Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in 60661

Photo of Carissa Hwu, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60661, IL
Carissa Hwu
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Employing and learning different approaches such as somatic-based interventions, Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, ACT and Relational-Cultural Theory, I tailor each client’s individualized treatment plan to their needs and goals.
I'm a Taiwanese/Chinese second-generation immigrant who grew up in the Midwest. Born to first-generation immigrants, I've witnessed the ways my parents’ migration experiences and has worked to understand and break cycles of generational trauma. I've dealt with the forces of assimilation, gendered and racialized identity formation, and the need to establish a sense of belonging within an immigrant family surrounded by predominantly Christian, white communities. I've worked with individuals/couples that are challenged by anxiety, trauma, depression, stress, family/relationship conflicts, racial/sexual identities, LGBTQ+ issues, etc.
Employing and learning different approaches such as somatic-based interventions, Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, ACT and Relational-Cultural Theory, I tailor each client’s individualized treatment plan to their needs and goals.
I'm a Taiwanese/Chinese second-generation immigrant who grew up in the Midwest. Born to first-generation immigrants, I've witnessed the ways my parents’ migration experiences and has worked to understand and break cycles of generational trauma. I've dealt with the forces of assimilation, gendered and racialized identity formation, and the need to establish a sense of belonging within an immigrant family surrounded by predominantly Christian, white communities. I've worked with individuals/couples that are challenged by anxiety, trauma, depression, stress, family/relationship conflicts, racial/sexual identities, LGBTQ+ issues, etc.
(312) 874-6576 View (312) 874-6576
Photo of Deanna Marie Dotson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Deanna Marie Dotson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I am trained professionally in CBT/DBT and specialize in assisting adults, adolescents, and children with depression.
Life can be difficult, but I believe that we were built to do and overcome difficult things, even when the task of healing seems impossible. Your feelings are important, and you have the power to transform and heal within a safe space.
I am trained professionally in CBT/DBT and specialize in assisting adults, adolescents, and children with depression.
Life can be difficult, but I believe that we were built to do and overcome difficult things, even when the task of healing seems impossible. Your feelings are important, and you have the power to transform and heal within a safe space.
(312) 386-5128 View (312) 386-5128
Photo of Lucy Waldmeir, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60661, IL
Lucy Waldmeir
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches including narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused, relational cultural theory, CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT.
As a transnational and transracial adoptee with complex backgrounds, I'm passionate about working with the multicultural and multiracial individuals, adoptees and adolescents and adults from diverse racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I have experience working with individuals from marginalized communities experiencing a range of traumas, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stressors, identity issues, etc. I understand adoptees may face unique difficulties, including interracial family conflict, self-esteem issues, race and cultural identity confusion, and feelings of grief and loss.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches including narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused, relational cultural theory, CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT.
As a transnational and transracial adoptee with complex backgrounds, I'm passionate about working with the multicultural and multiracial individuals, adoptees and adolescents and adults from diverse racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I have experience working with individuals from marginalized communities experiencing a range of traumas, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stressors, identity issues, etc. I understand adoptees may face unique difficulties, including interracial family conflict, self-esteem issues, race and cultural identity confusion, and feelings of grief and loss.
(312) 477-0451 View (312) 477-0451
Photo of Prosper Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 60661, IL
Prosper Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
I incorporate values through ACT, DBT, and CBT, as well as Positive Psychology, & ERP.
Life has a way of throwing changes, difficult emotions, and various stressors that can feel hard to manage. You may sometimes feel like you are lost or broken and unsure how to move forward. My passion and goal is to support and assist clients in managing the stress and changes they face. I believe that building a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental space leads to a safe space for clients to learn about themselves, find interpersonal growth, and heal. If this is where you are, then let's get started your journey.
I incorporate values through ACT, DBT, and CBT, as well as Positive Psychology, & ERP.
Life has a way of throwing changes, difficult emotions, and various stressors that can feel hard to manage. You may sometimes feel like you are lost or broken and unsure how to move forward. My passion and goal is to support and assist clients in managing the stress and changes they face. I believe that building a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental space leads to a safe space for clients to learn about themselves, find interpersonal growth, and heal. If this is where you are, then let's get started your journey.
(312) 629-4709 View (312) 629-4709
Photo of John Hughes, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 60661, IL
John Hughes
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MPA, PACT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
Waitlist for new clients
Through the use of DBT, CBT and the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy(PACT), I work collaboratively with clients to better understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and to help them increase self awareness.
I approach my clinical work with an emphasis on relationships, attachment and the importance of multi-cultural and relational approaches. I understand the value of knowing where a client comes from and where they have been in order to collaboratively develop interventions and approaches that are safe, effective and familiar. I believe that in order to truly help clients they, and I, must understand the context in which they live and learn and that the work we do in the clinical room must be transferable to their everyday life. Many of my clients are seeking guidance on how to engage in and maintain healthy relationships.
Through the use of DBT, CBT and the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy(PACT), I work collaboratively with clients to better understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and to help them increase self awareness.
I approach my clinical work with an emphasis on relationships, attachment and the importance of multi-cultural and relational approaches. I understand the value of knowing where a client comes from and where they have been in order to collaboratively develop interventions and approaches that are safe, effective and familiar. I believe that in order to truly help clients they, and I, must understand the context in which they live and learn and that the work we do in the clinical room must be transferable to their everyday life. Many of my clients are seeking guidance on how to engage in and maintain healthy relationships.
(224) 302-4870 View (224) 302-4870
Photo of Kyra Ehrlich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Kyra Ehrlich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I practice using evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (RO-DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), as well as self-compassion and mindfulness techniques.
Battling with the thoughts in your brain? I can help. If anxiety, intrusive thoughts, OCD, phobias or depressive thoughts take up too much space in your life, let’s work together to uncover their sources. Together, we can establish and engage in useful coping skills that can allow you to spend less time battling your thoughts and more time living the life you want. I aim to provide a safe, warm and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their emotions, while also feeling comfortable and validated when sharing experiences, thoughts and behaviors.
I practice using evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (RO-DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), as well as self-compassion and mindfulness techniques.
Battling with the thoughts in your brain? I can help. If anxiety, intrusive thoughts, OCD, phobias or depressive thoughts take up too much space in your life, let’s work together to uncover their sources. Together, we can establish and engage in useful coping skills that can allow you to spend less time battling your thoughts and more time living the life you want. I aim to provide a safe, warm and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their emotions, while also feeling comfortable and validated when sharing experiences, thoughts and behaviors.
(773) 912-0494 View (773) 912-0494
Photo of Suzie Thomas, Counselor in 60661, IL
Suzie Thomas
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I am trained in many modalities, including ACT, DBT, and CBT, and utilize the approaches that work best for you.
Current openings... I support clients who are looking to understand themselves better, clarify their values and make strides towards their desired life. I have extensive experience helping clients through eating disorder recovery (including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID), body image concerns, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe change is possible for every individual and that it’s easier to attain with support, skills and encouragement. I value change, curiosity and compassion and strive to provide a non-judgmental space.
I am trained in many modalities, including ACT, DBT, and CBT, and utilize the approaches that work best for you.
Current openings... I support clients who are looking to understand themselves better, clarify their values and make strides towards their desired life. I have extensive experience helping clients through eating disorder recovery (including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID), body image concerns, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe change is possible for every individual and that it’s easier to attain with support, skills and encouragement. I value change, curiosity and compassion and strive to provide a non-judgmental space.
(312) 586-9716 View (312) 586-9716
Photo of Brian Nickerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Brian Nickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
On the more clinical side of my training, I blend tools from DBT, ACT, and MBSR into a unique therapeutic approach tailor-made for each client.
I work with clients who feel burned out - whether at work, in school, or any other area of life - but who have responsibilities they can't just walk away from. I understand the challenges that come with trying to thrive under alienating, capitalistic conditions.
On the more clinical side of my training, I blend tools from DBT, ACT, and MBSR into a unique therapeutic approach tailor-made for each client.
I work with clients who feel burned out - whether at work, in school, or any other area of life - but who have responsibilities they can't just walk away from. I understand the challenges that come with trying to thrive under alienating, capitalistic conditions.
(312) 586-8468 View (312) 586-8468
Photo of Lola Wang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Lola Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
I draw from CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic and schema therapy methods to meet each client’s unique needs.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
I draw from CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic and schema therapy methods to meet each client’s unique needs.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
(312) 262-2487 View (312) 262-2487
Photo of Shaw Xueqi Xiao, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60661, IL
Shaw Xueqi Xiao
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I employ an integrated, holistic, and creative approach while utilizing evidence-based clinical psychotherapy methods such as CBT, ACT, DBT, solution-focused, etc.
I'm a licensed art therapist that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
I employ an integrated, holistic, and creative approach while utilizing evidence-based clinical psychotherapy methods such as CBT, ACT, DBT, solution-focused, etc.
I'm a licensed art therapist that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
(312) 313-0705 View (312) 313-0705
Photo of Sylvia Muñoz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Sylvia Muñoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I focus on a relational approach, while pulling in elements of Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I believe we are all doing the best that we can given our life experiences and circumstances, while at the same time understanding the capacity we each possess to build and strengthen the skills needed to create the lives we want to live. I work to build genuine relationships with my clients and allow the relationship to be an avenue for change and growth. I have collaborated with clients experiencing complex trauma, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, life transitions, relationship difficulties, acculturative stress and more.
I focus on a relational approach, while pulling in elements of Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I believe we are all doing the best that we can given our life experiences and circumstances, while at the same time understanding the capacity we each possess to build and strengthen the skills needed to create the lives we want to live. I work to build genuine relationships with my clients and allow the relationship to be an avenue for change and growth. I have collaborated with clients experiencing complex trauma, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, life transitions, relationship difficulties, acculturative stress and more.
(312) 313-0904 View (312) 313-0904
Photo of Meagan Alexander, Counselor in 60661, IL
Meagan Alexander
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
I have acquired training in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EEFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),  and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Hi! My name is Meagan (she/they) and I have had the privilege of working with clients of all different backgrounds at both the residential and outpatient level of care. I prioritize creating a safe and inviting space for individuals to begin their healing journey and am grateful to have the opportunity to help individuals explore how pieces from our past can continue to impact us as we continue to get older. I strongly believe in taking an individualized and empathic approach in order to empower individuals as they strive to meet their goals, as well as to ensure they feel supported and heard.
I have acquired training in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EEFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),  and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Hi! My name is Meagan (she/they) and I have had the privilege of working with clients of all different backgrounds at both the residential and outpatient level of care. I prioritize creating a safe and inviting space for individuals to begin their healing journey and am grateful to have the opportunity to help individuals explore how pieces from our past can continue to impact us as we continue to get older. I strongly believe in taking an individualized and empathic approach in order to empower individuals as they strive to meet their goals, as well as to ensure they feel supported and heard.
(630) 793-0967 View (630) 793-0967
Photo of Laura Elizabeth Foster, Counselor in 60661, IL
Laura Elizabeth Foster
Counselor, MA, LCPC, AT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
I am trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, and Adlerian Theory.
At Creative Life Counseling Services, I strive to provide mindful and competent healing for my clients. My primary focus is helping you to find fulfillment in your life, work, and relationships. By working together in therapy, you and I will identify productive ways to create a purposeful life. We will explore ineffective cycles of destructive behavior and strive to make positive change. I will provide the support and structure you need to see the extent of the control you have over your own happiness.
I am trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, and Adlerian Theory.
At Creative Life Counseling Services, I strive to provide mindful and competent healing for my clients. My primary focus is helping you to find fulfillment in your life, work, and relationships. By working together in therapy, you and I will identify productive ways to create a purposeful life. We will explore ineffective cycles of destructive behavior and strive to make positive change. I will provide the support and structure you need to see the extent of the control you have over your own happiness.
(773) 249-2921 View (773) 249-2921
Photo of Briena Wyckstandt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Briena Wyckstandt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
Hi! My name is Briena Wyckstandt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. I offer many therapy approaches with specific training in EMDR, DBT, and TF-CBT. I have experience working with all age ranges but most specifically teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Hi! My name is Briena Wyckstandt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. I offer many therapy approaches with specific training in EMDR, DBT, and TF-CBT. I have experience working with all age ranges but most specifically teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(312) 900-8542 View (312) 900-8542
Photo of Amy Shane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Amy Shane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD Candidate in Illinois and Montana, and specialize in attachment & relational trauma, eating disorders and anxiety. I am currently a PhD Candidate at the Institute for Clinical Social Work with my dissertation research and study focusing on attachment trauma and eating disorders. For individuals working on improving their relationship with food and body image, I practice solely through a Health At Every Size (HAES) approach.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD Candidate in Illinois and Montana, and specialize in attachment & relational trauma, eating disorders and anxiety. I am currently a PhD Candidate at the Institute for Clinical Social Work with my dissertation research and study focusing on attachment trauma and eating disorders. For individuals working on improving their relationship with food and body image, I practice solely through a Health At Every Size (HAES) approach.
(815) 205-5510 View (815) 205-5510
Photo of Amy Groessl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Amy Groessl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you wish to gain clarity about a life challenge or seek to resolve a deeper change from within, our work together will present an opportunity to rework the patterns that may be disrupting your relationships or preventing you from fulfilling your life goals. I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, viewing our therapeutic relationship as central to the change process while helping you understand how past conflicts affect how you feel in the present. I approach our work together from a genuine, empathetic stance with openness, humor, and curiosity. It is important that we are partners in your healing process.
Whether you wish to gain clarity about a life challenge or seek to resolve a deeper change from within, our work together will present an opportunity to rework the patterns that may be disrupting your relationships or preventing you from fulfilling your life goals. I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, viewing our therapeutic relationship as central to the change process while helping you understand how past conflicts affect how you feel in the present. I approach our work together from a genuine, empathetic stance with openness, humor, and curiosity. It is important that we are partners in your healing process.
(773) 570-9224 View (773) 570-9224
Photo of Virginia Jreisat, Counselor in 60661, IL
Virginia Jreisat
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I am a firm believer that making the decision to address your issues takes a great deal of courage and bravery. Many of us come from circumstances or environments that encourage us to push through pain by burying it, outworking it, or avoiding it. While these coping skills help us to survive, they don't necessarily encourage us to thrive. As a therapist with psychodynamic training and extensive life coaching experience, it is important to me that our sessions focus on identifying where core issues are coming from, encourage collaborative problem solving, as well as create space for intentional goal setting.
I am a firm believer that making the decision to address your issues takes a great deal of courage and bravery. Many of us come from circumstances or environments that encourage us to push through pain by burying it, outworking it, or avoiding it. While these coping skills help us to survive, they don't necessarily encourage us to thrive. As a therapist with psychodynamic training and extensive life coaching experience, it is important to me that our sessions focus on identifying where core issues are coming from, encourage collaborative problem solving, as well as create space for intentional goal setting.
(312) 663-8584 View (312) 663-8584
Photo of Psychological Evaluations for Immigration, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Psychological Evaluations for Immigration
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
Do you need an affordable psychological evaluation for your immigration case? We understand these services can be expensive and that is why we offer affordable fees. We specialize in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waiver, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, Cancellation, and N-648 cases. Our evaluations are completed in a timely fashion by a bilingual (Chinese)Licensed Therapist. We also work with clients who speak other languages, including Spanish, Russian, French, Arabic, Cambodian, Urdu, Telugu, Gujarati, Vietnamese, Kirundi, and Farsi through professional interpreters.
Do you need an affordable psychological evaluation for your immigration case? We understand these services can be expensive and that is why we offer affordable fees. We specialize in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waiver, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, Cancellation, and N-648 cases. Our evaluations are completed in a timely fashion by a bilingual (Chinese)Licensed Therapist. We also work with clients who speak other languages, including Spanish, Russian, French, Arabic, Cambodian, Urdu, Telugu, Gujarati, Vietnamese, Kirundi, and Farsi through professional interpreters.
(312) 766-6441 View (312) 766-6441
Photo of Seema Shah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60661, IL
Seema Shah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TFCBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Life is a work in progress, and progress isn't always a linear path. It's inevitable to have hurdles along the way, and we sometimes need support to better cope with these hurdles. I'm a firm believer in You being the most important person in Your life. You matter most, you know yourself best, and are the star of your life story. I want to be able to offer an empathetic, nonjudgmental, and safe space for you to process your thoughts and feelings, adding a bit of humor along the way. I want to be along side with you, to help you see your own strength, and work collaboratively with you to help cope with the daily hurdles of life.
Life is a work in progress, and progress isn't always a linear path. It's inevitable to have hurdles along the way, and we sometimes need support to better cope with these hurdles. I'm a firm believer in You being the most important person in Your life. You matter most, you know yourself best, and are the star of your life story. I want to be able to offer an empathetic, nonjudgmental, and safe space for you to process your thoughts and feelings, adding a bit of humor along the way. I want to be along side with you, to help you see your own strength, and work collaboratively with you to help cope with the daily hurdles of life.
(312) 818-3220 View (312) 818-3220
Photo of Raliat Queenie Adeboyejo, Counselor in 60661, IL
Raliat Queenie Adeboyejo
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Do you have a heavy heart? Feel down? Isolated? Anxious? Stressed out or not like your usual self? Here at Elevate Therapy, I will partner with you to help you move through any of the thoughts, emotions, or experiences that might make it hard to live a fulfilling life.
Do you have a heavy heart? Feel down? Isolated? Anxious? Stressed out or not like your usual self? Here at Elevate Therapy, I will partner with you to help you move through any of the thoughts, emotions, or experiences that might make it hard to live a fulfilling life.
(773) 207-3497 View (773) 207-3497
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.