Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Baytown, TX

Photo of Melissa Kay Blair, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Kay Blair
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77521
I have years of experience using in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), REBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy), DBT ( Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy).
PTSD and trauma resolution (using ART and EMDR), Addiction recovery, as well as couples therapy are among my specialties. I work 12-7 pm and weekends. I worked for 10+ years as a therapist in a highly respected residential treatment center for adolescents with addiction as well as other mental health issues. My experience also includes working with people with extreme stress, depression and anxiety. I have over 25 years of experience as a helper to include a career as a high school science teacher and school counselor. I returned to school to earn my PhD from Texas A&M-Commerce University to become a therapist.
I have years of experience using in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), REBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy), DBT ( Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy).
PTSD and trauma resolution (using ART and EMDR), Addiction recovery, as well as couples therapy are among my specialties. I work 12-7 pm and weekends. I worked for 10+ years as a therapist in a highly respected residential treatment center for adolescents with addiction as well as other mental health issues. My experience also includes working with people with extreme stress, depression and anxiety. I have over 25 years of experience as a helper to include a career as a high school science teacher and school counselor. I returned to school to earn my PhD from Texas A&M-Commerce University to become a therapist.
(903) 228-3169 View (903) 228-3169
Photo of Kelly Martin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Baytown, TX 77521  (Online Only)
I am Kelly Martin, LPC and I strive to build a warm and compassionate environment for my clients to build upon their strengths and work through their struggles. My focus is on an eclectic approach to getting clients to their desired goals. Some of the modalities I work with are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
I am Kelly Martin, LPC and I strive to build a warm and compassionate environment for my clients to build upon their strengths and work through their struggles. My focus is on an eclectic approach to getting clients to their desired goals. Some of the modalities I work with are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
(346) 489-4426 View (346) 489-4426
Photo of Quin'tara Spencer Vallaire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quin'tara Spencer Vallaire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77521
Using Evidence-based therapy approaches, including (CBT, MI, and DBT), to provide individual, couple, and family therapy.
I have dedicated my life to working with individuals who experience trauma and seek profound change. Life can be filled with many challenges and obstacles along the way. "Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them makes life meaningful. "-Joshua J Marine. The goal is to empower clients to break barriers and create a purposeful life through Growth, Healing, and Self-reliance. Each individual has a past that tells a valuable story. "You are the storyteller of your own life and can create your own legend, or not"- Isabel Allende . Using evidence-based therapy practices to further influence change in those I encounter.
Using Evidence-based therapy approaches, including (CBT, MI, and DBT), to provide individual, couple, and family therapy.
I have dedicated my life to working with individuals who experience trauma and seek profound change. Life can be filled with many challenges and obstacles along the way. "Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them makes life meaningful. "-Joshua J Marine. The goal is to empower clients to break barriers and create a purposeful life through Growth, Healing, and Self-reliance. Each individual has a past that tells a valuable story. "You are the storyteller of your own life and can create your own legend, or not"- Isabel Allende . Using evidence-based therapy practices to further influence change in those I encounter.
(281) 609-6010 View (281) 609-6010
Photo of Allie Archer, MA, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allie Archer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77521  (Online Only)
Allie received her BS in Youth Advocacy from Texas Christian University and graduated with her Masters in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. At Bayou City Counseling, she works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, grief, OCD, and relationship issues. Allie is trained in EMDR and is passionate about working with clients who have experienced trauma, abuse, and PTSD. Allie is a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator and enjoys working with dating, engaged, and married couples. Allie is also trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and has clinical experience in non-profit and private practice settings.
Allie received her BS in Youth Advocacy from Texas Christian University and graduated with her Masters in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. At Bayou City Counseling, she works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, grief, OCD, and relationship issues. Allie is trained in EMDR and is passionate about working with clients who have experienced trauma, abuse, and PTSD. Allie is a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator and enjoys working with dating, engaged, and married couples. Allie is also trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and has clinical experience in non-profit and private practice settings.
(817) 910-6347 View (817) 910-6347
Photo of Kimberly Dickens, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Dickens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baytown, TX 77523  (Online Only)
I utilize CBT, CPT, DBT, EFT, Mindfulness, Person Centered, and Psychodynamic, from a Christian or secular approach.
You are not alone. There is hope. You can find your voice. You can heal your wounds. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nine years experience in various areas. My knowledge comes from education, my wisdom, from personal experiences, and working with diverse populations. I have a passion and love for people to find the person they were always meant to be, until life got in the way. Trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, anger, and unforgiveness, rob the human heart, and hyjack the mind. You do not have to fight the battle alone. I will partner along side you through your journey of healing, and rediscovery.
I utilize CBT, CPT, DBT, EFT, Mindfulness, Person Centered, and Psychodynamic, from a Christian or secular approach.
You are not alone. There is hope. You can find your voice. You can heal your wounds. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nine years experience in various areas. My knowledge comes from education, my wisdom, from personal experiences, and working with diverse populations. I have a passion and love for people to find the person they were always meant to be, until life got in the way. Trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, anger, and unforgiveness, rob the human heart, and hyjack the mind. You do not have to fight the battle alone. I will partner along side you through your journey of healing, and rediscovery.
(346) 214-6533 View (346) 214-6533
Photo of Jessica Crook De Mosquera, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Crook De Mosquera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77521  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are always in your head? Do you want your life back? Are you unsure about your future? If you answered yes to any of those questions, I would love to work with you. My name is Jessica, and I am a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I am committed to being an agent for positive change. I have always had a love and desire for helping people. This has been evident through counseling, previous experience in education, and immersion in various cultures around the world. I can assist you with setting and reaching goals to work towards being a better version of yourself.
Do you feel like you are always in your head? Do you want your life back? Are you unsure about your future? If you answered yes to any of those questions, I would love to work with you. My name is Jessica, and I am a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I am committed to being an agent for positive change. I have always had a love and desire for helping people. This has been evident through counseling, previous experience in education, and immersion in various cultures around the world. I can assist you with setting and reaching goals to work towards being a better version of yourself.
(346) 762-2984 View (346) 762-2984
Photo of Tammy Marek, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Marek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Baytown, TX 77521
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you struggling with self doubt, anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life change? At times we all need help sorting out life's complexities. Many times, life changes can feel confusing or unbearable. You may feel alone and isolated, not good enough or afraid to make decisions as you navigate life. My role as a therapist is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths and abilities and regain control of your life. Seeking to deal with passed trauma or abuse? I am an EMDR trained therapist. After 5:00pm availabile. Not seeing couples
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you struggling with self doubt, anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life change? At times we all need help sorting out life's complexities. Many times, life changes can feel confusing or unbearable. You may feel alone and isolated, not good enough or afraid to make decisions as you navigate life. My role as a therapist is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths and abilities and regain control of your life. Seeking to deal with passed trauma or abuse? I am an EMDR trained therapist. After 5:00pm availabile. Not seeing couples
(936) 261-8408 View (936) 261-8408
Photo of Taylor Leann Whitely, MA, LPC-A
Taylor Leann Whitely
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77520
Taylor is an LPC Associate supervised by Hope Brown M.A., LPC-S. Taylor values creating a safe and genuinely supportive therapeutic relationship grounded in warmth, trust, and mutual respect. Taylor recognizes that each person’s life experiences and barriers are unique and therefore strives to explore different interventions and resources to assist in successful therapeutic outcomes. She values collaborative goal setting, which aims to achieve the wellness goals that the client believes are most important.
Taylor is an LPC Associate supervised by Hope Brown M.A., LPC-S. Taylor values creating a safe and genuinely supportive therapeutic relationship grounded in warmth, trust, and mutual respect. Taylor recognizes that each person’s life experiences and barriers are unique and therefore strives to explore different interventions and resources to assist in successful therapeutic outcomes. She values collaborative goal setting, which aims to achieve the wellness goals that the client believes are most important.
(281) 962-7880 View (281) 962-7880
Photo of Sherry Zhang - Changing Tides Wellness and Advisors PLLC, LCSW-S, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Changing Tides Wellness and Advisors PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77521
Welcome! I know this process can be overwhelming, so thank you. I know life can take some unpredictable turns. I believe in the importance of an integrated health approach and exploring beyond your symptoms. I take a systems approach to examine every aspect of your life no matter how small because they all matter and contributes to your overall well-being. I am a psychotherapist, Marine veteran, mom, and an advocate for vulnerable communities. I use evidence-based care to join teens and adults from all walks of life in their journey to healing and well-being.
Welcome! I know this process can be overwhelming, so thank you. I know life can take some unpredictable turns. I believe in the importance of an integrated health approach and exploring beyond your symptoms. I take a systems approach to examine every aspect of your life no matter how small because they all matter and contributes to your overall well-being. I am a psychotherapist, Marine veteran, mom, and an advocate for vulnerable communities. I use evidence-based care to join teens and adults from all walks of life in their journey to healing and well-being.
(346) 220-3129 View (346) 220-3129
Photo of Kendall Phillips, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendall Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77523  (Online Only)
I take an eclectic approach to counseling and I am committed to providing safe, honest, and compassionate counseling in order to help you gain insight into your experiences. I will help create a path to living a joyful life. Understanding that every person is unique, my approach involves developing treatment that is specifically tailored to meet your individual needs. I work with ages 12 through adulthood. I can address issues such as anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, self-esteem, self-harm, adjustments and changes, life transitions, and many other experiences that may have an impact on a person's mental health.
I take an eclectic approach to counseling and I am committed to providing safe, honest, and compassionate counseling in order to help you gain insight into your experiences. I will help create a path to living a joyful life. Understanding that every person is unique, my approach involves developing treatment that is specifically tailored to meet your individual needs. I work with ages 12 through adulthood. I can address issues such as anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, self-esteem, self-harm, adjustments and changes, life transitions, and many other experiences that may have an impact on a person's mental health.
(281) 609-9269 View (281) 609-9269
Photo of Greg LaLiberte, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Greg LaLiberte
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Baytown, TX 77520
Consider me a non-pretentious person, who wants to help you improve your quality of life. I work out of Houston. Be assured, that we respect all people, belief systems, religions, creeds, and lifestyles. Everyone from Progressives to Traditionalists, are welcomed. I do talk therapy, and mental health/substance abuse, and ESA (Emotional Support Animal) assessments. In addition, I am an Approved Texas LPC-Associate / Intern Supervisor; willing to help someone on the road to licensing. I am especially concerned with Men's Issues and Men's Mental Health. Many men are underserved/disserved when they seek help or voice their concerns.
Consider me a non-pretentious person, who wants to help you improve your quality of life. I work out of Houston. Be assured, that we respect all people, belief systems, religions, creeds, and lifestyles. Everyone from Progressives to Traditionalists, are welcomed. I do talk therapy, and mental health/substance abuse, and ESA (Emotional Support Animal) assessments. In addition, I am an Approved Texas LPC-Associate / Intern Supervisor; willing to help someone on the road to licensing. I am especially concerned with Men's Issues and Men's Mental Health. Many men are underserved/disserved when they seek help or voice their concerns.
(281) 462-5083 View (281) 462-5083
Photo of Trina Rose Frazier - The Rose Center, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Rose Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Baytown, TX 77520
Greetings and welcome. My name is Trina Rose Frazier and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based on SETX ready to serve my community. I have over 10 years of experience in the field of psychology and counseling. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral therapy but I use an eclectic approach. I am trained in trauma-related interventions as well. I am the proud owner of The Rose Center, PLLC located in Beaumont, TX. Life is like a rose, beautiful in all its glory, but every rose has it's thorns. I want to help you work through those thorns so that you can get back to smelling the roses. Again, welcome!
Greetings and welcome. My name is Trina Rose Frazier and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based on SETX ready to serve my community. I have over 10 years of experience in the field of psychology and counseling. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral therapy but I use an eclectic approach. I am trained in trauma-related interventions as well. I am the proud owner of The Rose Center, PLLC located in Beaumont, TX. Life is like a rose, beautiful in all its glory, but every rose has it's thorns. I want to help you work through those thorns so that you can get back to smelling the roses. Again, welcome!
(409) 403-5438 View (409) 403-5438
Photo of Angela Holloway Shakir, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Holloway Shakir
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77520
Angela Holloway Shakir is a Licensed Professional Counselor serving Northwest Arkansas. She serves children and adolescents ages (5-17), adults (18+) and the senior populations (65+). Angela has over 7 years of experience in a variety of settings including school based, residential, inpatient, outpatient, and corrections. Her services are tailored for individual, group, couples, and families offering an integrative approach to address the unique needs of each client. Her experience and skills allow her to serve a diverse population providing both long term and brief interventions.
Angela Holloway Shakir is a Licensed Professional Counselor serving Northwest Arkansas. She serves children and adolescents ages (5-17), adults (18+) and the senior populations (65+). Angela has over 7 years of experience in a variety of settings including school based, residential, inpatient, outpatient, and corrections. Her services are tailored for individual, group, couples, and families offering an integrative approach to address the unique needs of each client. Her experience and skills allow her to serve a diverse population providing both long term and brief interventions.
(479) 282-3038 View (479) 282-3038
Photo of Ann Ehrhart, MS
Ann Ehrhart
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77520  (Online Only)
I want to extend a warm welcome to you, acknowledging the courage it takes to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. As your therapist, my commitment is to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore the complexities of your thoughts and emotions. In our sessions, my focus is entirely on you—your experiences, struggles, and aspirations. I understand that seeking therapy is a personal and sometimes challenging decision, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
I want to extend a warm welcome to you, acknowledging the courage it takes to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. As your therapist, my commitment is to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore the complexities of your thoughts and emotions. In our sessions, my focus is entirely on you—your experiences, struggles, and aspirations. I understand that seeking therapy is a personal and sometimes challenging decision, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(281) 800-5858 View (281) 800-5858
Photo of Rebecca McCartney, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca McCartney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77523  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety that affects your daily life and your most important relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by all your responsibilities and pressure to measure up? Do you feel jittery, scattered, or unsettled as you go about your day? Now more than ever, women are struggling under the weight of their mental load. With increased expectations in our various roles, anxiety often results. If you are looking for support to help you discover the source of your anxiety and learn practical ways to stop anxiety from interfering in your life and relationships, I'd love to work with you. Feel better and find your joy again.
Do you struggle with anxiety that affects your daily life and your most important relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by all your responsibilities and pressure to measure up? Do you feel jittery, scattered, or unsettled as you go about your day? Now more than ever, women are struggling under the weight of their mental load. With increased expectations in our various roles, anxiety often results. If you are looking for support to help you discover the source of your anxiety and learn practical ways to stop anxiety from interfering in your life and relationships, I'd love to work with you. Feel better and find your joy again.
(281) 524-3778 View (281) 524-3778
Photo of Austin Leighton, MA,  LPC, LCDC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Austin Leighton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77523  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a compassionate and experienced therapist who is passionate about helping people overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. I hold a Master's degree in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary, and I have over 10+ years of experience working in various clinical settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, churches, inpatient facilities, addiction facilities, and private practices. My approach to therapy is integrative and holistic, combining evidence-based practices with a Christian worldview.
Welcome! I am a compassionate and experienced therapist who is passionate about helping people overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. I hold a Master's degree in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary, and I have over 10+ years of experience working in various clinical settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, churches, inpatient facilities, addiction facilities, and private practices. My approach to therapy is integrative and holistic, combining evidence-based practices with a Christian worldview.
(281) 801-7451 View (281) 801-7451

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Patricia Shaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Porte, TX 77571
The most common theoretical approaches I use in my practice include, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy.
I am Dr. Patricia Shaw, a licensed therapist. I have over 28 years experience teaching, supervising, and practicing evidenced-based approaches for those experiencing issues with addiction, trauma. depression, relationships, and a wide variety of other life challenges. I am licensed in Texas with over 28 years of professional work experience. I typically work with clients experiencing challenges with stress and anxiety, sexual identity, coping with addictions, marital and relationship issues, & trauma and abuse.
The most common theoretical approaches I use in my practice include, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy.
I am Dr. Patricia Shaw, a licensed therapist. I have over 28 years experience teaching, supervising, and practicing evidenced-based approaches for those experiencing issues with addiction, trauma. depression, relationships, and a wide variety of other life challenges. I am licensed in Texas with over 28 years of professional work experience. I typically work with clients experiencing challenges with stress and anxiety, sexual identity, coping with addictions, marital and relationship issues, & trauma and abuse.
(281) 524-4391 View (281) 524-4391
Photo of Heather Lambert - Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center, Pasadena, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center, Pasadena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LMT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
La Porte, TX 77571
We have therapists who specialize in trauma, EMDR, DBT, couples, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues, parenting, school behavioral challenges, underperformance, anger management and many other unique needs concerning individuals and their relationships.
Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center Pasadena exists to remove access barriers to high-quality mental health services. We are a team of experts eager to partner with clients from all backgrounds, needs, and experiences in their journey to hope and healing.
We have therapists who specialize in trauma, EMDR, DBT, couples, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues, parenting, school behavioral challenges, underperformance, anger management and many other unique needs concerning individuals and their relationships.
Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center Pasadena exists to remove access barriers to high-quality mental health services. We are a team of experts eager to partner with clients from all backgrounds, needs, and experiences in their journey to hope and healing.
(281) 549-8208 View (281) 549-8208
Photo of Ana Valenzuela, LPC-S, NCC, LCDC,  CTRP-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Valenzuela
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, LCDC, CTRP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Porte, TX 77571
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in addressing the nuanced needs of individuals affected by racial and complex trauma and those seeking multicultural counseling. I understand that trauma and cultural factors can deeply impact emotional well-being and personal growth. My extensive background equips me to provide a safe, empathetic space where clients can explore their experiences and work toward healing and resilience.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in addressing the nuanced needs of individuals affected by racial and complex trauma and those seeking multicultural counseling. I understand that trauma and cultural factors can deeply impact emotional well-being and personal growth. My extensive background equips me to provide a safe, empathetic space where clients can explore their experiences and work toward healing and resilience.
(346) 536-4019 View (346) 536-4019
Photo of Janet Close Martinez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Close Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Porte, TX 77571
We all face challenges in our lives. None of us are perfect parents, perfect children or perfect spouses. It is okay to seek out help and perspective from another person, especially a professional. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2001. I have worked with children, adolescents and families since being an intern in 1999. I love helping people get through challenges and helping them get to the next level of their lives.
We all face challenges in our lives. None of us are perfect parents, perfect children or perfect spouses. It is okay to seek out help and perspective from another person, especially a professional. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2001. I have worked with children, adolescents and families since being an intern in 1999. I love helping people get through challenges and helping them get to the next level of their lives.
(281) 809-9436 View (281) 809-9436
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.