Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Burien, WA

Photo of Christine Suhan, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christine Suhan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
My approach varies based on the client’s personality and needs, but is heavily influenced by Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems and the neurobiology of trauma.
Welcome! My name is Christine and connecting with people has been a passion of mine since as early as I can remember. I grew up moving frequently (living on three different continents before I was 18) and traveling the world which perpetuated my curiosity and desire to understand the diversity and complexity of the human experience. I believe all behavior makes sense given context and my therapy process is an eclectic approach designed to guide you toward compassionately discovering what is driving your unhelpful behaviors.
My approach varies based on the client’s personality and needs, but is heavily influenced by Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems and the neurobiology of trauma.
Welcome! My name is Christine and connecting with people has been a passion of mine since as early as I can remember. I grew up moving frequently (living on three different continents before I was 18) and traveling the world which perpetuated my curiosity and desire to understand the diversity and complexity of the human experience. I believe all behavior makes sense given context and my therapy process is an eclectic approach designed to guide you toward compassionately discovering what is driving your unhelpful behaviors.
(206) 944-6084 View (206) 944-6084
Photo of Michael D Phillips, LICSWA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael D Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
I work with all clients who are 18 years and older. I deliver both individual therapy as well as services for families. I work with a variety of clients who want to work on depression, anxiety, trauma, and abuse issues from the past to the present. The goal of therapy is to help each client develop coping skills to help manage their mental health symptoms. While my approach tends to be eclectic, I draw from different evidence-based interventions to provide tailored sessions for my clients. Some of the modalities I use include CBT, DBT, ACT, and Narrative therapy to help my clients become the best version of themselves.
I work with all clients who are 18 years and older. I deliver both individual therapy as well as services for families. I work with a variety of clients who want to work on depression, anxiety, trauma, and abuse issues from the past to the present. The goal of therapy is to help each client develop coping skills to help manage their mental health symptoms. While my approach tends to be eclectic, I draw from different evidence-based interventions to provide tailored sessions for my clients. Some of the modalities I use include CBT, DBT, ACT, and Narrative therapy to help my clients become the best version of themselves.
(206) 944-5079 View (206) 944-5079
Photo of Teryn Sahagún, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teryn Sahagún
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and use this most often due to its focus on behavior change, wide applicability, and effectiveness.
I view therapy as a partnership between client and therapist and approach issues from a behavior change perspective. I work with clients to identify areas that are causing distress, understand how they may be contributing to these problems, and identify changes they can actively make to yield the results they want to see. Because of the many positions I have held in the mental health field during the past 17 years, I am able to pull from a variety of evidenced-based treatment modalities and easily adjust course in order to best meet a client’s needs. Please refer to my website bio for more. Initial inquiries preferred via email.
I have advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and use this most often due to its focus on behavior change, wide applicability, and effectiveness.
I view therapy as a partnership between client and therapist and approach issues from a behavior change perspective. I work with clients to identify areas that are causing distress, understand how they may be contributing to these problems, and identify changes they can actively make to yield the results they want to see. Because of the many positions I have held in the mental health field during the past 17 years, I am able to pull from a variety of evidenced-based treatment modalities and easily adjust course in order to best meet a client’s needs. Please refer to my website bio for more. Initial inquiries preferred via email.
(206) 385-4075 View (206) 385-4075
Photo of Mar Galizio, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mar Galizio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
I provide Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, in which I have extensive training by DBT Linehan Board-Certified clinicians, as well as Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
Do you feel overwhelmed by intense emotions or struggle to be connected to your life? You're not alone. Together we can work to build the skills you need to live a life that fits within your values. Being emotionally sensitive myself, I understand the difficulties many of us face when we feel things deeply. My mission as your therapist will be to support you in cherishing this aspect of yourself, while we work on any negative impacts it might have on your life. My specialty is working with adults and older teens with difficulty regulating emotion, as well as anxiety, depression, complex trauma, eating disorders, and mood disorders.
I provide Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, in which I have extensive training by DBT Linehan Board-Certified clinicians, as well as Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
Do you feel overwhelmed by intense emotions or struggle to be connected to your life? You're not alone. Together we can work to build the skills you need to live a life that fits within your values. Being emotionally sensitive myself, I understand the difficulties many of us face when we feel things deeply. My mission as your therapist will be to support you in cherishing this aspect of yourself, while we work on any negative impacts it might have on your life. My specialty is working with adults and older teens with difficulty regulating emotion, as well as anxiety, depression, complex trauma, eating disorders, and mood disorders.
(440) 597-2381 View (440) 597-2381
Photo of Alicia B. Braman, MS, LMHC, CN, Counselor
Alicia B. Braman
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98146
My experience draws from Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as well as other somatic modalities to support your journey.
I help people find the optimal version of themselves, one where they feel most aligned and grounded within their humanness. If you feel like you are wading in quicksand, I can help you build a foundation to stand on and grow from. I have experience supporting people through: Life Transitions (including new or complicated parenthood), Anxiety, Depression, Lifestyle Modifications, Grief (including prolonged grief), Chronic Pain, PTSD and C-PTSD (Complex PTSD), Recently diagnosed medical conditions, Somatic Challenges and Concerns, Navigating Complex Medical Issues (eg. BRCA 2+ positive) using a variety of therapeutic tools/models.
My experience draws from Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as well as other somatic modalities to support your journey.
I help people find the optimal version of themselves, one where they feel most aligned and grounded within their humanness. If you feel like you are wading in quicksand, I can help you build a foundation to stand on and grow from. I have experience supporting people through: Life Transitions (including new or complicated parenthood), Anxiety, Depression, Lifestyle Modifications, Grief (including prolonged grief), Chronic Pain, PTSD and C-PTSD (Complex PTSD), Recently diagnosed medical conditions, Somatic Challenges and Concerns, Navigating Complex Medical Issues (eg. BRCA 2+ positive) using a variety of therapeutic tools/models.
(206) 752-4471 View (206) 752-4471
Photo of Issy K Kleiman - Counseling Services for Wellbeing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Counseling Services for Wellbeing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
(206) 426-0366 View (206) 426-0366
Photo of Chase Torbergson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Chase Torbergson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
I see a wide range of clients, although I specialize in relationships, anxiety, frustration, ADHD, and problems with focus and motivation. I see both couples and individuals, as well as adolescents. Counseling focus may include relationship satisfaction, anxiety control, focus and motivational problems with both personal life and work, as well as general ADHD management. I've helped countless clients move from a place of feeling stuck and dissatisfied, to one of happiness and flourishing. I offer both short-term counseling (8-10 weeks) and long-term counseling. I also offer coaching related to focus and motivation.
I see a wide range of clients, although I specialize in relationships, anxiety, frustration, ADHD, and problems with focus and motivation. I see both couples and individuals, as well as adolescents. Counseling focus may include relationship satisfaction, anxiety control, focus and motivational problems with both personal life and work, as well as general ADHD management. I've helped countless clients move from a place of feeling stuck and dissatisfied, to one of happiness and flourishing. I offer both short-term counseling (8-10 weeks) and long-term counseling. I also offer coaching related to focus and motivation.
(206) 203-0671 View (206) 203-0671
Photo of Bobbie Catton, MA, LMHC, SUDP, C-DBT, CPC, Counselor
Bobbie Catton
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP, C-DBT, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98146  (Online Only)
Are you feeling "stuck", disconnected, or having trouble with stressors in your life? When we are stuck it changes the way we think about ourselves and how we view the world around us. This leads to disconnection to those around us. Every person can experience blind spots in the narrative they tell themselves, this creates challenges in our relationships with our "favorite people." I invite you, your partner, or children a safe space to reconnect with yourself and / or those around you. Together we will work collaboratively to develop strategies that promote healing, resilience, and personal growth which will increase peace in life.
Are you feeling "stuck", disconnected, or having trouble with stressors in your life? When we are stuck it changes the way we think about ourselves and how we view the world around us. This leads to disconnection to those around us. Every person can experience blind spots in the narrative they tell themselves, this creates challenges in our relationships with our "favorite people." I invite you, your partner, or children a safe space to reconnect with yourself and / or those around you. Together we will work collaboratively to develop strategies that promote healing, resilience, and personal growth which will increase peace in life.
(206) 482-9906 View (206) 482-9906
Photo of Kathryn Kong, MSW, LICSW, SUDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Kong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Hi, I'm Kathryn! I specialize in working with adults navigating religious trauma and/or cultural challenges, including cultural identity issues and generational trauma. Other areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. I consider it an honor to be invited into my clients' lives to help them navigate uncertainty, make meaning of challenging experiences, and regain purpose and hope.
Hi, I'm Kathryn! I specialize in working with adults navigating religious trauma and/or cultural challenges, including cultural identity issues and generational trauma. Other areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. I consider it an honor to be invited into my clients' lives to help them navigate uncertainty, make meaning of challenging experiences, and regain purpose and hope.
(206) 736-1484 x215 View (206) 736-1484 x215
Photo of Kevin Ward, MEd, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Kevin Ward
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Waitlist for new clients
When we feel that we belong to the world, then we can move through it with confidence and courage, open to growth and happiness. There are plenty of things to worry about as a kid, and today’s culture does not necessarily make it easier. But children do not have to go at it alone! Feelings of despair, loneliness, and inauthenticity are completely normal for many kids and young adults. No one lives alone with these feelings, even though it may feel this way. Through a genuine counseling relationship, kids can begin to believe much deeper in their strengths than in their shortcomings.
When we feel that we belong to the world, then we can move through it with confidence and courage, open to growth and happiness. There are plenty of things to worry about as a kid, and today’s culture does not necessarily make it easier. But children do not have to go at it alone! Feelings of despair, loneliness, and inauthenticity are completely normal for many kids and young adults. No one lives alone with these feelings, even though it may feel this way. Through a genuine counseling relationship, kids can begin to believe much deeper in their strengths than in their shortcomings.
(206) 984-4770 View (206) 984-4770
Photo of Luís Merced, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCTP-II, AF-EMDR, Counselor
Luís Merced
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCTP-II, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
My preferred initial communication is email. My approach to the therapeutic relationship is collaborative. The client is the expert of themselves and my role is to provide the knowledge and skills I have attained to support the clients needs. My clinical interests include treating trauma, neuroaffirming as well as providing LGBTQIA+ affirmative psychotherapy to sexual minorities. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression or past experiences are negatively affecting you, feel free to reach out to see if we are a good fit to work together.
My preferred initial communication is email. My approach to the therapeutic relationship is collaborative. The client is the expert of themselves and my role is to provide the knowledge and skills I have attained to support the clients needs. My clinical interests include treating trauma, neuroaffirming as well as providing LGBTQIA+ affirmative psychotherapy to sexual minorities. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression or past experiences are negatively affecting you, feel free to reach out to see if we are a good fit to work together.
(206) 401-9751 View (206) 401-9751
Photo of Michelle Solomon, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Are you struggling to achieve work-life balance as someone with bipolar disorder or in a high stress job? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? If you've had difficulty prioritizing your needs and happiness and want more skills to help you relax, now might be the time to reach out to a therapist. You're ready to advocate and put yourself first. You crave balance in your routine and want to learn how to set healthy boundaries so you can find time to take a break. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you each step of the way.
Are you struggling to achieve work-life balance as someone with bipolar disorder or in a high stress job? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? If you've had difficulty prioritizing your needs and happiness and want more skills to help you relax, now might be the time to reach out to a therapist. You're ready to advocate and put yourself first. You crave balance in your routine and want to learn how to set healthy boundaries so you can find time to take a break. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you each step of the way.
(206) 752-3559 View (206) 752-3559
Photo of Sondra Longbrake, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sondra Longbrake
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
Do discussions with your partner often lead to yelling or angry silence? Do you find yourselves arguing about the same issues year after year with no resolution? Learn to restore harmony in your home with communication skills that create guardrails for safety (I sometime call them training wheels or bumper pads). When couples feel like they’re walking on eggshells, life feels exhausting. When the best of intentions devolve into disappointment, misunderstanding, and hurt feelings, it might seem like there is no way back to the romantic bond you once enjoyed. It can be done, and together we will plot that course!
Do discussions with your partner often lead to yelling or angry silence? Do you find yourselves arguing about the same issues year after year with no resolution? Learn to restore harmony in your home with communication skills that create guardrails for safety (I sometime call them training wheels or bumper pads). When couples feel like they’re walking on eggshells, life feels exhausting. When the best of intentions devolve into disappointment, misunderstanding, and hurt feelings, it might seem like there is no way back to the romantic bond you once enjoyed. It can be done, and together we will plot that course!
(509) 619-1485 View (509) 619-1485
Photo of Jennifer Keyte, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Keyte
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98146
Despite your best efforts, life is unknowable - you can't always predict or be prepared for what comes your way. Difficulties are inevitable. When they occur, you might need help sorting out what's going on and what to do next. The good news is, therapy helps. When you're feeling miserable, unlovable and afraid, therapy helps. When you find yourself asking the question "why me?", therapy helps. When you're ready to step into your life and take charge of it, instead of having it take charge of you, therapy helps.
Despite your best efforts, life is unknowable - you can't always predict or be prepared for what comes your way. Difficulties are inevitable. When they occur, you might need help sorting out what's going on and what to do next. The good news is, therapy helps. When you're feeling miserable, unlovable and afraid, therapy helps. When you find yourself asking the question "why me?", therapy helps. When you're ready to step into your life and take charge of it, instead of having it take charge of you, therapy helps.
(206) 681-1911 View (206) 681-1911
Photo of Joan Patrice Willemain - Joan Willemain, LICSW, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joan Willemain, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98148
I support creatives in maximizing energy for their passions while managing challenges like anxiety, depression, or day jobs. I support individuals who are navigating complex life transitions, and help them explore new ways to cope with challenging situations and relationships. I see therapy as an active and reflective partnership, a safe place to learn tools for living. I provide Clinical Group and Individual Supervision to Social Workers pursuing Licensure in WA State.
I support creatives in maximizing energy for their passions while managing challenges like anxiety, depression, or day jobs. I support individuals who are navigating complex life transitions, and help them explore new ways to cope with challenging situations and relationships. I see therapy as an active and reflective partnership, a safe place to learn tools for living. I provide Clinical Group and Individual Supervision to Social Workers pursuing Licensure in WA State.
(360) 583-5480 View (360) 583-5480
Photo of Nathan Fritz, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nathan Fritz
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98148
As someone who has worked helping others in various capacities for over 25 years, I bring a great deal of experience to my work as a mental health counselor. In this time I have obtained great insight into the struggles inherent to both individuals and families. In my work as a counselor I utilize these skills and insight to help people of all ages, identities, and walks of life. My approach to counseling is not confined to one specific framework but incorporates a variety of modalities tailored to each client's unique needs. I am humanistic in style and often utilize mindfulness based strategies for increased insight and awareness.
As someone who has worked helping others in various capacities for over 25 years, I bring a great deal of experience to my work as a mental health counselor. In this time I have obtained great insight into the struggles inherent to both individuals and families. In my work as a counselor I utilize these skills and insight to help people of all ages, identities, and walks of life. My approach to counseling is not confined to one specific framework but incorporates a variety of modalities tailored to each client's unique needs. I am humanistic in style and often utilize mindfulness based strategies for increased insight and awareness.
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Photo of Mary Rehrl, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mary Rehrl
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98168  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult when navigating it alone, we often need some guidance, a warm smile, a human connection, and someone to just listen non judgmentally . I believe that all people deserve to be treated with respect, dignity and kindness. I provide a safe space for you to share your struggles without judgment and I'll work alongside you to give you the guidance needed to help you resolve conflicts you may be experiencing. Together we will discover beneficial coping strategies, find new perspectives and reduce barriers that may be keeping you stuck. Therefore, giving us insight into the possibilities that lie ahead.
Life can be difficult when navigating it alone, we often need some guidance, a warm smile, a human connection, and someone to just listen non judgmentally . I believe that all people deserve to be treated with respect, dignity and kindness. I provide a safe space for you to share your struggles without judgment and I'll work alongside you to give you the guidance needed to help you resolve conflicts you may be experiencing. Together we will discover beneficial coping strategies, find new perspectives and reduce barriers that may be keeping you stuck. Therefore, giving us insight into the possibilities that lie ahead.
(206) 761-0527 View (206) 761-0527
Photo of Alina Tovar, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Alina Tovar
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98146
Sometimes life can feel a bit overwhelming and cause you to feel alone. I believe that asking for help takes courage and is a powerful move in making a difference in your life. You do not have to go through the struggles of life alone. I view counseling as a collaborative process, where you are the master of your life, and I am joining along for the ride. I hope we can work together to find the answers you may be looking for within you. I am here to help with any life challenges you may be going through.
Sometimes life can feel a bit overwhelming and cause you to feel alone. I believe that asking for help takes courage and is a powerful move in making a difference in your life. You do not have to go through the struggles of life alone. I view counseling as a collaborative process, where you are the master of your life, and I am joining along for the ride. I hope we can work together to find the answers you may be looking for within you. I am here to help with any life challenges you may be going through.
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Photo of Chelsea Gibson, LMHC, Counselor
Chelsea Gibson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98146
You dream of a life that feels peaceful and exciting, challenging yet manageable, connected and secure. You know where you want to be, you’re just not sure how to get there yet. You might say “I’m sorry” more than you’d like to, feel frustrated that caring for yourself is so much harder than caring for others, or worry that you'd be a burden if you shared what you're really feeling. Maybe it's been like this for a while. One thing is sure: you’re ready for relief. You’re ready for more ease, playfulness, and joy. You’re ready to feel more connected to your loved ones. Most of all, you’re ready to look to the future with hope.
You dream of a life that feels peaceful and exciting, challenging yet manageable, connected and secure. You know where you want to be, you’re just not sure how to get there yet. You might say “I’m sorry” more than you’d like to, feel frustrated that caring for yourself is so much harder than caring for others, or worry that you'd be a burden if you shared what you're really feeling. Maybe it's been like this for a while. One thing is sure: you’re ready for relief. You’re ready for more ease, playfulness, and joy. You’re ready to feel more connected to your loved ones. Most of all, you’re ready to look to the future with hope.
(425) 272-6283 View (425) 272-6283
Photo of Layla Hakim, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Layla Hakim
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98146
Each person faces their own set of challenges to navigate their path towards personal growth. With a non-judgmental and empathetic stance, I create a safe space where individuals, couples, and families can explore their thoughts, experiences, and feelings openly. My approach is rooted in compassion, transparency, and collaboration, ensuring that clients feel heard, understood, and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. By working together, we can uncover underlying issues, develop effective communication strategies, and strengthen familial bonds.
Each person faces their own set of challenges to navigate their path towards personal growth. With a non-judgmental and empathetic stance, I create a safe space where individuals, couples, and families can explore their thoughts, experiences, and feelings openly. My approach is rooted in compassion, transparency, and collaboration, ensuring that clients feel heard, understood, and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. By working together, we can uncover underlying issues, develop effective communication strategies, and strengthen familial bonds.
(206) 752-4930 View (206) 752-4930
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Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.