Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Dayton, TX

Photo of Ann Ehrhart, MS
Ann Ehrhart
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, TX 77535  (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 Shannon R Campbell, MS, LPC, TCMHC, Counselor
Shannon R Campbell
Counselor, MS, LPC, TCMHC
Verified Verified
Dayton, TX 77535
I have a M.S. in Marriage, Family, and Couple’s Counseling, with a concentration in Trauma and Crisis. I am a LPC that is passionate in working with adolescents, individuals, LGBTQ and couples in a variety of issues; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, infidelity, stress, PTSD, grief, domestic and sexual abuse. I believe in providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for my clients. My clients and I will work together on steps towards achieving the goals they set.
I have a M.S. in Marriage, Family, and Couple’s Counseling, with a concentration in Trauma and Crisis. I am a LPC that is passionate in working with adolescents, individuals, LGBTQ and couples in a variety of issues; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, infidelity, stress, PTSD, grief, domestic and sexual abuse. I believe in providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for my clients. My clients and I will work together on steps towards achieving the goals they set.
(936) 209-7477 View (936) 209-7477
Photo of Marcia Jackson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marcia Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, TX 77535
If you are looking at this website maybe it is because it feels like something is missing, or the knot in your stomach is telling you something isn’t quite right. Maybe your chest is tense or your throat is tight and you really are struggling to figure out the reason. If this sounds like you, therapy might be exactly the starting place to understand the messages your body and mind are sending you. Therapy is a partnership that requires commitment from both therapist and client and I want my clients to know that I am fully invested in the process. I will continually strive to learn and grow alongside you.
If you are looking at this website maybe it is because it feels like something is missing, or the knot in your stomach is telling you something isn’t quite right. Maybe your chest is tense or your throat is tight and you really are struggling to figure out the reason. If this sounds like you, therapy might be exactly the starting place to understand the messages your body and mind are sending you. Therapy is a partnership that requires commitment from both therapist and client and I want my clients to know that I am fully invested in the process. I will continually strive to learn and grow alongside you.
(281) 248-8938 View (281) 248-8938
Photo of Tammy Marek, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Marek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, TX 77535
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 Elizabeth Reyna-Gardner, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Reyna-Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, TX 77535
Life is a journey of highs and lows. Every turn we take leads us into a self discovery process to receive awareness of who we are. Allow me to walk with you in this journey as we discover new healthy ways to manage struggles and develop resiliency.
Life is a journey of highs and lows. Every turn we take leads us into a self discovery process to receive awareness of who we are. Allow me to walk with you in this journey as we discover new healthy ways to manage struggles and develop resiliency.
(855) 691-5843 View (855) 691-5843

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Holliday, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Holliday
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Liberty, TX 77575  (Online Only)
My lifelong passion for helping others found its true calling in counseling. As an EMT, I witnessed the challenges of physical and mental health intertwined, revealing the resilience and compassion in every individual. These experiences ignited my commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives, focusing specifically on mental health. I aim to empower others during their most vulnerable moments, helping them tap into their inner strength and fostering healing. Together, we can navigate the path to wellness and create lasting change.
My lifelong passion for helping others found its true calling in counseling. As an EMT, I witnessed the challenges of physical and mental health intertwined, revealing the resilience and compassion in every individual. These experiences ignited my commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives, focusing specifically on mental health. I aim to empower others during their most vulnerable moments, helping them tap into their inner strength and fostering healing. Together, we can navigate the path to wellness and create lasting change.
(832) 240-7506 View (832) 240-7506
Photo of Teraka Colbert, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teraka Colbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty, TX 77575
Life, huh? It's like trying to untangle a box of Christmas lights without losing your sanity. Life can be a roller coaster ride, filled with twists, turns, and loop-de-loops. Anxiety can be overwhelming, depression can feel like a heavy weight on your shoulders, and trauma can have long-lasting effects. Or maybe you struggle with health relationships, substance use, anger management, impulse control, or feel like a mischievous gremlin lives inside you controlling your life. Here's the good news - you don't have to face these challenges alone. I firmly believe in the power of a collaborative, non-judgmental approach.
Life, huh? It's like trying to untangle a box of Christmas lights without losing your sanity. Life can be a roller coaster ride, filled with twists, turns, and loop-de-loops. Anxiety can be overwhelming, depression can feel like a heavy weight on your shoulders, and trauma can have long-lasting effects. Or maybe you struggle with health relationships, substance use, anger management, impulse control, or feel like a mischievous gremlin lives inside you controlling your life. Here's the good news - you don't have to face these challenges alone. I firmly believe in the power of a collaborative, non-judgmental approach.
(346) 297-0405 View (346) 297-0405

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Powdrill, LCSW
Jennifer Powdrill
LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77450
Let’s nurture healing and growth, your goals are the focus of our time together. I am an EMDR trained therapist with a focus grounded in DBT, ACT, Sand Tray and Brief Solution Focused modalities. My goal is to use a tailor fit approach and human connection to foster growth, strength, and independence. I am trained in perinatal mental health- particularly pre/post-natal depression/anxiety. I am also passionate about supporting parents of teens and teens struggling with issues surrounding gender identity. Let's overcome barriers and build skills that help navigate stressors, traumas, and self-doubt.
Let’s nurture healing and growth, your goals are the focus of our time together. I am an EMDR trained therapist with a focus grounded in DBT, ACT, Sand Tray and Brief Solution Focused modalities. My goal is to use a tailor fit approach and human connection to foster growth, strength, and independence. I am trained in perinatal mental health- particularly pre/post-natal depression/anxiety. I am also passionate about supporting parents of teens and teens struggling with issues surrounding gender identity. Let's overcome barriers and build skills that help navigate stressors, traumas, and self-doubt.
(281) 226-9279 View (281) 226-9279
Photo of Darrien Held, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darrien Held
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
Using skills from DBT, CBT, and solution focused therapy I make it my goal to help people navigate the stressors that come with life whether big or small.
Hey there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, dedicated to helping people grow in the areas they struggle with most. Do you feel like life is suddenly spiraling out of control? If so, you’re in the right place.
Using skills from DBT, CBT, and solution focused therapy I make it my goal to help people navigate the stressors that come with life whether big or small.
Hey there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, dedicated to helping people grow in the areas they struggle with most. Do you feel like life is suddenly spiraling out of control? If so, you’re in the right place.
(832) 789-4312 View (832) 789-4312
Photo of Dauphine Lashawn Billingsley - D. L. Billingsley & Associates, PLLC, PhD, MS, MA, LPC-S, DBTC, Licensed Professional Counselor
D. L. Billingsley & Associates, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, MA, LPC-S, DBTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Standard DBT is a TEAM Based Treatment and has a 87% scientific success rate when you learn & apply the skills necessary to establish stability in your life.
"Nurturing yourself is a necessity, Not a luxury." D. L. Billingsley & Associates, PLLC will provide services designed to improve the quality of life for those experiencing some degree of social and/or emotional distress as well as promote good mental health in our communities. We are committed to helping our clients reach their maximum level of independence. Evening/Weekend appointments available.
Standard DBT is a TEAM Based Treatment and has a 87% scientific success rate when you learn & apply the skills necessary to establish stability in your life.
"Nurturing yourself is a necessity, Not a luxury." D. L. Billingsley & Associates, PLLC will provide services designed to improve the quality of life for those experiencing some degree of social and/or emotional distress as well as promote good mental health in our communities. We are committed to helping our clients reach their maximum level of independence. Evening/Weekend appointments available.
(830) 341-1468 View (830) 341-1468
Photo of Shyra Jones, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Shyra Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057  (Online Only)
I use cognitive behavior therapy dialectical behavior therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, (EMDR), somatic psychotherapy, and expressive arts.
I am Dr. Shyra Jones and have been fully licensed in the state of Texas since 2011. My license number is 66025. I have worked with individuals between the ages of 5 to 80 and inn a variety of settings. I like to work to develop a treatment plan that may include techniques to manage negative self-talk, limit habits that no longer work, identify strengths, and help process trauma in order to put it appropriately behind my clients. This may do through the use of expressive arts, getting in touch with the body, and “talk therapy.”
I use cognitive behavior therapy dialectical behavior therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, (EMDR), somatic psychotherapy, and expressive arts.
I am Dr. Shyra Jones and have been fully licensed in the state of Texas since 2011. My license number is 66025. I have worked with individuals between the ages of 5 to 80 and inn a variety of settings. I like to work to develop a treatment plan that may include techniques to manage negative self-talk, limit habits that no longer work, identify strengths, and help process trauma in order to put it appropriately behind my clients. This may do through the use of expressive arts, getting in touch with the body, and “talk therapy.”
(346) 550-9902 View (346) 550-9902
Photo of Travis Turner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Travis Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
Travis has practiced CBT, DBT, and mindfulness techniques to treat the whole person.
If you have experienced anxiety, depression, addiction, or previous trauma there is help. Therapy will allow you to move towards a more fulfilling way of life and help you learn that you are complete and strong; that you have the ability to overcome the challenges keeping you from reaching your full potential.
Travis has practiced CBT, DBT, and mindfulness techniques to treat the whole person.
If you have experienced anxiety, depression, addiction, or previous trauma there is help. Therapy will allow you to move towards a more fulfilling way of life and help you learn that you are complete and strong; that you have the ability to overcome the challenges keeping you from reaching your full potential.
(512) 598-9752 View (512) 598-9752
Photo of Katherine Portillo - League City Counseling and Education Center, MEd, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
League City Counseling and Education Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
We have counselors trained in EMDR, DBT, Gottman method and IFS.
We are a group practice that consists of professional counselors and master’s level coaches. The experience of our dedicated counselors and staff enables us to offer compassionate and effective mental wellness care. We work with individuals with a variety of mental health challenges; including but not limited to, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions and goal setting. We provide a neutral and safe ground for individuals, families and couples to better understand themselves and each other.
We have counselors trained in EMDR, DBT, Gottman method and IFS.
We are a group practice that consists of professional counselors and master’s level coaches. The experience of our dedicated counselors and staff enables us to offer compassionate and effective mental wellness care. We work with individuals with a variety of mental health challenges; including but not limited to, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions and goal setting. We provide a neutral and safe ground for individuals, families and couples to better understand themselves and each other.
(281) 724-5908 View (281) 724-5908
Photo of Lara Lohman, MA, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lara Lohman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77019  (Online Only)
I work with DBT, CBT, ACT, Body Neutral/HAES work, Life Skills, Motivational Interviewing and other techniques to direct my clients into a life where they feel adequate skills for coping and can focus on their own strengths.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Please email to reach me. If you’re struggling with life stress, major transitions, anxiety, eating/body/exercise issues, depression or other mental health concerns, you deserve the time and space to process. I’ve specialized in eating disorders, substance use and comorbid disorders for the past decade and would love to help meet you wherever you fall in your journey toward getting well. I have also served as director at several adult and adolescent eating disorder residential programs which lends to my knowledge of the field at every level of care.
I work with DBT, CBT, ACT, Body Neutral/HAES work, Life Skills, Motivational Interviewing and other techniques to direct my clients into a life where they feel adequate skills for coping and can focus on their own strengths.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Please email to reach me. If you’re struggling with life stress, major transitions, anxiety, eating/body/exercise issues, depression or other mental health concerns, you deserve the time and space to process. I’ve specialized in eating disorders, substance use and comorbid disorders for the past decade and would love to help meet you wherever you fall in your journey toward getting well. I have also served as director at several adult and adolescent eating disorder residential programs which lends to my knowledge of the field at every level of care.
(541) 407-3744 View (541) 407-3744
Photo of Shannon Trevino, LPCA
Shannon Trevino
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77064
I use a variety of treatment modalities such as Person-Centered therapy, Interpersonal therapy, Attachment-based therapy, Trauma Focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior therapy (REBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy ( DBT), Exposure Response prevention therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
My name is Shannon Trevino and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I have Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fort Hays State University. During my time as a therapist, I have worked with individual adults, adolescents, and children. I have also worked with couples and groups. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, agoraphobia, eating disorders, chronic pain, PTSD, LGBTQ+, relationship issues, family dysfunction, parenting, military life, life and career coaching, and more. I pride myself on being able to tailor treatments to the specific needs of my clients.
I use a variety of treatment modalities such as Person-Centered therapy, Interpersonal therapy, Attachment-based therapy, Trauma Focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior therapy (REBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy ( DBT), Exposure Response prevention therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
My name is Shannon Trevino and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I have Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fort Hays State University. During my time as a therapist, I have worked with individual adults, adolescents, and children. I have also worked with couples and groups. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, agoraphobia, eating disorders, chronic pain, PTSD, LGBTQ+, relationship issues, family dysfunction, parenting, military life, life and career coaching, and more. I pride myself on being able to tailor treatments to the specific needs of my clients.
(346) 641-0742 View (346) 641-0742
Photo of Kayla King, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77382  (Online Only)
I offer a person centered approach that is tailored to addressing your unique needs, while utilizing techniques and approaches derived from cognitive-behavioral therapy, existential therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
I am proud of you already for taking the first step towards growth and healing! This year is going to be the year where we put YOU first and stop allowing your anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt, or anger fuel your decisions and behaviors. You don't want to keep watching the days go by where you feel out of control, disconnected, and overwhelmed with stress. You want to start living each day to the absolute fullest, overflowing with laughter, peace, and meaning. You came to the right place to start this journey of unleashing your inner warrior.
I offer a person centered approach that is tailored to addressing your unique needs, while utilizing techniques and approaches derived from cognitive-behavioral therapy, existential therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
I am proud of you already for taking the first step towards growth and healing! This year is going to be the year where we put YOU first and stop allowing your anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt, or anger fuel your decisions and behaviors. You don't want to keep watching the days go by where you feel out of control, disconnected, and overwhelmed with stress. You want to start living each day to the absolute fullest, overflowing with laughter, peace, and meaning. You came to the right place to start this journey of unleashing your inner warrior.
(830) 529-7794 View (830) 529-7794
Photo of Dr. Mary Lyles, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Mary Lyles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
I utilize a variety of helpful therapies, including emotional support, cognitive therapy, play therapy, DBT, & EMDR.
Are you struggling with challenges in your life? You are not alone! You can expect compassionate, nonjudgmental, professional attention based on proven therapeutic care. Adults, couples, teens & children of all ages are welcome! I see people for a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to, mood problems, anger issues, marital challenges, parenting, grief, trauma, & abuse. I will work with you toward your personal goals in therapy. My services combine the best in time-tested help with belief in your potential for healing, faith in the human spirit, & deep respect for you. Call for an appointment. Evening hours available.
I utilize a variety of helpful therapies, including emotional support, cognitive therapy, play therapy, DBT, & EMDR.
Are you struggling with challenges in your life? You are not alone! You can expect compassionate, nonjudgmental, professional attention based on proven therapeutic care. Adults, couples, teens & children of all ages are welcome! I see people for a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to, mood problems, anger issues, marital challenges, parenting, grief, trauma, & abuse. I will work with you toward your personal goals in therapy. My services combine the best in time-tested help with belief in your potential for healing, faith in the human spirit, & deep respect for you. Call for an appointment. Evening hours available.
(832) 323-1942 View (832) 323-1942
Photo of Haydee Sierra-Santos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haydee Sierra-Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009  (Online Only)
I resort to Evidence-Based-Practice-Interventions such as Client/Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), for the achievement of client goals.
My name is Haydee Sierra-Santos. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with the state of Texas. I obtained my Master's degree in social work (MSW) from the University of Southern California in September 2015. I love my profession because it allows me to work closely with people. I strongly believe in the power of quality relationships, with the most important being the relationship we have with ourselves. I strive to help people realize their worth, potential, and capacity for change when change is needed.
I resort to Evidence-Based-Practice-Interventions such as Client/Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), for the achievement of client goals.
My name is Haydee Sierra-Santos. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with the state of Texas. I obtained my Master's degree in social work (MSW) from the University of Southern California in September 2015. I love my profession because it allows me to work closely with people. I strongly believe in the power of quality relationships, with the most important being the relationship we have with ourselves. I strive to help people realize their worth, potential, and capacity for change when change is needed.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Rachel Richards - Bright Horizons Counseling Services, PLLC, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bright Horizons Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77380
I love to incorporate different modalities in my counseling, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy to find the right fit for my clients.
I have always had a passion to come alongside and help the hurting. After graduating, I gained a lot of valuable experience working at The Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center in the Woodlands, serving individuals struggling with eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, self-harm and trauma and other related struggles. Helping adolescents and adults add meaning and value to their life while exploring impactful life events in a safe space is what I strive for; I am devoted to helping clients take charge to create meaningful change.
I love to incorporate different modalities in my counseling, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy to find the right fit for my clients.
I have always had a passion to come alongside and help the hurting. After graduating, I gained a lot of valuable experience working at The Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center in the Woodlands, serving individuals struggling with eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, self-harm and trauma and other related struggles. Helping adolescents and adults add meaning and value to their life while exploring impactful life events in a safe space is what I strive for; I am devoted to helping clients take charge to create meaningful change.
(281) 609-3431 View (281) 609-3431
Photo of Gary Stittgen - Gaining Perspective Counseling, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gaining Perspective Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
I can help by employing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Gottman Method.
Depressed? Anxious? Confused? I can assist with a variety mental health and personal issues. I offer concrete solutions to individual and couples issues. My approach can help to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and other diagnosis. Together, we will be able to create a plan to address every factor to navigate complex life situations. If you want to find betterment in your life please reach out!
I can help by employing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Gottman Method.
Depressed? Anxious? Confused? I can assist with a variety mental health and personal issues. I offer concrete solutions to individual and couples issues. My approach can help to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and other diagnosis. Together, we will be able to create a plan to address every factor to navigate complex life situations. If you want to find betterment in your life please reach out!
(713) 903-7160 View (713) 903-7160

See more therapy options for Dayton

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.