Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Canton, TX
![Photo of Kristi Zimmerman, MS, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5666125-317d-487a-b391-d2949ee7d6fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Master level Counselor (LPC, LMFT, LCDC, NCC, EMDR certified). My primary focus is trauma work through EMDR, Expressive Arts, REBT, and DBT, Family Therapy through Experiential and Structural Therapy, and Addiction Therapy with Motivational Interviewing and Twelve Steps. I also have experience working with children and adolescents using Play Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy, and Expressive Arts.
Master level Counselor (LPC, LMFT, LCDC, NCC, EMDR certified). My primary focus is trauma work through EMDR, Expressive Arts, REBT, and DBT, Family Therapy through Experiential and Structural Therapy, and Addiction Therapy with Motivational Interviewing and Twelve Steps. I also have experience working with children and adolescents using Play Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy, and Expressive Arts.
![Photo of Barbara Good Smith, MBA, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/084703f2-efde-4a92-9206-98a556ac2fe7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Good Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Canton, TX 75103
I believe everybody has the right to be happy - whatever that means for them. We are so much more than our background or circumstance. My mission is to inspire, and help others live their very best life. If something has taken you off course or disturbed your inner peace, let's work together to turn things around.
I believe everybody has the right to be happy - whatever that means for them. We are so much more than our background or circumstance. My mission is to inspire, and help others live their very best life. If something has taken you off course or disturbed your inner peace, let's work together to turn things around.
![Photo of Ashley Ward, MS, LPC, EMDR, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9252cf44-23b4-49d8-8f6a-dd1917ef2484/2/320x400.jpeg)
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! "I am not what happened to me. I am who I choose to become." Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelm can take us to a dark place. But we don't have to stay there. Life and relationships can be hard. But there is hope. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families to help overcome trauma, alleviate anxiety and depression, build positive relationships and improve their lives. If needed, we can help connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! "I am not what happened to me. I am who I choose to become." Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelm can take us to a dark place. But we don't have to stay there. Life and relationships can be hard. But there is hope. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families to help overcome trauma, alleviate anxiety and depression, build positive relationships and improve their lives. If needed, we can help connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
![Photo of Eric A. Ward, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27c4f674-0afd-4874-aa23-19463bca6380/2/320x400.jpeg)
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! Stress & past trauma can sneak up & have us feeling stuck. Chemical & sexual addictions can effect our work, our marriages, our relationships, & our lives. The weight is heavy, but there is hope. For almost twenty years, I've worked with adults, adolescents, couples, & families to help them overcome all manner of addictions & traumas, alleviate anxiety & depression, improve relationships, & reach their personal & relational potential. If needed, we can also connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! Stress & past trauma can sneak up & have us feeling stuck. Chemical & sexual addictions can effect our work, our marriages, our relationships, & our lives. The weight is heavy, but there is hope. For almost twenty years, I've worked with adults, adolescents, couples, & families to help them overcome all manner of addictions & traumas, alleviate anxiety & depression, improve relationships, & reach their personal & relational potential. If needed, we can also connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Jessica Russell, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eb03a9c-9d30-439f-bd3b-5a0cba73a4a8/1/320x400.png)
My role is to guide you through this journey with care, employing my extensive training in the modalities of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Do you feel like you are carrying the weight of your past or that you can’t get a grip on intense emotions that overcome you at times? I've dedicated my practice to providing a supportive and understanding environment where healing and growth are not just goals but achievable realities. My approach is centered on the belief that everyone deserves to experience their own "aha" moments – those pivotal points of insight and clarity where understanding blossoms and the pathway forward becomes illuminated.
My role is to guide you through this journey with care, employing my extensive training in the modalities of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Do you feel like you are carrying the weight of your past or that you can’t get a grip on intense emotions that overcome you at times? I've dedicated my practice to providing a supportive and understanding environment where healing and growth are not just goals but achievable realities. My approach is centered on the belief that everyone deserves to experience their own "aha" moments – those pivotal points of insight and clarity where understanding blossoms and the pathway forward becomes illuminated.
![Photo of LaQuarion Bradley, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/899b4f72-2471-43d0-960d-dbef5301f96c/2/320x400.jpeg)
LaQuarion Bradley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074 (Online Only)
Areas of Focus: • Prenatal and Postpartum Mental Health • Interpersonal Therapy • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Internal Family Systems (IFS) • Women’s Issues • Spirituality • Race Based Trauma • LGBTQ+ Ally.
LaQuarion Bradley is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Social Work. LaQuarion has over 7 years of experience serving, supporting, and educating individuals, and families through complex life circumstances. As a social worker, she is dedicated to supporting the quality of life that each person desires, as well as providing insight and using overall wellness as the basis for long-term happiness.
Areas of Focus: • Prenatal and Postpartum Mental Health • Interpersonal Therapy • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Internal Family Systems (IFS) • Women’s Issues • Spirituality • Race Based Trauma • LGBTQ+ Ally.
LaQuarion Bradley is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Social Work. LaQuarion has over 7 years of experience serving, supporting, and educating individuals, and families through complex life circumstances. As a social worker, she is dedicated to supporting the quality of life that each person desires, as well as providing insight and using overall wellness as the basis for long-term happiness.
![Photo of Stephanie Degrate, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90a0c0bb-2866-46c5-9dce-ad881c674acb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Degrate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244 (Online Only)
She also employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy among others depending on the individual needs of each patient.
Stephanie values inclusion, diversity, social justice, and positive change & these values drive her to support the most vulnerable populations. Stephanie enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults and she specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, and more.
She also employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy among others depending on the individual needs of each patient.
Stephanie values inclusion, diversity, social justice, and positive change & these values drive her to support the most vulnerable populations. Stephanie enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults and she specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, and more.
![Photo of Dexter Collins, MS, LPC-A, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fe81834-3bf4-484a-bcac-7c3c560ced2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Utilizing a person-centered approach and incorporating CBT, DBT and expressive arts techniques, I have helped clients to discover within themselves the talents and strengths which help them to grow and to overcome the challenges they face.
Sometimes life takes us off the beaten path, and we find ourselves a bit lost. As a therapist I want to help you find your way. As a Black male therapist, I also understand that race and culture can play a significant role in one's mental health and my aim is to hold space for every part of who you are so that you feel seen, heard and understood. From learning healthy ways of coping to processing and working through difficult experiences, I work to provide safety, warmth, and acceptance to empower clients to grow through their experiences.
Utilizing a person-centered approach and incorporating CBT, DBT and expressive arts techniques, I have helped clients to discover within themselves the talents and strengths which help them to grow and to overcome the challenges they face.
Sometimes life takes us off the beaten path, and we find ourselves a bit lost. As a therapist I want to help you find your way. As a Black male therapist, I also understand that race and culture can play a significant role in one's mental health and my aim is to hold space for every part of who you are so that you feel seen, heard and understood. From learning healthy ways of coping to processing and working through difficult experiences, I work to provide safety, warmth, and acceptance to empower clients to grow through their experiences.
![Photo of Janice Rose-Gill - Janice Rose-Gill, LPC, LCAT, PCC, LPC, ATR-BC, LCAT, PCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ddd2e62-1c91-403c-8ae3-e1e3f6d10e65/3/320x400.jpeg)
Janice Rose-Gill, LPC, LCAT, PCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, LCAT, PCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225 (Online Only)
Janice is well versed in comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is a Board Certified, Nationally Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC).
Janice places an emphasis on building relationships with transparency and authenticity. Janice is flexible in her therapeutic approach, allowing her to tailor your therapy to focus on your specific needs. Among Janice’s areas of expertise are the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders, stress, major life transitions, and career exploration.
Janice is well versed in comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is a Board Certified, Nationally Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC).
Janice places an emphasis on building relationships with transparency and authenticity. Janice is flexible in her therapeutic approach, allowing her to tailor your therapy to focus on your specific needs. Among Janice’s areas of expertise are the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders, stress, major life transitions, and career exploration.
![Photo of Rachel Tipsword, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68b56899-7836-46f6-afd0-1570af8da534/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my therapeutic approach.
Are you overwhelmed by racing thoughts that don't seem to slow down no matter what you do? Have you found yourself avoiding things you used to enjoy? If so, I would love the opportunity to provide you with the tools to help you get your life back. My focus lies in the treatment of OCD, Anxiety Disorders, and Eating Disorders. I have extensive experience working with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorder. I also have a keen interest in working with those navigating chronic illness. I work with children ages 10+, teens, and adults.
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my therapeutic approach.
Are you overwhelmed by racing thoughts that don't seem to slow down no matter what you do? Have you found yourself avoiding things you used to enjoy? If so, I would love the opportunity to provide you with the tools to help you get your life back. My focus lies in the treatment of OCD, Anxiety Disorders, and Eating Disorders. I have extensive experience working with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorder. I also have a keen interest in working with those navigating chronic illness. I work with children ages 10+, teens, and adults.
![Photo of Jennifer Y Namkoong, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d93b07d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Y Namkoong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and a School Counselor with over 25+ years of experience and specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. We will work collaboratively together to help you find alternative and healthy ways to cope with disorders and symptoms such as anxiety (panic attacks), depression, grief/loss, and other mental health issues and addictions which can hinder success in personal relationships, schools/academics and/or employment settings. I am extensively trained in Trauma Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Therapies.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and a School Counselor with over 25+ years of experience and specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. We will work collaboratively together to help you find alternative and healthy ways to cope with disorders and symptoms such as anxiety (panic attacks), depression, grief/loss, and other mental health issues and addictions which can hinder success in personal relationships, schools/academics and/or employment settings. I am extensively trained in Trauma Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Therapies.
![Photo of April Grimes, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f151d03f-9d53-40e8-b60b-9ff3e4f7d1fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
April Grimes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
Waitlist for new clients
Daytime appointments available. April Grimes, LCSW-S utilizes an eclectic and effective treatment modality pulling from DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy, based on the unique needs of the client(s).
Daytime appointments available. April Grimes, LCSW-S utilizes an eclectic and effective treatment modality pulling from DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy, based on the unique needs of the client(s).
![Photo of Caroline Tseggay, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/862e0f48-68a5-4a32-b8fe-67c259fa6d81/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Tseggay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Denton, TX 76201 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR, CPT and DBT skills trained, and I use those approaches to treatment in addition to other modalities.
Relationships can be difficult to navigate, both with others and with oneself, and not having the right tools can make a difficult job even more challenging. Add to this day-to-day life events and unprocessed trauma, and it can be easy to feel like things will not get better, leaving you feeling empty and hopeless. I want to be there on your journey by holding the space for you, helping you process your thoughts and feelings, learning who you are and what you need, and supporting you as you learn new skills, strengthen the ones you already have, process your trauma safely, and develop and/or nurture healthy relationships.
I am EMDR, CPT and DBT skills trained, and I use those approaches to treatment in addition to other modalities.
Relationships can be difficult to navigate, both with others and with oneself, and not having the right tools can make a difficult job even more challenging. Add to this day-to-day life events and unprocessed trauma, and it can be easy to feel like things will not get better, leaving you feeling empty and hopeless. I want to be there on your journey by holding the space for you, helping you process your thoughts and feelings, learning who you are and what you need, and supporting you as you learn new skills, strengthen the ones you already have, process your trauma safely, and develop and/or nurture healthy relationships.
![Photo of Sophia Worth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e2bceab-33f7-489a-8661-32fb6851b464/2/320x400.jpeg)
I was a medical social worker for a psychiatric hospital for over four years, running group therapy and completing biopsychosocial assessments. I have also supported clients with end-stage renal disease for over five years. I work with those struggling with fertility, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum depression. My specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder I and II, borderline personality disorder, chemical dependency, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. My top modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and more.
I was a medical social worker for a psychiatric hospital for over four years, running group therapy and completing biopsychosocial assessments. I have also supported clients with end-stage renal disease for over five years. I work with those struggling with fertility, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum depression. My specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder I and II, borderline personality disorder, chemical dependency, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. My top modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and more.
![Photo of Christian Hudson Wallis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a2b914a-d797-4632-be0b-e4ba7c05a984/1/320x400.png)
Christian Hudson Wallis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104 (Online Only)
Christian Hudson-Wallis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas with over 5 years of professional experience assisting clients of all ages to cope with the effects of anxiety, depression, anger, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Christian earned her Master's degree in Family Psychology from Hardin-Simmons University. Christian is skilled in using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic techniques, Rogerian methods, existential therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) approaches.
Christian Hudson-Wallis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas with over 5 years of professional experience assisting clients of all ages to cope with the effects of anxiety, depression, anger, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Christian earned her Master's degree in Family Psychology from Hardin-Simmons University. Christian is skilled in using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic techniques, Rogerian methods, existential therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) approaches.
![Photo of Amy Boelkens, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4df87ef-f60c-488b-8c59-a4c8858e730d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize person centered, CBT, DBT, Reminiscence therapy, Problem Solving and mindfulness based approaches.
Are you experiencing changes in life that are leaving you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Whether it is grief, life transitions, family challenges or a resurgence of anxiety or depression, you do not have to go at it alone. My goal is to provide an encouraging, non-judgmental, confidential space for you to process your concerns and work towards your healing and coping with whatever circumstances life has brought your way. We can build the skills for a more balanced, happier life together.
I utilize person centered, CBT, DBT, Reminiscence therapy, Problem Solving and mindfulness based approaches.
Are you experiencing changes in life that are leaving you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Whether it is grief, life transitions, family challenges or a resurgence of anxiety or depression, you do not have to go at it alone. My goal is to provide an encouraging, non-judgmental, confidential space for you to process your concerns and work towards your healing and coping with whatever circumstances life has brought your way. We can build the skills for a more balanced, happier life together.
![Photo of Brooke Elliott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8db3bd94-c753-482c-9d3e-b85aaf590dc0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248 (Online Only)
To fight the shame that locks us down, I center acceptance of the whole self in my practice through modalities like ACT and DBT.
When you struggle with executive functioning, that long list of chores can feel like a punishment. Or maybe feeling burnt out has sucked the passion out of your career, leaving you aimless. Every day can feel like a losing battle, but you don’t have to do it alone. It doesn't always have to end in a fight against time and anxiety, and you don't have to feel shame for struggling to complete what seems to come easily to others. Understanding what really makes you tick and finding motivation within yourself can put you on the path to living on your own terms instead of playing catch-up.
To fight the shame that locks us down, I center acceptance of the whole self in my practice through modalities like ACT and DBT.
When you struggle with executive functioning, that long list of chores can feel like a punishment. Or maybe feeling burnt out has sucked the passion out of your career, leaving you aimless. Every day can feel like a losing battle, but you don’t have to do it alone. It doesn't always have to end in a fight against time and anxiety, and you don't have to feel shame for struggling to complete what seems to come easily to others. Understanding what really makes you tick and finding motivation within yourself can put you on the path to living on your own terms instead of playing catch-up.
![Photo of Shenella Karunaratne, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5f095b4-2aa4-470f-8f60-71ce4dba2313/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shenella Karunaratne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT - Trained), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and EMDR (trained) in my practice, and I aim to create an eclectic course of treatment that benefits you.
My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are at. Each individual deserves personalized treatment that is effective and long-lasting. My goal in therapy is to help you achieve your potential in any capacity you wish to pursue. I take a direct and challenging approach while creating a supportive and empowering relationship for you to reach your goals.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT - Trained), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and EMDR (trained) in my practice, and I aim to create an eclectic course of treatment that benefits you.
My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are at. Each individual deserves personalized treatment that is effective and long-lasting. My goal in therapy is to help you achieve your potential in any capacity you wish to pursue. I take a direct and challenging approach while creating a supportive and empowering relationship for you to reach your goals.
![Photo of Sarah Fernandez, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/baab2595-6f6f-40e8-a9e7-057852ce6558/2/320x400.png)
I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy within the course of treatment to target these concerns.
My passion as a therapist is to work with individuals to experience emotional, mental and spiritual freedom. Someone once asked me, ‘What would it look like for you to be free?’ I have learned that making the decision to turn toward painful experiences to process them paves the way of experiencing freedom. This first step is often scary, but the gain is much greater. My goal is to establish a strong therapeutic relationship with individuals built on honesty, trust and an unwavering alliance.
I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy within the course of treatment to target these concerns.
My passion as a therapist is to work with individuals to experience emotional, mental and spiritual freedom. Someone once asked me, ‘What would it look like for you to be free?’ I have learned that making the decision to turn toward painful experiences to process them paves the way of experiencing freedom. This first step is often scary, but the gain is much greater. My goal is to establish a strong therapeutic relationship with individuals built on honesty, trust and an unwavering alliance.
![Photo of Andreanna Duron, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1ba2729-a490-4829-a360-aabc452bdaec/5/320x400.jpeg)
Andreanna Duron
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which is a hyper processing trauma modality and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to increase each person's ability to cope and manage with stressors.
Finding a therapist that works best with your needs is the most important part of this process. I also understand that each person has unique needs so I am flexible with the techniques I use with each client. My goal is to assist you in feeling more authentic and better able to cope and manage with the changes and emotions you may have.
I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which is a hyper processing trauma modality and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to increase each person's ability to cope and manage with stressors.
Finding a therapist that works best with your needs is the most important part of this process. I also understand that each person has unique needs so I am flexible with the techniques I use with each client. My goal is to assist you in feeling more authentic and better able to cope and manage with the changes and emotions you may have.
See more therapy options for Canton
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.