Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Normandy Park, WA

Photo of Suzanne Wagner, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Normandy Park, WA 98148  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR certified therapist and use a combination of Cognitve Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) with clients to address, manage and alleviate symptoms.
Endeavoring to improve our emotional quality of life takes bravery. I am happy to see the scales tipping in favor of mental health in recent years, however, we must acknowldge asking for mental health support has been culturally counter intuitive for generations. Reaching out for couseling and consultation is the first and most important step. As humans it really is ok to say that sometimes we "arent always ok". Shame does not actually exist in the same space of asking for help.
I am an EMDR certified therapist and use a combination of Cognitve Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) with clients to address, manage and alleviate symptoms.
Endeavoring to improve our emotional quality of life takes bravery. I am happy to see the scales tipping in favor of mental health in recent years, however, we must acknowldge asking for mental health support has been culturally counter intuitive for generations. Reaching out for couseling and consultation is the first and most important step. As humans it really is ok to say that sometimes we "arent always ok". Shame does not actually exist in the same space of asking for help.
(206) 483-0285 View (206) 483-0285
Photo of Nathan Fritz, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nathan Fritz
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normandy Park, 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 Hannah Zimmerman, LCPC, LAC, MS, MFT, Counselor
Hannah Zimmerman
Counselor, LCPC, LAC, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Normandy Park, WA 98148
Ever think: "How did I end up here?" or "I never imagined {life event} would happen to me!" You are not alone! We can all relate to these sentiments. Most people do not end up in therapy because circumstances are unicorns and rainbows. Are you struggling with loss, or making meaning out of events that have left you feeling uncertain, shaken, in agony? Do you feel like you are starring in a scene from the film Ground Hog Day, where life is a series of frustrating, repeating events? You can make a successful transition to break this cycle, whatever that personal change is. You will get a sense of control back. A little Zen. Some hope.
Ever think: "How did I end up here?" or "I never imagined {life event} would happen to me!" You are not alone! We can all relate to these sentiments. Most people do not end up in therapy because circumstances are unicorns and rainbows. Are you struggling with loss, or making meaning out of events that have left you feeling uncertain, shaken, in agony? Do you feel like you are starring in a scene from the film Ground Hog Day, where life is a series of frustrating, repeating events? You can make a successful transition to break this cycle, whatever that personal change is. You will get a sense of control back. A little Zen. Some hope.
(406) 351-7157 View (406) 351-7157
Photo of Soleil Ann Brandenfels, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Soleil Ann Brandenfels
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Normandy Park, WA 98166
Currently only accepting couples & families. Each of us is navigating a unique journey and encountering barriers along the way. At times, we may find ourselves feeling lost or stuck. Much of our longing stems from three simple but profound needs: we want to be seen, chosen, and understood. Whether you're grappling with excessive self-criticism, physical symptoms of emotional dysregulation, or the aftermath of challenging life circumstances, transitions, or oppressive social systems, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can work on regulating your nervous system and fostering a fulfilling and healthy life.
Currently only accepting couples & families. Each of us is navigating a unique journey and encountering barriers along the way. At times, we may find ourselves feeling lost or stuck. Much of our longing stems from three simple but profound needs: we want to be seen, chosen, and understood. Whether you're grappling with excessive self-criticism, physical symptoms of emotional dysregulation, or the aftermath of challenging life circumstances, transitions, or oppressive social systems, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can work on regulating your nervous system and fostering a fulfilling and healthy life.
(206) 800-7036 View (206) 800-7036

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Celia Viveros, LICSW, ASOTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celia Viveros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ASOTP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98168
My approach combines evidence-based techniques like Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to provide a supportive, structured environment for healing and self-discovery.
Teletherapy ONLY As a bilingual and bicultural therapist, I am passionate about supporting people as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. With a deep understanding of diverse backgrounds and experiences, I specialize in helping clients work through relationship issues, trauma histories, and personal growth.
My approach combines evidence-based techniques like Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to provide a supportive, structured environment for healing and self-discovery.
Teletherapy ONLY As a bilingual and bicultural therapist, I am passionate about supporting people as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. With a deep understanding of diverse backgrounds and experiences, I specialize in helping clients work through relationship issues, trauma histories, and personal growth.
(206) 502-4132 View (206) 502-4132
Photo of Tracie Grace, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracie Grace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98166  (Online Only)
I use strengths-based methods such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I have areas of specialization as a therapist that include eating disorders, depression and anxiety, and stress related to life transitions. I work with teenagers, adults, including folks from the LGBTQ+ community. I have experience with trauma, foster/adoption issues, and complex medical diagnoses. I will take the time to work with you to identify the therapeutic support that will be most helpful in your journey.
I use strengths-based methods such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I have areas of specialization as a therapist that include eating disorders, depression and anxiety, and stress related to life transitions. I work with teenagers, adults, including folks from the LGBTQ+ community. I have experience with trauma, foster/adoption issues, and complex medical diagnoses. I will take the time to work with you to identify the therapeutic support that will be most helpful in your journey.
(425) 532-5103 View (425) 532-5103
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 Akila Osakwe, LMHC, Counselor
Akila Osakwe
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tukwila, WA 98188  (Online Only)
We will work together to develop effective strategies that work for you while utilizing evidenced based approaches such as CBT, DBT, and compassion based therapies.
I am Akila Osakwe, A licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with individuals and families. My areas of expertise are postpartum and prenatal issues, Trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, family issues, Injuries, parenting support, grief, severe mental illness, and co-occurring disorders.
We will work together to develop effective strategies that work for you while utilizing evidenced based approaches such as CBT, DBT, and compassion based therapies.
I am Akila Osakwe, A licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with individuals and families. My areas of expertise are postpartum and prenatal issues, Trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, family issues, Injuries, parenting support, grief, severe mental illness, and co-occurring disorders.
(425) 537-4674 View (425) 537-4674
Photo of Mimi Ogasawara, MA, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor
Mimi Ogasawara
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Tukwila, WA 98188
I have 20 years of clinical experience in providing evidenced-based treatment. As a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, I work with children, adolescents, adults, & families with a variety of issues and challenges, including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, children emotional & behavioral issues, stress, etc... I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT skills, Play Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Guided by my client's needs and issues, I use a variety of therapeutic orientations to work with children, adults, and families.
I have 20 years of clinical experience in providing evidenced-based treatment. As a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, I work with children, adolescents, adults, & families with a variety of issues and challenges, including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, children emotional & behavioral issues, stress, etc... I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT skills, Play Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Guided by my client's needs and issues, I use a variety of therapeutic orientations to work with children, adults, and families.
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Photo of Michelle Hooks, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Hooks
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Des Moines, WA 98148
I am predominately trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT).
My professional experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families who have sought help with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, behavioral issues, difficulty with emotion regulation and emotional expression, social deficits, issues related to educational or occupational functioning, relationship issues and difficulty communicating. I work from a LGBTQ+ affirming, racially equitable and feminist framework to provide clients with the support they need and deserve.
I am predominately trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT).
My professional experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families who have sought help with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, behavioral issues, difficulty with emotion regulation and emotional expression, social deficits, issues related to educational or occupational functioning, relationship issues and difficulty communicating. I work from a LGBTQ+ affirming, racially equitable and feminist framework to provide clients with the support they need and deserve.
(206) 966-6586 View (206) 966-6586
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 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 Mwiche Lupambo, MS, LMFT, MHP, CHMS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mwiche Lupambo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MHP, CHMS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seatac, WA 98188
I'm trained in Evidenced Based Models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping).
Life is full of transitions, expected and unexpected, and this can be hard on individuals and families as a whole. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I seek to help you cope, decrease emotional distress, and bring balance and meaning to your current situation. Being a therapist of color has equipped me to be sensitive, open and authentic to issues such as privilege, classism, oppression, racism, as they may relate to emotional pain and suffering. I believe that each person develops unique coping skills to deal with life’s stresses.
I'm trained in Evidenced Based Models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping).
Life is full of transitions, expected and unexpected, and this can be hard on individuals and families as a whole. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I seek to help you cope, decrease emotional distress, and bring balance and meaning to your current situation. Being a therapist of color has equipped me to be sensitive, open and authentic to issues such as privilege, classism, oppression, racism, as they may relate to emotional pain and suffering. I believe that each person develops unique coping skills to deal with life’s stresses.
(218) 217-0745 View (218) 217-0745
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 Lauren Lowenthal, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Lauren Lowenthal
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seatac, WA 98148  (Online Only)
Welcome! Benjamin Franklin said there were only two things certain in life: death and taxes. I would add a third certainty: change. Change is difficult for most people; even positive change can stir up anxious feelings in us. But change can also be freeing, exhilarating and something to be embraced. I hope to help you on your change journey. I work with adults (age 18 and up) on all types of life stage challenges and transitions and the mental health difficulties those changes often bring.
Welcome! Benjamin Franklin said there were only two things certain in life: death and taxes. I would add a third certainty: change. Change is difficult for most people; even positive change can stir up anxious feelings in us. But change can also be freeing, exhilarating and something to be embraced. I hope to help you on your change journey. I work with adults (age 18 and up) on all types of life stage challenges and transitions and the mental health difficulties those changes often bring.
(253) 242-9140 View (253) 242-9140
Photo of Janet Cheng, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Cheng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98148
Waitlist for new clients
Life has so many transitions and challenges. Fertility issues, cancer, death of a loved one, work conflicts, relationship issues, and so many more. Are you are looking for a therapist that will listen to you and provide support? Then contact me.
Life has so many transitions and challenges. Fertility issues, cancer, death of a loved one, work conflicts, relationship issues, and so many more. Are you are looking for a therapist that will listen to you and provide support? Then contact me.
(253) 465-9325 View (253) 465-9325
Photo of Kevin Ward, MEd, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Kevin Ward
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
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 Sarah Hays, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Hays
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seatac, WA 98188  (Online Only)
I consider myself a generalist clinician. I have experience addressing recovery/addiction, sexual problems, gender/identity, behavior problems, trauma, ADHD, interpersonal conflict, depression, anxiety, chronic stress, and more. My interest is to empower and support my clients - to work together and personalize their therapy to suit them individually. I work to provide a safe and productive space for clients to overcome adversity, and care deeply about understanding each person's diversity in identity and presence. I strive to remain open to and aware of my biases - including my privilege, identities, and beliefs.
I consider myself a generalist clinician. I have experience addressing recovery/addiction, sexual problems, gender/identity, behavior problems, trauma, ADHD, interpersonal conflict, depression, anxiety, chronic stress, and more. My interest is to empower and support my clients - to work together and personalize their therapy to suit them individually. I work to provide a safe and productive space for clients to overcome adversity, and care deeply about understanding each person's diversity in identity and presence. I strive to remain open to and aware of my biases - including my privilege, identities, and beliefs.
(206) 203-0957 View (206) 203-0957
Photo of Cherrise Smith, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Cherrise Smith
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98166
Welcome, I am currently accepting new clients! Together we will create and environment that is compassionate, supportive and built on a foundation of trust. My therapeutic approach is highly relational, direct, and collaborative with the utilization of multiple therapeutic modalities. I work with children and teens struggling with social skills, emotion regulation, anxiety/depression, and coping skills. My natural ability to build rapport helps to create a space where they can recognize their challenges, build their strengths, and feel both understood and safe as they navigate through the complexities of being a youth today.
Welcome, I am currently accepting new clients! Together we will create and environment that is compassionate, supportive and built on a foundation of trust. My therapeutic approach is highly relational, direct, and collaborative with the utilization of multiple therapeutic modalities. I work with children and teens struggling with social skills, emotion regulation, anxiety/depression, and coping skills. My natural ability to build rapport helps to create a space where they can recognize their challenges, build their strengths, and feel both understood and safe as they navigate through the complexities of being a youth today.
(206) 222-4136 View (206) 222-4136
Photo of Mary Hill - Mary Hill (Perinatal Mental Health), LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Hill (Perinatal Mental Health)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98166  (Online Only)
The transition to parenthood is really hard, isn’t it? Maybe the journey to becoming a parent has been long and challenging. Maybe your vision for what having a newborn would be like has been abruptly altered by the reality of it all. Maybe your dreams feel like they’re falling apart as you grieve a pregnancy loss or grieve who you used to be in the “before times”. This season of life is such a uniquely transformative period that it can throw even the most well-prepared people into a state of emotional and mental chaos they never saw coming.
The transition to parenthood is really hard, isn’t it? Maybe the journey to becoming a parent has been long and challenging. Maybe your vision for what having a newborn would be like has been abruptly altered by the reality of it all. Maybe your dreams feel like they’re falling apart as you grieve a pregnancy loss or grieve who you used to be in the “before times”. This season of life is such a uniquely transformative period that it can throw even the most well-prepared people into a state of emotional and mental chaos they never saw coming.
(206) 656-4808 View (206) 656-4808

See more therapy options for Normandy Park

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.