Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Lufkin, TX

Photo of Laura Beth Cooper - Connections Counseling & Psychological Services, PhD , Psychologist
Connections Counseling & Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75904
Some of the specialties include: CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Acceptance & Committment Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, ad DBT.
At Connections Counseling & Psychological Services, we get it – life throws curveballs. Whether you're dealing with a child's challenging behavior, wrestling with anxiety, depression, or a tough life event, or just need help with relationship stuff, we can help. If you're aiming to reclaim your life, find empowerment, and get mental clarity, our journey together will help you sort through the emotional twists and turns, paving the way for positive change and a more balanced, fulfilled life. Let's tackle this adventure together!
Some of the specialties include: CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Acceptance & Committment Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, ad DBT.
At Connections Counseling & Psychological Services, we get it – life throws curveballs. Whether you're dealing with a child's challenging behavior, wrestling with anxiety, depression, or a tough life event, or just need help with relationship stuff, we can help. If you're aiming to reclaim your life, find empowerment, and get mental clarity, our journey together will help you sort through the emotional twists and turns, paving the way for positive change and a more balanced, fulfilled life. Let's tackle this adventure together!
(936) 265-0899 View (936) 265-0899
Photo of Debra K Burton, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra K Burton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75904
I am a trained EMDR therapist and I have been trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy as well.
I am the owner of the Counseling Center of East Texas, PLLC, and I have had the privilege of providing individual, marriage, and family counseling for many clients in the greater East Texas area for over 35 years. I have had the honor of coming along side people in their greatest time of need and seeing them persevere and grow through their life challenges, so they can lead productive and fulfilling lives. I also have the pleasure of listening to, supporting, and encouraging clients to make heathy decisions that can help them discover a clear pathway for health and wholeness.
I am a trained EMDR therapist and I have been trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy as well.
I am the owner of the Counseling Center of East Texas, PLLC, and I have had the privilege of providing individual, marriage, and family counseling for many clients in the greater East Texas area for over 35 years. I have had the honor of coming along side people in their greatest time of need and seeing them persevere and grow through their life challenges, so they can lead productive and fulfilling lives. I also have the pleasure of listening to, supporting, and encouraging clients to make heathy decisions that can help them discover a clear pathway for health and wholeness.
(936) 310-3760 View (936) 310-3760
Photo of Lillie Young, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lillie Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75903
I utilize Solution-focused brief therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to consider all aspects of the whole person.
Have you ever felt like you're standing on the outside trying to fit in? Feeling self doubt? Constantly overthinking things in the middle of the night? Having crying spells or anxiety that causes you to cancel plans? You may not have the effective coping skills for these situations. I specialize in helping overcome anxiety, depression, grief, & low self esteem. I believe as the wise Sigmund Freud once said “out of your vulnerability will come your strength
I utilize Solution-focused brief therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to consider all aspects of the whole person.
Have you ever felt like you're standing on the outside trying to fit in? Feeling self doubt? Constantly overthinking things in the middle of the night? Having crying spells or anxiety that causes you to cancel plans? You may not have the effective coping skills for these situations. I specialize in helping overcome anxiety, depression, grief, & low self esteem. I believe as the wise Sigmund Freud once said “out of your vulnerability will come your strength
(409) 263-4195 View (409) 263-4195
Photo of Cyndi Gamble, MA, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cyndi Gamble
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Verified Verified
Lufkin, TX 75904
With over 19 years of experience providing a broad range of mental health services, my current practice strongly emphasizes providing therapeutic interventions for children with behavioral and emotional challenges, while also welcoming the opportunity to work with families, individuals and couples needing counseling services. Over the course of my career, I have gained experience in many elements of the mental health field. Some of those include clinical intake, general counseling, marital counseling, crisis intervention, crisis management, facilitating psychoeducational groups, and child behavior management.
With over 19 years of experience providing a broad range of mental health services, my current practice strongly emphasizes providing therapeutic interventions for children with behavioral and emotional challenges, while also welcoming the opportunity to work with families, individuals and couples needing counseling services. Over the course of my career, I have gained experience in many elements of the mental health field. Some of those include clinical intake, general counseling, marital counseling, crisis intervention, crisis management, facilitating psychoeducational groups, and child behavior management.
(936) 226-0363 View (936) 226-0363
Photo of Jen LoStracco - Pathways FMHS dba Nacogdoches Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC, ASOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pathways FMHS dba Nacogdoches Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ASOTP
Verified Verified
Lufkin, TX 75904
I believe in people’s ability to achieve positive change or improve their lives whether in disposition, behavior, attitude, or perhaps to better understand and manage other, more complex life issues. In either case, I look forward to being a part of helping individuals, couples, families, and children in our community.
I believe in people’s ability to achieve positive change or improve their lives whether in disposition, behavior, attitude, or perhaps to better understand and manage other, more complex life issues. In either case, I look forward to being a part of helping individuals, couples, families, and children in our community.
(936) 236-7453 View (936) 236-7453
Photo of Annie Allen, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75904  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing pain, anxiety, and disconnection, and wanting things to change, but not sure how? Change can be scary and hard, even if we understand it may be necessary. Together, we will identify the unique strengths you have to help you regain peace and improve your mental health. Maybe you're struggling in a relationship, constantly worried, or feeling overwhelmed. You deserve to know you are not alone. I am a relationship-centered therapist who provides a genuine and safe space for you to be fully seen and heard. An outside perspective can help you make sense of things. Tell me your story - I want to hear it.
Are you experiencing pain, anxiety, and disconnection, and wanting things to change, but not sure how? Change can be scary and hard, even if we understand it may be necessary. Together, we will identify the unique strengths you have to help you regain peace and improve your mental health. Maybe you're struggling in a relationship, constantly worried, or feeling overwhelmed. You deserve to know you are not alone. I am a relationship-centered therapist who provides a genuine and safe space for you to be fully seen and heard. An outside perspective can help you make sense of things. Tell me your story - I want to hear it.
(936) 227-5512 View (936) 227-5512
Photo of Brittany Brown Milstead - Milstead & Associates Counseling Group, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Milstead & Associates Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Lufkin, TX 75901
Helping you find creative solutions to life's problems.
Helping you find creative solutions to life's problems.
(936) 337-2904 View (936) 337-2904
Photo of Rachel McCorry, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel McCorry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Lufkin, TX 75901  (Online Only)
Therapy is hard work. Going to therapy for the first time or the hundredth time can be scary. Finding a therapist who fits with your needs and desires is crucial to a healthy and successful therapeutic experience. As an approachable, person-centered therapist, I support my clients in working on goals that YOU design. Through an integrative and holistic approach, my style is to guide you in navigating the roads of life challenges, mood concerns, medical conditions, relationships, severe mental illness, and other life issues.
Therapy is hard work. Going to therapy for the first time or the hundredth time can be scary. Finding a therapist who fits with your needs and desires is crucial to a healthy and successful therapeutic experience. As an approachable, person-centered therapist, I support my clients in working on goals that YOU design. Through an integrative and holistic approach, my style is to guide you in navigating the roads of life challenges, mood concerns, medical conditions, relationships, severe mental illness, and other life issues.
(936) 930-3675 View (936) 930-3675

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Adrianna Alatorre, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrianna Alatorre
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pollok, TX 75969
Hello! My name is Adrianna Alatorre and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience. I work with a wide array of conditions stemming from chronic anxiety & depression to acute psychosis. Throughout my career I have worked with mostly adults in every stage of the lifespan but also have experience with young children, adolescents, and school age children. Much of my work has dealt with trauma stemming from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. The approach I use is eclectic and can offer several interventions specifically designed to heal the mind and provide skills to problem solve and find acceptance.
Hello! My name is Adrianna Alatorre and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience. I work with a wide array of conditions stemming from chronic anxiety & depression to acute psychosis. Throughout my career I have worked with mostly adults in every stage of the lifespan but also have experience with young children, adolescents, and school age children. Much of my work has dealt with trauma stemming from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. The approach I use is eclectic and can offer several interventions specifically designed to heal the mind and provide skills to problem solve and find acceptance.
(281) 957-8040 View (281) 957-8040

Online Therapists

Photo of Sophia Worth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Worth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Longview, TX 75601  (Online Only)
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.
(682) 463-3556 View (682) 463-3556
Photo of Lorraine (Rainey) Hellman - Rainey  Counseling PLLC, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Rainey Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77251  (Online Only)
Some interventions offered are CBT, DBT Person-Centered, SFBT, EMDR, and Psychoeducation.
Lorraine “Rainey” Hellman’s therapeutic philosophy centers around creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can openly explore their experiences. By employing a range of therapeutic approaches, she collaborates with clients to develop personalized strategies for coping, healing, and achieving their goals. Clients are drawn to her empathetic nature, her ability to adapt therapy to individual needs, and her dedication to fostering positive change. Embarking on a therapeutic journey with Rainey means embarking on a path of empowerment, healing, and resilience. Together we overcome challenges!
Some interventions offered are CBT, DBT Person-Centered, SFBT, EMDR, and Psychoeducation.
Lorraine “Rainey” Hellman’s therapeutic philosophy centers around creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can openly explore their experiences. By employing a range of therapeutic approaches, she collaborates with clients to develop personalized strategies for coping, healing, and achieving their goals. Clients are drawn to her empathetic nature, her ability to adapt therapy to individual needs, and her dedication to fostering positive change. Embarking on a therapeutic journey with Rainey means embarking on a path of empowerment, healing, and resilience. Together we overcome challenges!
(406) 416-5598 View (406) 416-5598
Photo of Speshelle Garcia - Guidance and Growth Counseling PLLC., MA, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Guidance and Growth Counseling PLLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380  (Online Only)
With the use of modalities such as CBT, DBT, and SFT, I engage clients and aide in developing insight into their distress.
As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am dedicated to providing a comfortable and safe environment for your therapeutic journey. My approach focuses on helping individuals navigate stressful challenges by addressing negative thoughts and understanding the underlying sources of behaviors and emotional patterns. With tailored tools and effective strategies, I ensure a positive shift in your perspective towards any life issue you may face.
With the use of modalities such as CBT, DBT, and SFT, I engage clients and aide in developing insight into their distress.
As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am dedicated to providing a comfortable and safe environment for your therapeutic journey. My approach focuses on helping individuals navigate stressful challenges by addressing negative thoughts and understanding the underlying sources of behaviors and emotional patterns. With tailored tools and effective strategies, I ensure a positive shift in your perspective towards any life issue you may face.
(936) 236-9776 View (936) 236-9776
Photo of John K. Campbell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John K. Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77380
I primarily utilize (ACT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and ( DBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Before private practice I worked for UTMB-CMC within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. I have a passion working with serious mental health issues, but working in TDCJ reinforced a desire to focus more on earlier interventions, eventually leading leaving to begin my private practice. My specialties include treating psychosis spectrum, mood, and personality disorders, however I also have experience working with adjustment, anxiety, complicated grief, trauma related, obsessive compulsive, and substance use.
I primarily utilize (ACT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and ( DBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Before private practice I worked for UTMB-CMC within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. I have a passion working with serious mental health issues, but working in TDCJ reinforced a desire to focus more on earlier interventions, eventually leading leaving to begin my private practice. My specialties include treating psychosis spectrum, mood, and personality disorders, however I also have experience working with adjustment, anxiety, complicated grief, trauma related, obsessive compulsive, and substance use.
(713) 489-6662 View (713) 489-6662
Photo of Deanna Campbell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanna Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaumont, TX 77702  (Online Only)
Deanna utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-focused therapy (PCT), dialectic behavioral therapy ( DBT), and solutions-focused therapy (SFT).
Deanna Campbell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 3 years of experience working in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults process major life changes and unresolved trauma to live a more fulfilled life. Deanna specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, anger, and learning effective communication strategies. Deanna has experience working with all adults, many over age fifty who are transitioning into a new phase of life. Deanna completed her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.
Deanna utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-focused therapy (PCT), dialectic behavioral therapy ( DBT), and solutions-focused therapy (SFT).
Deanna Campbell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 3 years of experience working in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults process major life changes and unresolved trauma to live a more fulfilled life. Deanna specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, anger, and learning effective communication strategies. Deanna has experience working with all adults, many over age fifty who are transitioning into a new phase of life. Deanna completed her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.
(409) 746-5077 View (409) 746-5077
Photo of Kelly Martin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lumberton, TX 77657
I am Kelly Martin, LPC and I strive to build a warm and compassionate environment for my clients to build upon their strengths and work through their struggles. My focus is on an eclectic approach to getting clients to their desired goals. Some of the modalities I work with are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
I am Kelly Martin, LPC and I strive to build a warm and compassionate environment for my clients to build upon their strengths and work through their struggles. My focus is on an eclectic approach to getting clients to their desired goals. Some of the modalities I work with are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
(346) 553-0051 View (346) 553-0051
Photo of Evelyn S Dillman - Evelyn Dillman Counseling/True Path LLC, MS, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Evelyn Dillman Counseling/True Path LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
Everyone experiences life differently and from their experiences, gain strengths. My goal is to help build on your strengths along your mental wellness journey . I work with high-conflict couples, individuals, adolescents, and families. The focus of my practice is relational wellness, anger management issues, couple conflict, affair recovery/infidelity, PTSD, anxiety, depression, spiritual issues, OCD and addictions. I have an integrative therapeutic approach that includes Client Centered, Solution Focused, Emotionally Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, as well as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy with high conflict issues.
Everyone experiences life differently and from their experiences, gain strengths. My goal is to help build on your strengths along your mental wellness journey . I work with high-conflict couples, individuals, adolescents, and families. The focus of my practice is relational wellness, anger management issues, couple conflict, affair recovery/infidelity, PTSD, anxiety, depression, spiritual issues, OCD and addictions. I have an integrative therapeutic approach that includes Client Centered, Solution Focused, Emotionally Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, as well as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy with high conflict issues.
(903) 201-1283 View (903) 201-1283
Photo of Jeff Leiber, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeff Leiber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy into my sessions and tailor it to best fit your needs.
Are you struggling with low mood, high anxiety or feeling stuck? Are you struggling with relationship/communication issues, feeling overly stressed in work/school or struggling with self confidence? Do you feel like you are starting to have more bad days than good days and don't know where to turn to next? If this sounds like you, I am here to help you find personal growth that will lead to a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life.
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy into my sessions and tailor it to best fit your needs.
Are you struggling with low mood, high anxiety or feeling stuck? Are you struggling with relationship/communication issues, feeling overly stressed in work/school or struggling with self confidence? Do you feel like you are starting to have more bad days than good days and don't know where to turn to next? If this sounds like you, I am here to help you find personal growth that will lead to a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life.
(936) 930-6060 View (936) 930-6060
Photo of Kacie LeGaye - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry The Woodlands, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry The Woodlands
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(936) 260-4669 View (936) 260-4669
Photo of Christopher Bruck, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Bruck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Christopher Bruck is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas who has been practicing since 2018. Christopher utilizes multiple evidence-based approaches to fit the needs of his clients, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). He is of the belief that there is not a “one size fits all” way to provide therapy, so he takes an eclectic approach to helping his patients. A skilled therapist should adapt the therapy they provide to each client’s individual needs. Christopher’s approach is to meet you where you are and walk with you so that you don’t have to do it alone.
Christopher Bruck is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas who has been practicing since 2018. Christopher utilizes multiple evidence-based approaches to fit the needs of his clients, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT). He is of the belief that there is not a “one size fits all” way to provide therapy, so he takes an eclectic approach to helping his patients. A skilled therapist should adapt the therapy they provide to each client’s individual needs. Christopher’s approach is to meet you where you are and walk with you so that you don’t have to do it alone.
(346) 523-7428 View (346) 523-7428
Photo of Lauren Sanders - Sparrow Counseling of Texas, MS, LPC-A
Sparrow Counseling of Texas
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77384  (Online Only)
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to assist my clients.
Are you experiencing uncontrollable worry or have feelings of hopelessness? What about a lack of motivation or difficulty concentrating? If any of these symptoms have been bothering you, let's work together to find you some relief! As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate with experience in a college campus setting, outpatient clinic, and private practice I've learned a thing or two. And I'm ready to help you! I work with ages 14 and up. If you are a student in high school or college, a SAHM, or an adult just needing some assistance, I welcome you! Can't wait to meet you!
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to assist my clients.
Are you experiencing uncontrollable worry or have feelings of hopelessness? What about a lack of motivation or difficulty concentrating? If any of these symptoms have been bothering you, let's work together to find you some relief! As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate with experience in a college campus setting, outpatient clinic, and private practice I've learned a thing or two. And I'm ready to help you! I work with ages 14 and up. If you are a student in high school or college, a SAHM, or an adult just needing some assistance, I welcome you! Can't wait to meet you!
(936) 243-4209 View (936) 243-4209

Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Lufkin

See More Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists
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.