Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Haymarket, VA
Acadian Health Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
We provide trauma care, play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, child behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, substance abuse counseling, motivational interviewing, LGBTQ community support, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR services and more.
We are dedicated to providing excellence with the highest quality mental health professionals. Each of our providers have specialized in distinct areas of care and provide unique forms of evidenced based techniques. This offers you variety and enables us to tailor to your specific needs. We believe in a multidisciplinary approach to mental health which involves Licensed Professional Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Psychologists, Social Workers and Acupuncturist.
We provide trauma care, play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, child behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, substance abuse counseling, motivational interviewing, LGBTQ community support, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR services and more.
We are dedicated to providing excellence with the highest quality mental health professionals. Each of our providers have specialized in distinct areas of care and provide unique forms of evidenced based techniques. This offers you variety and enables us to tailor to your specific needs. We believe in a multidisciplinary approach to mental health which involves Licensed Professional Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Psychologists, Social Workers and Acupuncturist.
![Photo of Tiera Williams, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d73b82-43b3-457e-bb1a-decf8669aa61/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I am Dr. Tiera Williams, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a doctorate degree in community and care counseling who has provided mental health services to individuals and families for over 13 years. I specialize in helping manage issues of depression, anxiety, women issues, anger management, self-esteem, behavior issues, ADHD, adjustment/military, and trauma through a safe and supportive environment. My therapy approach is individualized and consists of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy , Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to address challenging issues.
Hello, I am Dr. Tiera Williams, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a doctorate degree in community and care counseling who has provided mental health services to individuals and families for over 13 years. I specialize in helping manage issues of depression, anxiety, women issues, anger management, self-esteem, behavior issues, ADHD, adjustment/military, and trauma through a safe and supportive environment. My therapy approach is individualized and consists of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy , Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to address challenging issues.
![Photo of Parnia Samimi, MS, RC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e85c50f3-a65b-455c-8fbb-48f1723bebaf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I can help by using CBT/cognitive behavior therapy/reframing and DBT.
My clientele consists of individuals from ages 14 and up. Which includes couple therapy as well. I work with clients who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Substance Abuse and Addiction, Trauma, Self-esteem, Self-harm, Social and Communication Skills, Anger Management, communication/relationship, and eating disorders.
I can help by using CBT/cognitive behavior therapy/reframing and DBT.
My clientele consists of individuals from ages 14 and up. Which includes couple therapy as well. I work with clients who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Substance Abuse and Addiction, Trauma, Self-esteem, Self-harm, Social and Communication Skills, Anger Management, communication/relationship, and eating disorders.
![Photo of Victoria (Tori) Palmer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a01c8fe-074f-48f0-bcd5-a1333cf0d675/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria (Tori) Palmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haymarket, VA 20169
Waitlist for new clients
I have received advanced training in several evidence-based therapies including; Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Based Treatment, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy , Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Motivational interviewing.
I strongly believe that no one should ever have to walk alone in struggling with life’s obstacles and challenges. In therapy, I aim to work with you in collaboration to address your concerns in a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment. I am certain that all humans have unique strengths and that once we tap into the identified strengths, we are able to open the door to healing and to build a life worth living. I specialize in the treatment of Eating Disorders, as my passion is to assist individuals and families heal their relationship with their body and mind.
I have received advanced training in several evidence-based therapies including; Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Based Treatment, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy , Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Motivational interviewing.
I strongly believe that no one should ever have to walk alone in struggling with life’s obstacles and challenges. In therapy, I aim to work with you in collaboration to address your concerns in a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment. I am certain that all humans have unique strengths and that once we tap into the identified strengths, we are able to open the door to healing and to build a life worth living. I specialize in the treatment of Eating Disorders, as my passion is to assist individuals and families heal their relationship with their body and mind.
![Photo of Ruth Young, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ea8ba63-5119-471c-a7cc-177b9f5a9139/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Ritchie Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been practicing for the past 30 years in the therapeutic profession. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Masters in Social Work. Ruth's approach to your mental wellness is individualized to include several evidenced based approaches. Her main areas of focus include CBT, DBT, Insight, family systems and EMDR. In her spare time, she is an avid reader, enjoys kayaking around NOVA waterways, and spending time with family.
Ruth Ritchie Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been practicing for the past 30 years in the therapeutic profession. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Masters in Social Work. Ruth's approach to your mental wellness is individualized to include several evidenced based approaches. Her main areas of focus include CBT, DBT, Insight, family systems and EMDR. In her spare time, she is an avid reader, enjoys kayaking around NOVA waterways, and spending time with family.
![Photo of Deborah Vara - Anxiety and Trauma Recovery Therapist Deborah Vara, MA, LPC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05193e32-bf7e-4d6a-a2db-b6cff1b72cb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety and Trauma Recovery Therapist Deborah Vara
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
Clients come to me looking for a therapist who treats anxiety and trauma using various methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR and Exposure, because therapy should be a place where you feel safe and heard.
Do you find yourself broken, uncertain with your future and how to heal from your trauma? You second guess your relationships, and have difficulty trusting others? You want to appear like you have it all together, but you are struggling to feel purpose, and life full of peace and happiness. You may be fed up with the inability to move forward from traumatic events, feeling alone or not enough. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to get unstuck and challenge yourself. Most of all, you’re ready to gain acceptance, confidence and peace.
Clients come to me looking for a therapist who treats anxiety and trauma using various methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR and Exposure, because therapy should be a place where you feel safe and heard.
Do you find yourself broken, uncertain with your future and how to heal from your trauma? You second guess your relationships, and have difficulty trusting others? You want to appear like you have it all together, but you are struggling to feel purpose, and life full of peace and happiness. You may be fed up with the inability to move forward from traumatic events, feeling alone or not enough. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to get unstuck and challenge yourself. Most of all, you’re ready to gain acceptance, confidence and peace.
![Photo of Alicia Ayvas - Clarity Counseling, LLC, MSSW, LCSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41cb18dc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clarity Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
Our therapists on staff hold certifications in therapies like DBT, RODBT, CBT, FBT, CPT, EMDR, and our founder is a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist.
Clarity Counseling is an outpatient treatment center that commits to providing quality treatment to individuals, families and groups in the Northern Virginia and Richmond area. Clarity specializes in providing comprehensive and evidenced-based treatment for eating disorder recovery and specialized therapies for mental illness. Clarity offers a unique experience where therapists collaborate with the individual and treatment professionals to offer a clear path, free from distortion. Committed to offering quality care, Clarity values working together with their client toward a fuller life that has balance, hope, and a full recovery.
Our therapists on staff hold certifications in therapies like DBT, RODBT, CBT, FBT, CPT, EMDR, and our founder is a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist.
Clarity Counseling is an outpatient treatment center that commits to providing quality treatment to individuals, families and groups in the Northern Virginia and Richmond area. Clarity specializes in providing comprehensive and evidenced-based treatment for eating disorder recovery and specialized therapies for mental illness. Clarity offers a unique experience where therapists collaborate with the individual and treatment professionals to offer a clear path, free from distortion. Committed to offering quality care, Clarity values working together with their client toward a fuller life that has balance, hope, and a full recovery.
![Photo of Daniel Kneip, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a475fbec-1b94-4a52-aed9-22132bcb7462/1/320x400.jpeg)
CBT, DBT, Positive Psychology, Solution-Focused, Trauma-Informed, etc.
Dan has over 15 years of experience working with a diverse and inclusive variety of individuals (adults, teenagers and children 10+) and families. Dan attempts to approach treatment holistically and believes in addressing the whole person/family system. Dan's therapeutic style could best be described as casual & personal vs. clinical & 'stuffy'; motivational vs. directive.
CBT, DBT, Positive Psychology, Solution-Focused, Trauma-Informed, etc.
Dan has over 15 years of experience working with a diverse and inclusive variety of individuals (adults, teenagers and children 10+) and families. Dan attempts to approach treatment holistically and believes in addressing the whole person/family system. Dan's therapeutic style could best be described as casual & personal vs. clinical & 'stuffy'; motivational vs. directive.
![Photo of Sunny Park, MAC, LRC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57918271-439f-4bcf-8656-044361d2291e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sunny employs a varied approach to her clinical care using CBT, DBT, Gestalt therapy, Existential therapy, Person Centered therapy and Play therapy.
Sunny Park is a Resident in Counseling in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Arts in Counseling. Sunny sees counseling as a collaborative partnering that encourages and empowers clients to identify unhealthy patterns, and grow in awareness towards healthy changes integrating boundaries, mindfulness and self-care. Sunny is client lead and works with her clients to create a personalized treatment with a holistic approach towards healthier mind, body and soul.
Sunny employs a varied approach to her clinical care using CBT, DBT, Gestalt therapy, Existential therapy, Person Centered therapy and Play therapy.
Sunny Park is a Resident in Counseling in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Arts in Counseling. Sunny sees counseling as a collaborative partnering that encourages and empowers clients to identify unhealthy patterns, and grow in awareness towards healthy changes integrating boundaries, mindfulness and self-care. Sunny is client lead and works with her clients to create a personalized treatment with a holistic approach towards healthier mind, body and soul.
![Photo of Desire Petrin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0288671-daea-4786-a163-5a684911fc36/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work mainly with motivated professionals aged 28-45 (but accept clients 16+) who face the challenges of anxiety symptoms, ADHD symptoms, feeling stuck in their lives, and the lingering impact of family, childhood, or military trauma. Through a comprehensive approach that integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, cognitive reframing, and mindfulness techniques,
I work mainly with motivated professionals aged 28-45 (but accept clients 16+) who face the challenges of anxiety symptoms, ADHD symptoms, feeling stuck in their lives, and the lingering impact of family, childhood, or military trauma. Through a comprehensive approach that integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, cognitive reframing, and mindfulness techniques,
![Photo of Monica Cavalcante, MSW, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4885528-0186-47a7-b0ac-d26c11afaff6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maybe there is a part of you that believes nothing can help anymore. Maybe another part that feels hopeless, tired of trying. Perhaps you are searching for a therapist right now hoping this could be the help you need. While I can’t heal your wounds or take away your pain, anxiety, or depression, I can perhaps help you understand why they are there in the first place. Together, we can explore why you feel the way you do, and why you behave the way you do. Therapy is a unique journey, one only you can choose to embark on, a gift only you can give yourself—so why not give it a chance?
Maybe there is a part of you that believes nothing can help anymore. Maybe another part that feels hopeless, tired of trying. Perhaps you are searching for a therapist right now hoping this could be the help you need. While I can’t heal your wounds or take away your pain, anxiety, or depression, I can perhaps help you understand why they are there in the first place. Together, we can explore why you feel the way you do, and why you behave the way you do. Therapy is a unique journey, one only you can choose to embark on, a gift only you can give yourself—so why not give it a chance?
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![Photo of Hoang Oanh (Wong Wang) Rodgers - LifeLine Psychotherapy Services, LMFT, LPC, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ec30ec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
LifeLine Psychotherapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Haymarket, VA 20169 (Online Only)
All relationships have ups and downs. Things can get a bit stuck & it’s hard to find a positive solution. Help from a skilled relationship therapist can make all the difference. Whether you are feeling things just aren’t quite right or whether you are encountering serious difficulties, I am are here to support you. People are genuinely surprised when we start working together. Some come in feeling nervous, apprehensive, & even doubtful but once we have met a few times & changes happen, they begin to relax & enjoy the process of healing their relat., rebuild their foundation, communicate more effectively, and resolve stuck issues.
All relationships have ups and downs. Things can get a bit stuck & it’s hard to find a positive solution. Help from a skilled relationship therapist can make all the difference. Whether you are feeling things just aren’t quite right or whether you are encountering serious difficulties, I am are here to support you. People are genuinely surprised when we start working together. Some come in feeling nervous, apprehensive, & even doubtful but once we have met a few times & changes happen, they begin to relax & enjoy the process of healing their relat., rebuild their foundation, communicate more effectively, and resolve stuck issues.
![Photo of Tori Leigh Thomason, MDiv, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/000d9444-6ded-411e-8f85-23b0c8b9c9bd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tori Leigh Thomason
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
As a Biblical Counselor, my goal is to help bridge the gap between the suffering of life's circumstances and the goodness, love, majesty, and sovereignty of God. I am passionate about helping others focus on setting goals, creating positive outcomes, and managing personal growth in their own lives. I enjoy incorporating God’s Word to enable change to seep through the lives of others by reading, meditating, seeking prayer, and pursuing Biblical truth persevering in whatever circumstances or season of life you might be in.
As a Biblical Counselor, my goal is to help bridge the gap between the suffering of life's circumstances and the goodness, love, majesty, and sovereignty of God. I am passionate about helping others focus on setting goals, creating positive outcomes, and managing personal growth in their own lives. I enjoy incorporating God’s Word to enable change to seep through the lives of others by reading, meditating, seeking prayer, and pursuing Biblical truth persevering in whatever circumstances or season of life you might be in.
![Photo of Rebecca Cottle-Makhene, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CATP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40dd58db-3980-4adc-98ca-8f8243de88c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Cottle-Makhene
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
My goal is to meet clients where they are and take them where they want to be. My varied experiences allows me to utilize differing psychotherapy techniques based on what the client needs. I have a focus on trauma related issues and victim advocacy. I believe that by empowering clients with resilience and helping them to find their strength they can use those tools no matter what adversities they may face. My clinical expertise encompasses a range of problems, including mood and anxiety disorders, child and parental adjustment to divorce, child and adolescent behavior management problems, social skills, and parenting.
My goal is to meet clients where they are and take them where they want to be. My varied experiences allows me to utilize differing psychotherapy techniques based on what the client needs. I have a focus on trauma related issues and victim advocacy. I believe that by empowering clients with resilience and helping them to find their strength they can use those tools no matter what adversities they may face. My clinical expertise encompasses a range of problems, including mood and anxiety disorders, child and parental adjustment to divorce, child and adolescent behavior management problems, social skills, and parenting.
![Photo of Ruth Ritchie Young, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42ab2270-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Ritchie Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haymarket, VA 20169 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We all need support at times in our lives. Are your kids struggling? Is your sex life lacking? Is your relationship missing connection? Are you carrying around pain and trauma? Addiction? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Do you just want to be heard? As a therapist, I will work with you to help identify, address and fortify healthy skills to make positive transformations in your life. I have over 25 years' experience in the helping professions and look forward to the opportunity to meet with you. Its important to take care of ourselves- Call today to take that step towards change.
We all need support at times in our lives. Are your kids struggling? Is your sex life lacking? Is your relationship missing connection? Are you carrying around pain and trauma? Addiction? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Do you just want to be heard? As a therapist, I will work with you to help identify, address and fortify healthy skills to make positive transformations in your life. I have over 25 years' experience in the helping professions and look forward to the opportunity to meet with you. Its important to take care of ourselves- Call today to take that step towards change.
![Photo of Heidi Graybill, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b9a4e7d-d845-4d1d-848b-7b140feb64a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Graybill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Haymarket, VA 20169
Waitlist for new clients
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
![Photo of Jonathan Brandonisio, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a58e558-df0a-4a80-9b02-7d068614e012/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a mental health therapist who helps people live more fulfilling lives. I help the people I serve to restore the things in life that are not going the way they were hoping or expecting. My guiding principles in therapy are respect, authenticity, and optimism. These beliefs create a compassionate and hopeful space for growth, even for those hesitant about therapy. My form of therapy helps people to transform a chaotic life into one that is serene and enjoyable.
I am a mental health therapist who helps people live more fulfilling lives. I help the people I serve to restore the things in life that are not going the way they were hoping or expecting. My guiding principles in therapy are respect, authenticity, and optimism. These beliefs create a compassionate and hopeful space for growth, even for those hesitant about therapy. My form of therapy helps people to transform a chaotic life into one that is serene and enjoyable.
![Photo of Kiley Nicholson, BS, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d953d8c-42db-4927-bd61-b9be1577e023/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi everyone! I am a counseling intern working in my Masters's program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have a passion for helping those who have presenting issues in mental health including but not limited to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, attention issues, and trauma. I am excited to start assisting those in need. I have a passion for integrating my relationship with God and I hope to be able to bring that passion to those I work with.
Hi everyone! I am a counseling intern working in my Masters's program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have a passion for helping those who have presenting issues in mental health including but not limited to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, attention issues, and trauma. I am excited to start assisting those in need. I have a passion for integrating my relationship with God and I hope to be able to bring that passion to those I work with.
![Photo of Catherine Baker - Youth For Tomorrow, LCSW, RPTS, CTP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f80b7394-ca74-41cb-9ca9-ad42c157612c/1/320x400.jpeg)
We serve children, adolescents, adults and families with a wide variety of issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety and panic symptoms, post-traumatic stress, anger issues, obsessive-compulsive issues, grief and loss, self-harm, issues related to attachment, co-occurring disorders, aggression, attention deficits and other behavioral concerns, as well as familial and relational issues.
We serve children, adolescents, adults and families with a wide variety of issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety and panic symptoms, post-traumatic stress, anger issues, obsessive-compulsive issues, grief and loss, self-harm, issues related to attachment, co-occurring disorders, aggression, attention deficits and other behavioral concerns, as well as familial and relational issues.
![Photo of Elayne Smith - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ae8bf4b-4177-4bcb-b10b-d11eaac5a259/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
See more therapy options for Haymarket
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for Haymarket
- Aldie
- Arcola
- Bristow
- Broad Run
- Centreville
- Dumfries
- Gainesville
- Manassas
- Middleburg
- South Riding
- Stone Ridge
- Sudley Springs
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.