Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Webster, TX

Photo of Wendy Morua, PhD, Psychologist
Wendy Morua
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598
Crisis and adversity can become opportunities to refocus on our values, needs and wants. People of all ages seek talk therapy during emotional crisis. In therapy individuals identify symptoms of anxiety and depression resulting from academic, social, and emotional stressors. I specialize in helping people learn to cope and formulate a 'return to normalcy' plan with evidence based treatments such as Cognitive and/or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT; DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I value and believe that the work done together in session is key with helping clients reach their goals.
Crisis and adversity can become opportunities to refocus on our values, needs and wants. People of all ages seek talk therapy during emotional crisis. In therapy individuals identify symptoms of anxiety and depression resulting from academic, social, and emotional stressors. I specialize in helping people learn to cope and formulate a 'return to normalcy' plan with evidence based treatments such as Cognitive and/or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT; DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I value and believe that the work done together in session is key with helping clients reach their goals.
(281) 547-6384 View (281) 547-6384
Photo of Lynz Costa, LMSW
Lynz Costa
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598
I believe in a holistic approach while helping clients manage anger, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, co-dependency, family relations, faith-transitions, women- empowerment, and more. I provide a comfortable and fun atmosphere for children and adults to explore their strengths and challenges using techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Play Therapy and other modalities based on client needs.
I believe in a holistic approach while helping clients manage anger, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, co-dependency, family relations, faith-transitions, women- empowerment, and more. I provide a comfortable and fun atmosphere for children and adults to explore their strengths and challenges using techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Play Therapy and other modalities based on client needs.
(832) 501-2827 View (832) 501-2827
Photo of Dr. Christopher Alexander Evans, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Christopher Alexander Evans
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598
The primary psychotherapies I use are Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Attempts to “control” and “get rid” of our thoughts and feelings can leave us feeling powerless and stuck struggling with our problems in life. Instead of continuing that endless battle against anxiety, sadness, and all the other hurdles life throws at us, let’s help you identify how your mind can trap you, keeping you stuck against your problems. The most common struggles I help clients learn to change their relationships with are anxiety and intrusive thoughts, career stressors, and eating concerns.
The primary psychotherapies I use are Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Attempts to “control” and “get rid” of our thoughts and feelings can leave us feeling powerless and stuck struggling with our problems in life. Instead of continuing that endless battle against anxiety, sadness, and all the other hurdles life throws at us, let’s help you identify how your mind can trap you, keeping you stuck against your problems. The most common struggles I help clients learn to change their relationships with are anxiety and intrusive thoughts, career stressors, and eating concerns.
(832) 583-2991 View (832) 583-2991
Photo of Da'netha Saunders - Effective Therapy Solutions, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Effective Therapy Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598
Grief, OCD, and Anxiety with EMDR, EMDR with Severely Dissociative Clients, EMDR and Play Therapy, EMDR and Addictions, EMDR and Theory, Sex Therapy, DBT therapy, EMDR Illness and Health in a toxic society.
Effective Therapy Solutions incorporate the whole person into the healing process. This includes the spirit, mind, body, and soul. We empower clients to navigate and overcome trauma, fostering resilience for a thriving, prosperous future beyond therapy. Our mission is to provide accessible, effective, and empowering trauma therapy to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through advocacy, education, and personalized treatment, we aim to break down barriers to mental health care and empower her clients to rewrite their stories of resilience and growth.
Grief, OCD, and Anxiety with EMDR, EMDR with Severely Dissociative Clients, EMDR and Play Therapy, EMDR and Addictions, EMDR and Theory, Sex Therapy, DBT therapy, EMDR Illness and Health in a toxic society.
Effective Therapy Solutions incorporate the whole person into the healing process. This includes the spirit, mind, body, and soul. We empower clients to navigate and overcome trauma, fostering resilience for a thriving, prosperous future beyond therapy. Our mission is to provide accessible, effective, and empowering trauma therapy to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through advocacy, education, and personalized treatment, we aim to break down barriers to mental health care and empower her clients to rewrite their stories of resilience and growth.
(469) 966-4423 View (469) 966-4423
Photo of Carissa Hernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carissa Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy when working with my clients.
I am a dedicated professional counselor that believes everyone can find hope for their future and make achievable goals. My empathy and relatability help me to connect with individuals that have the desire to make positive changes in their life. I feel it is important to take a team approach with my clients in order to find solutions so that they can cope better. If you would like to see positive changes in your life and are ready to learn how to make those changes, I am the counselor for you.
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy when working with my clients.
I am a dedicated professional counselor that believes everyone can find hope for their future and make achievable goals. My empathy and relatability help me to connect with individuals that have the desire to make positive changes in their life. I feel it is important to take a team approach with my clients in order to find solutions so that they can cope better. If you would like to see positive changes in your life and are ready to learn how to make those changes, I am the counselor for you.
(346) 258-5219 View (346) 258-5219
Photo of Patricia Watlington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Watlington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598
Hello, my name is Patricia Watlington, and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I have experience in providing Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, tailored for all ages, from children to adults. With years of dedicated service in behavioral health, I provide comprehensive care solutions designed to meet individual mental wellness goals. My approach is rooted in empathy and a commitment to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can overcome trauma and mental health challenges.
Hello, my name is Patricia Watlington, and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I have experience in providing Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, tailored for all ages, from children to adults. With years of dedicated service in behavioral health, I provide comprehensive care solutions designed to meet individual mental wellness goals. My approach is rooted in empathy and a commitment to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can overcome trauma and mental health challenges.
(432) 529-4403 View (432) 529-4403
Photo of Kayla King, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598  (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 Elizabeth Garibay, MS, LPC, LCDC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Garibay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
By utilizing various evidence-based treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and humanistic /client centered approach.
Elizabeth Garibay, is a bilingual licensed professional counselor and licensed chemical dependency counselor in the state of Texas . Elizabeth has experience working with individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, trauma, grief, and substance abuse disorders.
By utilizing various evidence-based treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and humanistic /client centered approach.
Elizabeth Garibay, is a bilingual licensed professional counselor and licensed chemical dependency counselor in the state of Texas . Elizabeth has experience working with individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, trauma, grief, and substance abuse disorders.
(956) 539-4208 View (956) 539-4208
Photo of Katherine Vaughan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Vaughan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
Katt Vaughan Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Population: families, couples, individuals and group therapy. therapeutic interventions and primary modes of therapeutic interventions include CBT/DBT with Gottman and Bowenian theory infuses.
Katt Vaughan Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Population: families, couples, individuals and group therapy. therapeutic interventions and primary modes of therapeutic interventions include CBT/DBT with Gottman and Bowenian theory infuses.
(817) 993-4299 View (817) 993-4299
Photo of Wenona Wray, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Wenona Wray
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
I am trained as a Dialectical Behavioral therapist but use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy to help you on your journey so that you get your desired outcome.
Hi I'm Wenni. I describe my style and method of counseling as "Compassionate, Caring and Empathic Counselor and Team member." Yes, Team member. I having been performing counseling for many years, beginning as an Airman to Non-Commissioned Officer in the United States Air Force and now, professionally. Do you often as yourself "Why?", Let me assist you with getting out of the spiral but teaching you the correct way to ask yourself questions and stop those nagging intrusive thoughts.
I am trained as a Dialectical Behavioral therapist but use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy to help you on your journey so that you get your desired outcome.
Hi I'm Wenni. I describe my style and method of counseling as "Compassionate, Caring and Empathic Counselor and Team member." Yes, Team member. I having been performing counseling for many years, beginning as an Airman to Non-Commissioned Officer in the United States Air Force and now, professionally. Do you often as yourself "Why?", Let me assist you with getting out of the spiral but teaching you the correct way to ask yourself questions and stop those nagging intrusive thoughts.
(830) 563-4898 View (830) 563-4898
Photo of James R Edwards, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James R Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
My theoretical approach will be Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am an active listener who enjoys supporting clients with self-discovery and the development of personal goals. I believe in a helping relationship and I look forward to working with my clients to help them navigate through this thing called life.
My theoretical approach will be Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am an active listener who enjoys supporting clients with self-discovery and the development of personal goals. I believe in a helping relationship and I look forward to working with my clients to help them navigate through this thing called life.
(915) 285-4977 View (915) 285-4977
Photo of Crystal R Morales, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal R Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598
Everyone has "baggage" and it is what truly makes us unique. Sometimes our baggage is heavy which can make our journey extra challenging. At times, we just need someone to listen to our thoughts, help us understand what is going on and help us understand what we are needing or wanting. I went into counseling in order to work with those who suffer from depression, anxiety, body issues and trauma. As children, we are not necessary in control of our childhood but as adults we are. I have worked with adolscents through middle aged adults using specific interventions with CBT and DBT.
Everyone has "baggage" and it is what truly makes us unique. Sometimes our baggage is heavy which can make our journey extra challenging. At times, we just need someone to listen to our thoughts, help us understand what is going on and help us understand what we are needing or wanting. I went into counseling in order to work with those who suffer from depression, anxiety, body issues and trauma. As children, we are not necessary in control of our childhood but as adults we are. I have worked with adolscents through middle aged adults using specific interventions with CBT and DBT.
(806) 375-3651 View (806) 375-3651
Photo of Stephanie S Tyler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie S Tyler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
I know that no single approach is the right one for every individual, and so I have been trained in a range of modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (including Trauma Focused CBT),Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Solution- Focused Therapy, Substance Use and Abuse (Addiction), Play Therapy, and have a collective applied experience.
When human beings experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to feel like it unraveling or falling apart. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have been through real life experiences, that directly or indirectly caused one trauma or a significant amount of stress. I possess an ability to connect with an individual, regardless of what differences we may have, we have life in common. I help my clients, which includes children, adolescents, and adults, to find healthy perceptions of themselves, and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, & whole
I know that no single approach is the right one for every individual, and so I have been trained in a range of modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (including Trauma Focused CBT),Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Solution- Focused Therapy, Substance Use and Abuse (Addiction), Play Therapy, and have a collective applied experience.
When human beings experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to feel like it unraveling or falling apart. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have been through real life experiences, that directly or indirectly caused one trauma or a significant amount of stress. I possess an ability to connect with an individual, regardless of what differences we may have, we have life in common. I help my clients, which includes children, adolescents, and adults, to find healthy perceptions of themselves, and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, & whole
(346) 815-2656 View (346) 815-2656
Photo of Denisa Washington, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denisa Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598
Using DBT and CBT, I offer compassionate, tailored therapy to help clients heal from trauma, gain independence, and rebuild their lives.
My ideal client is someone transitioning out of an abusive relationship or navigating significant life changes. They struggle with anxiety, depression, and trust issues, seeking safety, emotional support, and practical tools for healing. Their goals include overcoming trauma, building self-esteem, developing healthy relationships, achieving independence, and finding purpose. They desire growth, empowerment, stability, and support. They seek therapy to heal from past traumas, manage symptoms, and create a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Using DBT and CBT, I offer compassionate, tailored therapy to help clients heal from trauma, gain independence, and rebuild their lives.
My ideal client is someone transitioning out of an abusive relationship or navigating significant life changes. They struggle with anxiety, depression, and trust issues, seeking safety, emotional support, and practical tools for healing. Their goals include overcoming trauma, building self-esteem, developing healthy relationships, achieving independence, and finding purpose. They desire growth, empowerment, stability, and support. They seek therapy to heal from past traumas, manage symptoms, and create a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(737) 758-2654 View (737) 758-2654
Photo of Jacqueline Liu, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline Liu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a safe environment to increase self-awareness and personal empowerment? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. My goal as a clinician is to create space for you to learn about your emotions and thoughts, and to explore your circumstances and strengths to build on. I am dedicated to building a collaborative counseling relationship that foster self-understanding and growth, and to guiding you through more rational ways of thinking and new coping skills such as DBT skills that will promote healthier balance.
Are you looking for a safe environment to increase self-awareness and personal empowerment? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. My goal as a clinician is to create space for you to learn about your emotions and thoughts, and to explore your circumstances and strengths to build on. I am dedicated to building a collaborative counseling relationship that foster self-understanding and growth, and to guiding you through more rational ways of thinking and new coping skills such as DBT skills that will promote healthier balance.
(469) 812-8611 View (469) 812-8611
Photo of Tashea Walker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tashea Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598  (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 Kirsten Reynolds - Gracefully Rooted Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gracefully Rooted Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598
I use EMDR, Brainspotting, PIT, MI, TBRI, CBT, DBT, EFT, ego-state work, enneagram, somatic interventions, dog love & more to help you heal.
Are looking to heal from childhood wounds, family of origin pain, relationship issues, or traumatic experiences? Have you experienced difficult things in life and know that it’s affecting you but haven’t known how to address it other than talking about it? My clients are aware that their past experiences affect who they are & how they show up in the world & are ready to shift things by addressing their pain. I specialize in helping people achieve lasting relief & growth from the experiences that shape & impact us. Learn more about canine therapy, intensive options, & take our quiz to see if we fit! www.gracefullyrootedcounseling.com
I use EMDR, Brainspotting, PIT, MI, TBRI, CBT, DBT, EFT, ego-state work, enneagram, somatic interventions, dog love & more to help you heal.
Are looking to heal from childhood wounds, family of origin pain, relationship issues, or traumatic experiences? Have you experienced difficult things in life and know that it’s affecting you but haven’t known how to address it other than talking about it? My clients are aware that their past experiences affect who they are & how they show up in the world & are ready to shift things by addressing their pain. I specialize in helping people achieve lasting relief & growth from the experiences that shape & impact us. Learn more about canine therapy, intensive options, & take our quiz to see if we fit! www.gracefullyrootedcounseling.com
(281) 559-7716 View (281) 559-7716
Photo of Logan Saley, MS , NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Logan Saley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598
My passion lies in working with couples, families, and children between the ages of 3 and 10, navigating the complexities of life transitions and interpersonal dynamics. Utilizing modalities such as Child-Centered Play Therapy and Theraplay, I create a safe and engaging environment for children to express themselves and develop crucial coping skills. For couples seeking to strengthen their bond and navigate challenges, I employ an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach, fostering secure attachment and effective communication. My goal is to empower couples to cultivate deeper connections and resilience in the face of adversity.
My passion lies in working with couples, families, and children between the ages of 3 and 10, navigating the complexities of life transitions and interpersonal dynamics. Utilizing modalities such as Child-Centered Play Therapy and Theraplay, I create a safe and engaging environment for children to express themselves and develop crucial coping skills. For couples seeking to strengthen their bond and navigate challenges, I employ an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach, fostering secure attachment and effective communication. My goal is to empower couples to cultivate deeper connections and resilience in the face of adversity.
(346) 485-6940 View (346) 485-6940
Photo of Kelvin L McHenry, MS, LPC, NCC, ASD-CS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelvin L McHenry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ASD-CS
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
I believe that every client has, within them, the power to overcome any obstacle. Whether it is individual, couples/marital, familial, or relational concerns, together through collaboration, we can find a solution. I am an empathetic & solutions oriented therapist who believes in empowering my clients. I have found that assisting a client to fill their life skills tool box with healthy tools is an excellent way to resolve personal concerns on a long term basis. Please feel free to contact my offices at 832-977-6138 to schedule an appointment or a phone consultation. We are only offering virtual sessions at this time.
I believe that every client has, within them, the power to overcome any obstacle. Whether it is individual, couples/marital, familial, or relational concerns, together through collaboration, we can find a solution. I am an empathetic & solutions oriented therapist who believes in empowering my clients. I have found that assisting a client to fill their life skills tool box with healthy tools is an excellent way to resolve personal concerns on a long term basis. Please feel free to contact my offices at 832-977-6138 to schedule an appointment or a phone consultation. We are only offering virtual sessions at this time.
(832) 648-3674 View (832) 648-3674
Photo of George Shu, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
George Shu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598
As a trauma-informed mental health therapist, I specialize in helping individuals overcome fear, trauma, and anxiety. Whether you're struggling with overwhelming fears, trauma aftermath, or persistent anxiety, I'm here to guide you towards rediscovering your inner strength and resilience.
As a trauma-informed mental health therapist, I specialize in helping individuals overcome fear, trauma, and anxiety. Whether you're struggling with overwhelming fears, trauma aftermath, or persistent anxiety, I'm here to guide you towards rediscovering your inner strength and resilience.
(346) 788-1764 View (346) 788-1764
1
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.