you! Your child will be able to recognize why they are upset and let you know what they need. They will be able to regulate their anxiety and know when they are starting to become dysregulated. They will be able to fall asleep easier and stay asleep without having nightmares or night terrors.
(865) 503-5274 View (865) 503-5274
Photo of Julianna Saah, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julianna Saah
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
While I individualize sessions to the uniqueness of each client, I often utilize talk therapy techniques from several evidence-based practices, including DBT, CBT, and psychodynamic therapy, along with the use of art therapy techniques.
Whether you are going through a major life event that you would like to process, need someone to talk to about the everyday stressors of life, or anything in between, I am here for you. I have been working in the mental health and social work field for several years, where I most recently supported children and teens in the crisis intervention setting. Through this experience, I found a passion for working with teens and young adults to process life’s challenges, relationships, transitional periods, and more.
While I individualize sessions to the uniqueness of each client, I often utilize talk therapy techniques from several evidence-based practices, including DBT, CBT, and psychodynamic therapy, along with the use of art therapy techniques.
Whether you are going through a major life event that you would like to process, need someone to talk to about the everyday stressors of life, or anything in between, I am here for you. I have been working in the mental health and social work field for several years, where I most recently supported children and teens in the crisis intervention setting. Through this experience, I found a passion for working with teens and young adults to process life’s challenges, relationships, transitional periods, and more.
(865) 390-3973 View (865) 390-3973

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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.