Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Clinton, WA

Photo of Dani L Rotta - Beyond the Couch Psychotherapy, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Beyond the Couch Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clinton, WA 98236
Congratulations for getting this far in your quest to enrich your life! Calling me (or any therapist) can be another challenging step. I offer a FREE 30-minute session to help you find the best person to assist you. My Therapeutic Approach revolves around you and your goals. My training supports our collaboration for your success attaining the life you want and deserve drawing on Family Systems Theory, Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM), EMDR, Dialectic Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Voice Dialogue, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Processing (NLP), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), all within a holistic approach.
Congratulations for getting this far in your quest to enrich your life! Calling me (or any therapist) can be another challenging step. I offer a FREE 30-minute session to help you find the best person to assist you. My Therapeutic Approach revolves around you and your goals. My training supports our collaboration for your success attaining the life you want and deserve drawing on Family Systems Theory, Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM), EMDR, Dialectic Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Voice Dialogue, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Processing (NLP), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), all within a holistic approach.
(206) 350-9746 View (206) 350-9746
Photo of Debby Elwell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debby Elwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clinton, WA 98236
I'm a mindfulness-based psychotherapist who has studied Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Nutrition, spiritual psychology, Family Systems, life coaching, Eye-movement Desensitization & Reprocessing, and I regularly combine all of these approaches to promote comprehensive healing for the individual.
My clients are multi-dimensional people - with physical, psychological and spiritual needs - who are doing the best they can to have a gratifying and meaningful life. My role as a therapist is to assist each person to expand their awareness of self and interactions with others, and to identify and change unsatisfying patterns and behaviors. Partners: When couples first start counseling, they often have a lot of anger, hurt, and sadness. Couples therapy is designed to find solutions to problems, express and let go of resentments, rebuild trust through good communication, and learn to live with different points of view.
I'm a mindfulness-based psychotherapist who has studied Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Nutrition, spiritual psychology, Family Systems, life coaching, Eye-movement Desensitization & Reprocessing, and I regularly combine all of these approaches to promote comprehensive healing for the individual.
My clients are multi-dimensional people - with physical, psychological and spiritual needs - who are doing the best they can to have a gratifying and meaningful life. My role as a therapist is to assist each person to expand their awareness of self and interactions with others, and to identify and change unsatisfying patterns and behaviors. Partners: When couples first start counseling, they often have a lot of anger, hurt, and sadness. Couples therapy is designed to find solutions to problems, express and let go of resentments, rebuild trust through good communication, and learn to live with different points of view.
(360) 663-4222 View (360) 663-4222
Photo of Shaun Heitzman, MS, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor
Shaun Heitzman
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clinton, WA 98236  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about helping individuals and families harness their strengths and motivations to create positive change in their lives. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I've developed a unique approach that blends various therapeutic methods, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed practices, and existential therapy. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, PTSD, mood and behavior disorders, or anxiety, I'm here to support you on your journey towards healing. Let's connect and work together to achieve your goals and find a brighter path forward.
I'm passionate about helping individuals and families harness their strengths and motivations to create positive change in their lives. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I've developed a unique approach that blends various therapeutic methods, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed practices, and existential therapy. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, PTSD, mood and behavior disorders, or anxiety, I'm here to support you on your journey towards healing. Let's connect and work together to achieve your goals and find a brighter path forward.
(360) 587-0663 View (360) 587-0663
Photo of Sarah B Manchester - Sarah Manchester Therapy, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Manchester Therapy, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clinton, WA 98236  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked successfully with many people with many different diagnoses. Whether it's past trauma or abuse, depression, grief and loss, anger, anxiety, mood instability or low self esteem, I compassionately guide my clients in re-claiming their natural state of health and well being. I am committed to and respect the inherent human quality in all of my clients.
I have worked successfully with many people with many different diagnoses. Whether it's past trauma or abuse, depression, grief and loss, anger, anxiety, mood instability or low self esteem, I compassionately guide my clients in re-claiming their natural state of health and well being. I am committed to and respect the inherent human quality in all of my clients.
(360) 529-4794 View (360) 529-4794
Diane Thiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, WA 98236  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have been practicing in WA since 2006 and before that Hawaii. I work with women only and phase of life issues. I have been trained in cognitive and dialectical therapy, have worked with addictions although no certified in the State. I welcome new Women clients on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 8 to 3
I have been practicing in WA since 2006 and before that Hawaii. I work with women only and phase of life issues. I have been trained in cognitive and dialectical therapy, have worked with addictions although no certified in the State. I welcome new Women clients on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 8 to 3
(808) 518-3903 View (808) 518-3903

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chris J Porter, MS, LMHC, MHP, NCC, Counselor
Chris J Porter
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Langley, WA 98260
When working with me, you'll learn CBT and DBT skills in ways that go beyond worksheets.
Do you worry that your own emotional monsters will dominate your life everyday into perpetuity? Finding your strength with them is a multi-step process, and your complex needs deserve an individualized approach. Your care will be team-based, with the goals of effectiveness and results but also with attention to building your sense of hope and empowerment. To do that, I’ve assembled a skillset that utilizes evidence based practices (EBPs) and an eclectic toolbox of skills for your personal growth.
When working with me, you'll learn CBT and DBT skills in ways that go beyond worksheets.
Do you worry that your own emotional monsters will dominate your life everyday into perpetuity? Finding your strength with them is a multi-step process, and your complex needs deserve an individualized approach. Your care will be team-based, with the goals of effectiveness and results but also with attention to building your sense of hope and empowerment. To do that, I’ve assembled a skillset that utilizes evidence based practices (EBPs) and an eclectic toolbox of skills for your personal growth.
(360) 322-1541 View (360) 322-1541
Photo of Marie Krupa, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Marie Krupa
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Langley, WA 98260
DBT is extremely effective in developing emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, mindfulness and distress tolerance skills.
I am excited to bring my practice to Whidbey Island and to join the team at Water’s Edge in beautiful Langley. I have been in the field of mental health for over 35 years in various capacities, including a full time therapist in private practice at Ballard Counseling Group. The primary focus of my work is to help individual clients with the treatment of anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss issues, family dynamics, communication and boundary skills. My primary mode of therapy is a cognitive behavioral approach with heavy reliance on Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
DBT is extremely effective in developing emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, mindfulness and distress tolerance skills.
I am excited to bring my practice to Whidbey Island and to join the team at Water’s Edge in beautiful Langley. I have been in the field of mental health for over 35 years in various capacities, including a full time therapist in private practice at Ballard Counseling Group. The primary focus of my work is to help individual clients with the treatment of anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss issues, family dynamics, communication and boundary skills. My primary mode of therapy is a cognitive behavioral approach with heavy reliance on Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
(360) 342-9317 View (360) 342-9317
Photo of Tilda Cvrkel, PhD, LMHCA, Counselor
Tilda Cvrkel
Counselor, PhD, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I believe the best therapy is grounded in up-to-date science, and I use research-backed interventions, including CBT and DBT.
Some of my clients find me after a lifetime of perfectionism and self-judgement, working (too) hard to make everything seem okay from the outside and paying (too) high a price for doing it. Some find me because they have experienced, or witnessed, something horrific or traumatic. Some find me because intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors are starting to take over their lives. Some find me because the stress of their job is becoming too much. And some find me because they feel shame and anguish around sex or their bodies.
I believe the best therapy is grounded in up-to-date science, and I use research-backed interventions, including CBT and DBT.
Some of my clients find me after a lifetime of perfectionism and self-judgement, working (too) hard to make everything seem okay from the outside and paying (too) high a price for doing it. Some find me because they have experienced, or witnessed, something horrific or traumatic. Some find me because intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors are starting to take over their lives. Some find me because the stress of their job is becoming too much. And some find me because they feel shame and anguish around sex or their bodies.
(206) 222-3283 View (206) 222-3283
Photo of Jenna Abrams, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Abrams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mukilteo, WA 98275  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution- focused therapy, and goal-oriented therapy.
Hi there! I am currently accepting new WA and NC Telehealth clients. Learning to trust someone is hard, but having to face difficult experiences alone can be even harder. I am here to help you make that journey (feel) easier, and help you grow at the same time. Using a holistic, person-centered approach, I will learn what makes you who you are, and will develop a unique treatment plan tailored to your needs. I enjoy working with individuals and couples, people of all orientations, and with military members and their families. I value support and validation but encourage solutions and change.
I utilize psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution- focused therapy, and goal-oriented therapy.
Hi there! I am currently accepting new WA and NC Telehealth clients. Learning to trust someone is hard, but having to face difficult experiences alone can be even harder. I am here to help you make that journey (feel) easier, and help you grow at the same time. Using a holistic, person-centered approach, I will learn what makes you who you are, and will develop a unique treatment plan tailored to your needs. I enjoy working with individuals and couples, people of all orientations, and with military members and their families. I value support and validation but encourage solutions and change.
(425) 610-8484 View (425) 610-8484
Photo of Taylor Castaño Heiner - Uhane Counseling, PS, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Uhane Counseling, PS
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Our therapists implement a variety of techniques including DBT, CBT, somatic work, and mindfulness into client treatments.
The ancient Hawaiians call the soul ‘Uhane: at times when we are in pain or suffering we may feel like we are “ ‘uhane ‘ole” -which means without a soul. True peace and healing comes when the ‘uhane, the physical, spiritual and mental state, is healed. At ‘Uhane Counseling we strive to heal the soul in order to restore peace and tranquility to each client.
Our therapists implement a variety of techniques including DBT, CBT, somatic work, and mindfulness into client treatments.
The ancient Hawaiians call the soul ‘Uhane: at times when we are in pain or suffering we may feel like we are “ ‘uhane ‘ole” -which means without a soul. True peace and healing comes when the ‘uhane, the physical, spiritual and mental state, is healed. At ‘Uhane Counseling we strive to heal the soul in order to restore peace and tranquility to each client.
(425) 309-7867 View (425) 309-7867
Photo of Kailyn Haberman - Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I believe in an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from various theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices.
My name is Kailyn Haberman, I have experience and training helping individuals through eating disorders, trauma & PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as experience working with a wide range of psychological concerns, including self-esteem issues, self-harm behaviors, body dysmorphia, perfectionism, and life transitions.
I believe in an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from various theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices.
My name is Kailyn Haberman, I have experience and training helping individuals through eating disorders, trauma & PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as experience working with a wide range of psychological concerns, including self-esteem issues, self-harm behaviors, body dysmorphia, perfectionism, and life transitions.
(425) 517-3019 View (425) 517-3019
Photo of Jennifer Walter, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Jennifer Walter
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
My clients often come to me because they are struggling with addictions, trauma, parenting issues, or mood disorders (anxiety, depression). I have experience with a wide range of disorders and issues—reach out to me for a free consultation and let’s see if we are a good fit! I like using DBT, CBT and Polyvagal Theory in therapy. I can help you “re-wire” your brain’s responses, helping you live the happier, healthier life you want.
My clients often come to me because they are struggling with addictions, trauma, parenting issues, or mood disorders (anxiety, depression). I have experience with a wide range of disorders and issues—reach out to me for a free consultation and let’s see if we are a good fit! I like using DBT, CBT and Polyvagal Theory in therapy. I can help you “re-wire” your brain’s responses, helping you live the happier, healthier life you want.
(360) 209-7269 View (360) 209-7269
Photo of Frances Murphy, Frances Murphy, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frances Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Frances Murphy, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
We all have the ability to change, learn and grow. We are not born with skills, throughout our life we gain many coping mechanisms, but some of those are born out of survival, fear or toxic family dynamics and might make it challenging to navigate in relationships or during life’s transitions. For many this leads to experiencing a variety of symptoms. Life can also throw us some big curveballs that feel impossible to adjust to. I believe with assistance anyone can process the past, heal, build coping skills and cultivate a mindset that is needed to create a life that is enjoyable. I utilize DBT and EMDR to aid you in your journey.
We all have the ability to change, learn and grow. We are not born with skills, throughout our life we gain many coping mechanisms, but some of those are born out of survival, fear or toxic family dynamics and might make it challenging to navigate in relationships or during life’s transitions. For many this leads to experiencing a variety of symptoms. Life can also throw us some big curveballs that feel impossible to adjust to. I believe with assistance anyone can process the past, heal, build coping skills and cultivate a mindset that is needed to create a life that is enjoyable. I utilize DBT and EMDR to aid you in your journey.
(425) 578-5814 View (425) 578-5814
Photo of Dr. Vance Whippo, DMin, MA, LMHCA, CCC, MHP, Counselor
Dr. Vance Whippo
Counselor, DMin, MA, LMHCA, CCC, MHP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Some strategies for managing stress and anxiety, improving self-esteem, and developing coping mechanisms involve looking for practical tools to integrate into their daily routine, such as mindfulness practices, CBT/ DBT, and time management techniques, to create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Most clients come to me from the military and emergency services but I also work with many relationships as they struggle with anxiety and mild depression, largely stemming from work-related stress and a lack of work-life balance. They are highly motivated and self-aware, acknowledging their need for help and actively seeking it. They have a supportive network but feel isolated in their experiences, yearning for a space to express their feelings without judgment. They also want to explore underlying issues contributing to their mental health challenges, such as perfectionism and fear of failure.
Some strategies for managing stress and anxiety, improving self-esteem, and developing coping mechanisms involve looking for practical tools to integrate into their daily routine, such as mindfulness practices, CBT/ DBT, and time management techniques, to create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Most clients come to me from the military and emergency services but I also work with many relationships as they struggle with anxiety and mild depression, largely stemming from work-related stress and a lack of work-life balance. They are highly motivated and self-aware, acknowledging their need for help and actively seeking it. They have a supportive network but feel isolated in their experiences, yearning for a space to express their feelings without judgment. They also want to explore underlying issues contributing to their mental health challenges, such as perfectionism and fear of failure.
(360) 964-5415 View (360) 964-5415
Constance M Stevenson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201  (Online Only)
My primary modality is DBT, EMDR (not all clients are eligible for EMDR) as well as other modalities base.
I have always been passionate about helping others and have always been a good listener. Having experienced trauma myself, I understand the importance of seeking professional help. I believe in utilizing DBT, and other evidence-based practices to help individuals cope with mental health challenges.
My primary modality is DBT, EMDR (not all clients are eligible for EMDR) as well as other modalities base.
I have always been passionate about helping others and have always been a good listener. Having experienced trauma myself, I understand the importance of seeking professional help. I believe in utilizing DBT, and other evidence-based practices to help individuals cope with mental health challenges.
(425) 584-2312 View (425) 584-2312
Photo of Andrea Mendoza - Sadler Bridges Wellness Group, LMHC, SUDPT, Counselor
Sadler Bridges Wellness Group
Counselor, LMHC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of different approaches in order to fit clients' specific needs such as CBT, ACT, DBT, and trauma focused approaches.
We are currently accepting new clients! My name is Andrea Mendoza, and I specialize in working on trauma (including CPTSD), anxiety, and depression. I work with adults, couples, and teens who are seeking help with trauma, attachment wounds/style, relationship issues, anxiety, life transitions, depression, and/or addiction. My work with couples includes working on challenges with communication, mutual understanding, connection, and strengthening their bond.
I utilize a variety of different approaches in order to fit clients' specific needs such as CBT, ACT, DBT, and trauma focused approaches.
We are currently accepting new clients! My name is Andrea Mendoza, and I specialize in working on trauma (including CPTSD), anxiety, and depression. I work with adults, couples, and teens who are seeking help with trauma, attachment wounds/style, relationship issues, anxiety, life transitions, depression, and/or addiction. My work with couples includes working on challenges with communication, mutual understanding, connection, and strengthening their bond.
(509) 401-8304 View (509) 401-8304
Photo of Renee Swatz, MA,  LMHCA,  MHP, Counselor
Renee Swatz
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98037
Renee Swatz is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington who has been practicing since 2022. Renee uses a variety of techniques to offer each client their own personal experience of healing. She utilizes motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT to assist clients on their journey. Renee has a gentle approach but does occasionally give homework assignments to help guide a client through strong emotions or to help learn new coping skills. She has experience with depression and depressive disorders, anxiety, and substance use. Renee would love to talk with you.
Renee Swatz is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington who has been practicing since 2022. Renee uses a variety of techniques to offer each client their own personal experience of healing. She utilizes motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT to assist clients on their journey. Renee has a gentle approach but does occasionally give homework assignments to help guide a client through strong emotions or to help learn new coping skills. She has experience with depression and depressive disorders, anxiety, and substance use. Renee would love to talk with you.
(425) 970-9850 View (425) 970-9850
Photo of Shoshauna Mohlman, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shoshauna Mohlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98208
I practice using a dialectical, holistic and strengths-based lens, leveraging your strengths while giving you additional tools to empower you to build your best life.
Welcome! We can all use a little bit of help sometimes. Having the courage to recognize that, and take action, says a lot about you and what you want to see in your future. Do you find it difficult to regulate your emotions, and see that this difficulty interferes in your relationships, work, school or other aspects of your life? Do you recognize thought patterns that repeat on loop and keep you stuck? Are there past events or present circumstances that you need help processing? Perhaps I can help. Therapy is a journey toward healing, acceptance and self-discovery. I would love to partner with you on your very personal journey.
I practice using a dialectical, holistic and strengths-based lens, leveraging your strengths while giving you additional tools to empower you to build your best life.
Welcome! We can all use a little bit of help sometimes. Having the courage to recognize that, and take action, says a lot about you and what you want to see in your future. Do you find it difficult to regulate your emotions, and see that this difficulty interferes in your relationships, work, school or other aspects of your life? Do you recognize thought patterns that repeat on loop and keep you stuck? Are there past events or present circumstances that you need help processing? Perhaps I can help. Therapy is a journey toward healing, acceptance and self-discovery. I would love to partner with you on your very personal journey.
(425) 585-2664 View (425) 585-2664
Photo of Rina Brown-Ono, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rina Brown-Ono
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
I also use dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT) including neurodivergent affirming DBT.
I work with a diverse range of people from across the lifespan, focusing on the neurodivergent population from different cultural backgrounds. I use a culturally competent and strengths-based approach in therapy. I can help you find who you are as a person and communicate your needs with others. I am here to support your journey.
I also use dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT) including neurodivergent affirming DBT.
I work with a diverse range of people from across the lifespan, focusing on the neurodivergent population from different cultural backgrounds. I use a culturally competent and strengths-based approach in therapy. I can help you find who you are as a person and communicate your needs with others. I am here to support your journey.
(425) 217-3715 View (425) 217-3715
Photo of Fredianne Gray, MA, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fredianne Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
My approach is specific to you and your needs, largely drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Hello and Welcome! I am glad you’re taking steps that support your good health. To me, therapy is a collaborative process based on an authentic therapeutic relationship and trust that we develop together. I am genuinely interested in you – your unique experiences and perspectives, strengths and struggles, and goals and dreams. In sessions we will build on your strengths, explore your challenges, nourish your hope and resilience, support your growth, and develop an understanding of what you need to thrive.
My approach is specific to you and your needs, largely drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Hello and Welcome! I am glad you’re taking steps that support your good health. To me, therapy is a collaborative process based on an authentic therapeutic relationship and trust that we develop together. I am genuinely interested in you – your unique experiences and perspectives, strengths and struggles, and goals and dreams. In sessions we will build on your strengths, explore your challenges, nourish your hope and resilience, support your growth, and develop an understanding of what you need to thrive.
(425) 999-4446 View (425) 999-4446

See more therapy options for Clinton

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.