Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Alex Buffone, MS, LAPC, Counselor
Alex Buffone
Counselor, MS, LAPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I use person-centered therapy, CBT, DBT, family systems theory, and experiential therapy to help you achieve your goals.
If you are experiencing stress with everyday life, struggling with identity development, interested in parenting support, or simply need someone to be a sounding board, I would be a great fit. I strive to create a warm, relaxed, environment where clients can share whatever is on their minds, and we can address each concern one by one. Initially I will get to know you and what brings you to therapy. We will then begin exploring any issues that are interfering with your daily life. It is my hope that through our counseling sessions, you will feel safe to grow, develop new skills, and be a more authentic you.
I use person-centered therapy, CBT, DBT, family systems theory, and experiential therapy to help you achieve your goals.
If you are experiencing stress with everyday life, struggling with identity development, interested in parenting support, or simply need someone to be a sounding board, I would be a great fit. I strive to create a warm, relaxed, environment where clients can share whatever is on their minds, and we can address each concern one by one. Initially I will get to know you and what brings you to therapy. We will then begin exploring any issues that are interfering with your daily life. It is my hope that through our counseling sessions, you will feel safe to grow, develop new skills, and be a more authentic you.
(412) 444-7588 View (412) 444-7588
Photo of Anneke Shuster, LPC, CTTS, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anneke Shuster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CTTS, CAADC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Waitlist for new clients
Modalities used; EMDR, Existential, Humanist, DBT, CBT, Transtheoretical Model of Change.
I know scrolling through Psychology Today profiles can be frustrating, and challenging. Making sense of all of the therapy terms and acronyms, (oh so many of those!) can be exhausting. Assessing and finding your therapist 'fit' shouldn't be impossible. All of us have strengths, and the ability to feel joy. The path to change is often marked with unknown barriers and systemic trauma. My aim is to help others identify interpersonal and systemic barriers standing in the way of growth. I am trauma informed, and an ACES DV survivor and advocate. I work hard to provide a safe space to grow the therapist client alliance.
Modalities used; EMDR, Existential, Humanist, DBT, CBT, Transtheoretical Model of Change.
I know scrolling through Psychology Today profiles can be frustrating, and challenging. Making sense of all of the therapy terms and acronyms, (oh so many of those!) can be exhausting. Assessing and finding your therapist 'fit' shouldn't be impossible. All of us have strengths, and the ability to feel joy. The path to change is often marked with unknown barriers and systemic trauma. My aim is to help others identify interpersonal and systemic barriers standing in the way of growth. I am trauma informed, and an ACES DV survivor and advocate. I work hard to provide a safe space to grow the therapist client alliance.
(412) 274-8366 View (412) 274-8366
Photo of Maddie Canel, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maddie Canel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I have completed trainings in DBT and somatic therapy interventions.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as being trained in working with clients with BPD and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
I have completed trainings in DBT and somatic therapy interventions.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as being trained in working with clients with BPD and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
View
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Brent, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Rebecca Brent
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I have specialized training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Family-Based Interpersonal Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Behavior Activation, The Mind Body Program for Fertility, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Prolonged Grief Treatment, Circle of Security Parenting, and am certified in EMDR through EMDRIA.
The prospect of change can be frightening, but it can also bring greater happiness, growth and meaning to your life. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to help you navigate life challenges, heal from painful experiences, and grow into the best version of yourself. In addition to in person sessions in Pittsburgh, PA, ​I am able to provide teletherapy in participating states pursuant to Psypact Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) under the Psypact Commission E. Passport Mobility Number 15679 (includes PA, OH, WV and 34 additional states)
I have specialized training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Family-Based Interpersonal Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Behavior Activation, The Mind Body Program for Fertility, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Prolonged Grief Treatment, Circle of Security Parenting, and am certified in EMDR through EMDRIA.
The prospect of change can be frightening, but it can also bring greater happiness, growth and meaning to your life. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to help you navigate life challenges, heal from painful experiences, and grow into the best version of yourself. In addition to in person sessions in Pittsburgh, PA, ​I am able to provide teletherapy in participating states pursuant to Psypact Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) under the Psypact Commission E. Passport Mobility Number 15679 (includes PA, OH, WV and 34 additional states)
(412) 424-6960 View (412) 424-6960
Photo of Ioana Neagoe, MS, NCC
Ioana Neagoe
MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Not accepting new clients
Some of the therapeutic interventions I may use or draw from are CBT, IPT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, and DBT.
My name is Ioana, pronounced ee-wa-na. As a Romanian immigrant, as well as a science lover, I work from a foundation of person-centered and existential therapy, paired with whatever evidence-based approach is suited towards your goals. I’m well versed in the intricacies of the immigrant experience and operate from a multicultural counseling point of view. I offer counseling that is trauma-informed, personalized, collaborative, and science-based. In my therapeutic process, I make it a priority to understand the client not only as an individual but as a product of their upbringing, experiences, and environment.
Some of the therapeutic interventions I may use or draw from are CBT, IPT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, and DBT.
My name is Ioana, pronounced ee-wa-na. As a Romanian immigrant, as well as a science lover, I work from a foundation of person-centered and existential therapy, paired with whatever evidence-based approach is suited towards your goals. I’m well versed in the intricacies of the immigrant experience and operate from a multicultural counseling point of view. I offer counseling that is trauma-informed, personalized, collaborative, and science-based. In my therapeutic process, I make it a priority to understand the client not only as an individual but as a product of their upbringing, experiences, and environment.
(412) 293-0842 View (412) 293-0842
Photo of Lizzie Birmingham, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lizzie Birmingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I am trained in DBT & MI and am currently completing my EMDR training.
My ideal population is adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, or substance use - however I believe that everyone deserves to have a therapist who is dedicated to them, and I would never turn away a client unless their needs were out of my scope of practice. My ideal client is someone who is motivated for therapy and is willing to learn.
I am trained in DBT & MI and am currently completing my EMDR training.
My ideal population is adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, or substance use - however I believe that everyone deserves to have a therapist who is dedicated to them, and I would never turn away a client unless their needs were out of my scope of practice. My ideal client is someone who is motivated for therapy and is willing to learn.
(412) 776-0794 View (412) 776-0794
Photo of Caroline Springhorn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Springhorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I offer therapy through a DBT and CBT perspective.
My ideal client is seeking therapy to become the best version of themselves. They would be committed to treatment and be willing to put in the work in and outside of therapy.
I offer therapy through a DBT and CBT perspective.
My ideal client is seeking therapy to become the best version of themselves. They would be committed to treatment and be willing to put in the work in and outside of therapy.
(412) 693-6931 View (412) 693-6931
Photo of Katy Jane Dunhoff, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy Jane Dunhoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I use a variety of different modalities; CBT, DBT, TF- CBT, Parent Child Interaction Therapy and DDP.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 17 years of experience, I have worked in families homes and outpatient clinics. My passion started working with children and their families then expanded to working with individuals of all ages. These experiences included working with clients with a variety of mental health symptoms; anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, ADHD, ASD, relationship challenges and life changes.
I use a variety of different modalities; CBT, DBT, TF- CBT, Parent Child Interaction Therapy and DDP.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 17 years of experience, I have worked in families homes and outpatient clinics. My passion started working with children and their families then expanded to working with individuals of all ages. These experiences included working with clients with a variety of mental health symptoms; anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, ADHD, ASD, relationship challenges and life changes.
(412) 981-1533 View (412) 981-1533
Photo of Joni Beth Henry - Joni B. Henry, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joni B. Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Since 2005 I have been working with individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and individuals with special needs as well as interpersonal and relationship problems. I employ evidence-based treatment modalities including ACT, CBT, DBT, and interpersonal psychotherapy. I am passionate about my work as a therapist and I find great joy in working with my clients and witnessing their capacity to heal. look forward to supporting you in your journey and will provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, and kind experience.
Since 2005 I have been working with individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and individuals with special needs as well as interpersonal and relationship problems. I employ evidence-based treatment modalities including ACT, CBT, DBT, and interpersonal psychotherapy. I am passionate about my work as a therapist and I find great joy in working with my clients and witnessing their capacity to heal. look forward to supporting you in your journey and will provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, and kind experience.
(412) 991-2042 View (412) 991-2042
Photo of Lynnetta Faye Ward - Forward Plan LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Forward Plan LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
I am trained in various evidence-based treatments modalities; including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), trauma-focused treatment, DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) utilized to reduce symptoms surrounding traumatic, conflict, grief and anxiety.
I have experience working with high risk populations; including intimate partner violence. I enjoys working with individuals, couples, co-parents, trauma survivors and teens. Cultivating sustained positive change in the lives of individuals is my passion.
I am trained in various evidence-based treatments modalities; including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), trauma-focused treatment, DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) utilized to reduce symptoms surrounding traumatic, conflict, grief and anxiety.
I have experience working with high risk populations; including intimate partner violence. I enjoys working with individuals, couples, co-parents, trauma survivors and teens. Cultivating sustained positive change in the lives of individuals is my passion.
(412) 219-5968 View (412) 219-5968
Photo of Sarah Caligiuri, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Caligiuri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Not accepting new clients
I am Licensed Professional Counselor with 15 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children with depression, anxiety, and trying to navigate life transitions. I believe to move forward in life, especially through difficult times, one has to find the balance between acceptance and change. My goal in therapy is to aid you through your journey and help you to remove the feeling of being "stuck". My aims is to work with you in a collaborative and genuine manner. My approach is influenced by being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor with 15 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children with depression, anxiety, and trying to navigate life transitions. I believe to move forward in life, especially through difficult times, one has to find the balance between acceptance and change. My goal in therapy is to aid you through your journey and help you to remove the feeling of being "stuck". My aims is to work with you in a collaborative and genuine manner. My approach is influenced by being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
(412) 564-4445 View (412) 564-4445
Photo of Vanessa Royse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Royse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Not accepting new clients
Based on your particular situation, I pull from evidence based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I work with individuals who have a wide range of concerns from depression and anxiety to issues in relationships, grief, loneliness, chronic pain, and stress. Clients get results with me because my approach is practical, creative, and empowering, and I work hard to help clients gain new tools to overcome their challenges. Together we will find ways to better understand the road blocks that are preventing you from moving forward, and to develop healthier coping strategies and behaviors that will improve your life and well-being.
Based on your particular situation, I pull from evidence based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I work with individuals who have a wide range of concerns from depression and anxiety to issues in relationships, grief, loneliness, chronic pain, and stress. Clients get results with me because my approach is practical, creative, and empowering, and I work hard to help clients gain new tools to overcome their challenges. Together we will find ways to better understand the road blocks that are preventing you from moving forward, and to develop healthier coping strategies and behaviors that will improve your life and well-being.
(412) 388-4622 View (412) 388-4622
Photo of Melissa Alcorn Ferry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Alcorn Ferry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Some examples are brief treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and family therapy.
Melissa Alcorn-Ferry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She is energized by helping people reach their goals and potential. Melissa specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions. Melissa completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked in homes, schools, communities, partial hospitalization, and outpatient treatment programs.
Some examples are brief treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and family therapy.
Melissa Alcorn-Ferry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She is energized by helping people reach their goals and potential. Melissa specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions. Melissa completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked in homes, schools, communities, partial hospitalization, and outpatient treatment programs.
(412) 850-4622 View (412) 850-4622
Photo of Lydia J Lanigan, MEd, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lydia J Lanigan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am person-centered and utilize skills from DBT, CBT, and solution-focused therapy.
If you are a teen or young adult who is struggling (or an advocate for one), know that I have spent my career working with young people, and -for real-, I get it. Being a teen (or adult, honestly) is hard! My goal is to be compassionate and authentic (zero judgment zone), meet you where you are, and help you to sort out your experiences, make meaning of them, and build your best life. I especially enjoy connecting with those who are neurodiverse or who have experienced hard stuff. I'm a pretty big nerd/geek, and I am fluent in "gamer," & I am comfortable with modifying to create an environment that works for you.
I am person-centered and utilize skills from DBT, CBT, and solution-focused therapy.
If you are a teen or young adult who is struggling (or an advocate for one), know that I have spent my career working with young people, and -for real-, I get it. Being a teen (or adult, honestly) is hard! My goal is to be compassionate and authentic (zero judgment zone), meet you where you are, and help you to sort out your experiences, make meaning of them, and build your best life. I especially enjoy connecting with those who are neurodiverse or who have experienced hard stuff. I'm a pretty big nerd/geek, and I am fluent in "gamer," & I am comfortable with modifying to create an environment that works for you.
(412) 472-7531 View (412) 472-7531
Photo of Jacqueline Musser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Musser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Not accepting new clients
I utilize an integrative approach, drawing from numerous evidence-based modalities including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
The human experience is both exceptional and at times incredibly challenging. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe space for you to process, explore, and overcome. Through our therapeutic journey we can work towards healing and growth, inner peace, and increased coping abilities to manage the rollercoasters presented in daily life.
I utilize an integrative approach, drawing from numerous evidence-based modalities including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
The human experience is both exceptional and at times incredibly challenging. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe space for you to process, explore, and overcome. Through our therapeutic journey we can work towards healing and growth, inner peace, and increased coping abilities to manage the rollercoasters presented in daily life.
(412) 318-8795 View (412) 318-8795
Photo of Ashley Mudrinich, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Mudrinich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use both dialectical (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), with a strong trauma-informed background.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
I use both dialectical (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), with a strong trauma-informed background.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
(412) 534-5661 View (412) 534-5661
Photo of Maizee Devlin, MSW, LCSW, PDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maizee Devlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Not accepting new clients
With empathy, humor, and kindness in session, I seek to help my clients feel empowered, clear-headed, and calm. I believe individuals have the power with in themselves to make positive, lasting changes in their lives. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT and motivational interviewing to foster this belief and help clients not only realize, but acknowledge their own role in changing their thoughts and behaviors!
With empathy, humor, and kindness in session, I seek to help my clients feel empowered, clear-headed, and calm. I believe individuals have the power with in themselves to make positive, lasting changes in their lives. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT and motivational interviewing to foster this belief and help clients not only realize, but acknowledge their own role in changing their thoughts and behaviors!
(412) 459-7569 View (412) 459-7569
Photo of Anne Barbabella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Barbabella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in several modalities: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Motivational Interviewing and Harm Reduction.
For over 20 years, I have worked in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with all disorders from mild to severe and specialize in working with the dual diagnosed (mental health and addiction) population; especially those suffering with mood disorders, anxiety and trauma related issues. I am able to offer support to not only the client who is suffering but their family and support system as well. I believe that all people are capable of improving their life with hard work, openness and a desire for change.
I am trained in several modalities: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Motivational Interviewing and Harm Reduction.
For over 20 years, I have worked in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with all disorders from mild to severe and specialize in working with the dual diagnosed (mental health and addiction) population; especially those suffering with mood disorders, anxiety and trauma related issues. I am able to offer support to not only the client who is suffering but their family and support system as well. I believe that all people are capable of improving their life with hard work, openness and a desire for change.
(412) 357-5971 View (412) 357-5971
Photo of Danielle Cohen, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help my clients learn to better manage their emotions and cope with stress more effectively.
Life can be stressful and I am here to offer you a space where you feel comfortable processing your emotions and learning to cope with the difficulties of everyday life. I have extensive training and experience working with teens and young adults suffering from depression and anxiety. I hope to help support and guide you through managing life's transitions, relationships and identity development. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship filled with trust and respect is the foundation of the work we will do together, and I am committed to always being open, honest and compassionate.
I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help my clients learn to better manage their emotions and cope with stress more effectively.
Life can be stressful and I am here to offer you a space where you feel comfortable processing your emotions and learning to cope with the difficulties of everyday life. I have extensive training and experience working with teens and young adults suffering from depression and anxiety. I hope to help support and guide you through managing life's transitions, relationships and identity development. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship filled with trust and respect is the foundation of the work we will do together, and I am committed to always being open, honest and compassionate.
View
Photo of Casey Harvilla, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Harvilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My therapeutic approach is humanistic and combines creative expression with elements of CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
My therapeutic approach is humanistic and combines creative expression with elements of CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
View
1
...
Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

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

Why do people need DBT?

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

What happens in DBT?

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

How long does DBT last?

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