Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Dallas, TX

Photo of Scott Bean, Pre-Licensed Professional
Scott Bean
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
My toolkit includes Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method, CBT, DBT and yoga for deep trauma work.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with relationship issues in this complicated generation of our planet. Primarily, relationship problems involving complex trauma, intimacy concerns, addictive behaviors and codependency. We will carefully untangle any anxiety, self-doubt, obsessive thinking or numbing with internet addictions, work or substances that may no longer be beneficial. Emphasis is placed on integrating new experiences into your life through awareness of where you may be "stuck" in your protective fight-or-flight responses.
My toolkit includes Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method, CBT, DBT and yoga for deep trauma work.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with relationship issues in this complicated generation of our planet. Primarily, relationship problems involving complex trauma, intimacy concerns, addictive behaviors and codependency. We will carefully untangle any anxiety, self-doubt, obsessive thinking or numbing with internet addictions, work or substances that may no longer be beneficial. Emphasis is placed on integrating new experiences into your life through awareness of where you may be "stuck" in your protective fight-or-flight responses.
(469) 551-4779 View (469) 551-4779
Photo of Leigh S Mann, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leigh S Mann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75209
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with additional training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Parenting with Love and Logic, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Spiritually Integrated Counseling, and Addiction and Recovery, and I am also a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist.
We all have resilience within us. No matter what obstacles we find in our way, with the right tools, we can emerge from fear and pain and build a life with purpose and meaning. We all have times in our lives when issues arise involving depression, anxiety, grief, anger, addiction and recovery, parenting, or marital problems. Together we can chart a course to help you flourish.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with additional training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Parenting with Love and Logic, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Spiritually Integrated Counseling, and Addiction and Recovery, and I am also a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist.
We all have resilience within us. No matter what obstacles we find in our way, with the right tools, we can emerge from fear and pain and build a life with purpose and meaning. We all have times in our lives when issues arise involving depression, anxiety, grief, anger, addiction and recovery, parenting, or marital problems. Together we can chart a course to help you flourish.
(214) 953-7674 View (214) 953-7674
Photo of Autumn Moran, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Autumn Moran
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Autumn and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, a Certified Life Coach, and a 500hr trained Yoga Instructor. Saying that to say - - I am here to help you find meaning within yourself and in the world around you. Processing traumas can be hard and scary! I am here to help you along your healing journey by utilizing Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Yoga, Meditation, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Hello! My name is Autumn and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, a Certified Life Coach, and a 500hr trained Yoga Instructor. Saying that to say - - I am here to help you find meaning within yourself and in the world around you. Processing traumas can be hard and scary! I am here to help you along your healing journey by utilizing Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Yoga, Meditation, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(972) 433-5754 View (972) 433-5754
Photo of Leanne C Foell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leanne C Foell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
I am certified in Trauma Focused CBT and I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I work with pre-teens, and teens. I love helping youth navigate the unique challenges that come with developing their identity. I help teens dealing with issues that make them feel misunderstood, unmotivated, or not good enough. I value providing a safe, confidential space for kids and teens, but I encourage some parent involvement and parent solutions. I specialize in the stuck teen, experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and frustration with those around them. I also help parents know how to comfort and teach their teens. I understand how new uncertainties affects teens mood and identity. I want to help!
I am certified in Trauma Focused CBT and I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I work with pre-teens, and teens. I love helping youth navigate the unique challenges that come with developing their identity. I help teens dealing with issues that make them feel misunderstood, unmotivated, or not good enough. I value providing a safe, confidential space for kids and teens, but I encourage some parent involvement and parent solutions. I specialize in the stuck teen, experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and frustration with those around them. I also help parents know how to comfort and teach their teens. I understand how new uncertainties affects teens mood and identity. I want to help!
(214) 239-8674 x704 View (214) 239-8674 x704
Photo of Venecia A. Webb, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Venecia A. Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231  (Online Only)
I use CBT, DBT, and EMDR to help my clients heal and grow through life.
My ideal patient is someone who takes their mental health seriously and strives to be healthy mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. This patient is someone who has issues with trauma or depression, and they want to learn how to cope and heal from their past traumas. This patient wants to feel better and not have flashbacks or any other disruptions in their lives so they can truly live again and be optimistic about their life.
I use CBT, DBT, and EMDR to help my clients heal and grow through life.
My ideal patient is someone who takes their mental health seriously and strives to be healthy mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. This patient is someone who has issues with trauma or depression, and they want to learn how to cope and heal from their past traumas. This patient wants to feel better and not have flashbacks or any other disruptions in their lives so they can truly live again and be optimistic about their life.
(469) 296-5718 View (469) 296-5718
Photo of Stephanie Roelofs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Roelofs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
I utilize Solution- Focused brief therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and Strength-based therapy.
Hello there! I'm Stephanie, and I'm on a mission to bring smiles back into your life. As a dedicated bilingual social worker, I've made it my life's work to help individuals of all ages navigate the challenging journey through anxiety and depression.
I utilize Solution- Focused brief therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and Strength-based therapy.
Hello there! I'm Stephanie, and I'm on a mission to bring smiles back into your life. As a dedicated bilingual social worker, I've made it my life's work to help individuals of all ages navigate the challenging journey through anxiety and depression.
(469) 966-2634 View (469) 966-2634
Photo of John Peterson, LPC, CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
Additionally, I bring expertise in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and cultural competence.
Hi there, my name is John! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Master's in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. I've worked with a diverse caseload over my time working with families, individuals, and couples.
Additionally, I bring expertise in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and cultural competence.
Hi there, my name is John! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Master's in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. I've worked with a diverse caseload over my time working with families, individuals, and couples.
(469) 966-1914 View (469) 966-1914
Photo of Shenella Karunaratne, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shenella Karunaratne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT - Trained), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and EMDR (trained) in my practice, and I aim to create an eclectic course of treatment that benefits you.
My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are at. Each individual deserves personalized treatment that is effective and long-lasting. My goal in therapy is to help you achieve your potential in any capacity you wish to pursue. I take a direct and challenging approach while creating a supportive and empowering relationship for you to reach your goals.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT - Trained), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and EMDR (trained) in my practice, and I aim to create an eclectic course of treatment that benefits you.
My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are at. Each individual deserves personalized treatment that is effective and long-lasting. My goal in therapy is to help you achieve your potential in any capacity you wish to pursue. I take a direct and challenging approach while creating a supportive and empowering relationship for you to reach your goals.
(469) 529-5970 View (469) 529-5970
Photo of Neelima Kurji, LPC, LCDC, MHA, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neelima Kurji
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, MHA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
The strengths of my approach are the use of evidence based principles of Cognitive Behavior therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy and Mindfulness in a Solution Focused format.
Welcome to my page and thank you for stopping by. Are you ready to say goodbye to the constant worrying, irrational fears, and self-judgment associated with anxiety and learn healthier ways to cope with your emotional challenges? Do you want to work through your losses and grief and learn healthy ways to cope? I provide compassionate and evidence-based treatment to help you heal so you can move from struggling to thriving. I specialize in individual counseling for the treatment of Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, and Life Transitions.
The strengths of my approach are the use of evidence based principles of Cognitive Behavior therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy and Mindfulness in a Solution Focused format.
Welcome to my page and thank you for stopping by. Are you ready to say goodbye to the constant worrying, irrational fears, and self-judgment associated with anxiety and learn healthier ways to cope with your emotional challenges? Do you want to work through your losses and grief and learn healthy ways to cope? I provide compassionate and evidence-based treatment to help you heal so you can move from struggling to thriving. I specialize in individual counseling for the treatment of Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, and Life Transitions.
(469) 653-3925 View (469) 653-3925
Photo of Whitney Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Whitney Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209  (Online Only)
Whitney works with adults and adolescents using Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients build a life that they believe to be truly worth living! She offers telehealth across the state of Texas. Whitney and her team at North Texas DBT Associates provide comprehensive DBT, which is comprised of highly structured weekly individual sessions, weekly group skills classes, and access to 24/7 phone coaching support. For more information, visit our website, ntxdbt.com.
Whitney works with adults and adolescents using Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients build a life that they believe to be truly worth living! She offers telehealth across the state of Texas. Whitney and her team at North Texas DBT Associates provide comprehensive DBT, which is comprised of highly structured weekly individual sessions, weekly group skills classes, and access to 24/7 phone coaching support. For more information, visit our website, ntxdbt.com.
(214) 751-3063 View (214) 751-3063
Photo of Kenneth Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenneth Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75208
I am a person-centered, solution focused therapist, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and ACT techniques as foundations for treatment.
After learning how to cope with my own mental health issues in a healthier way, I decided it was time for a career change. As a result, I went back to graduate school in 2013 to obtain my MSW from the University of Texas at Arlington. I completed graduate school in 2015 and obtained my LCSW in 2017. Since obtaining my MSW, I have worked extensively with those who struggle with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse issues, and have had the privilege to work with clients in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
I am a person-centered, solution focused therapist, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and ACT techniques as foundations for treatment.
After learning how to cope with my own mental health issues in a healthier way, I decided it was time for a career change. As a result, I went back to graduate school in 2013 to obtain my MSW from the University of Texas at Arlington. I completed graduate school in 2015 and obtained my LCSW in 2017. Since obtaining my MSW, I have worked extensively with those who struggle with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse issues, and have had the privilege to work with clients in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(469) 902-2224 View (469) 902-2224
Photo of Ruby Adjei, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ruby Adjei
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
Ruby utilizes a variety of treatment modalities that include cognitive-behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), strengths-based approaches, and trauma-informed care.
Ruby Adjei is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas who has over 6 years of experience partnering with children, adults, and families who are seeking help with addiction, anger, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and trauma. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Texas-Tyler and received her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.
Ruby utilizes a variety of treatment modalities that include cognitive-behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), strengths-based approaches, and trauma-informed care.
Ruby Adjei is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas who has over 6 years of experience partnering with children, adults, and families who are seeking help with addiction, anger, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and trauma. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Texas-Tyler and received her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.
(469) 306-1570 View (469) 306-1570
Photo of Linda Oberle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Oberle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
I tend to be solution focused and use the following types of modalities: CBT, ACT and a bit of DBT.
Hello, I am so honored to be able to work with you through your journey. Nothing gives me more pleasure then assisting people in self discovery and growth.
I tend to be solution focused and use the following types of modalities: CBT, ACT and a bit of DBT.
Hello, I am so honored to be able to work with you through your journey. Nothing gives me more pleasure then assisting people in self discovery and growth.
(469) 966-7886 View (469) 966-7886
Photo of Courtney Hicks - North Texas DBT Associates, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
North Texas DBT Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
DBT is an evidence based cognitive behavioral treatment that emphasizes individual psychotherapy and group skills classes to help people learn new strategies to develop a life that they experience as worth living. DBT skills include mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT is effective in treating a wide range of issues such as suicidal ideation, nonsuicidal self-injury, depression, addictive behavior, PTSD, eating disorders and Borderline Personality Disorder. It has been shown to be more effective than hospitalization in the treatment of suicidality.
DBT is an evidence based cognitive behavioral treatment that emphasizes individual psychotherapy and group skills classes to help people learn new strategies to develop a life that they experience as worth living. DBT skills include mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT is effective in treating a wide range of issues such as suicidal ideation, nonsuicidal self-injury, depression, addictive behavior, PTSD, eating disorders and Borderline Personality Disorder. It has been shown to be more effective than hospitalization in the treatment of suicidality.
(401) 648-2866 View (401) 648-2866
Photo of Dr. Jingwen Ni, PhD
Dr. Jingwen Ni
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244  (Online Only)
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you depressed, anxious, or stressed? Are you struggling with low self-esteem, relationship issues, or procrastination? Do you feel your past experience is holding you back? Or perhaps you are just simply not happy with your current life but don't know how to change it? Whatever the case, you've come to the right place. You will be treated as one-of-a-kind with your unique dispositions and life experiences. You will be heard and understood wholly and challenged to strive for the best version of yourself.
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you depressed, anxious, or stressed? Are you struggling with low self-esteem, relationship issues, or procrastination? Do you feel your past experience is holding you back? Or perhaps you are just simply not happy with your current life but don't know how to change it? Whatever the case, you've come to the right place. You will be treated as one-of-a-kind with your unique dispositions and life experiences. You will be heard and understood wholly and challenged to strive for the best version of yourself.
(817) 646-3845 View (817) 646-3845
Photo of Michelle Spurgeon, MSSW, LCSWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Spurgeon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSWS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218
I use EMDR or DBT treatment, education & other tools to support your goals.
Clients I work with may be trying to find their footing after overwhelming experiences, traumatic experiences, experiencing anxiety, or a big change. So much is different, but there are moments when it feels hard- harder than you hoped it would be by now. You’ve wondered how much those challenges have impacted who you are, how you feel, and how you connect in relationships. Even if you’ve found ways to get by- it doesn’t have to keep being this hard. I want to come alongside you on this journey and discover how much better it can become.
I use EMDR or DBT treatment, education & other tools to support your goals.
Clients I work with may be trying to find their footing after overwhelming experiences, traumatic experiences, experiencing anxiety, or a big change. So much is different, but there are moments when it feels hard- harder than you hoped it would be by now. You’ve wondered how much those challenges have impacted who you are, how you feel, and how you connect in relationships. Even if you’ve found ways to get by- it doesn’t have to keep being this hard. I want to come alongside you on this journey and discover how much better it can become.
(214) 785-0086 View (214) 785-0086
Photo of Emily Messick, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Messick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
In addition to being certified in EMDR, I offer DBT and IFS informed therapy.
You are your own expert and I’m here to guide you. My clients know they can say hard things to me, and I will not turn away. I want you to experience freedom, gain awareness, and find meaning during our time together. As your counselor, I am always in your corner. My clients have learned new ways to cope with, process, and overcome a multitude of issues. I am affirming of poly and alternative lifestyles, LGBTQIA allied, and treat religious abuse especially Christian and LDS. I am particularly familiar working with childhood trauma, anxiety, and women’s issues. I tailor types of expressive and talk therapies to the individual Client.
In addition to being certified in EMDR, I offer DBT and IFS informed therapy.
You are your own expert and I’m here to guide you. My clients know they can say hard things to me, and I will not turn away. I want you to experience freedom, gain awareness, and find meaning during our time together. As your counselor, I am always in your corner. My clients have learned new ways to cope with, process, and overcome a multitude of issues. I am affirming of poly and alternative lifestyles, LGBTQIA allied, and treat religious abuse especially Christian and LDS. I am particularly familiar working with childhood trauma, anxiety, and women’s issues. I tailor types of expressive and talk therapies to the individual Client.
(469) 382-3479 View (469) 382-3479
Photo of Sophia Worth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Worth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75224  (Online Only)
I was a medical social worker for a psychiatric hospital for over four years, running group therapy and completing biopsychosocial assessments. I have also supported clients with end-stage renal disease for over five years. I work with those struggling with fertility, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum depression. My specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder I and II, borderline personality disorder, chemical dependency, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. My top modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and more.
I was a medical social worker for a psychiatric hospital for over four years, running group therapy and completing biopsychosocial assessments. I have also supported clients with end-stage renal disease for over five years. I work with those struggling with fertility, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum depression. My specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder I and II, borderline personality disorder, chemical dependency, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. My top modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and more.
(682) 463-3556 View (682) 463-3556
Photo of Ashley Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
Through the use of evidence-based therapies specific to my patient’s needs such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy, biblical counseling, and DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy).
Throughout my experience as a counselor, I have noticed that our shame is the foundational and often times our biggest barrier to success. My approach is to help client's identify and replace these shame-based thoughts and become more aware of how these thoughts impact the way they see themselves, others, and the world around them. Once you can view your authentic self as someone that is worthy, goals can be clearly defined, progress can be made, and healing can be obtainable. While this isn't the only consideration in counseling, it is one of great importance.
Through the use of evidence-based therapies specific to my patient’s needs such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy, biblical counseling, and DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy).
Throughout my experience as a counselor, I have noticed that our shame is the foundational and often times our biggest barrier to success. My approach is to help client's identify and replace these shame-based thoughts and become more aware of how these thoughts impact the way they see themselves, others, and the world around them. Once you can view your authentic self as someone that is worthy, goals can be clearly defined, progress can be made, and healing can be obtainable. While this isn't the only consideration in counseling, it is one of great importance.
(972) 737-0762 View (972) 737-0762
Photo of Emmanuel Ezeokeke, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emmanuel Ezeokeke
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
Emmanuel draws from several modalities, such as Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Emmanuel works with individuals who feel stuck and need help moving on or growing further. Distressing emotions such as shame, anxiety, self-doubt, etc., may emphasize this stuckness and lead to habits such as numbing, avoidance, people-pleasing, or trauma responses like fight/flight as unhealthy ways to combat those difficult feelings, inner-criticism, and unfulfilled potential. Emmanuel is also passionate about working with first-generation immigrants and people from different ethnicities and cultures.
Emmanuel draws from several modalities, such as Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Emmanuel works with individuals who feel stuck and need help moving on or growing further. Distressing emotions such as shame, anxiety, self-doubt, etc., may emphasize this stuckness and lead to habits such as numbing, avoidance, people-pleasing, or trauma responses like fight/flight as unhealthy ways to combat those difficult feelings, inner-criticism, and unfulfilled potential. Emmanuel is also passionate about working with first-generation immigrants and people from different ethnicities and cultures.
(214) 271-4276 View (214) 271-4276
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Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

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

Why do people need DBT?

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

What happens in DBT?

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

How long does DBT last?

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