Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Oakton, VA

Joan Rockwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Other treatment modalities include psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR, DBT, Imago Relationship Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I have experience treating a broad range of issues including depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues, life transition issues, work-related issues, stress management, self-esteem issues. I also work with co-occurring disorders and with couples who are struggling in their relationships due to addictive behaviors. When indicated, I work collaboratively with other therapists to maximize therapeutic benefits.
Other treatment modalities include psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR, DBT, Imago Relationship Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I have experience treating a broad range of issues including depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues, life transition issues, work-related issues, stress management, self-esteem issues. I also work with co-occurring disorders and with couples who are struggling in their relationships due to addictive behaviors. When indicated, I work collaboratively with other therapists to maximize therapeutic benefits.
(540) 908-3815 View (540) 908-3815
Photo of Bridget Kanz, CP, Psychologist
Bridget Kanz
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
However, my current work tends to be heavily influenced by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR as well.
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
However, my current work tends to be heavily influenced by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR as well.
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
(571) 605-6421 View (571) 605-6421
Photo of Seth Rumbley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seth Rumbley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Do you find yourself feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Is your child experiencing behavioral issues? Everyone needs additional support from time to time to deal with life's challenges. I view clients as experts of their own experiences and take a collaborative approach to counseling. Working together, we can develop the tools and insights needed to achieve your therapeutic goals. In addition to this person-centered approach, I utilize solutions-focused, acceptance and commitment (ACT), cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavioral ( DBT) therapeutic modalities and mindfulness tools based on clients' needs.
Do you find yourself feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Is your child experiencing behavioral issues? Everyone needs additional support from time to time to deal with life's challenges. I view clients as experts of their own experiences and take a collaborative approach to counseling. Working together, we can develop the tools and insights needed to achieve your therapeutic goals. In addition to this person-centered approach, I utilize solutions-focused, acceptance and commitment (ACT), cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavioral ( DBT) therapeutic modalities and mindfulness tools based on clients' needs.
(571) 444-8871 x14 View (571) 444-8871 x14
Photo of Meredith Kerley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Kerley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
In addition to providing individual therapy, Meredith offers an adolescent DBT skills group.
Meredith Kerley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of both adolescents and adults in individual and group therapy. As a therapist, Meredith builds upon each individual's strengths and uniqueness. She works collaboratively with clients to discuss their concerns and assist them in gaining greater insight and clarity of mind. Meredith provides a confidential, warm, and safe environment in which clients can explore past and current issues, weigh their options, and change longstanding counterproductive behaviors. She believes that it is through this work that clients are able to live more authentic lives and experience more fulfilling relationships.
In addition to providing individual therapy, Meredith offers an adolescent DBT skills group.
Meredith Kerley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of both adolescents and adults in individual and group therapy. As a therapist, Meredith builds upon each individual's strengths and uniqueness. She works collaboratively with clients to discuss their concerns and assist them in gaining greater insight and clarity of mind. Meredith provides a confidential, warm, and safe environment in which clients can explore past and current issues, weigh their options, and change longstanding counterproductive behaviors. She believes that it is through this work that clients are able to live more authentic lives and experience more fulfilling relationships.
(703) 591-5912 x5 View (703) 591-5912 x5
Photo of Lauren K. Nickum, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren K. Nickum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you find the root causes of your negative thinking as well as Motivation Enhancement therapy to help you make life changes and DBT and mindfulness skills for coping.
I understand that it can be hard to reach out for help, and I am here to listen without judgement and help you move forward. I have over 10 years of experience helping adults and adolescents work thought their struggles with a variety of life issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, life stress, relationship issues, substance use, early recovery from addiction, and life transitions such as separation and divorce, family stress, relationship challenges, and work stress.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you find the root causes of your negative thinking as well as Motivation Enhancement therapy to help you make life changes and DBT and mindfulness skills for coping.
I understand that it can be hard to reach out for help, and I am here to listen without judgement and help you move forward. I have over 10 years of experience helping adults and adolescents work thought their struggles with a variety of life issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, life stress, relationship issues, substance use, early recovery from addiction, and life transitions such as separation and divorce, family stress, relationship challenges, and work stress.
(571) 297-1844 View (571) 297-1844
Photo of Intakeindia Walsh - Simply Mindful Solutions, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simply Mindful Solutions, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22185
Our team is a group experienced working with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing CBT, TF-CBT (Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy), DBT, BFRB, EMDR, Family Focused, Internal Family Systems, Play Therapy and Sandtray Therapy.
At Simply Mindful Solutions, we believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship. When someone chooses to walk in the door to begin their healing journey, it’s an honor that their trust has been placed in us to begin that journey with them. Our combined experience includes working with clients on a variety of issues to include domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, ADHD, Autism, foster care/adoption and depression.
Our team is a group experienced working with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing CBT, TF-CBT (Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy), DBT, BFRB, EMDR, Family Focused, Internal Family Systems, Play Therapy and Sandtray Therapy.
At Simply Mindful Solutions, we believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship. When someone chooses to walk in the door to begin their healing journey, it’s an honor that their trust has been placed in us to begin that journey with them. Our combined experience includes working with clients on a variety of issues to include domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, ADHD, Autism, foster care/adoption and depression.
(571) 339-3119 View (571) 339-3119
Photo of Jennifer Watts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
Finding balance in the lives we lead is essential to leading healthy lives. Sometimes in the everyday stress of daily life, it's difficult to find that balance. As a therapist, I work with clients to help them find the best treatment plan for their individual problems. In my experience, a collaborative approach works best for most treatment plans. My approach utilizes mostly Narrative therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Solution-focused therapy, with a Trauma centered approach, and most of the treatment plans I collaborate with include psychosocial education and some lifestyle changes.
Finding balance in the lives we lead is essential to leading healthy lives. Sometimes in the everyday stress of daily life, it's difficult to find that balance. As a therapist, I work with clients to help them find the best treatment plan for their individual problems. In my experience, a collaborative approach works best for most treatment plans. My approach utilizes mostly Narrative therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Solution-focused therapy, with a Trauma centered approach, and most of the treatment plans I collaborate with include psychosocial education and some lifestyle changes.
(540) 787-2497 View (540) 787-2497
Photo of Tyeasha Williams-Powell, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tyeasha Williams-Powell
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
She utilizes techniques from CBT, DBT, SFBT, and Gestalt.
Tyeasha is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and National Board Certified Counselor practicing in Chesterfield County and the surrounding localities with over 20 years experience in mental health. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the International Association of Trauma Professionals, and the National Association for Addiction Professionals. Her goal as a Clinician is to support individuals in the developing and strengthening of coping skills and daily overall daily functioning. Tyeasha provides individual and group counseling services.
She utilizes techniques from CBT, DBT, SFBT, and Gestalt.
Tyeasha is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and National Board Certified Counselor practicing in Chesterfield County and the surrounding localities with over 20 years experience in mental health. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the International Association of Trauma Professionals, and the National Association for Addiction Professionals. Her goal as a Clinician is to support individuals in the developing and strengthening of coping skills and daily overall daily functioning. Tyeasha provides individual and group counseling services.
(757) 703-3991 View (757) 703-3991
Photo of Trasie Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trasie Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
License Independent Clinical Social Worker, in Washington State (2013), California (2019) and Virginia (2020) to present. 30 years of social work experience. I can help with with Child& Family Services, drugs treatment and recovery, 12 steps and inpatient treatment from a Christian view. Family Dynamics, and high-risk relationships, with high-risk families. I worked as a Military Family Life Consultant (MFLC), also I provided services as a VA therapist and social worker. I am certified as a YWCA, Domestic Violence, counselor. I use many modalities including Mindfulness, DBT, CBT, PTSD, combat PTSD.
License Independent Clinical Social Worker, in Washington State (2013), California (2019) and Virginia (2020) to present. 30 years of social work experience. I can help with with Child& Family Services, drugs treatment and recovery, 12 steps and inpatient treatment from a Christian view. Family Dynamics, and high-risk relationships, with high-risk families. I worked as a Military Family Life Consultant (MFLC), also I provided services as a VA therapist and social worker. I am certified as a YWCA, Domestic Violence, counselor. I use many modalities including Mindfulness, DBT, CBT, PTSD, combat PTSD.
(571) 240-4014 View (571) 240-4014
Photo of E Ashley Steelman, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
E Ashley Steelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
I am enthusiastic about helping people become the best versions of themselves. My passion is helping clients struggling with eating disorders, trauma, and common co-occurring mood disorders. As a Clinical Director, Program Manager, and Therapist at various facilities I am comfortable speaking with individuals, family systems, and community groups (Educators and PTAs) about eating disorder presentation and. treatment I am able to assess level of care needs as well as provide recommendations and support to clients and families struggling in the face of an eating disorder.
I am enthusiastic about helping people become the best versions of themselves. My passion is helping clients struggling with eating disorders, trauma, and common co-occurring mood disorders. As a Clinical Director, Program Manager, and Therapist at various facilities I am comfortable speaking with individuals, family systems, and community groups (Educators and PTAs) about eating disorder presentation and. treatment I am able to assess level of care needs as well as provide recommendations and support to clients and families struggling in the face of an eating disorder.
(571) 450-9268 View (571) 450-9268
Photo of Betty J Crane, JD, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Betty J Crane
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Are you experiencing lies, abuse, and disrespect in your home or family or even at work? The early promises of life might now seem illusory, and you feel trapped under a mountain of shame, regret, anger, self-recrimination, and confusion. You're paralyzed by not knowing what to do, or perhaps, how to do it. You imagine your desired freedom or empowerment will negatively affect those you love. It's as if you are a fading shadow of who you once thought yourself to be and fear that someday, your shadow will be blotted out entirely. Your children, relatives, friends, neighbors, and co-workers have no idea of your desperation.
Are you experiencing lies, abuse, and disrespect in your home or family or even at work? The early promises of life might now seem illusory, and you feel trapped under a mountain of shame, regret, anger, self-recrimination, and confusion. You're paralyzed by not knowing what to do, or perhaps, how to do it. You imagine your desired freedom or empowerment will negatively affect those you love. It's as if you are a fading shadow of who you once thought yourself to be and fear that someday, your shadow will be blotted out entirely. Your children, relatives, friends, neighbors, and co-workers have no idea of your desperation.
(571) 605-6097 View (571) 605-6097
Photo of Aurora Klyne, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aurora Klyne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124
Welcome! My name is Aurora Klyne and I am a Resident in Counseling. I am passionate about supporting clients in overcoming obstacles and achieving personal growth. I provide a collaborative environment where clients can explore stressors and find effective solutions. I have worked with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, and low self-esteem. I also have experience working with people who have intellectual disabilities and people who have an identity within the LGBTQIA+ community. My therapy style is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to allow for clients to share their thoughts and feelings.
Welcome! My name is Aurora Klyne and I am a Resident in Counseling. I am passionate about supporting clients in overcoming obstacles and achieving personal growth. I provide a collaborative environment where clients can explore stressors and find effective solutions. I have worked with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, and low self-esteem. I also have experience working with people who have intellectual disabilities and people who have an identity within the LGBTQIA+ community. My therapy style is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to allow for clients to share their thoughts and feelings.
(571) 586-9971 View (571) 586-9971
Photo of Olga Zurita - Olga Zurita, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olga Zurita, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients in Virginia for telehealth therapy. I help women who struggle with traumatic past, life transitions and daily stressors to be the best version of themselves and to start living a more productive and fulfilling life. My goal is to help you reconnect with what you want for yourself rather than what others want for you. We will focus on your strengths as we work together, so that you can start seeking validation from within yourself rather than from those around you. We will partner to create a life where you feel strong, independent and equipped to handle life stressors on your own.
Currently accepting new clients in Virginia for telehealth therapy. I help women who struggle with traumatic past, life transitions and daily stressors to be the best version of themselves and to start living a more productive and fulfilling life. My goal is to help you reconnect with what you want for yourself rather than what others want for you. We will focus on your strengths as we work together, so that you can start seeking validation from within yourself rather than from those around you. We will partner to create a life where you feel strong, independent and equipped to handle life stressors on your own.
(703) 239-3737 View (703) 239-3737
Photo of Shannon Paige, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Paige
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Finding someone to share your experiences with, whom you can trust is an important step in your journey. I believe challenging times and experiences offer you the greatest potential to create the life you have wanted and dreamt of. While reaching out for help is often the first and most difficult steps to initiating change in our lives and moving toward wholeness, I am so glad that you are here! I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of struggles including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, relationship issues, grief and loss, career challenges, marital problems, trauma, secuality, PTSD and personality disorders.
Finding someone to share your experiences with, whom you can trust is an important step in your journey. I believe challenging times and experiences offer you the greatest potential to create the life you have wanted and dreamt of. While reaching out for help is often the first and most difficult steps to initiating change in our lives and moving toward wholeness, I am so glad that you are here! I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of struggles including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, relationship issues, grief and loss, career challenges, marital problems, trauma, secuality, PTSD and personality disorders.
(804) 391-0677 View (804) 391-0677
Photo of Stefania Gheorghiu - Northern Virginia Couples Counseling, LLC, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Northern Virginia Couples Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Stefania Gheorghiu, I run a hybrid practice providing both virtual appointments (week days only) and in-person sessions at my Reston office on Saturdays. My clients are self-motivated individuals and couples who are ready to take action in repairing past hurts, heal their emotional wounds, and overcome challenges they face in their current environment. I aim to empower my clients through acceptance, understanding, empathy, and challenge as we work together to navigate new ways of moving through life in order to achieve your goals.
My name is Stefania Gheorghiu, I run a hybrid practice providing both virtual appointments (week days only) and in-person sessions at my Reston office on Saturdays. My clients are self-motivated individuals and couples who are ready to take action in repairing past hurts, heal their emotional wounds, and overcome challenges they face in their current environment. I aim to empower my clients through acceptance, understanding, empathy, and challenge as we work together to navigate new ways of moving through life in order to achieve your goals.
(540) 787-3740 View (540) 787-3740
Photo of Brittany Vera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Vera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Are you feeling emotionally overwhelmed? Do you find yourself feeling sad or worried all the time and you're not sure why? Perhaps you feel like you feel empty of emotion or have too many of them? You may be experiencing a wide array of difficulties that have led you to consider seeking therapy. Whether it's a traumatic experience you would rather forget, life transitions, stress, or the loss of a relationship, I can help. I strive to create an environment where you feel seen, heard, and validated. Together, we will help you find relief from the challenges you are experiencing to create the life you are meant to live.
Are you feeling emotionally overwhelmed? Do you find yourself feeling sad or worried all the time and you're not sure why? Perhaps you feel like you feel empty of emotion or have too many of them? You may be experiencing a wide array of difficulties that have led you to consider seeking therapy. Whether it's a traumatic experience you would rather forget, life transitions, stress, or the loss of a relationship, I can help. I strive to create an environment where you feel seen, heard, and validated. Together, we will help you find relief from the challenges you are experiencing to create the life you are meant to live.
(703) 972-1876 View (703) 972-1876
Photo of Virginia Inglese, LCSW, MA, RDN, EMDR, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Inglese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RDN, EMDR, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22185
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or self harming behaviors? Have you suffered from trauma and abuse, or have lost touch of your own needs and feelings? I use an integrative approach that emphasizes emotional and physical healing and addresses the underlying core issues that continue to sabotage the recovery process. My treatment approach helps you let go of negative beliefs, self destructive patterns, and learn to develop positive relationships and healthy coping skills. We build on your strengths and focus is on recovery and self care to find your true inner self.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or self harming behaviors? Have you suffered from trauma and abuse, or have lost touch of your own needs and feelings? I use an integrative approach that emphasizes emotional and physical healing and addresses the underlying core issues that continue to sabotage the recovery process. My treatment approach helps you let go of negative beliefs, self destructive patterns, and learn to develop positive relationships and healthy coping skills. We build on your strengths and focus is on recovery and self care to find your true inner self.
(703) 634-9922 View (703) 634-9922
Photo of Megan Elizabeth Fellows, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Elizabeth Fellows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over years experience in the mental health field, I thoroughly enjoy my role in helping others to reach their goals. I have worked with individuals, families, and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings within the DC Metro area. Specifically, I have experience with adults, adolescents, and children presenting with a variety of concerns and needs. I have also had the privilege of serving individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays in both private, in-home, and educational settings.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over years experience in the mental health field, I thoroughly enjoy my role in helping others to reach their goals. I have worked with individuals, families, and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings within the DC Metro area. Specifically, I have experience with adults, adolescents, and children presenting with a variety of concerns and needs. I have also had the privilege of serving individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays in both private, in-home, and educational settings.
(571) 374-1726 View (571) 374-1726
Photo of Tracy Ryan Kidd - Virginia Family Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Family Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
As the Director of Virginia Family Counseling, I work with a group of seasoned, highly skilled therapists who are caring, warm, dedicated and bring enthusiasm, humor, and over 20 years of experience to your healing process. We believe that people have wonderful strengths in many areas and can develop more by learning new tools through counseling. We believe that people usually do the best they can, but that normal life can be stressful and counseling can help people learn from painful situations. We believe in working as a partner with you to bring about the changes you want.
As the Director of Virginia Family Counseling, I work with a group of seasoned, highly skilled therapists who are caring, warm, dedicated and bring enthusiasm, humor, and over 20 years of experience to your healing process. We believe that people have wonderful strengths in many areas and can develop more by learning new tools through counseling. We believe that people usually do the best they can, but that normal life can be stressful and counseling can help people learn from painful situations. We believe in working as a partner with you to bring about the changes you want.
(703) 829-0982 View (703) 829-0982
Photo of John Dobricky, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Dobricky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Success in life is about resilience, effective strategies, skill, and successful problem identification and solving. Relationship problems, problems at work, family problems, resolving trauma and abuse, the panic, despair, and/or rage that may be getting in your way, lack of direction in life and self-doubt, eating problems, spending problems, addictions, etc. - in short, the suffering you or a loved one is experiencing - center around the lack of these four things. I and the Graduate Residents who work with me have a proven record of helping many clients move toward the lives and the results they want.
Success in life is about resilience, effective strategies, skill, and successful problem identification and solving. Relationship problems, problems at work, family problems, resolving trauma and abuse, the panic, despair, and/or rage that may be getting in your way, lack of direction in life and self-doubt, eating problems, spending problems, addictions, etc. - in short, the suffering you or a loved one is experiencing - center around the lack of these four things. I and the Graduate Residents who work with me have a proven record of helping many clients move toward the lives and the results they want.
(703) 596-8131 View (703) 596-8131
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.