Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in 45069

Photo of Stephanie Hickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 45069, OH
Stephanie Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Waitlist for new clients
I implement CBT, DBT, & EMDR to assist you with learning how to understand what you are struggling with, successfully navigate through your underlying issues, & begin managing symptoms.
Therapy takes Strength and Courage and I am here to help you take the first step. Hi, my name is Stephanie Hickman and I have a huge passion for empowering others and teaching them vital skills to navigate through life successfully. I offer evidence Based treatment services to help you learn how to manage the stressors of everyday life, relationships, and difficult situations. I am an Independently Licensed Social Worker with 15 years of experience. I pride myself in meeting people where they are and helping them explore what treatment modality is the best fit for them.
I implement CBT, DBT, & EMDR to assist you with learning how to understand what you are struggling with, successfully navigate through your underlying issues, & begin managing symptoms.
Therapy takes Strength and Courage and I am here to help you take the first step. Hi, my name is Stephanie Hickman and I have a huge passion for empowering others and teaching them vital skills to navigate through life successfully. I offer evidence Based treatment services to help you learn how to manage the stressors of everyday life, relationships, and difficult situations. I am an Independently Licensed Social Worker with 15 years of experience. I pride myself in meeting people where they are and helping them explore what treatment modality is the best fit for them.
(513) 854-9236 View (513) 854-9236
Photo of Brooke Zuzow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 45069, OH
Brooke Zuzow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069  (Online Only)
The modalities I use include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Response Prevention, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Are you struggling to calm down an anxious brain? Are you overwhelmed and not sure what to do next in life? Are you ready to start living instead of just surviving? I have extensive experience working with teens and adults coping with social anxiety disorder, OCD, phobias, other anxiety disorders, depression, adjustment difficulties, stress management challenges, life transitions, and perfectionistic tendencies. I have experience coordinating mental health care nation wide. My clients value my ability to "be real" when change needs to happen. I am here to help you create the change you want in your life.
The modalities I use include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Response Prevention, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Are you struggling to calm down an anxious brain? Are you overwhelmed and not sure what to do next in life? Are you ready to start living instead of just surviving? I have extensive experience working with teens and adults coping with social anxiety disorder, OCD, phobias, other anxiety disorders, depression, adjustment difficulties, stress management challenges, life transitions, and perfectionistic tendencies. I have experience coordinating mental health care nation wide. My clients value my ability to "be real" when change needs to happen. I am here to help you create the change you want in your life.
(513) 440-2633 View (513) 440-2633
Photo of Taylor Koehler, Licensed Professional Counselor in 45069, OH
Taylor Koehler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
At Koehler Counseling we typically use an eclectic approach including the use of Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strengths Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Koehler Counseling provides a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients so we can work towards setting and achieving goals together. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, a life transition such as a job change, a move, an end of a relationship, or simply the stress that life brings you, Koehler Counseling provides a listening ear so you don't have to take on this stress alone. Together we will develop knowledge and skills that will help towards making your life stressors more manageable. We will work together to help you towards reaching your individualized goals.
At Koehler Counseling we typically use an eclectic approach including the use of Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strengths Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Koehler Counseling provides a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients so we can work towards setting and achieving goals together. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, a life transition such as a job change, a move, an end of a relationship, or simply the stress that life brings you, Koehler Counseling provides a listening ear so you don't have to take on this stress alone. Together we will develop knowledge and skills that will help towards making your life stressors more manageable. We will work together to help you towards reaching your individualized goals.
(513) 270-2770 View (513) 270-2770
Photo of Janet K Nash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 45069, OH
Janet K Nash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, CCTP, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Waitlist for new clients
Currently, my theoretical orientation is the allied technologies of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I am dedicated to working with clients grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues and LGBTQIA concerns. My shared vocations of psychotherapist and yoga therapist/teacher enable me to take a broad view of healing. As such, I am dedicated to fostering opportunities of holistic wellness by offering evidence-based psychotherapy; and when traditional psychotherapeutic treatment is not sufficient, the embodiment of yoga may be an attractive adjunctive strategy.
Currently, my theoretical orientation is the allied technologies of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I am dedicated to working with clients grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues and LGBTQIA concerns. My shared vocations of psychotherapist and yoga therapist/teacher enable me to take a broad view of healing. As such, I am dedicated to fostering opportunities of holistic wellness by offering evidence-based psychotherapy; and when traditional psychotherapeutic treatment is not sufficient, the embodiment of yoga may be an attractive adjunctive strategy.
(513) 712-0733 View (513) 712-0733
Photo of Dylan E Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 45069, OH
Dylan E Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I typically utilize and specialize in a combination of rapport building, MI (motivational interviewing ), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) , DBT ( Dialectical Behavior Therapy) , SFT (Solution Focused Therapy) and Narrative Therapy approaches in my work with clients, but feel capable and confident in my ability to utilize other approaches as needed.
My ideal client is an individual 16 + or couples 18+ ,who regardless of their problems, can identify that they are not living up to their fullest potential, and want to figure out how to do so. They may be struggling with a behavior, infidelity, substance use/abuse, mental health concerns or trauma, and have some insight about what the problems may be, but have struggled to find the time or motivation to address them. The reason they want to address these issues may be due to internal insight, ongoing relationship issues or because of a negative impact to work , school or home life functioning.As noted couples are welcome as well!
I typically utilize and specialize in a combination of rapport building, MI (motivational interviewing ), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) , DBT ( Dialectical Behavior Therapy) , SFT (Solution Focused Therapy) and Narrative Therapy approaches in my work with clients, but feel capable and confident in my ability to utilize other approaches as needed.
My ideal client is an individual 16 + or couples 18+ ,who regardless of their problems, can identify that they are not living up to their fullest potential, and want to figure out how to do so. They may be struggling with a behavior, infidelity, substance use/abuse, mental health concerns or trauma, and have some insight about what the problems may be, but have struggled to find the time or motivation to address them. The reason they want to address these issues may be due to internal insight, ongoing relationship issues or because of a negative impact to work , school or home life functioning.As noted couples are welcome as well!
(513) 796-7945 View (513) 796-7945
Photo of Jennifer Bullock, Counselor in 45069, OH
Jennifer Bullock
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I enjoy working with teens and young adults struggling with disordered eating behaviors, emotional dysregulation/early symptoms of BPD, and suicidal ideation. I believe all behaviors, including these, are caused, and we can work together to better understand yours. I often use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my practice. I like to identify how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact with each other & your environment. I also examine how societal, cultural, and political causes and solutions to the struggles you face play a role. I'll utilize other modalities and techniques as needed for your treatment.
I enjoy working with teens and young adults struggling with disordered eating behaviors, emotional dysregulation/early symptoms of BPD, and suicidal ideation. I believe all behaviors, including these, are caused, and we can work together to better understand yours. I often use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my practice. I like to identify how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact with each other & your environment. I also examine how societal, cultural, and political causes and solutions to the struggles you face play a role. I'll utilize other modalities and techniques as needed for your treatment.
(513) 450-4806 View (513) 450-4806
Photo of Sandy M Kaplan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 45069, OH
Sandy M Kaplan
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I utilize a variety of modalities including the Gottman approach to Couples Counseling, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and evidence-based & trauma informed practices.
I specialize in couples counseling, blended families, gender dysphoria, adjustment to divorce, anxiety and depressive disorders and improving interpersonal relationships. I enjoy working with individuals ages 13 and over both in person and by telehealth. My aim is to support clients in reaching their individual goals to improve mood, strengthen communication skills, utilize healthy coping strategies to better manage all of life’s challenges and increase general functioning and wellbeing in an inviting and comfortable setting.
I utilize a variety of modalities including the Gottman approach to Couples Counseling, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and evidence-based & trauma informed practices.
I specialize in couples counseling, blended families, gender dysphoria, adjustment to divorce, anxiety and depressive disorders and improving interpersonal relationships. I enjoy working with individuals ages 13 and over both in person and by telehealth. My aim is to support clients in reaching their individual goals to improve mood, strengthen communication skills, utilize healthy coping strategies to better manage all of life’s challenges and increase general functioning and wellbeing in an inviting and comfortable setting.
(513) 952-8443 View (513) 952-8443
Photo of April Delestienne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 45069, OH
April Delestienne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069  (Online Only)
I bring a variety of treatment modalities and skills to each session, including but not limited to, Cognitive, Dialectical, & Behavioral therapy.
Welcome! My name is April Delestienne and I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree from the University of Cincinnati. I am here to support you on your therapeutic journey and utilize a collaborative approach to assist individuals and families. I bring a unique approach by helping people to determine and reach their goals, learn and utilize coping skills, as well as tools to enhance interpersonal relationships. I provide services to adolescents and adults with a variety of behaviors and diagnoses: those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, familial conflicts, challenges with self-esteem, school concerns, and parenting.
I bring a variety of treatment modalities and skills to each session, including but not limited to, Cognitive, Dialectical, & Behavioral therapy.
Welcome! My name is April Delestienne and I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree from the University of Cincinnati. I am here to support you on your therapeutic journey and utilize a collaborative approach to assist individuals and families. I bring a unique approach by helping people to determine and reach their goals, learn and utilize coping skills, as well as tools to enhance interpersonal relationships. I provide services to adolescents and adults with a variety of behaviors and diagnoses: those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, familial conflicts, challenges with self-esteem, school concerns, and parenting.
(513) 847-3679 View (513) 847-3679
Photo of Dr. Teri Role-Warren, Psychologist in 45069, OH
Dr. Teri Role-Warren
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
If challenges are limiting your psychological well-being, I provide a supportive, confidential, professional therapeutic relationship for improving mental health. I integrate multiple strategies (CBT, DBT, mindfulness), and provide tools to help clients recover from eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma or difficult relationships. In collaboration, we uncover and understand your patterns, recognize your wisdom and strengths and empower you to be effective at living your best life.
If challenges are limiting your psychological well-being, I provide a supportive, confidential, professional therapeutic relationship for improving mental health. I integrate multiple strategies (CBT, DBT, mindfulness), and provide tools to help clients recover from eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma or difficult relationships. In collaboration, we uncover and understand your patterns, recognize your wisdom and strengths and empower you to be effective at living your best life.
(513) 334-2045 View (513) 334-2045
Photo of Sana Iftikhar, Counselor in 45069, OH
Sana Iftikhar
Counselor, MA, MEd, PsyD(c), CT
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Hello, my name is Sana! I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment for clients. I believe everyone is unique and I am passionate about helping clients achieve emotional healing and self-growth. I support clients in setting personal goals, identifying strengths, improving resilience and building a positive mindset. My therapeutic services target a wide range of emotional and mental health needs for adults, adolescents, children, and families. I employ an eclectic approach including mindfulness, solution-focused, ACT, CBT, DBT, and ERP.
Hello, my name is Sana! I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment for clients. I believe everyone is unique and I am passionate about helping clients achieve emotional healing and self-growth. I support clients in setting personal goals, identifying strengths, improving resilience and building a positive mindset. My therapeutic services target a wide range of emotional and mental health needs for adults, adolescents, children, and families. I employ an eclectic approach including mindfulness, solution-focused, ACT, CBT, DBT, and ERP.
(513) 805-0601 View (513) 805-0601
Photo of Linda M Cramer, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 45069, OH
Linda M Cramer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Finally, I am a DBT informed therapist which means I can teach you a number of effective skills that will help you achieve the results you desire.
I love working with individuals and couples who are seeking ways to improve the way they experience life. Sometimes we can get stuck in an ineffective pattern in our relationships or just the way we manage stress and the obstacles life throws at all of us. Hearing peoples stories is essential in putting all the pieces together. I am a skilled and compassionate listener and would love to help you figure out how to achieve your goals. I've worked effectively with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma and marital conflicts.
Finally, I am a DBT informed therapist which means I can teach you a number of effective skills that will help you achieve the results you desire.
I love working with individuals and couples who are seeking ways to improve the way they experience life. Sometimes we can get stuck in an ineffective pattern in our relationships or just the way we manage stress and the obstacles life throws at all of us. Hearing peoples stories is essential in putting all the pieces together. I am a skilled and compassionate listener and would love to help you figure out how to achieve your goals. I've worked effectively with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma and marital conflicts.
(513) 506-9727 View (513) 506-9727
Photo of Ashley Ping, Counselor in 45069, OH
Ashley Ping
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I utilize evidence based practices such as CBT, DBT, person-centered, and attachment based methods.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, My primary goal is to create a collaborative relationship with my clients that is built on trust, honesty, and authenticity. I am passionate about empowering women of all ages and teenagers ages 13 and above. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and understood in the context of their life story. I strive to create a safe place where my clients can explore their experiences- a space free from judgment where people feel comfortable sharing their stories and finding healing.
I utilize evidence based practices such as CBT, DBT, person-centered, and attachment based methods.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, My primary goal is to create a collaborative relationship with my clients that is built on trust, honesty, and authenticity. I am passionate about empowering women of all ages and teenagers ages 13 and above. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and understood in the context of their life story. I strive to create a safe place where my clients can explore their experiences- a space free from judgment where people feel comfortable sharing their stories and finding healing.
(513) 912-2574 View (513) 912-2574
Photo of Chad Ricks, Licensed Professional Counselor in 45069, OH
Chad Ricks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Using evidenced based interventions including CBT, DBT skills and PACT, I enjoy working with adults and couples and have become very effective in addressing anxiety, depression, anger and relationship issues.
As a counselor, I often encounter hurting people who need help healing their emotional and relational challenges. People often get stuck in life whether it be their thinking or behaviors that keep them trapped and unable to move forward in living the life they want. We all face challenges in life that we need help in navigating that next step. Relationships can be difficult to navigate sometimes and we just want to know how to break free from the cycle we are in so that we can enjoy each other and life again without the stress of the past and concerns of the future.
Using evidenced based interventions including CBT, DBT skills and PACT, I enjoy working with adults and couples and have become very effective in addressing anxiety, depression, anger and relationship issues.
As a counselor, I often encounter hurting people who need help healing their emotional and relational challenges. People often get stuck in life whether it be their thinking or behaviors that keep them trapped and unable to move forward in living the life they want. We all face challenges in life that we need help in navigating that next step. Relationships can be difficult to navigate sometimes and we just want to know how to break free from the cycle we are in so that we can enjoy each other and life again without the stress of the past and concerns of the future.
(513) 960-7125 View (513) 960-7125
Photo of Breana Nelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 45069, OH
Breana Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Through evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care, we will work collaboratively to address the impact of trauma on your life and empower you to rebuild a sense of resilience and hope.
Hi! I’m Bre, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dedicated to guiding individuals through the complexities of trauma, anxiety, depression, and a multitude of other mental health concerns. With a compassionate and integrative approach, I offer personalized support tailored to your unique needs and experiences. If you’re grappling with the aftermath of trauma, whether recent or past, I am here to provide a safe and validating environment where you can explore your feelings, process difficult memories, and reclaim your sense of safety and self.
Through evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care, we will work collaboratively to address the impact of trauma on your life and empower you to rebuild a sense of resilience and hope.
Hi! I’m Bre, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dedicated to guiding individuals through the complexities of trauma, anxiety, depression, and a multitude of other mental health concerns. With a compassionate and integrative approach, I offer personalized support tailored to your unique needs and experiences. If you’re grappling with the aftermath of trauma, whether recent or past, I am here to provide a safe and validating environment where you can explore your feelings, process difficult memories, and reclaim your sense of safety and self.
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Photo of Empowered Healing LLC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 45069, OH
Empowered Healing LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Among the therapeutic approaches used are EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Somatic approaches, all aimed to heal the Mind, Body, & Spirit of every client we work with.
Empowered Healing is a group practice with therapists who believe everyone deserves to experience the relief that comes from an increased sense of empowerment over the negative life experience/s that have led to emotional struggles that impact their fulfillment in life. All of the therapists have experience in providing treatment for depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, C-PTSD, and PTSD. Through support, inner strength, and hope, we truly believe that healing is possible. We now offer private yoga and Reiki services to aid in your healing journey.
Among the therapeutic approaches used are EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Somatic approaches, all aimed to heal the Mind, Body, & Spirit of every client we work with.
Empowered Healing is a group practice with therapists who believe everyone deserves to experience the relief that comes from an increased sense of empowerment over the negative life experience/s that have led to emotional struggles that impact their fulfillment in life. All of the therapists have experience in providing treatment for depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, C-PTSD, and PTSD. Through support, inner strength, and hope, we truly believe that healing is possible. We now offer private yoga and Reiki services to aid in your healing journey.
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Photo of Celia Knott, Licensed Professional Counselor in 45069, OH
Celia Knott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Passion for my work, empathy and excellence in clinical child & adolescent training coupled with my years of experience & counseling education allows me to offer effective individualized psychological care.
Passion for my work, empathy and excellence in clinical child & adolescent training coupled with my years of experience & counseling education allows me to offer effective individualized psychological care.
(513) 450-3716 View (513) 450-3716
Photo of Elizabeth Ming, Licensed Professional Counselor in 45069, OH
Elizabeth Ming
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is as unique as you. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship by getting to know you, your story, what you value, and what you find meaningful. We work together to get to the core of the issue you’d like to address and listen for the deepest voice within you. I partner with you in helping you to navigate the realities and limitations of being human while also embracing the freedom to choose how to live your life, align with your values, live in the present, and find meaning.
My approach to therapy is as unique as you. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship by getting to know you, your story, what you value, and what you find meaningful. We work together to get to the core of the issue you’d like to address and listen for the deepest voice within you. I partner with you in helping you to navigate the realities and limitations of being human while also embracing the freedom to choose how to live your life, align with your values, live in the present, and find meaning.
(513) 986-0993 View (513) 986-0993
Photo of Rachel Schneider, Counselor in 45069, OH
Rachel Schneider
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC, DTR
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I believe in helping clients learn about themselves, and in doing so, learn about healthier alternatives to help them achieve the balance, wellness, and happiness they are looking for. Many people turn to unhealthy coping skills during difficult times in their lives, and I want to help them break free from these maladaptive patterns and live a healthier, more fulfilling life.
I believe in helping clients learn about themselves, and in doing so, learn about healthier alternatives to help them achieve the balance, wellness, and happiness they are looking for. Many people turn to unhealthy coping skills during difficult times in their lives, and I want to help them break free from these maladaptive patterns and live a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(513) 854-0163 View (513) 854-0163
Photo of Linda McMurray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 45069, OH
Linda McMurray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, CDBT, CCATP
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Asking for help is hard. Let's walk this journey together. Working with adults and seniors dealing with life crisis, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and adjustment disorders, discovering where you are, where you want to be and how to get there is my passion.
Asking for help is hard. Let's walk this journey together. Working with adults and seniors dealing with life crisis, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and adjustment disorders, discovering where you are, where you want to be and how to get there is my passion.
(513) 434-6448 View (513) 434-6448
Photo of Samantha Ciambro, Licensed Professional Counselor in 45069, OH
Samantha Ciambro
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Constant overthinking and worrying, poor self-esteem, people-pleasing tendencies and depressed mood. If this describes something that you are going through, you don't have to go through it alone. I work with men and women from an attachment lens, which is a therapy word for saying that I focus on your early childhood years and how they impacted your daily life. If you find yourself overanalyzing the amount of work you put into your relationships and feel you give more than you're receiving, we can work through how to get you to a secure place within yourself without seeking external validation from others.
Constant overthinking and worrying, poor self-esteem, people-pleasing tendencies and depressed mood. If this describes something that you are going through, you don't have to go through it alone. I work with men and women from an attachment lens, which is a therapy word for saying that I focus on your early childhood years and how they impacted your daily life. If you find yourself overanalyzing the amount of work you put into your relationships and feel you give more than you're receiving, we can work through how to get you to a secure place within yourself without seeking external validation from others.
(513) 447-6208 View (513) 447-6208
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.