Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Los Alamitos, CA

Photo of Jamie Lesser, Psychologist in Los Alamitos, CA
Jamie Lesser
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in individually-tailored evidence-based treatment. I have formal training in CBT and DBT, as well as specialized training in ACT. I have completed specialized training through PSI to treat perinatal mood disorders. I provide support for those struggling with infertility, pregnancy loss, and difficulties related to pregnancy and postpartum. I assist with developing a postpartum plan during pregnancy to reduce factors that contribute to postpartum anxiety, depression, and OCD.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in individually-tailored evidence-based treatment. I have formal training in CBT and DBT, as well as specialized training in ACT. I have completed specialized training through PSI to treat perinatal mood disorders. I provide support for those struggling with infertility, pregnancy loss, and difficulties related to pregnancy and postpartum. I assist with developing a postpartum plan during pregnancy to reduce factors that contribute to postpartum anxiety, depression, and OCD.
(657) 216-6992 View (657) 216-6992
Photo of Unfiltered Therapy in Los Alamitos, CA
Unfiltered Therapy
PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Individual Therapy-Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Exposure Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Strategies, Adolescents and Teens, & Affirmative Therapy.
We are a team of therapists committed to transparency and results. We work collaboratively with our patients, holding them accountable as we support them in meeting their goals. With our many years of experience in the field, we tailor the therapy experience to the unique needs of our patients. We are invested in helping our patients challenge the barriers to their happiness and help move them towards living a life worth living. We use collaboration, empathy, and compassion to encourage our patients to be an active part of the therapy process to aid in producing long-term results.
Individual Therapy-Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Exposure Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Strategies, Adolescents and Teens, & Affirmative Therapy.
We are a team of therapists committed to transparency and results. We work collaboratively with our patients, holding them accountable as we support them in meeting their goals. With our many years of experience in the field, we tailor the therapy experience to the unique needs of our patients. We are invested in helping our patients challenge the barriers to their happiness and help move them towards living a life worth living. We use collaboration, empathy, and compassion to encourage our patients to be an active part of the therapy process to aid in producing long-term results.
(657) 300-5365 View (657) 300-5365
Photo of Yvonne Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Yvonne Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I often combine CBT, ACT, DBT & mindfulness-based interventions to achieve insight and long-lasting results.
We all have our own unique stories. However, we all share the human experience of facing challenges, difficulties, even trauma, in our lives. It is normal to feel fear, worry, sadness, or grief. But when overwhelming emotions or maladaptive behaviors interfere with our functioning, relationships and general well-being, seeking professional help can be the most significant step toward transforming your life. If you are struggling, know that you are not alone nor must you do so on your own. There is no shame in prioritizing mental health. It takes strength and courage to make this investment and commitment to yourself.
I often combine CBT, ACT, DBT & mindfulness-based interventions to achieve insight and long-lasting results.
We all have our own unique stories. However, we all share the human experience of facing challenges, difficulties, even trauma, in our lives. It is normal to feel fear, worry, sadness, or grief. But when overwhelming emotions or maladaptive behaviors interfere with our functioning, relationships and general well-being, seeking professional help can be the most significant step toward transforming your life. If you are struggling, know that you are not alone nor must you do so on your own. There is no shame in prioritizing mental health. It takes strength and courage to make this investment and commitment to yourself.
(562) 262-8815 View (562) 262-8815
Photo of Joey Estella, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Joey Estella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Waitlist for new clients
The modalities I use are Trauma informed CBT, DBT, motivation and Mindfulness.
Embark on a journey where you finally master anxious thoughts, break free from trauma, and find balance in your relationships. In our sessions, you will find a safe space to share, while also be challenged to embrace change. With expertise in CBT, mindfulness, EMDR, and DBT, I make therapy a space for healing, mental fitness and resilience. For personal and professional development, I provide strategies for motivation and clarity to help you excel and achieve ambitious goals. Together, we will break free from barriers, unlocking your full potential for a happier, balanced and purposeful life.
The modalities I use are Trauma informed CBT, DBT, motivation and Mindfulness.
Embark on a journey where you finally master anxious thoughts, break free from trauma, and find balance in your relationships. In our sessions, you will find a safe space to share, while also be challenged to embrace change. With expertise in CBT, mindfulness, EMDR, and DBT, I make therapy a space for healing, mental fitness and resilience. For personal and professional development, I provide strategies for motivation and clarity to help you excel and achieve ambitious goals. Together, we will break free from barriers, unlocking your full potential for a happier, balanced and purposeful life.
(562) 207-5645 View (562) 207-5645
Photo of Audrey Malone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Audrey Malone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I am a Master Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapist and proficient in therapeutic approaches such as DBT, EMDR, IFS, EFT, CBT and mindful-based approaches.
Are you are a parent struggling with a child? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you are in a relationship that feels broken and you want to find healing, but don't know where to begin? Is your past keeping you burdened? It might feel like you have tried everything and have not made progress. Together, we will guide you back towards rediscovering a purposeful existence. My goal is to help you feel calm and a sense of relief by reducing your symptoms as quickly as possible. I will tailor your treatment so we can achieve your goals and meet your specific needs.
I am a Master Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapist and proficient in therapeutic approaches such as DBT, EMDR, IFS, EFT, CBT and mindful-based approaches.
Are you are a parent struggling with a child? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you are in a relationship that feels broken and you want to find healing, but don't know where to begin? Is your past keeping you burdened? It might feel like you have tried everything and have not made progress. Together, we will guide you back towards rediscovering a purposeful existence. My goal is to help you feel calm and a sense of relief by reducing your symptoms as quickly as possible. I will tailor your treatment so we can achieve your goals and meet your specific needs.
(562) 203-0623 View (562) 203-0623
Photo of Angela Perez Bell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Alamitos, CA
Angela Perez Bell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
I'm a therapist that will utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing-E.M.D.R., Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy while pulling from a Psychodynamic modality with a Christian faith-based foundation to achieve your desired goals. I will come alongside you in your journey, assisting you in figuring out what issues have got you stuck. I will challenge you to dig deep and explore your past, present or future fears. Together we will identify your negative beliefs, unpack the events around these beliefs & heal from them. Allowing you to show up as a more resilient version of yourself.
I'm a therapist that will utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing-E.M.D.R., Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy while pulling from a Psychodynamic modality with a Christian faith-based foundation to achieve your desired goals. I will come alongside you in your journey, assisting you in figuring out what issues have got you stuck. I will challenge you to dig deep and explore your past, present or future fears. Together we will identify your negative beliefs, unpack the events around these beliefs & heal from them. Allowing you to show up as a more resilient version of yourself.
(562) 784-5456 View (562) 784-5456
Photo of Brittany Rawlings, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Brittany Rawlings
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
Brittany integrates multiple therapeutic approaches to provide services that fit each client’s and family’s needs, including DBT, CBT, ERP, Gestalt, Narrative, and Existential psychology.
Brittany has worked with children, teens, young adults struggling with mental health issues in a variety of different therapeutic settings. Brittany takes a person-centered approach when working with clients and believes in the power of free will, human potential, and self-discovery to guide clients toward being the best versions of themselves. Brittany values authenticity in sessions, and believes that her role is to help clients to truly be themselves by providing a safe, non-judgmental space for them to do so.
Brittany integrates multiple therapeutic approaches to provide services that fit each client’s and family’s needs, including DBT, CBT, ERP, Gestalt, Narrative, and Existential psychology.
Brittany has worked with children, teens, young adults struggling with mental health issues in a variety of different therapeutic settings. Brittany takes a person-centered approach when working with clients and believes in the power of free will, human potential, and self-discovery to guide clients toward being the best versions of themselves. Brittany values authenticity in sessions, and believes that her role is to help clients to truly be themselves by providing a safe, non-judgmental space for them to do so.
(562) 457-6108 View (562) 457-6108
Photo of Sanar Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Sanar Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. My many years of experience have allowed me to strengthen my clinical skills and develop my clinical expertise in helping you to achieve your unique goals. I continue to educate myself on the most up-to-date clinical research and I implement an evidence based clinical approach. Some of these models include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness practice and more. I have provided clinical care to countless individuals, families and couples. In treatment, I can help you increase your self-worth, work though depression, ease anxiety and more.
I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. My many years of experience have allowed me to strengthen my clinical skills and develop my clinical expertise in helping you to achieve your unique goals. I continue to educate myself on the most up-to-date clinical research and I implement an evidence based clinical approach. Some of these models include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness practice and more. I have provided clinical care to countless individuals, families and couples. In treatment, I can help you increase your self-worth, work though depression, ease anxiety and more.
(562) 306-0269 View (562) 306-0269
Photo of Nina R Barlevy, Psychologist in Los Alamitos, CA
Nina R Barlevy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I also utilize DBT and enjoy finding creative solutions to help clients meet their own goals.
I love working with individual children, adolescents, and adults to improve their overall happiness and well-being. I have had great success treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and problems with grief and adjustment to other life stressors.
I also utilize DBT and enjoy finding creative solutions to help clients meet their own goals.
I love working with individual children, adolescents, and adults to improve their overall happiness and well-being. I have had great success treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and problems with grief and adjustment to other life stressors.
(562) 276-2751 View (562) 276-2751
Photo of Kristin Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Kristin Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Centered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
And through it all...there was space to heal. Thank you for being here. It's not always easy to show up for yourself. Therapy can offer a way to process emotions that may be painful or uncomfortable and learn how to cope with overwhelm in a safe + supportive environment. Whatever brought you to this page, I welcome you for taking this step. Whether you are experiencing anxious feelings, stress, overwhelm, sadness, anger, lack of motivation, fatigue, or just generally feeling as if something is off. I encourage you to commit to yourself to explore the parts of you that are in need of tending to.
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Centered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
And through it all...there was space to heal. Thank you for being here. It's not always easy to show up for yourself. Therapy can offer a way to process emotions that may be painful or uncomfortable and learn how to cope with overwhelm in a safe + supportive environment. Whatever brought you to this page, I welcome you for taking this step. Whether you are experiencing anxious feelings, stress, overwhelm, sadness, anger, lack of motivation, fatigue, or just generally feeling as if something is off. I encourage you to commit to yourself to explore the parts of you that are in need of tending to.
(714) 475-1268 View (714) 475-1268
Photo of Xzaviera Ballenger Jahsi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Xzaviera Ballenger Jahsi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
In individual therapy, I often combine DBT and brainspotting to help you heal.
Therapy is a place to provide tools that help you develop coping skills, regulate emotions, and decrease overall distress. I believe there is not one size fits all in terms of what helps clients improve their lives. I will implement skills from different orientations that suit your specific needs and tailor your treatment plan accordingly. I am aware of cultural diversity and provide a safe space.
In individual therapy, I often combine DBT and brainspotting to help you heal.
Therapy is a place to provide tools that help you develop coping skills, regulate emotions, and decrease overall distress. I believe there is not one size fits all in terms of what helps clients improve their lives. I will implement skills from different orientations that suit your specific needs and tailor your treatment plan accordingly. I am aware of cultural diversity and provide a safe space.
(747) 227-7370 View (747) 227-7370
Photo of Diana Cheng, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Diana Cheng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
TELEHEALTH, ACCEPTS MEDICARE. Are you struggling or feeling overwhelmed with grief, depression, anxiety, managing your emotions, aging issues, transitions, or another challenge? Therapy is a journey to develop a deeper understanding of oneself. I can assist you in finding solutions and acceptance to the issues and stressors that cause you pain and suffering. I incorporate a strength-based, solution focused, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindful approach, which are effective in helping individuals gain insight and develop healthy coping skills to reduce symptoms.
TELEHEALTH, ACCEPTS MEDICARE. Are you struggling or feeling overwhelmed with grief, depression, anxiety, managing your emotions, aging issues, transitions, or another challenge? Therapy is a journey to develop a deeper understanding of oneself. I can assist you in finding solutions and acceptance to the issues and stressors that cause you pain and suffering. I incorporate a strength-based, solution focused, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindful approach, which are effective in helping individuals gain insight and develop healthy coping skills to reduce symptoms.
(562) 524-1189 View (562) 524-1189
Photo of Amy R Tyler, Counselor in Los Alamitos, CA
Amy R Tyler
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
She has gone through several trainings in EMDR, DBT, CBT-mindfulness, Gottman method, and infidelity/affairs.
Making a decision to seek extra help and support during difficult seasons of life is a huge step. Times in life can be especially challenging and stressful. Seeking therapy is a sign of both strength and courage. Amy’s desire is to come along side you and work collaboratively to help you deal any challenges, stressors, difficulties, and or mental health struggles you may be facing. As a therapist, Amy is caring and empathetic while providing you with hope and encouragement to achieve your goals. Amy has experience dealing with a wide variety of relational, emotional, spiritual, and psychological struggles.
She has gone through several trainings in EMDR, DBT, CBT-mindfulness, Gottman method, and infidelity/affairs.
Making a decision to seek extra help and support during difficult seasons of life is a huge step. Times in life can be especially challenging and stressful. Seeking therapy is a sign of both strength and courage. Amy’s desire is to come along side you and work collaboratively to help you deal any challenges, stressors, difficulties, and or mental health struggles you may be facing. As a therapist, Amy is caring and empathetic while providing you with hope and encouragement to achieve your goals. Amy has experience dealing with a wide variety of relational, emotional, spiritual, and psychological struggles.
(714) 482-6258 View (714) 482-6258
Photo of Nova Mental Health, Psychologist in Los Alamitos, CA
Nova Mental Health
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
The twists and turns of life come at us pretty quickly sometimes, if you prefer guided work mixed with compassionate processing for anxiety, ADHD and parenting support, I would love to help you understand yourself and figure out how we can work through the challenges together.
The twists and turns of life come at us pretty quickly sometimes, if you prefer guided work mixed with compassionate processing for anxiety, ADHD and parenting support, I would love to help you understand yourself and figure out how we can work through the challenges together.
(562) 568-7511 View (562) 568-7511
Photo of Taylor Ramsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Taylor Ramsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, Taylor, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Hello, and welcome to the first step of your healing journey. Whether you are looking to work on life transitions, reduce anxiety, improve your overall mood, learn how to set healthier boundaries in relationships, are currently facing addiction related issues, or wanting to process your trauma, I would be honored to help you through whatever chapter of your life you are currently on. I aim to meet people where they are at, while also challenging them to achieve their goals, build on their strengths, and gain insight into their current presenting problems through a warm, interactive, and supportive environment.
Hello, and welcome to the first step of your healing journey. Whether you are looking to work on life transitions, reduce anxiety, improve your overall mood, learn how to set healthier boundaries in relationships, are currently facing addiction related issues, or wanting to process your trauma, I would be honored to help you through whatever chapter of your life you are currently on. I aim to meet people where they are at, while also challenging them to achieve their goals, build on their strengths, and gain insight into their current presenting problems through a warm, interactive, and supportive environment.
(562) 561-2319 View (562) 561-2319
Photo of Ana Batan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Ana Batan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 106483
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field. I am committed to helping you make lasting changes in your lives.
I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field. I am committed to helping you make lasting changes in your lives.
(657) 201-4447 View (657) 201-4447
Photo of Tiffany Kapp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Tiffany Kapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Do you want more in life? Are you feeling hopeless and at a loss of how to live your best life? If you have anxiety, depression, addiction or struggle with toxic relationships, life may seem unmanageable and you may find yourself wanting more. If you are experiencing some of these challenges, it may be negatively impacting your ability to be your best self. I can help you fully understand the underlying dynamics stemming from childhood that affect adult behavior and emotions. If you are tired of going in circles and you feel uncertain on how to move forward, therapy may help.
Do you want more in life? Are you feeling hopeless and at a loss of how to live your best life? If you have anxiety, depression, addiction or struggle with toxic relationships, life may seem unmanageable and you may find yourself wanting more. If you are experiencing some of these challenges, it may be negatively impacting your ability to be your best self. I can help you fully understand the underlying dynamics stemming from childhood that affect adult behavior and emotions. If you are tired of going in circles and you feel uncertain on how to move forward, therapy may help.
(310) 340-2596 View (310) 340-2596
Photo of Stephanie Archinas-Murphin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Stephanie Archinas-Murphin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Do you struggle with co-parenting and find it difficult to communicate with the other parent and worry about how it affects your child? Do you wish to support your “big feelings” child but find it hard not to have “big feelings” yourself? As an adult child, do you wish to build a better relationship with your parent but struggle on how to make yourself feel heard? I can help. I help parents communicate with their co-parent without getting caught up in a cycle and focus on what matters the most- your child. I help families listen and hear each other and instead of “blowing up”, build empathy and closeness instead.
Do you struggle with co-parenting and find it difficult to communicate with the other parent and worry about how it affects your child? Do you wish to support your “big feelings” child but find it hard not to have “big feelings” yourself? As an adult child, do you wish to build a better relationship with your parent but struggle on how to make yourself feel heard? I can help. I help parents communicate with their co-parent without getting caught up in a cycle and focus on what matters the most- your child. I help families listen and hear each other and instead of “blowing up”, build empathy and closeness instead.
(310) 919-0675 View (310) 919-0675
Photo of Karen S. Hoffman Winberry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Alamitos, CA
Karen S. Hoffman Winberry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
As a seasoned therapist, and from my own experience, I’ve learned that we all thrive when we feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal as a therapist is to help you get the most out of life's many challenges by providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can gain insight into yourself, enhance your relationships, and enjoy a more fulfilling life.
As a seasoned therapist, and from my own experience, I’ve learned that we all thrive when we feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal as a therapist is to help you get the most out of life's many challenges by providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can gain insight into yourself, enhance your relationships, and enjoy a more fulfilling life.
(562) 539-4386 View (562) 539-4386
Photo of Irene Su, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Alamitos, CA
Irene Su
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Hello, I'm Irene. Navigating life's intricate layers of complexity can be challenging. However, prioritizing our mental well-being can pave the way for a smoother journey, fostering resilience and overall wellness. Attaining happiness begins with finding inner harmony. Drawing from my background and training, I believe in a person-centered approach to mental health, where individuals are empowered to untangle the knots of their lives. Through therapy, I strive to help people confront and overcome trauma, navigate life transitions, and address challenges. Reach out and that moment of change is already happening.
Hello, I'm Irene. Navigating life's intricate layers of complexity can be challenging. However, prioritizing our mental well-being can pave the way for a smoother journey, fostering resilience and overall wellness. Attaining happiness begins with finding inner harmony. Drawing from my background and training, I believe in a person-centered approach to mental health, where individuals are empowered to untangle the knots of their lives. Through therapy, I strive to help people confront and overcome trauma, navigate life transitions, and address challenges. Reach out and that moment of change is already happening.
(562) 662-3364 View (562) 662-3364

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Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

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

Why do people need DBT?

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

What happens in DBT?

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

How long does DBT last?

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