Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Pennsylvania

Photo of Tiffany Alvarez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Alvarez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Edinboro, PA 16412
I use a person-centered approach to therapy and focus on the mind body connection. I also have an interest in how nutrition and daily movement affects mental health. I can implement art and creative strategies in my therapy as well for an eclectic approach to therapy sessions. I have extensive skills in the utilization of DBT and have many years of experience running DBT groups for both adolescents and adults. I have experience working with trauma and complex trauma, and I also utilize Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
I use a person-centered approach to therapy and focus on the mind body connection. I also have an interest in how nutrition and daily movement affects mental health. I can implement art and creative strategies in my therapy as well for an eclectic approach to therapy sessions. I have extensive skills in the utilization of DBT and have many years of experience running DBT groups for both adolescents and adults. I have experience working with trauma and complex trauma, and I also utilize Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
(814) 885-4153 View (814) 885-4153
Photo of Riley Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional
Riley Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125
We will create individualized treatment with my knowledge of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
The human existence is something I am deeply interested in and I bring to the therapeutic environment a curious and accepting mind that helps us understand and embrace what makes you uniquely you.
As a trauma-informed counselor, I am happy to provide the opportunity to explore the ways your life experiences have impacted your mind, body, and spirit. Taking a mindfulness approach to trauma, I aim to reconnect you with the present by utilizing mind and body interventions while creating a safe space to explore the past.
 My approach to therapy is primarily influenced on individual client needs which means meeting you where you are at.
We will create individualized treatment with my knowledge of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
The human existence is something I am deeply interested in and I bring to the therapeutic environment a curious and accepting mind that helps us understand and embrace what makes you uniquely you.
As a trauma-informed counselor, I am happy to provide the opportunity to explore the ways your life experiences have impacted your mind, body, and spirit. Taking a mindfulness approach to trauma, I aim to reconnect you with the present by utilizing mind and body interventions while creating a safe space to explore the past.
 My approach to therapy is primarily influenced on individual client needs which means meeting you where you are at.
(215) 458-2577 View (215) 458-2577
Photo of Adline Juste, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adline Juste
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Initially trained in psychodynamic theory through Cambridge Health Alliance, a teaching hospital located in Cambridge, MA, I have developed competency in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Strengths-Based Therapy.
As a dedicated and compassionate social worker, I have always been driven by a profound sense of empathy and a desire to support individuals in overcoming life’s challenges. Whether it’s your first time or your 100th time, my goal is to foster a safe space where you can feel seen, heard, validated, and challenged to help foster your self growth and healing.
Initially trained in psychodynamic theory through Cambridge Health Alliance, a teaching hospital located in Cambridge, MA, I have developed competency in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Strengths-Based Therapy.
As a dedicated and compassionate social worker, I have always been driven by a profound sense of empathy and a desire to support individuals in overcoming life’s challenges. Whether it’s your first time or your 100th time, my goal is to foster a safe space where you can feel seen, heard, validated, and challenged to help foster your self growth and healing.
(814) 918-3916 View (814) 918-3916
Photo of Laura Goncalves - Anxiety and ADHD recovery, Day One Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anxiety and ADHD recovery, Day One Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18045  (Online Only)
I'm licensed in Pennsylvania and completed PESI courses in play therapy, DBT, and EMDR techniques.
Hi there my name is Laura. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from Marywood University and have been practicing for 6 years. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, ADHD, womens issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I am best positioned to serve teens, young adults, and middle age adults. My ideal clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their life and decisions related to it.
I'm licensed in Pennsylvania and completed PESI courses in play therapy, DBT, and EMDR techniques.
Hi there my name is Laura. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from Marywood University and have been practicing for 6 years. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, ADHD, womens issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I am best positioned to serve teens, young adults, and middle age adults. My ideal clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their life and decisions related to it.
(484) 946-9271 View (484) 946-9271
Photo of Dr. Lindsay Martin, PhD, LPC, NCC, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Lindsay Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063  (Online Only)
I use various techniques, like ACT, DBT, CBT, etc.
Hello! I'm Dr. Lindsay Martin, a Licensed Professional Counselor, committed to helping individuals begin their healing process. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the depths of your emotions, overcome challenges, and embark on a path towards a more fulfilling life. I collaborate with individuals struggling with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, suicidal thoughts, and trauma. Are you prepared to examine the thoughts and behaviors preventing you from living the life you truly want? Are you in search of personalized guidance to navigate this process?
I use various techniques, like ACT, DBT, CBT, etc.
Hello! I'm Dr. Lindsay Martin, a Licensed Professional Counselor, committed to helping individuals begin their healing process. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the depths of your emotions, overcome challenges, and embark on a path towards a more fulfilling life. I collaborate with individuals struggling with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, suicidal thoughts, and trauma. Are you prepared to examine the thoughts and behaviors preventing you from living the life you truly want? Are you in search of personalized guidance to navigate this process?
(484) 812-7974 View (484) 812-7974
Photo of Maddy Weimer, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maddy Weimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Seven Fields, PA 16046
I offer a supportive, comfortable environment for each client and offer evidence-based treatment modalities such as CBT, ERP, mindfulness, DBT, ACT, etc.
Working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and other life stressors.
I offer a supportive, comfortable environment for each client and offer evidence-based treatment modalities such as CBT, ERP, mindfulness, DBT, ACT, etc.
Working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and other life stressors.
(724) 607-8850 View (724) 607-8850
Photo of Melanie Timbers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Timbers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My approach integrates person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), & Solution-Focused Therapy.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, past traumatic experiences, and currently feeling stuck in life? Do you need help managing these emotions to move forward in a more meaningful and productive life? Your goals would be to process these emotions and learn how your thoughts influence your feelings and, ultimately, your behavior. Additionally, you will learn coping skills to manage and/or reduce the debilitating effects of these emotions.
My approach integrates person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), & Solution-Focused Therapy.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, past traumatic experiences, and currently feeling stuck in life? Do you need help managing these emotions to move forward in a more meaningful and productive life? Your goals would be to process these emotions and learn how your thoughts influence your feelings and, ultimately, your behavior. Additionally, you will learn coping skills to manage and/or reduce the debilitating effects of these emotions.
(267) 317-4028 View (267) 317-4028
Photo of Asher Eli Volkens, MS
Asher Eli Volkens
MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I am experienced in the following modalities: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Psychoanalysis.
I have 20 years experience in the field of psychology. I have worked as a therapist in private practice, prisons, and clinics in the Philadelphia area. I am a United States Veteran, who served my country honorably, and now honorably serves the community. I specialize in couples and family therapy, religious abuse, depression and anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I strive to support the Client to achieve their goals and live healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.
I am experienced in the following modalities: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Psychoanalysis.
I have 20 years experience in the field of psychology. I have worked as a therapist in private practice, prisons, and clinics in the Philadelphia area. I am a United States Veteran, who served my country honorably, and now honorably serves the community. I specialize in couples and family therapy, religious abuse, depression and anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I strive to support the Client to achieve their goals and live healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.
(267) 458-5485 View (267) 458-5485
Photo of Wendy Landrian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Landrian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I use an eclectic approach that starts with coaching and coping skills and reaches into the deeper issues that cause fear, loneliness, and frustration by combining interpersonal effectiveness, Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral methodologies with insight driven approaches such as relational therapy and trauma focused perspectives as needed.
Hi, I'm Wendy. Do you find yourself wondering how dating, relationships, and intimacy got so complicated? I help smart, successful people confront the REAL barriers to love, connection, and emotional fulfillment. Together, we'll explore the challenges that have gotten in the way of you getting the relationships with others that you deserve. I am a licensed clinical social worker with Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. I have worked with individuals in relational and traumatic crises for over fifteen years.
I use an eclectic approach that starts with coaching and coping skills and reaches into the deeper issues that cause fear, loneliness, and frustration by combining interpersonal effectiveness, Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral methodologies with insight driven approaches such as relational therapy and trauma focused perspectives as needed.
Hi, I'm Wendy. Do you find yourself wondering how dating, relationships, and intimacy got so complicated? I help smart, successful people confront the REAL barriers to love, connection, and emotional fulfillment. Together, we'll explore the challenges that have gotten in the way of you getting the relationships with others that you deserve. I am a licensed clinical social worker with Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. I have worked with individuals in relational and traumatic crises for over fifteen years.
(484) 291-5431 View (484) 291-5431
Tucker Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CSOTS, PCIT
Verified Verified
Penfield, PA 15849
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified DBT, PCIT, and more.
You're not alone
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified DBT, PCIT, and more.
You're not alone
(814) 261-0295 View (814) 261-0295
Photo of Beenish Rashid, PsyD, Psychologist
Beenish Rashid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Buckingham, PA 18912
I believe in tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, and play therapy.
Do you ever wonder how your thoughts can influence your actions and emotions? Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing? If so, I'd be happy to help. My goal is to provide caring and effective support to individuals facing life's challenges. In therapy, I approach each session with empathy, understanding, and evidence-based methods. Together, in a collaborative and encouraging therapeutic relationship, my aim is to create a welcoming space where you can explore your feelings, challenge negative thought patterns, and nurture self-compassion.
I believe in tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, and play therapy.
Do you ever wonder how your thoughts can influence your actions and emotions? Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing? If so, I'd be happy to help. My goal is to provide caring and effective support to individuals facing life's challenges. In therapy, I approach each session with empathy, understanding, and evidence-based methods. Together, in a collaborative and encouraging therapeutic relationship, my aim is to create a welcoming space where you can explore your feelings, challenge negative thought patterns, and nurture self-compassion.
(267) 662-1599 View (267) 662-1599
Photo of Tara Calafiore, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Tara Calafiore
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I specialize in providing evidenced-based treatment to children, adolescent, adults, and families. I am a acceptance based behavioral therapist who focusing on helping clients to creat meaningful behavioral change. I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure Therapy and Mindfulness interventions. I also provide psychological assessment.
I specialize in providing evidenced-based treatment to children, adolescent, adults, and families. I am a acceptance based behavioral therapist who focusing on helping clients to creat meaningful behavioral change. I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure Therapy and Mindfulness interventions. I also provide psychological assessment.
(856) 644-5022 View (856) 644-5022
Photo of Anne Unterkoefler - Anne Unterkoefler LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Unterkoefler LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paoli, PA 19301
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist for 25+ years, I believe it is important to recognize a person's strengths to help them deal with emotional difficulties when they occur. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and the elderly to enhance their coping skills, so they have a variety of options to deal with their life stresses. I enjoy working in collaboration with people of all ages and diagnoses to achieve their mental health goals. Being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy I have a wealth of knowledge in teaching coping skills to help a wide variety of diagnoses.
As a therapist for 25+ years, I believe it is important to recognize a person's strengths to help them deal with emotional difficulties when they occur. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and the elderly to enhance their coping skills, so they have a variety of options to deal with their life stresses. I enjoy working in collaboration with people of all ages and diagnoses to achieve their mental health goals. Being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy I have a wealth of knowledge in teaching coping skills to help a wide variety of diagnoses.
(484) 350-5345 View (484) 350-5345
Photo of Suzanne Holbrook Bloom Behavioral Health, MS, LPC, NCC
Suzanne Holbrook Bloom Behavioral Health
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chester Springs, PA 19425  (Online Only)
I have specialized trauma-oriented training and expertise in EMDR-informed approach, CBT, DBT, and feminist theory approach.
“Happiness is not something that you have to achieve. You can still feel happy during the process of achieving something." -Kim Namjoon. I am a queer woman and cisgender ally who specializes in working with teens and adults who are a part of the LGBTQIA community and are navigating life with a history of trauma.
I have specialized trauma-oriented training and expertise in EMDR-informed approach, CBT, DBT, and feminist theory approach.
“Happiness is not something that you have to achieve. You can still feel happy during the process of achieving something." -Kim Namjoon. I am a queer woman and cisgender ally who specializes in working with teens and adults who are a part of the LGBTQIA community and are navigating life with a history of trauma.
(610) 638-7683 View (610) 638-7683
Photo of Courtney Snow, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Snow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
If art therapy is not for you-that's okay! I am also trained in other talk-therapy modalities as a trauma-informed, DBT-informed, and mindfulness clinician.
Greetings! My name is Courtney Snow. I am an art psychotherapist with credentials as a Registered, Board Certified Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults and families within behavioral health agencies, community outreach programs, educational settings, residential and outpatient programs. I am experienced in treating individuals who have substance use disorders, developmental disorders, thought disorders, complex trauma, emotional disturbances, unresolved grief, and relationship issues.
If art therapy is not for you-that's okay! I am also trained in other talk-therapy modalities as a trauma-informed, DBT-informed, and mindfulness clinician.
Greetings! My name is Courtney Snow. I am an art psychotherapist with credentials as a Registered, Board Certified Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults and families within behavioral health agencies, community outreach programs, educational settings, residential and outpatient programs. I am experienced in treating individuals who have substance use disorders, developmental disorders, thought disorders, complex trauma, emotional disturbances, unresolved grief, and relationship issues.
(484) 613-2553 View (484) 613-2553
Photo of Anna Baltz, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anna Baltz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
My treatment approach used is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused, and DBT to help accomplish client's goals.
I am a Masters level clinician with experience working with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, relationship issues and behavioral issues.
My treatment approach used is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused, and DBT to help accomplish client's goals.
I am a Masters level clinician with experience working with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, relationship issues and behavioral issues.
(610) 546-2997 x1 View (610) 546-2997 x1
Photo of Olivia Ruffin, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olivia Ruffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Flourtown, PA 19031
I specialize in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and prolonged exposure therapy (PE) to support building the skills to live mindfully and process trauma.
Life transitions can be hard. Sometimes you don’t have the words to describe your thoughts or feelings, and that can leave you feeling disconnected or misunderstood. I believe you have the power to grow and live your best life; support helps us reflect and stay resilient through the challenges along the way. I offer a warm and supportive environment for clients to safely share their thoughts and feelings. My passion as a therapist is to help you find and believe in your own voice, get unstuck, and find the confidence to seize your most important life goals and experiences.
I specialize in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and prolonged exposure therapy (PE) to support building the skills to live mindfully and process trauma.
Life transitions can be hard. Sometimes you don’t have the words to describe your thoughts or feelings, and that can leave you feeling disconnected or misunderstood. I believe you have the power to grow and live your best life; support helps us reflect and stay resilient through the challenges along the way. I offer a warm and supportive environment for clients to safely share their thoughts and feelings. My passion as a therapist is to help you find and believe in your own voice, get unstuck, and find the confidence to seize your most important life goals and experiences.
(215) 770-2791 View (215) 770-2791
Photo of Dr. Jordan Seidel, Psychologist
Dr. Jordan Seidel
Psychologist
Verified Verified
North Wales, PA 19454
I utilize DBT and CBT interventions with intentionality; and I will always strive to cultivate and maintain a safe and compassionate therapeutic environment.
I am rooted in an approach that predominantly pulls from existential-humanistic and psychodynamic psychologies. I believe that the client is the expert of their experience, and that their experience within the present can be connected to their experience of the past – creating and maintaining particular dynamics between the self and others. I also use the therapeutic relationship to inform the work – providing for corrective emotional experiences and empowering my clients to strive for the embodiment of an authentic self.
I utilize DBT and CBT interventions with intentionality; and I will always strive to cultivate and maintain a safe and compassionate therapeutic environment.
I am rooted in an approach that predominantly pulls from existential-humanistic and psychodynamic psychologies. I believe that the client is the expert of their experience, and that their experience within the present can be connected to their experience of the past – creating and maintaining particular dynamics between the self and others. I also use the therapeutic relationship to inform the work – providing for corrective emotional experiences and empowering my clients to strive for the embodiment of an authentic self.
(267) 732-1074 View (267) 732-1074
Photo of John Cappello, LPC, CAADC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Cappello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor, CBT-informed, and DBT-informed practitioner.
Currently accepting new clients with immediate availability for adults and adolescents, 12 years and older! Insurance is accepted. Beginning therapy can help you cope with life’s stressors and challenges in healthy and productive ways. Therapy offers a safe place to build meaningful skills you can use for the rest of your life. Working with people from all walks of life has given me a deep understanding of many issues and how difficult it can be to face those issues alone. I strive to create a strong rapport with my clients so we can effectively solve problems and increase happiness.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor, CBT-informed, and DBT-informed practitioner.
Currently accepting new clients with immediate availability for adults and adolescents, 12 years and older! Insurance is accepted. Beginning therapy can help you cope with life’s stressors and challenges in healthy and productive ways. Therapy offers a safe place to build meaningful skills you can use for the rest of your life. Working with people from all walks of life has given me a deep understanding of many issues and how difficult it can be to face those issues alone. I strive to create a strong rapport with my clients so we can effectively solve problems and increase happiness.
(215) 372-8321 View (215) 372-8321
Photo of Johanna Dwinells, LPC, MA, MT-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Johanna Dwinells
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19123  (Online Only)
I blend different therapies like DBT, CBT, Music Therapy, Yoga and more to help you overcome symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Are you working towards self-acceptance? Are you tired of the roles and stigma that have been placed on you? Does a life worth of anxiety feel like a heavy load? Do you sometimes feel stuck, creatively, career wise, socially or emotionally? Do completing the smallest tasks seem monumental? Do you want to find and harness your potential? Have you struggled with mindfulness or meditation? Do you find that sometimes your emotions drive your decisions? Do you want to improve your life but don't know where to start?
I blend different therapies like DBT, CBT, Music Therapy, Yoga and more to help you overcome symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Are you working towards self-acceptance? Are you tired of the roles and stigma that have been placed on you? Does a life worth of anxiety feel like a heavy load? Do you sometimes feel stuck, creatively, career wise, socially or emotionally? Do completing the smallest tasks seem monumental? Do you want to find and harness your potential? Have you struggled with mindfulness or meditation? Do you find that sometimes your emotions drive your decisions? Do you want to improve your life but don't know where to start?
(267) 890-7022 View (267) 890-7022
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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.