Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Support Groups in Fairfield, CT

This is a group for women who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse. We follow The Courage To Heal, by Bass and Davis as an outline for this psychoeducational group. We also learn Dialectical and Behavior Therapy ( DBT) Skills.
Photo of Nadine Padowicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Nadine Padowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Fairfield, CT 06825
I am also trained in DBT which stands for Dialectical and Behavior Therapy.
In the past 18 years I have become quite adept at working with clients who have trauma histories. Trauma can be major or it can be minor. I find that all human beings have experienced some form of trauma in their lives and this trauma often contributes to our current challenges. I use a method called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with many of my clients. This is a physiological method that is both quick and effective. So whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, addiction, ect. I can help you both rapidly and dramatically.
(203) 275-9918 View (203) 275-9918
The DBT skills group will complement weekly therapy sessions. During group time, we will practice Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, and Interpersonal Effectiveness skills. This is a psychoeducational group where I teach practical, useful skills that we practice together, not a therapy group. This is the time to build your tool-chest of skills.
Photo of Susan S Starkie, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Susan S Starkie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Fairfield, CT 06824
I tend to use a modified Dialectical Behavioral model of therapy but after meeting, you and I decide together what will be the best, most realistic approach.
Welcome and I'm glad you stopped by! I've been a practicing counselor for the past 20 years and I am passionate about my role in supporting clients to improve emotional comfort. I work with 12 to 64 year olds and specialize in helping clients manage bipolar disorder, stress, anxiety and depression, as well as navigating through life transitions. Are you an empty-nester adjusting to a quieter life? Are you a recent graduate starting a career, feeling a little lost? Do you feel stressed or anxious frequently? Have you stopped enjoying things you once enjoyed? Are you anxious about the future? If so, let's talk!
(475) 897-5076 View (475) 897-5076
This is a psychoeducational group which teaches the skills of Dialectical and Behavior Therapy. It is for adults wishing to improve interpersonal skills, mindfulness skills, affect regulation skills and distress tolerance skills. The group will meet weekly.
Photo of Nadine Padowicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Nadine Padowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Fairfield, CT 06825
I am also trained in DBT which stands for Dialectical and Behavior Therapy.
In the past 18 years I have become quite adept at working with clients who have trauma histories. Trauma can be major or it can be minor. I find that all human beings have experienced some form of trauma in their lives and this trauma often contributes to our current challenges. I use a method called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with many of my clients. This is a physiological method that is both quick and effective. So whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, addiction, ect. I can help you both rapidly and dramatically.
(203) 275-9918 View (203) 275-9918

More Groups Nearby

Greenwich Psychology Group offers Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to adolescents. Our clinicians have specialized training in providing DBT for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, and emotional regulation. We focus on the core principals of DBT: Mindfulness, Emotional regulation, Interpersonal Efficacy, and Distress Tolerance skills. These skills target reactivity and negative behavior by teaching individuals how to remain balanced and making the moment more tolerable and meaningful. We tailor groups to address the unique circumstance by focusing on challenges that interfere with quality of life.
Photo of Donna Dyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Donna Dyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Greenwich, CT 06831
Have you wondered if Dialectical Behavioral Therapy can be helpful to you?
Donna Dyer is a Licensed Clinician with two decades of experience. She worked in a variety of settings including Silver Hill Hospital where she implemented Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Programs and Clinician training. Her expertise with evidence based treatments with individuals, families, and groups gives her a deeper understanding of each client.
(347) 712-3870 View (347) 712-3870
Due to COVID-19 crisis, I am offering DBT skills online. I offer DBT for Adolescents, Parents, College Students and Adults. I am the only clinician in Connecticut with a certificate in DBT-C -- DBT for Children, a model that focuses on parent education of DBT skills.
Photo of Jodie Semel, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Jodie Semel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
My approach includes evidence-based practices and strength-based skill building, such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Nonviolent Communication.
I'm intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) which teaches skills to manage emotions, ways of being, and relationships through a foundation of mindfulness. Additionally, I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 2, which integrates with all modalities and offers deep i healing of traumas in a most compassionate way.
(203) 989-3750 View (203) 989-3750
This is a Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) skills class, geared toward adult women coping with a variety of life stressors. Together we progress through the five DBT skill modules: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness, and Walking the Middle Path. Our focus is on bringing mindfulness to emotional and behavioral responses, and improving the quality of relationships and ability to fully engage with life. I am a licensed, Linehan Board-Certified DBT Therapist, with over 10 years of experience in running DBT skills classes.
Photo of Katie Zezima McCabe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Hosted by Katie Zezima McCabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
I am also among only a few Board-Certified DBT Therapists in Connecticut.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Westport, CT. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, and also provide training and consultation to other professionals and the community. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders (including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)), impulsive behaviors, relationship problems, and mood disorders. I believe in providing only the highest standard of mental health care for psychological disorders-- evidence-based treatments-- and strive to combine the science of research-based therapy with warmth, care, and empathy.
(203) 517-4129 View (203) 517-4129
Biweekly support group for teens and young adults struggling with loneliness, mood disorders, addiction, low self-esteem,anxiety and more! An opportunity for receiving and providing support in a safe environment. Topics include mindfulness, DBT and CBT skills training to use in place of unhealthy coping skills, support around addiction from a certified recovery coach, family conflicts, peer relationships, and topics Centered around the impact of Covid-19 and how to move forward. ***Time of group can be flexible depending on the needs and schedules of group’s members***
Photo of Alanna Voloshin - Alanna M. Voloshin, LCSW Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CEO
Hosted by Alanna M. Voloshin, LCSW Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CEO
Group meets in Stamford, CT 06905
Certified in Attachment-based family therapy, EMDR, and DBT.
I take time to assess why you are here today. I value your goals & needs to ensure the best quality of treatment. I believe trust, safety, & comfort are the keys in therapeutic success. I'm mindful, compassionate, non-judgmental,& believe it's imperative to find a balance between acceptance and change. I specialize in working with adolescents, families, and young adults struggling with trauma, addiction, BPD, and mood disorders. When exploring past & traumatic events I implement an evidence-based,collaborative approach equally effective & safe; providing you with successful goal oriented outcomes. Licenses: CT(009487) NY(085733).
(203) 794-7092 View (203) 794-7092
I run virtual two Women's DBT skills groups that meet once a week and run on either Tuesday or Thursday evenings from 6-7 pm. The groups cover Linehan's, " DBT Skills Training: Handouts and Worksheets," and are appropriate for ages 18 +. The groups are in-network with insurance for NJ, NY, FL and CT and $65 out-of-network. Monthly superbills are available for reimbursement. *The groups are open to anyone who identifies as female.
Photo of Amanda Wallace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Amanda Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Stamford, CT 06902
We’ll work together to heal problems at the root and help you to learn strategies to better manage your emotions, your relationships, and your painful thoughts by using proven tools such as EMDR and DBT.
Life can leave us feeling overwhelmed, powerless, and alone, especially when you've been affected by trauma. Right now, you might feel frustrated, out of control and afraid that the patterns of the past will continue to repeat themselves. It might seem impossible to break free from the feelings of shame and self-blame weighing you down and feel understood when you try to explain to others how you really feel. If this sounds like where you find yourself today, I’m here to help you move forward and work with you to create the future that you have always deserved.
(203) 697-8409 View (203) 697-8409
Adolescent Multi-Family DBT DBT is a mindfullness-based treatment program that focuses on teaching a specific set of skills to help clients relinquish long-held patterns of avoidance, and build, or rebuild, a "life worth living". In our efforts to remain fully adherent to the DBT model as it was designed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, it is also a requirement that all adolescents are seen in individual DBT therapy sessions on a weekly basis within our practice.
Photo of Betsy Shah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCATP
Hosted by Betsy Shah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCATP
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
I am intensively trained in DBT.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who brings many years of experience working with adults, children and adolescents and their families. With children, I incorporate therapeutic and playful interventions into my work in an effort to promote feelings of safety and the freedom to have fun. My background also includes extensive training and expertise in working with individuals who suffer from eating disorders. My many years of experience as a clinician and program director of both residential and intensive outpatient eating disorder treatment has provided me with the skill set and knowledge to effectively and skillfully treat individuals with all types of eating disorders.
(203) 487-5999 View (203) 487-5999
Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) is an evidence-based therapeutic model that has been proven effective in managing intense emotions, reducing self-harming behaviors, and improving communication and relationships. Weekly sessions are based on the four modules of DBT including Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Emotion Regulation, and Distress Tolerance. Each session runs for 90 minutes and each specific skill set is covered for two weeks. Participants are required to commit to four weeks and are encouraged to participate in both sessions for a total of eight weeks. The cost is $450 per four week session.
Photo of Megan Nisenson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Hosted by Megan Nisenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
Using a skillful compilation of Structural, Solution Focused, Narrative, CBT, and DBT therapies, I am able to guide my clients in learning and implementing healthy coping skills, building self-esteem, and increasing self-awareness and emotional regulation.
In my confidential private practice established in 2014, I have supported individuals, couples, and families through difficult transitions. With intensive training in adolescence and women's issues, I am experienced and dedicated to seeing changes to the problems that my clients come to me to address. Each client's unique concern and goal is heard as we work together to heal negative thinking and relational patterns.
(203) 842-8601 View (203) 842-8601
Greenwich Psychology Group offers Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to adolescents. Our clinicians have specialized training in providing DBT for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, and emotional regulation. We focus on the core principals of DBT: Mindfulness, Emotional regulation, Interpersonal Efficacy, and Distress Tolerance skills. These skills target reactivity and negative behavior by teaching individuals how to remain balanced and making the moment more tolerable and meaningful. We tailor groups to address the unique circumstance by focusing on challenges that interfere with quality of life.
Photo of Donna Dyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Donna Dyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Greenwich, CT 06831
Have you wondered if Dialectical Behavioral Therapy or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can be helpful to your adolescent or young adult?
I provide comprehensive psychotherapy to parents, children and specializes in working with teens/young adults. I am trained to treat Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Behavioral issues/Self regulation, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Attachment Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I provide nurturing support and guidance on your journey to healing.
(203) 599-4762 View (203) 599-4762
This group is open to young women and women seeking a safe space to connect with peers, process stressors and daily experiences, and develop healthy coping skills. This group has a focus on both physical and mental well being (e.g. stress management, time management, anxiety, relational difficulties etc). Meets weekly, virtually, Thursdays at 530 PM. Open to people who live in CT, MA, and FL.
Photo of Kate Richenthal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Kate Richenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
I draw from different therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Hello! I'm so glad you're here. I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience and I work in the practice of Caroline Schiff, LCSW. I believe in the power of connection and compassion. My goal is to create a warm, safe space where you can share your thoughts and feelings without any judgment. Everyone has a unique story, and I’m here to help you explore yours. I love helping people uncover their strengths and navigate life's ups and downs. I’ve worked with individuals from all walks of life, focusing on adults and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use.
(475) 445-1620 View (475) 445-1620
Are you a young adult who would benefit from positive therapeutic and social support? If you could use a self-esteem boost, supportive peer culture, and a welcoming place to process and relieve stressors in an inclusive setting, this group is for you! All LIFT Wellness Groups are open to individuals in therapy treatment as well as individuals who not have a clinician at this time. Group is $55 and is held both virtually and in person. HSA cards can be utilized. We do provide superbill receipts for reimbursement.
Photo of Mary Dobson - LIFT Wellness Group (Westport & Greenwich), Marriage & Family Therapist
Hosted by LIFT Wellness Group (Westport & Greenwich)
Marriage & Family Therapist
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
We offer CBT, DBT, EMDR, ADHD evaluation, play therapy, career coaching, and life coaching services in Westport, CT, and remotely in CT, TN, VA, CO, TX, NY, FL, MA, D
For over a decade, LIFT has been Connecticut’s premier choice for counseling, psychotherapy, concierge medical services, psychological testing, and nutrition support for adults and adolescents. We serve individuals and families facing a wide range of mental health needs, many unique to today’s fast-paced, changing world. Our clients seek more than short-term solutions—they want comprehensive support, resilience, and tools to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and balance. At LIFT, we partner with you to foster sustainable wellness that fits your life and goals.
(475) 222-1599 View (475) 222-1599
Elevate’s Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) has been designed to be an immersive and holistic mental health treatment program for teens and can help with an array of issues. These include mild to severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, chronic suicidal ideation and/or self-harming behaviors. So teens suffering from these conditions will benefit greatly from engagement and participation in this program. The goal of our Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program is to help adolescents design and create the life they want. We do this using Elevate’s proprietary, evidence-based curriculum. All services In-Network with insurance.
Photo of Mohamed Elsamra - Intensive Outpatient Program and Outpatient Detox, Psychiatrist, MD
Hosted by Intensive Outpatient Program and Outpatient Detox
Psychiatrist, MD
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
Topics covered include: Addiction and recovery, mindfulness, DBT, forgiveness, relationships, CBT, self-acceptance, trauma and seeking safety, emotional wellbeing & relapse prevention.
I've been working as a Board Certified Psychiatrist for over 15 years, and throughout that time I've been most interested in working with individuals who struggle with addiction or co-occurring illnesses. I am able to provide my clients with outpatient detoxification from alcohol and opioids as long as safety criteria are met. Evidence shows people are most likely to achieve recovery through a combination of medications and counseling. When you come to Elevate, you can have all of your needs met under one roof: Medication Management, Outpatient Detox, Individual Therapy, Group Therapy and IOP.
(203) 347-2484 View (203) 347-2484
This group is for teenagers seeking a safe space to connect with peers, process stressors and daily experiences, and develop healthy coping skills. This group has a focus on both physical and mental well being, anxiety and stress management, and relational difficulties. It is open process and a great fit for those focused on recovery and building connections and structure to maintain sobriety or lessen use. Meets weekly, virtually, Wednesdays at 5 PM. Open to people who live in CT, MA, and FL.
Photo of Kate Richenthal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Kate Richenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
I draw from different therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Hello! I'm so glad you're here. I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience and I work in the practice of Caroline Schiff, LCSW. I believe in the power of connection and compassion. My goal is to create a warm, safe space where you can share your thoughts and feelings without any judgment. Everyone has a unique story, and I’m here to help you explore yours. I love helping people uncover their strengths and navigate life's ups and downs. I’ve worked with individuals from all walks of life, focusing on adults and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use.
(475) 445-1620 View (475) 445-1620
Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) is an evidence-based therapeutic model that has been proven effective in managing intense emotions, reducing self-harming behaviors, and improving communication and relationships. Weekly sessions are based on the four modules of DBT including Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Emotion Regulation, and Distress Tolerance. Each session runs for 90 minutes and each specific skill set is covered for two weeks. Participants are required to commit to four weeks and are encouraged to participate in both sessions for a total of eight weeks. The cost is $450 per four week session.
Photo of Megan Nisenson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Hosted by Megan Nisenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
Using a skillful compilation of Structural, Solution Focused, Narrative, CBT, and DBT therapies, I am able to guide my clients in learning and implementing healthy coping skills, building self-esteem, and increasing self-awareness and emotional regulation.
In my confidential private practice established in 2014, I have supported individuals, couples, and families through difficult transitions. With intensive training in adolescence and women's issues, I am experienced and dedicated to seeing changes to the problems that my clients come to me to address. Each client's unique concern and goal is heard as we work together to heal negative thinking and relational patterns.
(203) 842-8601 View (203) 842-8601
Have you completed a full cycle of DBT skills, yet still struggle to stay focused on the present moment? Do you remain critical and judgmental of yourself? Do you wish to strengthen your current skills use and mindfulness practice? If so, then join us for "Embodied Mindfulness for DBT Skills." Meeting online for 1hr, over 15 weeks, participants will develop a supportive and sustained personal mindfulness meditation and self-compassion practice, while strengthening their existing DBT skills. *Participants report clinically significant reduction in depressive/ anxious states, & increased self-compassion/ mindfulness traits. **For residents of CT, PA, & NYS. Starts February 2025
Photo of Hilary Bucell - Hilary Bucell: DBT Skills Intensives , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Hilary Bucell: DBT Skills Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
Specifically, I'm intensively trained in Mindfulness and Compassion-based Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, DBT, CBT, CPT, and somatics.
Do you feel as though the intensity of your emotions overwhelm you, or you’re anxious throughout the day? Perhaps you’re aware of the "why" behind your thoughts and actions, yet haven't created lasting change? Or, you're doing "it all right,” but still feel empty and numb with relationships that are lacking? If any of these resonated with you, you're not alone. Beginning therapy can feel overwhelming and unknown, yet it can bring a lifetime of benefits.
(267) 641-3596 View (267) 641-3596
Dialectical behavioral therapy is a cornerstone in recovery from emotional upset. We are thrilled to offer these life-changing skills in an adult format. Clients will take-away tangible coping and self-regulation strategies and skills, reduction in anger, and improvement in depressive symptoms. Group meets weekly both virtually and in person, and is chaired by a licensed psychotherapist and DBT Therapist. Cost: $55, payable via HSA. Superbill receipts provided for reimbursement. All are welcomed, whether presently in therapy or not.
Photo of Mary Dobson - LIFT Wellness Group (Westport & Greenwich), Marriage & Family Therapist
Hosted by LIFT Wellness Group (Westport & Greenwich)
Marriage & Family Therapist
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
We offer CBT, DBT, EMDR, ADHD evaluation, play therapy, career coaching, and life coaching services in Westport, CT, and remotely in CT, TN, VA, CO, TX, NY, FL, MA, D
For over a decade, LIFT has been Connecticut’s premier choice for counseling, psychotherapy, concierge medical services, psychological testing, and nutrition support for adults and adolescents. We serve individuals and families facing a wide range of mental health needs, many unique to today’s fast-paced, changing world. Our clients seek more than short-term solutions—they want comprehensive support, resilience, and tools to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and balance. At LIFT, we partner with you to foster sustainable wellness that fits your life and goals.
(475) 222-1599 View (475) 222-1599
Elevate’s Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) has been designed to be an immersive and holistic mental health treatment program for teens and can help with an array of issues. These include mild to severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, chronic suicidal ideation and/or self-harming behaviors. So teens suffering from these conditions will benefit greatly from engagement and participation in this program. The goal of our Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program is to help adolescents design and create the life they want. We do this using Elevate’s proprietary, evidence-based curriculum. All services In-Network with insurance.
Photo of Dr. Mohamed Elsamra - Elevate Health and Wellness, Treatment Center, MD
Hosted by Elevate Health and Wellness
Treatment Center, MD
Group meets in Westport, CT 06880
Topics covered include: Mental Wellness, Addiction and Recovery, DBT Skills, Mindfulness, Forgiveness, Relationships, CBT Skills, Self-acceptance, Trauma and Seeking Safety, Emotional Wellbeing & Relapse Prevention.
Outpatient detoxification from alcohol or drugs allows clients to continue fulfilling their professional, educational, and family responsibilities while detoxing from the comfort of their own home. Those interested in outpatient detox are thoroughly assessed by our medical team that specializes in addiction treatment. After undergoing a thorough assessment, clients receive recommendations based upon their unique circumstances and ability to function outside of a medically monitored treatment setting. Outpatient detox is not appropriate for everyone and clients will be thoroughly assessed.
(475) 897-5358 View (475) 897-5358
Greenwich Psychology Group offers Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to adults . Our clinicians have specialized training in providing DBT for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, and emotional regulation. We focus on the core principals of DBT: Mindfulness, Emotional regulation, Interpersonal Efficacy, and Distress Tolerance skills. These skills target reactivity and negative behavior by teaching individuals how to remain balanced and making the moment more tolerable and meaningful. We tailor groups to address the unique circumstance by focusing on challenges that interfere with quality of life.
Photo of Donna Dyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Donna Dyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Greenwich, CT 06831
Have you wondered if Dialectical Behavioral Therapy or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can be helpful to your adolescent or young adult?
I provide comprehensive psychotherapy to parents, children and specializes in working with teens/young adults. I am trained to treat Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Behavioral issues/Self regulation, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Attachment Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I provide nurturing support and guidance on your journey to healing.
(203) 599-4762 View (203) 599-4762

See more therapy options for Fairfield

Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Support Groups

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.