Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Warrenton, VA

Photo of Natalia Lueck - in Luck Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
in Luck Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
Waitlist for new clients
The group offers CBT, DBT, testing and evaluation, and court ordered MH and SA evaluations.
Your journey in life has brought you to seek therapy from a professional. Therapy has the power to improve the quality of your life if you trust the process. Should you decide to hire us for this very important job, our focus will be on helping you feel strong and confident again. In the beginning, we will spend time listening to your story. We will then collaboratively identify realistic therapeutic goals.
The group offers CBT, DBT, testing and evaluation, and court ordered MH and SA evaluations.
Your journey in life has brought you to seek therapy from a professional. Therapy has the power to improve the quality of your life if you trust the process. Should you decide to hire us for this very important job, our focus will be on helping you feel strong and confident again. In the beginning, we will spend time listening to your story. We will then collaboratively identify realistic therapeutic goals.
(703) 997-6641 View (703) 997-6641
Photo of William Karl Strobel, William, Strobel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Karl Strobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, William, Strobel, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
My approach is rooted in my education, experience and training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to provide guidance and the skills needed to help you make the changes you desire and achieve your goals.
Many people struggle with emotions that prevent them from moving forward. At times this requires more help in discovering ways to move past the hurdles and obstacles that are preventing wholeness and balance. This often takes a great deal of courage-facing the anxieties and fears that prevent personal growth. Conquering these fears is not a path one needs to walk alone. Working together in an empathic supportive relationship, we can address the behaviors, thoughts, emotions and experiences that act as stumbling blocks to you achieving your goals and finding fulfillment in life. Working together we can restore peace in your life.
My approach is rooted in my education, experience and training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to provide guidance and the skills needed to help you make the changes you desire and achieve your goals.
Many people struggle with emotions that prevent them from moving forward. At times this requires more help in discovering ways to move past the hurdles and obstacles that are preventing wholeness and balance. This often takes a great deal of courage-facing the anxieties and fears that prevent personal growth. Conquering these fears is not a path one needs to walk alone. Working together in an empathic supportive relationship, we can address the behaviors, thoughts, emotions and experiences that act as stumbling blocks to you achieving your goals and finding fulfillment in life. Working together we can restore peace in your life.
(540) 274-1015 View (540) 274-1015
Photo of Adam Terrell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam Terrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is mainly person centered, with strategies and concepts also taken from CBT (Cognitive behavioral) and DBT ( dialectical behavioral therapy).
I am excited to begin working with anyone wanting change, and have found myself especially passionate about helping young men and adolescents find meaning and joy in life and their relationships. My mission is to provide a safe and empathetic space where individuals and families can navigate the challenges that often accompany adolescence and young adulthood, relationships, and family dynamics. I want to empower my clients to implement the changes they need to reach their goals.
My therapeutic approach is mainly person centered, with strategies and concepts also taken from CBT (Cognitive behavioral) and DBT ( dialectical behavioral therapy).
I am excited to begin working with anyone wanting change, and have found myself especially passionate about helping young men and adolescents find meaning and joy in life and their relationships. My mission is to provide a safe and empathetic space where individuals and families can navigate the challenges that often accompany adolescence and young adulthood, relationships, and family dynamics. I want to empower my clients to implement the changes they need to reach their goals.
(540) 269-4523 View (540) 269-4523
Photo of Deborah Vara - A Path 2 Healing | Deborah Vara, MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Path 2 Healing | Deborah Vara, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20187
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.
(540) 405-6714 View (540) 405-6714
Photo of Debbie Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
(540) 616-2876 View (540) 616-2876
Photo of Jacey Persinger, MEd
Jacey Persinger
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach primarily includes interventions based in CBT, DBT, and attachment theories, and it is entirely driven by your needs and goals.
“Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives” - Brene Brown. At some point in our lives, though, we all feel disconnected. Disconnected from ourselves or our relationships with others; disconnected from our faith, values, or beliefs; or disconnected from our passions, hopes, or dreams. This disconnection can lead us to feel hopeless, anxious, or stuck, like we are repeating the same unhelpful patterns, or simply going through the motions of life.
My therapeutic approach primarily includes interventions based in CBT, DBT, and attachment theories, and it is entirely driven by your needs and goals.
“Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives” - Brene Brown. At some point in our lives, though, we all feel disconnected. Disconnected from ourselves or our relationships with others; disconnected from our faith, values, or beliefs; or disconnected from our passions, hopes, or dreams. This disconnection can lead us to feel hopeless, anxious, or stuck, like we are repeating the same unhelpful patterns, or simply going through the motions of life.
(540) 573-2093 View (540) 573-2093
Photo of Martha Earley Aveni, MA
Martha Earley Aveni
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
I have clinical experience in many evidence-based approaches, including but not limited to: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and motivational interviewing (MI).
I feel called to help those who seek wellness in body, mind, and soul. I am honored to serve my clients at the Center for Holistic Psychotherapy as a licensed resident counselor. As a mental health professional, I have experience in treating diverse populations, including children, adolescents, couples, trauma and grief clients, addiction and DUI clients, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADD/ADHD, and various behavioral issues. I am a warm and accepting counselor who brings wisdom, comfort, security, compassion, and professionalism into the counseling room.
I have clinical experience in many evidence-based approaches, including but not limited to: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and motivational interviewing (MI).
I feel called to help those who seek wellness in body, mind, and soul. I am honored to serve my clients at the Center for Holistic Psychotherapy as a licensed resident counselor. As a mental health professional, I have experience in treating diverse populations, including children, adolescents, couples, trauma and grief clients, addiction and DUI clients, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADD/ADHD, and various behavioral issues. I am a warm and accepting counselor who brings wisdom, comfort, security, compassion, and professionalism into the counseling room.
(540) 417-1307 x6 View (540) 417-1307 x6
Photo of Patrick Lee Gibbons, LPC, MMFT, MAR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrick Lee Gibbons
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MMFT, MAR
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
I am an LPC with a Master degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also possess a Seminary Master degree in Biblical Studies to provide faith-based therapeutic support. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis. I am also trained in EMDR. Further trained to treat substance, alcohol and sexual issues. I work with individuals, couples and families. I have a passion for trauma work with all ages, knowing untreated trauma-events are emotional wounds that need be processed to allow for healing. I am currently paneled with most insurances in Virginia.
I am an LPC with a Master degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also possess a Seminary Master degree in Biblical Studies to provide faith-based therapeutic support. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis. I am also trained in EMDR. Further trained to treat substance, alcohol and sexual issues. I work with individuals, couples and families. I have a passion for trauma work with all ages, knowing untreated trauma-events are emotional wounds that need be processed to allow for healing. I am currently paneled with most insurances in Virginia.
(540) 579-0593 View (540) 579-0593
Photo of Daniel Kneip, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Kneip
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
CBT, DBT, Positive Psychology, Solution-Focused, Trauma-Informed, etc.
Dan has 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 and/or family system. My therapeutic style might best be described as casual & personal vs. clinical & 'stuffy'; as well as motivational vs. directive.
CBT, DBT, Positive Psychology, Solution-Focused, Trauma-Informed, etc.
Dan has 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 and/or family system. My therapeutic style might best be described as casual & personal vs. clinical & 'stuffy'; as well as motivational vs. directive.
View
Photo of Kim Toone, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kim Toone
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186  (Online Only)
I am committed to helping individuals overcome life’s toughest challenges with compassion and expertise. Specializing in addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and crisis intervention, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to foster healing and resilience. Using approaches like EMDR, DBT, Art Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, I tailor each session to meet clients’ unique needs. These modalities support processing trauma, managing emotions, and exploring self-expression. Building trust is my priority—I work to ensure clients feel seen, heard, and supported as they move toward healing and meaningful change.
I am committed to helping individuals overcome life’s toughest challenges with compassion and expertise. Specializing in addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and crisis intervention, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to foster healing and resilience. Using approaches like EMDR, DBT, Art Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, I tailor each session to meet clients’ unique needs. These modalities support processing trauma, managing emotions, and exploring self-expression. Building trust is my priority—I work to ensure clients feel seen, heard, and supported as they move toward healing and meaningful change.
(540) 583-3564 View (540) 583-3564
Photo of Lydia Freeman, MSW, LMSW
Lydia Freeman
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
I can offer support with these struggles through the use of holistic care, mindfulness, CBT, DBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
I am passionate about helping others identify their strengths and feel confident in conquering life and the many challenges we face daily. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, personality disorders, life transitions, communication, and relationship problems.
I can offer support with these struggles through the use of holistic care, mindfulness, CBT, DBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
I am passionate about helping others identify their strengths and feel confident in conquering life and the many challenges we face daily. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, personality disorders, life transitions, communication, and relationship problems.
(571) 517-1371 View (571) 517-1371
Photo of Alexandra Madden, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Madden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of different evidenced-based interventions including: Cognitive, Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and motivational interviewing (MI).
I am passionate about the benefits of therapy and taking time to create a deeper connection with yourself. I believe humans are beautifully flawed and complicated, and that by learning to appreciate our imperfections, we can gain a sense of peace and compassion for ourselves and others. New research in the field of neuroscience is providing evidence to support what many clinicians empirically knew: people are forever growing and changing. Interpersonal connection is the access-point to creating meaningful change in our lives from a place of kindness, compassion and free from judgement.
I use a variety of different evidenced-based interventions including: Cognitive, Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and motivational interviewing (MI).
I am passionate about the benefits of therapy and taking time to create a deeper connection with yourself. I believe humans are beautifully flawed and complicated, and that by learning to appreciate our imperfections, we can gain a sense of peace and compassion for ourselves and others. New research in the field of neuroscience is providing evidence to support what many clinicians empirically knew: people are forever growing and changing. Interpersonal connection is the access-point to creating meaningful change in our lives from a place of kindness, compassion and free from judgement.
(540) 253-1613 View (540) 253-1613
Photo of Kelly Bittner Zerfoss - A Mindful Connection Telemental Health, LLC, LCSW, CTMH, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Mindful Connection Telemental Health, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTMH, CCATP
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is one based in Cognitive Behavioral therapy with aspects of Dialectical Behavioral therapy, trauma-informed components, and some psychodynamic approaches.
I am an experienced clinical social worker who is passionate about helping people improve their overall functioning by learning how to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression and cope with the transitions in life. I have valuable insight into treating individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, end of life or life transitions, grief or loss, disordered eating and eating disorders, and current or previous trauma. I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider, and I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional.
My approach to therapy is one based in Cognitive Behavioral therapy with aspects of Dialectical Behavioral therapy, trauma-informed components, and some psychodynamic approaches.
I am an experienced clinical social worker who is passionate about helping people improve their overall functioning by learning how to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression and cope with the transitions in life. I have valuable insight into treating individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, end of life or life transitions, grief or loss, disordered eating and eating disorders, and current or previous trauma. I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider, and I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional.
(540) 274-1203 View (540) 274-1203
Photo of Jayna Gillespie, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jayna Gillespie
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm glad you're here. I believe that counseling is most effective when it is designed by the participant and fits their individual or family needs. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and holds certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Trauma Treatment. I have experience working with children, adults, and families to strengthen attachment, manage complex traumatic experiences, and overcome anxiety, depression, suicidality, isolation, and negative patterns of behavior.
Hi! I'm glad you're here. I believe that counseling is most effective when it is designed by the participant and fits their individual or family needs. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and holds certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Trauma Treatment. I have experience working with children, adults, and families to strengthen attachment, manage complex traumatic experiences, and overcome anxiety, depression, suicidality, isolation, and negative patterns of behavior.
(757) 863-8772 View (757) 863-8772
Photo of Louise Chapman, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Louise Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices tailored to meet your unique needs, utilizing techniques like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Play Therapy, Expressive Art Interventions, and Family Systems work.
Taking the first step to seek therapy can be scary, but the fact that you are taking that first step demonstrates courage and strength. I will meet you at this first step, creating a safe, nurturing space where every individual feels heard, valued, and understood. My experience spans across various settings (schools, hospitals, community health, private practice), where I have addressed a broad spectrum of mental health issues. My professional journey and ongoing education equip me with the tools to support individuals facing a range of challenges, from anxiety and depression to behavioral issues and trauma.
My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices tailored to meet your unique needs, utilizing techniques like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Play Therapy, Expressive Art Interventions, and Family Systems work.
Taking the first step to seek therapy can be scary, but the fact that you are taking that first step demonstrates courage and strength. I will meet you at this first step, creating a safe, nurturing space where every individual feels heard, valued, and understood. My experience spans across various settings (schools, hospitals, community health, private practice), where I have addressed a broad spectrum of mental health issues. My professional journey and ongoing education equip me with the tools to support individuals facing a range of challenges, from anxiety and depression to behavioral issues and trauma.
(540) 404-2946 View (540) 404-2946
Photo of Dr. Michelle Kelley, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Michelle Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
With over 30 years of experience helping women and families in navigating complicated family dynamics, I would like to help you. My passion lies in helping families understand and improve their relationships, fostering healthier communication and deeper connections. I work with families facing a range of challenges, including: sibling rivalry and conflict; blended families and co-parenting; communication breakdowns; setting healthy boundaries; navigating grief and loss and intergenerational issues.
With over 30 years of experience helping women and families in navigating complicated family dynamics, I would like to help you. My passion lies in helping families understand and improve their relationships, fostering healthier communication and deeper connections. I work with families facing a range of challenges, including: sibling rivalry and conflict; blended families and co-parenting; communication breakdowns; setting healthy boundaries; navigating grief and loss and intergenerational issues.
(540) 316-6362 View (540) 316-6362
Photo of Allison Williams - Transitions Counseling Services, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Williams - Transitions Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Dealing with unexpected challenges, change, and the difficulties that life presents us can make it hard to deepen relationships and make decisions. Whether you are a parent struggling with the stress of child-rearing or a young adult dealing with a loss, I believe that every individual has their own unique strengths to propel them toward a better life. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and families. When working with families, my goal is to help you understand yourself better as a parent and provide sound parenting skills to pave the way towards improved behaviors and a solid connection with your child.
Welcome! Dealing with unexpected challenges, change, and the difficulties that life presents us can make it hard to deepen relationships and make decisions. Whether you are a parent struggling with the stress of child-rearing or a young adult dealing with a loss, I believe that every individual has their own unique strengths to propel them toward a better life. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and families. When working with families, my goal is to help you understand yourself better as a parent and provide sound parenting skills to pave the way towards improved behaviors and a solid connection with your child.
(540) 680-3595 View (540) 680-3595
Photo of Samantha Ceccio
Samantha Ceccio
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
Hello! My name is Samantha Ceccio, I am a resident in counseling at the Center for Holistic Psychotherapy. I have worked with children, teens and young adults who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bi-polar disorder, PTSD and clients who are experiencing grief. I have also worked with families throughout my experience.
Hello! My name is Samantha Ceccio, I am a resident in counseling at the Center for Holistic Psychotherapy. I have worked with children, teens and young adults who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bi-polar disorder, PTSD and clients who are experiencing grief. I have also worked with families throughout my experience.
(540) 559-5220 x5 View (540) 559-5220 x5
Photo of Kiley Nicholson, MA
Kiley Nicholson
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
Hi everyone! I am a Resident in Counseling in the state of Virginia. I have a passion for helping those who have presenting concerns in mental health including but not limited to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, attention issues, and trauma. I find that I enjoy creating connections with my clients that allows for them to engage in empowerment in sessions. I am excited to continue assisting those in need of care. I also 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 Resident in Counseling in the state of Virginia. I have a passion for helping those who have presenting concerns in mental health including but not limited to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, attention issues, and trauma. I find that I enjoy creating connections with my clients that allows for them to engage in empowerment in sessions. I am excited to continue assisting those in need of care. I also have a passion for integrating my relationship with God and I hope to be able to bring that passion to those I work with.
(571) 367-0238 View (571) 367-0238
Photo of Dr. Andria L Corso, PhD
Dr. Andria L Corso
Resident in Counseling, PhD
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
I am passionate about helping individuals work through their trials and challenges to create a life where they thrive and live to their fullest potential. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, domestic abuse, addiction, and personality disorders.
I am passionate about helping individuals work through their trials and challenges to create a life where they thrive and live to their fullest potential. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, domestic abuse, addiction, and personality disorders.
(540) 696-5114 View (540) 696-5114
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.