Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Houston, TX

Photo of Lysle Shaw Trauma Relationships Introverts Empaths, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lysle Shaw Trauma Relationships Introverts Empaths
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056  (Online Only)
I also draw from CBT & DBT techniques to help you navigate your emotions and tackle unhelpful thoughts and behaviors.
Are you struggling to break free from old patterns and ways of thinking that no longer serve you? I specialize in helping individuals conquer life's roadblocks and find lasting joy and change. Many of my clients have experienced trauma and feel stuck, while others are navigating life transitions or seeking more meaning and purpose. My approach focuses on helping you gain agency and autonomy to live the life you truly want. If you're seeking authentic self-expression, deeper connections, and a more joyous life, you might resonate with my approach.
I also draw from CBT & DBT techniques to help you navigate your emotions and tackle unhelpful thoughts and behaviors.
Are you struggling to break free from old patterns and ways of thinking that no longer serve you? I specialize in helping individuals conquer life's roadblocks and find lasting joy and change. Many of my clients have experienced trauma and feel stuck, while others are navigating life transitions or seeking more meaning and purpose. My approach focuses on helping you gain agency and autonomy to live the life you truly want. If you're seeking authentic self-expression, deeper connections, and a more joyous life, you might resonate with my approach.
(512) 843-8012 View (512) 843-8012
Photo of Tashea Walker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tashea Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
I am integrative due to my usage of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy , Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and techniques from other theories.
In my experience, I have supported adolescents and their families in addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, parental struggles, lgbtq+ issues, and career exploration. Most recently, I have assisted clients with life transitions, past traumas, and learning how to grieve. I am committed to working with any client who wants to maintain their anxiety, achieve their career goals, combat their familial trauma, and much more.
I am integrative due to my usage of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy , Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and techniques from other theories.
In my experience, I have supported adolescents and their families in addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, parental struggles, lgbtq+ issues, and career exploration. Most recently, I have assisted clients with life transitions, past traumas, and learning how to grieve. I am committed to working with any client who wants to maintain their anxiety, achieve their career goals, combat their familial trauma, and much more.
(281) 609-9392 View (281) 609-9392
Photo of Sarina Bain, LMSW
Sarina Bain
LMSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77001
A goal of therapy is to achieve hope, happiness, and to have an optimistic outlook on the future as well as practicing self-love/care. Life can be unfair at times, and can include family disagreements, work problems and feelings of “I can’t do all this anymore” or “I am so overwhelmed.” I hope to help clients strengthen your coping skills, mindfulness, ways to move through life struggles and navigate relationships. Clients will enter into a therapeutic environment that is non-judgmental and full of hope. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI).
A goal of therapy is to achieve hope, happiness, and to have an optimistic outlook on the future as well as practicing self-love/care. Life can be unfair at times, and can include family disagreements, work problems and feelings of “I can’t do all this anymore” or “I am so overwhelmed.” I hope to help clients strengthen your coping skills, mindfulness, ways to move through life struggles and navigate relationships. Clients will enter into a therapeutic environment that is non-judgmental and full of hope. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI).
(512) 881-8684 View (512) 881-8684
Photo of Alicia Bergeron Jarrett - Happiness Works, PLLC, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Happiness Works, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77065  (Online Only)
My integrative therapeutic approach is inclusive of CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Mental wellness is a journey not a destination, and I am committed to helping you navigate your path toward wholeness, healing, and happiness. Are you struggling to find hope, feeling stuck, afraid, or unable to be true to yourself? Perhaps you're a parent seeking support for your teenager with similar challenges? The truth is, pain is a part of life, but I'm here to introduce you to workable solutions to ease life's woes and uncover happiness along the way. My aim is to create a judgment-free space where we address your concerns and fears together.
My integrative therapeutic approach is inclusive of CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Mental wellness is a journey not a destination, and I am committed to helping you navigate your path toward wholeness, healing, and happiness. Are you struggling to find hope, feeling stuck, afraid, or unable to be true to yourself? Perhaps you're a parent seeking support for your teenager with similar challenges? The truth is, pain is a part of life, but I'm here to introduce you to workable solutions to ease life's woes and uncover happiness along the way. My aim is to create a judgment-free space where we address your concerns and fears together.
(346) 559-2429 View (346) 559-2429
Photo of Avanti Bande, LPC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Avanti Bande
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77018  (Online Only)
My approach to treatment is client-centered, individualized, and incorporates CBT & DBT principles.
Adulthood can generally mean transitions, complex relationships, self-doubt, and uncertainty. Unfortunately, nobody told us how to navigate all of this and it can feel really challenging to balance all of the responsibilities. If things in your life feel really overwhelming or you notice that your life feels stagnant and you want to keep growing, you don’t have to go through it alone. I meet you where you’re at and we work to add tools to your toolbox in a safe and non-judgmental space. I want to work with you to help you discover a peaceful relationship with yourself.
My approach to treatment is client-centered, individualized, and incorporates CBT & DBT principles.
Adulthood can generally mean transitions, complex relationships, self-doubt, and uncertainty. Unfortunately, nobody told us how to navigate all of this and it can feel really challenging to balance all of the responsibilities. If things in your life feel really overwhelming or you notice that your life feels stagnant and you want to keep growing, you don’t have to go through it alone. I meet you where you’re at and we work to add tools to your toolbox in a safe and non-judgmental space. I want to work with you to help you discover a peaceful relationship with yourself.
(281) 519-6512 View (281) 519-6512
Photo of Blair Vinson Kleiber, PhD, Psychologist
Blair Vinson Kleiber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024  (Online Only)
My primary approach is dialectical behavior therapy (I am certified by the DBT-Linehan Board) & I provide a comprehensive program including individual therapy, skills training & 24 hour phone coaching.
My primary focus is helping clients build a fulfilling life based on their personal values & goals. I primarily work with older adolescents, adults, parents, and families with a variety of difficulties including: self-harm & suicidal behaviors, intense emotions/emotions that feel out of control, mood (depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety, and substance use disorders. I have extensive training treating disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well. My style is collaborative and compassionate, as well as evidence based, meaning I use treatments that have been supported by research to show they are effective.
My primary approach is dialectical behavior therapy (I am certified by the DBT-Linehan Board) & I provide a comprehensive program including individual therapy, skills training & 24 hour phone coaching.
My primary focus is helping clients build a fulfilling life based on their personal values & goals. I primarily work with older adolescents, adults, parents, and families with a variety of difficulties including: self-harm & suicidal behaviors, intense emotions/emotions that feel out of control, mood (depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety, and substance use disorders. I have extensive training treating disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well. My style is collaborative and compassionate, as well as evidence based, meaning I use treatments that have been supported by research to show they are effective.
(281) 645-5091 View (281) 645-5091
Photo of Kathleen Park, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027
I am certified in EMDR, DBT and I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for those struggling with depression, past trauma or looking to deepen their therapeutic process.
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that deep connection and holding space for one another can lead to profound healing and transformation. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and clients' safety above all else, fostering an environment of trust and authenticity. Passionate about guiding clients towards a more fulfilled and embodied existence, I specialize in helping individuals cultivate a deeper connection to themselves and others in their lives. I am experienced in addressing issues related to substance use, trauma, relationships, and self-esteem.
I am certified in EMDR, DBT and I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for those struggling with depression, past trauma or looking to deepen their therapeutic process.
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that deep connection and holding space for one another can lead to profound healing and transformation. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and clients' safety above all else, fostering an environment of trust and authenticity. Passionate about guiding clients towards a more fulfilled and embodied existence, I specialize in helping individuals cultivate a deeper connection to themselves and others in their lives. I am experienced in addressing issues related to substance use, trauma, relationships, and self-esteem.
(281) 238-5680 View (281) 238-5680
Photo of Brittney Dotson - Pure Hope Counseling ,B.Dotson LPC-S, -S, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pure Hope Counseling ,B.Dotson LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor, -S, MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77074
For those struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems I use CBT and DBT practices to help clients adjust those unhelpful thoughts and emotions that may cause distress.
At Pure Hope Counseling our clients are looking to gain power and strength over their lives through healthy boundaries, communication and love of self! Great therapy transforms your relationships, your confidence at and your perspective on life. AT PHC we have dedicated our life’s work to helping people like you connect with your authentic self and integrate lasting healing and change!
For those struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems I use CBT and DBT practices to help clients adjust those unhelpful thoughts and emotions that may cause distress.
At Pure Hope Counseling our clients are looking to gain power and strength over their lives through healthy boundaries, communication and love of self! Great therapy transforms your relationships, your confidence at and your perspective on life. AT PHC we have dedicated our life’s work to helping people like you connect with your authentic self and integrate lasting healing and change!
(281) 688-1632 View (281) 688-1632
Photo of Seymon Taylor, MS, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Seymon Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079  (Online Only)
I offer individual counseling for adults utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, strengths-based approach, and person-centered techniques and interventions.
Life gets hard sometimes; the bad days may feel like it will never end. I am here to help you find the path toward better days. By taking each day as its own, we can work together and discover balance for your life. Working together, we can uncover your past, present, and/or future concerns. I will help educate and walk alongside you in this journey of life. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+, mood and personality disorders, eating disorders, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
I offer individual counseling for adults utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, strengths-based approach, and person-centered techniques and interventions.
Life gets hard sometimes; the bad days may feel like it will never end. I am here to help you find the path toward better days. By taking each day as its own, we can work together and discover balance for your life. Working together, we can uncover your past, present, and/or future concerns. I will help educate and walk alongside you in this journey of life. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+, mood and personality disorders, eating disorders, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
(346) 229-1195 View (346) 229-1195
Photo of Pilar Del Fierro, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pilar Del Fierro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77090  (Online Only)
I specialize in advanced EMDR modalities, DBT, and Mindfulness.
Welcome! My name is Pilar Del Fierro, and I'm so glad that you have embarked on this journey of introspection, growth, and healing. With over 15 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health profession, I have worked with adults, children, and teens, helping them improve their mental health, well-being, and overall quality of life.
I specialize in advanced EMDR modalities, DBT, and Mindfulness.
Welcome! My name is Pilar Del Fierro, and I'm so glad that you have embarked on this journey of introspection, growth, and healing. With over 15 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health profession, I have worked with adults, children, and teens, helping them improve their mental health, well-being, and overall quality of life.
(832) 276-8090 View (832) 276-8090
Photo of James Lewis, MA, LCDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
James Lewis
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77043
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is the method I find most effective.
Do you ask yourself why you cannot stop some behaviors you wish to change? Has someone suggested to you that you have a problem with addictive behavior? I offer private, confidential, one-on-one therapy to help you solve these problems. Therapy sessions are available at my office with complete privacy. E-mail is often the best initial way to contact me, telling me something about yourself and what aspect you desire assistance or coaching to achieve personal change. Feel free to call me, but please accept that I may not be available to answer when you first call, so do leave a message asking me to return your call.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is the method I find most effective.
Do you ask yourself why you cannot stop some behaviors you wish to change? Has someone suggested to you that you have a problem with addictive behavior? I offer private, confidential, one-on-one therapy to help you solve these problems. Therapy sessions are available at my office with complete privacy. E-mail is often the best initial way to contact me, telling me something about yourself and what aspect you desire assistance or coaching to achieve personal change. Feel free to call me, but please accept that I may not be available to answer when you first call, so do leave a message asking me to return your call.
(281) 940-2426 View (281) 940-2426
Photo of Morgan Pruet, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan Pruet
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
I tend to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and am also trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I have a passion for working with teens, adolecents and young adults struggling with relationships, including friendships, family dynamic issues, as well as individuals struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and self-harm behaviors.
I tend to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and am also trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I have a passion for working with teens, adolecents and young adults struggling with relationships, including friendships, family dynamic issues, as well as individuals struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and self-harm behaviors.
(713) 597-3112 View (713) 597-3112
Photo of Kayla Meyertons, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Meyertons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056
I typically treat individuals 16 years and older and utilize a blend of psychodynamic work alongside dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Do you feel stuck? Do mood swings, anxiety, or depression dominate your days? I am here to help. Welcome. I am Kayla, a licensed master social worker practicing at the Ellie Mental Health Tanglewood location. I specialize in treating addiction, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, bipolar and borderline personality disorder. Together, we will generate a safe, nonjudgmental space to break free from limiting patterns and ideas that may rule your present-day life.
I typically treat individuals 16 years and older and utilize a blend of psychodynamic work alongside dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Do you feel stuck? Do mood swings, anxiety, or depression dominate your days? I am here to help. Welcome. I am Kayla, a licensed master social worker practicing at the Ellie Mental Health Tanglewood location. I specialize in treating addiction, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, bipolar and borderline personality disorder. Together, we will generate a safe, nonjudgmental space to break free from limiting patterns and ideas that may rule your present-day life.
(832) 400-6108 View (832) 400-6108
Photo of Christina M. Calderon, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina M. Calderon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
We may decide to use artistic processes, such as drawing, painting, writing, body movement, dreamwork or more traditional therapies, like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in our work together.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is central to creating a safe space for sharing, healing, and transformation to occur. I approach this relationship from a client-centered and trauma-informed perspective, and my therapeutic orientation is holistic, intuitive, and integrative. Art therapy and other symbolic communication can be an important component of psychological healing, and I specialize in expressive therapies that encourage self-exploration.
We may decide to use artistic processes, such as drawing, painting, writing, body movement, dreamwork or more traditional therapies, like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in our work together.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is central to creating a safe space for sharing, healing, and transformation to occur. I approach this relationship from a client-centered and trauma-informed perspective, and my therapeutic orientation is holistic, intuitive, and integrative. Art therapy and other symbolic communication can be an important component of psychological healing, and I specialize in expressive therapies that encourage self-exploration.
(832) 734-6308 View (832) 734-6308
Photo of Denise Filer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Filer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77089
Hello, I am Denise M. Filer MSW, LCSW-S I have been a therapist for almost 30 years. I use an eclectic approach. People do not need the same approaches and a combination of them is what I feel benefits the client. I believe that narrative therapy is a great start. Tell me your story and we will then define together what will work for you. I find that these approaches work well for most people. DBT, CBT, Solution focused culturally aware, strength-based, motivational, and mindfulness.
Hello, I am Denise M. Filer MSW, LCSW-S I have been a therapist for almost 30 years. I use an eclectic approach. People do not need the same approaches and a combination of them is what I feel benefits the client. I believe that narrative therapy is a great start. Tell me your story and we will then define together what will work for you. I find that these approaches work well for most people. DBT, CBT, Solution focused culturally aware, strength-based, motivational, and mindfulness.
(346) 485-3579 View (346) 485-3579
Photo of Nicole Iredale, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Iredale
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77099
Welcome! My name is Nicole Iredale, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience. I work with clients ages 13 and up and specialize in adolescents, young adults, and adults of various backgrounds. My areas of focus include trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, mood disorders (e.g., Bipolar Disorder), working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and Borderline Personality Disorder. My preferred theoretical approaches include DBT, CBT, and trauma-informed therapy, with an eclectic use of techniques under this umbrella.
Welcome! My name is Nicole Iredale, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience. I work with clients ages 13 and up and specialize in adolescents, young adults, and adults of various backgrounds. My areas of focus include trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, mood disorders (e.g., Bipolar Disorder), working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and Borderline Personality Disorder. My preferred theoretical approaches include DBT, CBT, and trauma-informed therapy, with an eclectic use of techniques under this umbrella.
(346) 486-4588 View (346) 486-4588
Photo of Jennifer Markey, PhD, MEd, Psychologist
Jennifer Markey
Psychologist, PhD, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Psychotherapy can be a life changing experience. The first step of the process is finding a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I would like to help you explore your unique situation to discover whether I might be that therapist for you. Together, we will work to understand how your mind works and how to use this understanding to create the life you want. I am an active therapist who utilizes an integrative approach to treatment. I pull from psychodynamic, dialectical behavioral (DBT), mentalizing, and interpersonal theories to help patients build skills and self awareness while helping them live their life to the fullest.
Psychotherapy can be a life changing experience. The first step of the process is finding a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I would like to help you explore your unique situation to discover whether I might be that therapist for you. Together, we will work to understand how your mind works and how to use this understanding to create the life you want. I am an active therapist who utilizes an integrative approach to treatment. I pull from psychodynamic, dialectical behavioral (DBT), mentalizing, and interpersonal theories to help patients build skills and self awareness while helping them live their life to the fullest.
(832) 202-2283 View (832) 202-2283
Photo of Breslyn Bren Shapiro, LMSW, LCDC
Breslyn Bren Shapiro
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057
I utilize solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
I utilize an integrative person-centered and strengths-based approach that incorporates a variety of therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused therapies. In addition to my formal education, I have lived experience navigating personal and family recovery. As a clinician, I specialize in treating individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and co-occurring disorders. I believe that building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship is essential to providing safe, person-centered care.
I utilize solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
I utilize an integrative person-centered and strengths-based approach that incorporates a variety of therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused therapies. In addition to my formal education, I have lived experience navigating personal and family recovery. As a clinician, I specialize in treating individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and co-occurring disorders. I believe that building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship is essential to providing safe, person-centered care.
(832) 789-4735 View (832) 789-4735
Photo of Jason Bailey, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77018
I am trained in DBT to treat personality disorders and use cognitive and existential techniques to assist clients in exploring new, healthy ways of seeing themselves and the world.
Howard Thurman writes, "Don't ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." My goal as a therapist is to partner with you on your journey and help you find what makes you come alive. Ask yourself this question: "Who could I be?" The person you could be is calling you forward out of who you have been.
I am trained in DBT to treat personality disorders and use cognitive and existential techniques to assist clients in exploring new, healthy ways of seeing themselves and the world.
Howard Thurman writes, "Don't ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." My goal as a therapist is to partner with you on your journey and help you find what makes you come alive. Ask yourself this question: "Who could I be?" The person you could be is calling you forward out of who you have been.
(281) 688-2142 View (281) 688-2142
Photo of Laura Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77018
I am Foundationally trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Radically Open DBT.
I have worked with adolescents ages 12-17 with mental health and a substance use diagnosis in a residential setting, as well as a case manager and program coordinator within foster care and adoption. I have also worked as a counselor for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Having the skills to cope with your emotions and thoughts and having someone assist you as you work through your emotions and needs at your personal pace is imperative. I have been described as a lighthouse that safely guides others to where they need to go. Let me help you find your way.
I am Foundationally trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Radically Open DBT.
I have worked with adolescents ages 12-17 with mental health and a substance use diagnosis in a residential setting, as well as a case manager and program coordinator within foster care and adoption. I have also worked as a counselor for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Having the skills to cope with your emotions and thoughts and having someone assist you as you work through your emotions and needs at your personal pace is imperative. I have been described as a lighthouse that safely guides others to where they need to go. Let me help you find your way.
(832) 852-3206 View (832) 852-3206
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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.