Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in 55439

Photo of Nicole Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
Nicole pulls from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Nicole is an empathetic, direct, and nonjudgmental therapist who utilizes compassion and humor in their work with youth. As a Japanese American and member of the LGBTQ+ community, Nicole is passionate about providing a social justice lens and safe space to discuss systemic oppression, implicit biases, the current political environment, and the impact of these environmental stressors on the therapeutic relationship and our collective mental health.
Nicole pulls from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Nicole is an empathetic, direct, and nonjudgmental therapist who utilizes compassion and humor in their work with youth. As a Japanese American and member of the LGBTQ+ community, Nicole is passionate about providing a social justice lens and safe space to discuss systemic oppression, implicit biases, the current political environment, and the impact of these environmental stressors on the therapeutic relationship and our collective mental health.
(952) 592-8426 View (952) 592-8426
Photo of Anna Vogel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Vogel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I have found teaching DBT skills (dialectical behavior therapy) is helpful for those seeking new coping skills and use EMDR when working through trauma with someone.
Therapy is a sacred, safe and healing space for one to engage in self-exploration and acceptance without judgment, criticism or guilt. I am passionate about working with individuals, couples and families and believe that having authentic and meaningful relationships are core to becoming & staying healthy individuals. I have 10 years of experience working with people struggling with disordered eating, anxiety, depression, trauma & all the different issues people face from age 12 and up. My goal is to help people find and use their voice, face their fears, and be honest with themselves.
I have found teaching DBT skills (dialectical behavior therapy) is helpful for those seeking new coping skills and use EMDR when working through trauma with someone.
Therapy is a sacred, safe and healing space for one to engage in self-exploration and acceptance without judgment, criticism or guilt. I am passionate about working with individuals, couples and families and believe that having authentic and meaningful relationships are core to becoming & staying healthy individuals. I have 10 years of experience working with people struggling with disordered eating, anxiety, depression, trauma & all the different issues people face from age 12 and up. My goal is to help people find and use their voice, face their fears, and be honest with themselves.
(952) 649-5901 View (952) 649-5901
Photo of Marilyn Court, MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Marilyn Court
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I use evidence based practices such as emotion focus, cognitive behavior, dialectical behavior or mindfulness-based therapy.
Do you struggle connecting to the present moment, or connecting with friends, family or a partner? I understand that stressful situations can get in the way of life goals, transitions and showing up in relationships the way we want to. My approach to therapy is offering a safe space to explore what is getting in the way, make a plan and then unpack the barriers to getting unstuck. My approach is authentic with a touch a humor. Topics people often discuss are concerns about relationships, attachment, past trauma, career development, development of gender/sexuality or concerns related to oppression in the community.
I use evidence based practices such as emotion focus, cognitive behavior, dialectical behavior or mindfulness-based therapy.
Do you struggle connecting to the present moment, or connecting with friends, family or a partner? I understand that stressful situations can get in the way of life goals, transitions and showing up in relationships the way we want to. My approach to therapy is offering a safe space to explore what is getting in the way, make a plan and then unpack the barriers to getting unstuck. My approach is authentic with a touch a humor. Topics people often discuss are concerns about relationships, attachment, past trauma, career development, development of gender/sexuality or concerns related to oppression in the community.
(952) 260-2638 View (952) 260-2638
Photo of Melanie Johnson, MEd, LPCC, Counselor
Melanie Johnson
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Additional training in DBT and CBT.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with teens, adults, and families on a variety of issues including life transitions, emotion regulation, parenting issues, anxiety, and trauma. I take a nonjudgmental, holistic approach to therapy and works to meet clients where they are. My goal is to help clients heal and feel empowered to take control of their lives. I work to provide a safe and trusting environment regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation. I focus on a strength based approach when working with clients.
Additional training in DBT and CBT.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with teens, adults, and families on a variety of issues including life transitions, emotion regulation, parenting issues, anxiety, and trauma. I take a nonjudgmental, holistic approach to therapy and works to meet clients where they are. My goal is to help clients heal and feel empowered to take control of their lives. I work to provide a safe and trusting environment regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation. I focus on a strength based approach when working with clients.
(952) 230-0479 x21 View (952) 230-0479 x21
Photo of undefined - Stacy Vollands Counseling and Recovery, PLLC, MS, LPCC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy Vollands Counseling and Recovery, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I use therapies such as DBT, CBT, ERP, ACT, and EFFT.
Hi, my name is Stacy Vollands, and I would love to meet you! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of Minnesota as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. I specialize in Eating Disorders, Body Image, Trauma, Perfectionism, Anxiety, Depression, and OCD. I have also achieved the Certified Eating Disorder Specialist distinction and have experience in outpatient, virtual intensive outpatient, and IDP/PHP levels of care for eating disorders. I love encouraging others to find hope, health, and wholeness, as well as lifelong recovery.
I use therapies such as DBT, CBT, ERP, ACT, and EFFT.
Hi, my name is Stacy Vollands, and I would love to meet you! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of Minnesota as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. I specialize in Eating Disorders, Body Image, Trauma, Perfectionism, Anxiety, Depression, and OCD. I have also achieved the Certified Eating Disorder Specialist distinction and have experience in outpatient, virtual intensive outpatient, and IDP/PHP levels of care for eating disorders. I love encouraging others to find hope, health, and wholeness, as well as lifelong recovery.
(952) 592-2230 View (952) 592-2230
Photo of Yael Gun-Goggins, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yael Gun-Goggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
Other Interventions include EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy.
I work with adolescents and adults in both English and Spanish. My approach--customized for each person’s needs--focuses on creating safe, supportive relationships, opening space to explore difficulties and paving the way for real change. I have over a decade experience helping people experiencing anxiety, depression, adjustment, identity development and trauma build healthier, fulfilling lives. In therapy, I take a relational approach that focuses on process and using the therapeutic relationship to reach clinical goals.
Other Interventions include EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy.
I work with adolescents and adults in both English and Spanish. My approach--customized for each person’s needs--focuses on creating safe, supportive relationships, opening space to explore difficulties and paving the way for real change. I have over a decade experience helping people experiencing anxiety, depression, adjustment, identity development and trauma build healthier, fulfilling lives. In therapy, I take a relational approach that focuses on process and using the therapeutic relationship to reach clinical goals.
(612) 429-4735 View (612) 429-4735
Twin Cities Cognitive Behavioral Treatment Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
Our therapists have specialized clinical training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and exposure and response prevention for OCD.
We work with individuals of all ages with anxiety, mood and related issues across the lifespan. When working with younger children, we meet with parents without the child for the first evaluation session, and then meet with the child individually during the second evaluation session.Our center also routinely works with college-aged and young adult clients. Here, our therapists incorporate components of therapy geared specifically to this age group: identity development, fostering independence and autonomy, and helping clients navigate the challenges experienced during their transition into adulthood.
Our therapists have specialized clinical training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and exposure and response prevention for OCD.
We work with individuals of all ages with anxiety, mood and related issues across the lifespan. When working with younger children, we meet with parents without the child for the first evaluation session, and then meet with the child individually during the second evaluation session.Our center also routinely works with college-aged and young adult clients. Here, our therapists incorporate components of therapy geared specifically to this age group: identity development, fostering independence and autonomy, and helping clients navigate the challenges experienced during their transition into adulthood.
(651) 359-9401 View (651) 359-9401
Photo of Leanne D Ravey, PsyD, LPCC, Counselor
Leanne D Ravey
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalytic therapy, Sandplay therapy, mind-body therapy, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Seeking help from a therapist can be a difficult decision. Successful therapy is highly based on the client-therapist relationship as well as openness to change. I have a warm eclectic style that creates a trusting therapeutic environment. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families to address unhealthy patterns that keep them stuck in emotional distress and unfulfilling relationships. I treat a variety of issues including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, spiritual and relationship issues.
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalytic therapy, Sandplay therapy, mind-body therapy, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Seeking help from a therapist can be a difficult decision. Successful therapy is highly based on the client-therapist relationship as well as openness to change. I have a warm eclectic style that creates a trusting therapeutic environment. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families to address unhealthy patterns that keep them stuck in emotional distress and unfulfilling relationships. I treat a variety of issues including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, spiritual and relationship issues.
(952) 314-9000 View (952) 314-9000
Photo of Jai Negri With Fjord Consulting Pllc, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jai Negri With Fjord Consulting Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55439  (Online Only)
Drawing from therapeutic approaches such as CBT, DBT, RO-DBT, ART, relational, and feminist frameworks, my focus remains on compassionate listening and validation, as we collaborate to create a more peaceful life that you love.
FREE consultation. Accepting new clients. Trauma sucks, I can help you. I work with women from a wide range of backgrounds (POC, queer, poly, DV survivors, etc) who are dealing with stress or burnout at work, relationship or family issues, panic attacks, procrastination, systemic violence, or just a buildup of one thing after another leaving life void of humor or play. You don't have to stay stuck here. I'd love to work together to create a plan of recovery and support! Lets talk and see if this will be the right match for you.
Drawing from therapeutic approaches such as CBT, DBT, RO-DBT, ART, relational, and feminist frameworks, my focus remains on compassionate listening and validation, as we collaborate to create a more peaceful life that you love.
FREE consultation. Accepting new clients. Trauma sucks, I can help you. I work with women from a wide range of backgrounds (POC, queer, poly, DV survivors, etc) who are dealing with stress or burnout at work, relationship or family issues, panic attacks, procrastination, systemic violence, or just a buildup of one thing after another leaving life void of humor or play. You don't have to stay stuck here. I'd love to work together to create a plan of recovery and support! Lets talk and see if this will be the right match for you.
(612) 979-2844 View (612) 979-2844
Photo of undefined - Thomas R. Tucker, MSW, PhD, LICSW, MSW, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas R. Tucker, MSW, PhD, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
Incidents from your past may interfere with your present life. A moment may trigger vivid memories, painful feelings, and intrusive negative thoughts. Your coping strategies may seem insufficient, and at times you may feel stuck with intense emotions and rumination. My specialty is helping people to heal from the impact of past adversity and trauma. I believe that everyone has within them innate capacities to heal and grow, and to discover and develop their inner strengths and wisdom. I have advanced training and expertise in evidence-based methods (EMDR, DBT, and Somatic Therapy) that can help you to recover from the past.
Incidents from your past may interfere with your present life. A moment may trigger vivid memories, painful feelings, and intrusive negative thoughts. Your coping strategies may seem insufficient, and at times you may feel stuck with intense emotions and rumination. My specialty is helping people to heal from the impact of past adversity and trauma. I believe that everyone has within them innate capacities to heal and grow, and to discover and develop their inner strengths and wisdom. I have advanced training and expertise in evidence-based methods (EMDR, DBT, and Somatic Therapy) that can help you to recover from the past.
(952) 592-2368 View (952) 592-2368
Photo of Jennifer Hahn, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Jennifer Hahn
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Waitlist for new clients
Each stage of our lives brings its own challenges. And if our lives so far haven’t been particularly rosy… experiences from our pasts can make our emotions overwhelming and unpredictable, and we can feel out of control. They can keep us from forming close and healthy relationships, leaving us isolated and alone. I provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults who have experienced adversity in their lives. I provide treatment for traumas and stressors that we sometimes experience growing up including household dysfunction, emotional and physical neglect, abuse, and generational trauma.
Each stage of our lives brings its own challenges. And if our lives so far haven’t been particularly rosy… experiences from our pasts can make our emotions overwhelming and unpredictable, and we can feel out of control. They can keep us from forming close and healthy relationships, leaving us isolated and alone. I provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults who have experienced adversity in their lives. I provide treatment for traumas and stressors that we sometimes experience growing up including household dysfunction, emotional and physical neglect, abuse, and generational trauma.
(612) 688-5305 View (612) 688-5305
Photo of Noah C. Venables, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Noah C. Venables
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
I am a clinical psychologist and proprietor of Minnesota Psychological Services, LLC. I consider myself a generalist clinician, meaning I can assess and treat most psychological and mental health concerns. I have extensive training and experience working with individuals in various stages of substance use recovery: individual therapy as a primary means to address problematic substance use and/or developing new strategies for coping with strong emotions and other behavioral concerns without substance use. I offer a genuine dual-diagnosis approach that most addiction treatments do not provide.
I am a clinical psychologist and proprietor of Minnesota Psychological Services, LLC. I consider myself a generalist clinician, meaning I can assess and treat most psychological and mental health concerns. I have extensive training and experience working with individuals in various stages of substance use recovery: individual therapy as a primary means to address problematic substance use and/or developing new strategies for coping with strong emotions and other behavioral concerns without substance use. I offer a genuine dual-diagnosis approach that most addiction treatments do not provide.
(763) 703-1731 View (763) 703-1731
Photo of Jason Tharaldson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Tharaldson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
WELCOME – I'm an Individual and Couples Therapist, Board-approved Supervisor, and a Certified Enneagram Coach. I have 20+ years of clinical experience with most age levels, treatment settings, and client concerns. My areas of expertise include stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, relationships, divorce, eating disorders, and grief/loss. I also have specialized training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which are highly effective treatments for PTSD. I am willing to incorporate Christian values when requested by clients.
WELCOME – I'm an Individual and Couples Therapist, Board-approved Supervisor, and a Certified Enneagram Coach. I have 20+ years of clinical experience with most age levels, treatment settings, and client concerns. My areas of expertise include stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, relationships, divorce, eating disorders, and grief/loss. I also have specialized training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which are highly effective treatments for PTSD. I am willing to incorporate Christian values when requested by clients.
(952) 900-4310 View (952) 900-4310
Photo of Kelsey Malmstedt, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Kelsey Malmstedt
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling stressed, overwhelmed, stuck, or lost? Reaching out for support from a therapist can play a huge role in finding fulfillment and purpose, challenging negative thoughts, and beginning the process of living as your authentic self. When we work together, we collaborate to explore your concerns in a safe, nonjudgmental, and individualized environment. My goal is to help validate, empower, and guide people in their healing as they work towards their goals. Together, we can expand on your strengths, skills, and values to cope through stressors, gain self-awareness and perspective, and find a positive path forward.
Have you been feeling stressed, overwhelmed, stuck, or lost? Reaching out for support from a therapist can play a huge role in finding fulfillment and purpose, challenging negative thoughts, and beginning the process of living as your authentic self. When we work together, we collaborate to explore your concerns in a safe, nonjudgmental, and individualized environment. My goal is to help validate, empower, and guide people in their healing as they work towards their goals. Together, we can expand on your strengths, skills, and values to cope through stressors, gain self-awareness and perspective, and find a positive path forward.
(952) 592-3679 x583 View (952) 592-3679 x583
Photo of Jenika Rufer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenika Rufer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
What’s not to love about Jenika? She has such a kind and warm presence, you can tell why she is in this career. She is the type of therapist that will bring a very relaxed, chill vibe. She’s very present and interested, which is nice to have when you need someone to look at your life with you. Jenika says “I believe my clients know themselves best and my part is to illuminate strengths, point out barriers, and help navigate challenges that are bound to arise in this human experience to bring you closer to your favorite version of yourself.”
What’s not to love about Jenika? She has such a kind and warm presence, you can tell why she is in this career. She is the type of therapist that will bring a very relaxed, chill vibe. She’s very present and interested, which is nice to have when you need someone to look at your life with you. Jenika says “I believe my clients know themselves best and my part is to illuminate strengths, point out barriers, and help navigate challenges that are bound to arise in this human experience to bring you closer to your favorite version of yourself.”
(952) 592-5238 View (952) 592-5238
Photo of Barbara Schnichels, MSSW, ACSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Schnichels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, ACSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55439  (Online Only)
As a compassionate therapist, I can help you increase your resilience skills to thrive, connect, and improve your health and wellbeing. I am honored to have partnered with wonderful people for over 30+ years. My clients reduce depression and anxiety symptoms, improve relationships, restore functioning, and address many holistic health concerns. If you have been stressed, not reaching your full potential, dealing with change, or wanting more from life, then contact me.
As a compassionate therapist, I can help you increase your resilience skills to thrive, connect, and improve your health and wellbeing. I am honored to have partnered with wonderful people for over 30+ years. My clients reduce depression and anxiety symptoms, improve relationships, restore functioning, and address many holistic health concerns. If you have been stressed, not reaching your full potential, dealing with change, or wanting more from life, then contact me.
(952) 592-7788 View (952) 592-7788
Photo of undefined - Center for Collaborative Health, PLLC, Psychologist
Center for Collaborative Health, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
**Currently accepting new clients** At the Center for Collaborative Health (CCH), we believe that every person is resilient and has the strength to grow and thrive. We employ a collaborative whole-body approach to healing that leads to proven positive change. At CCH, we are actively reimagining mental health culture by building initiatives to cultivate a healthy mind and body and to better withstand future challenges.
**Currently accepting new clients** At the Center for Collaborative Health (CCH), we believe that every person is resilient and has the strength to grow and thrive. We employ a collaborative whole-body approach to healing that leads to proven positive change. At CCH, we are actively reimagining mental health culture by building initiatives to cultivate a healthy mind and body and to better withstand future challenges.
(612) 223-6804 View (612) 223-6804
Photo of Laura Haeg, MA, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Haeg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Yeah, you’re going to like Laura. She’s got a great blend of sass and softness. Clients bond with her quickly, and they tend to really love working with her. Working with Laura feels like meeting a friend for brunch on a Sunday. There can be conversations full of laughs and insight, or there can be conversations that are much softer and get to some really tough topics. Either way, you’re going to walk away a bit lighter and looking forward to tackling the week. Laura has a special power of making people feel very relaxed and at ease. It’s super cool to witness.
Yeah, you’re going to like Laura. She’s got a great blend of sass and softness. Clients bond with her quickly, and they tend to really love working with her. Working with Laura feels like meeting a friend for brunch on a Sunday. There can be conversations full of laughs and insight, or there can be conversations that are much softer and get to some really tough topics. Either way, you’re going to walk away a bit lighter and looking forward to tackling the week. Laura has a special power of making people feel very relaxed and at ease. It’s super cool to witness.
(952) 260-3231 View (952) 260-3231
Photo of Jocelyn Skye Byrd, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jocelyn Skye Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Hello, and welcome! I have daytime-morning through afternoon openings. From me, you can expect warmth and support, yet I will challenge you when needed. I value humor and strive to make the therapeutic experience one that is safe to explore and grow. I have 20+ years of experience helping preteens through adults with mood disorders, anxiety, life transitions (school, marriage, parenthood, retirement), trauma, grief, suicidal ideation and self-esteem. My goal is to provide you with support, insight, resources, and skills to help you lead your fullest life.
Hello, and welcome! I have daytime-morning through afternoon openings. From me, you can expect warmth and support, yet I will challenge you when needed. I value humor and strive to make the therapeutic experience one that is safe to explore and grow. I have 20+ years of experience helping preteens through adults with mood disorders, anxiety, life transitions (school, marriage, parenthood, retirement), trauma, grief, suicidal ideation and self-esteem. My goal is to provide you with support, insight, resources, and skills to help you lead your fullest life.
(612) 255-9498 View (612) 255-9498
Photo of Teresa Selah Riley, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teresa Selah Riley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439  (Online Only)
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming, but it can also be an exciting opportunity for change. Perhaps you are seeking help overcoming feelings of anxiety or depression, or increasing connection and reducing conflict in a significant relationship in your life. Or maybe it's time to seek clarity about your past so that you can finally look forward towards a healthy, promising future. As a therapist with many years of counseling experience, I am deeply committed to offering an accepting, non-judgmental, and safe environment that can help you discover new possibilities for healing, positive change, and a better future.
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming, but it can also be an exciting opportunity for change. Perhaps you are seeking help overcoming feelings of anxiety or depression, or increasing connection and reducing conflict in a significant relationship in your life. Or maybe it's time to seek clarity about your past so that you can finally look forward towards a healthy, promising future. As a therapist with many years of counseling experience, I am deeply committed to offering an accepting, non-judgmental, and safe environment that can help you discover new possibilities for healing, positive change, and a better future.
(651) 243-9794 View (651) 243-9794
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.