Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Utah County, UT

Photo of Candice Mortensen, LCMHC, MA, Counselor
Candice Mortensen
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Springville, UT 84663
She also incorporates other evidence-based modalities, including but not limited to, (IFS) Internal Family Systems Therapy, play therapy, filial therapy, art therapy, motivational interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and person-centered therapy.
Candice has experience and a passion for working with children and their families to heal from trauma and build secure attachment patterns. She understands that each person's unique experiences play an influence in current functioning. She is compassionate with the complexities involved in mental health, including but not limited to, relationships challenges, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and Autism. She is knowledgable on struggles related to international and local adoptions, foster care, sensory processing differences, and abuse.
She also incorporates other evidence-based modalities, including but not limited to, (IFS) Internal Family Systems Therapy, play therapy, filial therapy, art therapy, motivational interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and person-centered therapy.
Candice has experience and a passion for working with children and their families to heal from trauma and build secure attachment patterns. She understands that each person's unique experiences play an influence in current functioning. She is compassionate with the complexities involved in mental health, including but not limited to, relationships challenges, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and Autism. She is knowledgable on struggles related to international and local adoptions, foster care, sensory processing differences, and abuse.
(385) 324-6004 View (385) 324-6004
Photo of Jackson Houmand, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackson Houmand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
I have been trained in DBT, CBT, and ACT which allow me to help my clients with regulating emotions, correcting negative thinking patterns, and understanding their values system.
All of us have to deal with stress, pain, and change, and we all know that it's not easy. But I am a firm believer that having support and being equipped with processing tools can make all the difference. I would love to provide those resources to you and am currently accepting new clients! I have experience working with people of a wide range of ages and situations, but I specialize in working with teens and young adults.
I have been trained in DBT, CBT, and ACT which allow me to help my clients with regulating emotions, correcting negative thinking patterns, and understanding their values system.
All of us have to deal with stress, pain, and change, and we all know that it's not easy. But I am a firm believer that having support and being equipped with processing tools can make all the difference. I would love to provide those resources to you and am currently accepting new clients! I have experience working with people of a wide range of ages and situations, but I specialize in working with teens and young adults.
(385) 483-2381 View (385) 483-2381
Photo of Kristin Wu, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Wu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy.
In life, individuals encounter a multitude of challenges that may require more extensive support than what friends and family can offer. These challenges do not signify brokenness but rather the need for professional guidance and trust to navigate difficult times. Kristin, is here to collaborate with you, aiding in the discovery of your strengths and the development of new tools to overcome these obstacles.
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy.
In life, individuals encounter a multitude of challenges that may require more extensive support than what friends and family can offer. These challenges do not signify brokenness but rather the need for professional guidance and trust to navigate difficult times. Kristin, is here to collaborate with you, aiding in the discovery of your strengths and the development of new tools to overcome these obstacles.
(385) 304-4758 View (385) 304-4758
Photo of Chelsea Bowman Brinkerhoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Bowman Brinkerhoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
She has received training in EMDR, DBT, CBT, and Trauma-Focused CBT.
Chelsea is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who has a deep love and passion for working with children, teens, and families. She loves supporting them on their individual journeys toward growth and healing. Chelsea believes everyone has the ability within them to heal and building a secure attachment is an essential component of that process. Chelsea's favorite part of the therapeutic process is watching her clients love and own their stories. "Because true belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world, our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance." -Brene Br
She has received training in EMDR, DBT, CBT, and Trauma-Focused CBT.
Chelsea is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who has a deep love and passion for working with children, teens, and families. She loves supporting them on their individual journeys toward growth and healing. Chelsea believes everyone has the ability within them to heal and building a secure attachment is an essential component of that process. Chelsea's favorite part of the therapeutic process is watching her clients love and own their stories. "Because true belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world, our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance." -Brene Br
(385) 501-3351 View (385) 501-3351
Photo of Malinda (Lynn) Liddell, CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Malinda (Lynn) Liddell
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
I utilize comprehensive DBT, which means you will be supported not just in my office but throughout the week as well! I also use EMDR, which is helpful for healing from trauma and strengthening empowering beliefs.
Many out there are fighting unseen battles within their own emotions. If this is you, you are not alone! I specialize in working with complex trauma, personality disorders, intense emotions/emotional reactions, difficulty with interpersonal relationships, and dissociation/emotional numbness. Together, we will come to understand your experience with deep compassion and validation. We will also help you develop concrete skills and heal from life’s
I utilize comprehensive DBT, which means you will be supported not just in my office but throughout the week as well! I also use EMDR, which is helpful for healing from trauma and strengthening empowering beliefs.
Many out there are fighting unseen battles within their own emotions. If this is you, you are not alone! I specialize in working with complex trauma, personality disorders, intense emotions/emotional reactions, difficulty with interpersonal relationships, and dissociation/emotional numbness. Together, we will come to understand your experience with deep compassion and validation. We will also help you develop concrete skills and heal from life’s
(385) 786-6673 View (385) 786-6673
Photo of Holly Dixon, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Dixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
I also draw from DBT, CBT and IFS theories and utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy, which is an incredible tool (similar to EMDR) in healing from any kind of trauma or stressors that are negatively impacting your life.
Do you feel stuck or burned out? Are you or your child/teen struggling with anxiety or depression? Do you feel like you are drowning with the demands of life and can’t seem to keep your head above water? Or maybe you are experiencing a crisis in your life (infidelity, death, divorce), you feel blindsided & don’t even know where to begin. I can help. Utilizing a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach, I will meet you where you are, and help you to learn tools to cope more effectively with the stressors that you are experiencing.
I also draw from DBT, CBT and IFS theories and utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy, which is an incredible tool (similar to EMDR) in healing from any kind of trauma or stressors that are negatively impacting your life.
Do you feel stuck or burned out? Are you or your child/teen struggling with anxiety or depression? Do you feel like you are drowning with the demands of life and can’t seem to keep your head above water? Or maybe you are experiencing a crisis in your life (infidelity, death, divorce), you feel blindsided & don’t even know where to begin. I can help. Utilizing a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach, I will meet you where you are, and help you to learn tools to cope more effectively with the stressors that you are experiencing.
(385) 254-3522 View (385) 254-3522
Photo of Jordan Kent Harmon - Harmon Psychotherapy & Consulting, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harmon Psychotherapy & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
I've been intensively trained in many modalities, including ACT and EMDR and am board-certified in DBT.
Hello, my name is Jordan K. Harmon, and I am owner, clinical director, and practitioner at Harmon Psychotherapy & Consulting. I provide treatment for chronic suicidality and self-harm, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship struggles. If you are a parent of a teen or young adult with complex behavioral issues, you may feel that weekly individual and family therapy isn't enough. We offer an innovative, intensive family program at a level of care that reaches the family system in between outpatient and residential levels of care. Visit our website harmonpsychotherapy.com for more details.
I've been intensively trained in many modalities, including ACT and EMDR and am board-certified in DBT.
Hello, my name is Jordan K. Harmon, and I am owner, clinical director, and practitioner at Harmon Psychotherapy & Consulting. I provide treatment for chronic suicidality and self-harm, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship struggles. If you are a parent of a teen or young adult with complex behavioral issues, you may feel that weekly individual and family therapy isn't enough. We offer an innovative, intensive family program at a level of care that reaches the family system in between outpatient and residential levels of care. Visit our website harmonpsychotherapy.com for more details.
(801) 509-9542 View (801) 509-9542
Photo of Glory Herman, Glory H, MS, ACMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Glory Herman
Pre-Licensed Professional, Glory H, MS, ACMHC
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84097
She is also trained in other methods, including CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems and Narrative therapy.
Glory believes in the resilience of the human spirit and that the ability to unlock our own wisdom and healing lies within each of us. She strives to help her clients work through their challenges, using their strengths to build confidence and coping skills so they can overcome any difficulty they may be facing now and in the future.
She is also trained in other methods, including CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems and Narrative therapy.
Glory believes in the resilience of the human spirit and that the ability to unlock our own wisdom and healing lies within each of us. She strives to help her clients work through their challenges, using their strengths to build confidence and coping skills so they can overcome any difficulty they may be facing now and in the future.
(385) 485-6398 View (385) 485-6398
Photo of Savannah M Thurgood, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Savannah M Thurgood
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
Savannah Thurgood has experience in treating depression, BPD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. She uses a strengths based perspective with a mix of other practices such as DBT and CBT.
Savannah Thurgood has experience in treating depression, BPD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. She uses a strengths based perspective with a mix of other practices such as DBT and CBT.
(385) 526-7828 View (385) 526-7828
Photo of Brianna Holmes, ACMHC, NCC, Counselor
Brianna Holmes
Counselor, ACMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springville, UT 84663
As a trauma trained therapist, I implement a variety of treatment approaches including EMDR, EFT, CBT and DBT.
Adulthood can often bring with it generous amounts of conflict, confusion and difficulties. Navigating those challenges alone can seem overwhelming and often lead to a state of collapse and hopelessness. I'm here to remind you that help is available and hope is possible. I specialize in working with adults and couples who are experiencing a variety of issues including: trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and relationship conflict. I'm passionate about helping clients access their innate ability and capacity to thrive, manage life stressors and find joy and satisfaction in life.
As a trauma trained therapist, I implement a variety of treatment approaches including EMDR, EFT, CBT and DBT.
Adulthood can often bring with it generous amounts of conflict, confusion and difficulties. Navigating those challenges alone can seem overwhelming and often lead to a state of collapse and hopelessness. I'm here to remind you that help is available and hope is possible. I specialize in working with adults and couples who are experiencing a variety of issues including: trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and relationship conflict. I'm passionate about helping clients access their innate ability and capacity to thrive, manage life stressors and find joy and satisfaction in life.
(385) 600-7739 View (385) 600-7739
Photo of Tiffany Moss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Moss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84058
I regularly integrate CBT, DBT, ACT, IFS, and mindfulness.
Hello! I'm Tiffany. I try and approach therapy from the viewpoint that it is a collaboration. My aim is to help clients increase their self-awareness and self-regulation in order feel more peace in their daily lives. I have worked in a variety of settings so far in my career including the Utah State Hospital, Wasatch Behavioral Health, inpatient and outpatient settings for substance abuse, and private practice. I have helped clients navigate grief and loss, faith crises/transitions, relationship stressors, substance abuse, unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, and other persistent mental health conditions,
I regularly integrate CBT, DBT, ACT, IFS, and mindfulness.
Hello! I'm Tiffany. I try and approach therapy from the viewpoint that it is a collaboration. My aim is to help clients increase their self-awareness and self-regulation in order feel more peace in their daily lives. I have worked in a variety of settings so far in my career including the Utah State Hospital, Wasatch Behavioral Health, inpatient and outpatient settings for substance abuse, and private practice. I have helped clients navigate grief and loss, faith crises/transitions, relationship stressors, substance abuse, unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, and other persistent mental health conditions,
(385) 458-4969 View (385) 458-4969
Photo of Rebecca Kirschner, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Rebecca Kirschner
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043  (Online Only)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment, Self-Regulation and Competency (ARC), and Behaviorism.
When people experience life stressors, life changes, and/or trauma they often find themselves lost and looking for relief. My great passion is to provide healing and relief to the lost looking for therapeutic relief from trauma, depression and stress issues. I have been helping adults, adolescents and children from all walks of life find new, healthier expressions of themselves, to finally find a peaceful wholeness and fulfillment; to be empowered. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, children and adolescent's disorders, Anxiety and depression along with personality disorders. I emphasize mindfulness, emotion regulation, Distress Tolerance and interpersonal relationship skills
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment, Self-Regulation and Competency (ARC), and Behaviorism.
When people experience life stressors, life changes, and/or trauma they often find themselves lost and looking for relief. My great passion is to provide healing and relief to the lost looking for therapeutic relief from trauma, depression and stress issues. I have been helping adults, adolescents and children from all walks of life find new, healthier expressions of themselves, to finally find a peaceful wholeness and fulfillment; to be empowered. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, children and adolescent's disorders, Anxiety and depression along with personality disorders. I emphasize mindfulness, emotion regulation, Distress Tolerance and interpersonal relationship skills
(385) 316-6989 View (385) 316-6989
Photo of Kaitlin Thomas, LCMHC, Counselor
Kaitlin Thomas
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84058  (Online Only)
I am skilled in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Art and Play Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques.
I have a strong desire to help those who feel weighted down by anxiety, depression, and negative self-beliefs they may be carrying from various past experiences. I strive to assist clients in enhancing their strengths while clearing out burdens and issues from the past that are affecting their functioning in the present. I am passionate about helping clients understand the dimensions of anxiety and depression and why they occur, which can help clients decrease and manage these issues.
I am skilled in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Art and Play Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques.
I have a strong desire to help those who feel weighted down by anxiety, depression, and negative self-beliefs they may be carrying from various past experiences. I strive to assist clients in enhancing their strengths while clearing out burdens and issues from the past that are affecting their functioning in the present. I am passionate about helping clients understand the dimensions of anxiety and depression and why they occur, which can help clients decrease and manage these issues.
(801) 889-2446 View (801) 889-2446
Photo of Chelsea Griffin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
I am master trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and utilize CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness approaches.
Do you ever feel hopeless or alone? Like it's all you can do to just get through the day? I know that life can be messy, stressful, and exhausting. Together, you and I will face the challenges that life has presented and give you an opportunity to catch your breath. Together, we will create a therapeutic environment where you can process your emotions, learn coping skills, and develop confidence in your ability to navigate life’s challenges.
I am master trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and utilize CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness approaches.
Do you ever feel hopeless or alone? Like it's all you can do to just get through the day? I know that life can be messy, stressful, and exhausting. Together, you and I will face the challenges that life has presented and give you an opportunity to catch your breath. Together, we will create a therapeutic environment where you can process your emotions, learn coping skills, and develop confidence in your ability to navigate life’s challenges.
(801) 877-0677 View (801) 877-0677
Photo of Jay Hafen, CMHC, MS, Counselor
Jay Hafen
Counselor, CMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have certified training in CBT, DBT, and EFT.
Personal, safe, and confidential individual and couples counseling, focusing on alleviating the pain caused by depression and anxiety.
I have certified training in CBT, DBT, and EFT.
Personal, safe, and confidential individual and couples counseling, focusing on alleviating the pain caused by depression and anxiety.
(385) 217-8523 View (385) 217-8523
Photo of Lauren Carah Christensen, CMHC, Counselor
Lauren Carah Christensen
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
Lindon, UT 84042
Waitlist for new clients
I also use TF-CBT, play therapy, DBT, CBT, MI to help overcome.
Asking for help is tough whether it is for you or someone you love, but it can be worth it. I have been a therapist for over 10 + years, and hope I can help you find some relief. I specialize in all types of traumas both “Little t” and “Big T” traumas (i.e. family or origins, bullying, chronic health, divorce, adjustment issues, life change, to all types of abuse and harm), PTSD, depression, addiction, and anxiety. I work with individuals, families, couples, the LGTBQIA+ community, first responders/military, and ages 4-76+ years old. As your therapist, therapy, we can do worth together to grow and heal.
I also use TF-CBT, play therapy, DBT, CBT, MI to help overcome.
Asking for help is tough whether it is for you or someone you love, but it can be worth it. I have been a therapist for over 10 + years, and hope I can help you find some relief. I specialize in all types of traumas both “Little t” and “Big T” traumas (i.e. family or origins, bullying, chronic health, divorce, adjustment issues, life change, to all types of abuse and harm), PTSD, depression, addiction, and anxiety. I work with individuals, families, couples, the LGTBQIA+ community, first responders/military, and ages 4-76+ years old. As your therapist, therapy, we can do worth together to grow and heal.
(385) 417-6762 View (385) 417-6762
Photo of Stephanie Nixon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Nixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
My primary practices include EMDR, CBT, Gottman method and DBT.
I am interested in helping my clients achieve their goals of better mental and emotional health. I enjoy the process of exploring barriers to change, teaching concepts and skills, and helping my clients move towards healing and growth. I am a graduate of Brigham Young University Master of Social Work program and am EMDR trained.
My primary practices include EMDR, CBT, Gottman method and DBT.
I am interested in helping my clients achieve their goals of better mental and emotional health. I enjoy the process of exploring barriers to change, teaching concepts and skills, and helping my clients move towards healing and growth. I am a graduate of Brigham Young University Master of Social Work program and am EMDR trained.
(801) 447-1966 View (801) 447-1966
Photo of Gerard Habonimana, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gerard Habonimana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84604
I utilize several approaches, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness practice.
Due to my unique life history and experiences, I have a tremendous passion for mental health. As a native of East Africa, I have experienced hardships that enable me to develop compassion and empathy for others' life struggles. I’m passionate about helping individuals and seeing them grow. My approach to Therapy is client-centered, and filled with kindness and understanding. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment to share your concern and thoughts.
I utilize several approaches, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness practice.
Due to my unique life history and experiences, I have a tremendous passion for mental health. As a native of East Africa, I have experienced hardships that enable me to develop compassion and empathy for others' life struggles. I’m passionate about helping individuals and seeing them grow. My approach to Therapy is client-centered, and filled with kindness and understanding. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment to share your concern and thoughts.
(385) 217-2867 View (385) 217-2867
Photo of Cassie Brown - Cassie Brown, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassie Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
I use attachment based therapy and motivational interviewing as well as skills from CBT and DBT.
Each of us have beliefs and experiences that impact our ability to form meaningful relationships, accomplish goals, or accept ourselves. My hope is to help the individuals, couples and families I work with challenge these negative beliefs and guide them in using skills to develop a stronger sense of self and more stable relationships. Over the past decade I have specifically worked with adolescents, young adults and their families. I love this stage of life, the change that can take place is amazing if given the right tools. Balancing independence and connection for individuals and family is one of my main goals in therapy.
I use attachment based therapy and motivational interviewing as well as skills from CBT and DBT.
Each of us have beliefs and experiences that impact our ability to form meaningful relationships, accomplish goals, or accept ourselves. My hope is to help the individuals, couples and families I work with challenge these negative beliefs and guide them in using skills to develop a stronger sense of self and more stable relationships. Over the past decade I have specifically worked with adolescents, young adults and their families. I love this stage of life, the change that can take place is amazing if given the right tools. Balancing independence and connection for individuals and family is one of my main goals in therapy.
(385) 213-2176 View (385) 213-2176
Photo of Lauren Vincent, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Vincent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
In my practice, I use an integrated method and draw upon evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques.
As a clinical social worker specializing in mental health, I have had the privilege of working with individuals facing a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. My mission is to assist clients in their pursuit of emotional well-being and personal growth. I am guided by empathy, compassion, and a collaborative approach to therapy and aim to empower, promote self-awareness, and build resilience.
In my practice, I use an integrated method and draw upon evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques.
As a clinical social worker specializing in mental health, I have had the privilege of working with individuals facing a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. My mission is to assist clients in their pursuit of emotional well-being and personal growth. I am guided by empathy, compassion, and a collaborative approach to therapy and aim to empower, promote self-awareness, and build resilience.
(385) 332-8351 View (385) 332-8351

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.