Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in 84102
Kellie Bonner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Kellie, Bonner, CSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I utilize aspects of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and motivational interviewing in my practice.
Hey there! I'm Kellie. I love working with individuals as they navigate the complexities of life. I prioritize creating a relaxed, safe, and welcoming environment where each individual can come into sessions with ease and know they are not alone. I work primarily with youth, young adults, and adults facing a wide spectrum of difficulties or challenges. Some of these include anxiety, depression, navigating life transitions, and identity related issues.
I utilize aspects of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and motivational interviewing in my practice.
Hey there! I'm Kellie. I love working with individuals as they navigate the complexities of life. I prioritize creating a relaxed, safe, and welcoming environment where each individual can come into sessions with ease and know they are not alone. I work primarily with youth, young adults, and adults facing a wide spectrum of difficulties or challenges. Some of these include anxiety, depression, navigating life transitions, and identity related issues.
I am an official RO DBT practitioner and I have received formal training in other evidence-based treatments including dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and Gottman Couples therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist at the Utah Center for Evidence Based Treatment (UCEBT) with experience in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, adults, couples & families. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals who cope with their emotions by engaging in excessive self-control. These individuals are often described as being “type A”, perfectionistic, guarded, and hard to read. While our society usually puts a high value on our ability to exert self-control and delay gratification to achieve our goals, research has shown that too much self-control can hurt us, especially our relationships!
I am an official RO DBT practitioner and I have received formal training in other evidence-based treatments including dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and Gottman Couples therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist at the Utah Center for Evidence Based Treatment (UCEBT) with experience in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, adults, couples & families. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals who cope with their emotions by engaging in excessive self-control. These individuals are often described as being “type A”, perfectionistic, guarded, and hard to read. While our society usually puts a high value on our ability to exert self-control and delay gratification to achieve our goals, research has shown that too much self-control can hurt us, especially our relationships!
Victoria Choate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Live your life free of depression, anxiety, and disconnection! I offer genuine acceptance and connection in a way that allows for us to unpack, understand, and work with emotions, empowering you to become unstuck and to navigate life as your authentic self. It doesn't take long to nail down strategies and skills for immediate and long-lasting improvement to your quality of life! Together, we'll combine proven, research-based therapies ( DBT, CBT, Mindfulness training) to meet the goals that come from your truest self.
Live your life free of depression, anxiety, and disconnection! I offer genuine acceptance and connection in a way that allows for us to unpack, understand, and work with emotions, empowering you to become unstuck and to navigate life as your authentic self. It doesn't take long to nail down strategies and skills for immediate and long-lasting improvement to your quality of life! Together, we'll combine proven, research-based therapies ( DBT, CBT, Mindfulness training) to meet the goals that come from your truest self.
Janelle Spink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I specialize in providing comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and use a variety of other techniques and therapeutic modalities including ACT, values work, mindfulness, and CBT.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression and other emotional difficulties that interfere with your daily life. Fears and worries, feeling unmotivated and distressed, all takes a toll on the ability to live the life that you want. Sometimes it is difficult to pinpoint the reason why you feel disconnected or how to best problem-solve and get back on track.
I specialize in providing comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and use a variety of other techniques and therapeutic modalities including ACT, values work, mindfulness, and CBT.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression and other emotional difficulties that interfere with your daily life. Fears and worries, feeling unmotivated and distressed, all takes a toll on the ability to live the life that you want. Sometimes it is difficult to pinpoint the reason why you feel disconnected or how to best problem-solve and get back on track.
Holly Grayson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I am trained in the use of many therapeutic interventions such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Sand Tray, Mindfulness, etc.
If you have been exposed to a traumatic incident you may be unaware of how that event has affected your daily functioning. Later, you may have difficulty controlling your anger, sadness, anxiety, sleeping etc. To determine if your behaviors have been affected by exposure to a traumatic event or have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), schedule and appointment with me for an assessment. I have a wide array of experience treating individual, families, and couples for a variety of issues including problems caused by trauma, depression, anxiety, poor communication skills, poor family functioning etc.
I am trained in the use of many therapeutic interventions such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Sand Tray, Mindfulness, etc.
If you have been exposed to a traumatic incident you may be unaware of how that event has affected your daily functioning. Later, you may have difficulty controlling your anger, sadness, anxiety, sleeping etc. To determine if your behaviors have been affected by exposure to a traumatic event or have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), schedule and appointment with me for an assessment. I have a wide array of experience treating individual, families, and couples for a variety of issues including problems caused by trauma, depression, anxiety, poor communication skills, poor family functioning etc.
I’m trained in gold standard treatments targeting emotion regulation, increasing psychological flexibility, and compassion focused therapies (CBT, DBT, ACT for example).
Life is full of challenges. Sometimes calling in an expert who understands the science of emotions and common sticking points can provide relief. In therapy my ultimate goal is to help you create meaningful changes that result in a sense of peace and empowerment. We will work together to help you figure out what you can control and learn the skills to let go of the things you can’t. Using scientifically backed treatments I can help you find relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors.
I’m trained in gold standard treatments targeting emotion regulation, increasing psychological flexibility, and compassion focused therapies (CBT, DBT, ACT for example).
Life is full of challenges. Sometimes calling in an expert who understands the science of emotions and common sticking points can provide relief. In therapy my ultimate goal is to help you create meaningful changes that result in a sense of peace and empowerment. We will work together to help you figure out what you can control and learn the skills to let go of the things you can’t. Using scientifically backed treatments I can help you find relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors.
I'm part of the DBT team at Wellspace Utah, and also offering Neurofeedback as an evidence-based therapy for those clients looking to enhance neurological regulation through biofeedback.
Discover how to love yourself and develop the skills needed to thrive regardless of your challenges and circumstances! As a counselor, I care deeply for my clients and bring knowledge and skills to assist you in making the changes you wish to make. I give the space, time and energy neccesary to help you gain strategies and insight, and offer room for you to simply be you. I believe each person has the knowledge within themselves to create their best life!
I'm part of the DBT team at Wellspace Utah, and also offering Neurofeedback as an evidence-based therapy for those clients looking to enhance neurological regulation through biofeedback.
Discover how to love yourself and develop the skills needed to thrive regardless of your challenges and circumstances! As a counselor, I care deeply for my clients and bring knowledge and skills to assist you in making the changes you wish to make. I give the space, time and energy neccesary to help you gain strategies and insight, and offer room for you to simply be you. I believe each person has the knowledge within themselves to create their best life!
Erika Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Being a human being is hard. Everyone could benefit from a place to be unashamedly, unabashedly themselves, struggles and all. I am a warm, compassionate therapist who truly believes in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. Above all else, I am a human being who experiences joy and suffering just like everybody else. I'm passionate about utilizing evidence-based techniques (such as DBT, CBT, and ACT) combined with my own humanity to help others reach their goals.
Being a human being is hard. Everyone could benefit from a place to be unashamedly, unabashedly themselves, struggles and all. I am a warm, compassionate therapist who truly believes in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. Above all else, I am a human being who experiences joy and suffering just like everybody else. I'm passionate about utilizing evidence-based techniques (such as DBT, CBT, and ACT) combined with my own humanity to help others reach their goals.
Jake Stucki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
In addition to IFS, I also I utilize Gottman Method, EMDR, and DBT.
Hope of healing is at the heart of my work. There are many who have come to believe feeling numb, disconnected, and incredibly lonely is normal. You do not have to live this way. Anxieties and sorrows can spiral into feelings of helplessness, leading to self-isolation, suffering, and uncertainty about how to find support. I am passionate about facilitating time and space for awareness of all that makes you who you are. As a Level One trained IFS (Internal Family Systems) practitioner, I strive to help you access and embrace the inner parts of you, guiding you back to love of Self through understanding and healing.
In addition to IFS, I also I utilize Gottman Method, EMDR, and DBT.
Hope of healing is at the heart of my work. There are many who have come to believe feeling numb, disconnected, and incredibly lonely is normal. You do not have to live this way. Anxieties and sorrows can spiral into feelings of helplessness, leading to self-isolation, suffering, and uncertainty about how to find support. I am passionate about facilitating time and space for awareness of all that makes you who you are. As a Level One trained IFS (Internal Family Systems) practitioner, I strive to help you access and embrace the inner parts of you, guiding you back to love of Self through understanding and healing.
Safe Space, SLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
We use evidence based approaches to promote healing, including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and AF-CBT.
We are a group of LGBTQIA affirming clinicians that are dedicated to meeting our clients where they are at and supporting them with exploring their unique identities, hardships, strengths and personal goals. We are honored to serve and support the dynamic young people of our community by giving them a safe space to process past trauma, grief, interpersonal challenges, family issues and more. We use a person centered and strength based approach to building positive relationships with our clients that allow them to feel seen, appreciated for who they are and supported with building a stronger sense of self, purpose and value.
We use evidence based approaches to promote healing, including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and AF-CBT.
We are a group of LGBTQIA affirming clinicians that are dedicated to meeting our clients where they are at and supporting them with exploring their unique identities, hardships, strengths and personal goals. We are honored to serve and support the dynamic young people of our community by giving them a safe space to process past trauma, grief, interpersonal challenges, family issues and more. We use a person centered and strength based approach to building positive relationships with our clients that allow them to feel seen, appreciated for who they are and supported with building a stronger sense of self, purpose and value.
I am trained in TF-CBT and Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT) and am well versed in CBT, ACT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
For over two decades, I have been providing assessment and therapeutic services to youth, young adults, and their families. As an advocate and member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I work hard to remain current in evidenced-based treatments - especially for transgender and gender expansive youth and young adults. I am a member of the Utah LGBTQ Psychotherapist Guild and the World Professional Association of Transgender Health (WPATH). I am also a member of the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC).
I am trained in TF-CBT and Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT) and am well versed in CBT, ACT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
For over two decades, I have been providing assessment and therapeutic services to youth, young adults, and their families. As an advocate and member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I work hard to remain current in evidenced-based treatments - especially for transgender and gender expansive youth and young adults. I am a member of the Utah LGBTQ Psychotherapist Guild and the World Professional Association of Transgender Health (WPATH). I am also a member of the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC).
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Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Welcome! With over 17 years of clinical experience in social work my practice is rooted in mindfulness and evidence-based techniques. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, the aftermath of divorce or abuse, self-esteem issues, or life's challenging transitions, I'm here to support and guide you. I offer individual therapy incorporating DBT, CBT, and mindfulness-based interventions.I incorporate holistic methods like Breathwork, Yoga, and Inner Healing body work in my practice. These techniques, combined with traditional therapy, create a nurturing space for transformation and growth.
Welcome! With over 17 years of clinical experience in social work my practice is rooted in mindfulness and evidence-based techniques. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, the aftermath of divorce or abuse, self-esteem issues, or life's challenging transitions, I'm here to support and guide you. I offer individual therapy incorporating DBT, CBT, and mindfulness-based interventions.I incorporate holistic methods like Breathwork, Yoga, and Inner Healing body work in my practice. These techniques, combined with traditional therapy, create a nurturing space for transformation and growth.
The primary modalities I use in my practice include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Informed Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT, TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment-based Psychotherapy, Somatics and more.
I am happy that you are taking the next step towards finding healing for yourself. No matter what brings you to the search for a therapist, I hope you realize that you deserve to be seen, heard, and given a space to store your deepest desires, pains, and joys in life. I strive to work from an anti-oppressive lens, acknowledging the significant impact of interpersonal, systemic and intergenerational trauma. I come from a person-center, trauma-informed approach to highlight your innate resiliency in our work together. I work with adults, couples and adolescents treating anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, ADHD and more.
The primary modalities I use in my practice include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Informed Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT, TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment-based Psychotherapy, Somatics and more.
I am happy that you are taking the next step towards finding healing for yourself. No matter what brings you to the search for a therapist, I hope you realize that you deserve to be seen, heard, and given a space to store your deepest desires, pains, and joys in life. I strive to work from an anti-oppressive lens, acknowledging the significant impact of interpersonal, systemic and intergenerational trauma. I come from a person-center, trauma-informed approach to highlight your innate resiliency in our work together. I work with adults, couples and adolescents treating anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, ADHD and more.
Melanie Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW`, CSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102 (Online Only)
I utilize and practice empowering, empathetic communication with strengths-based and client-centered interviewing approaches - and I incorporate holistic, evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as mindfulness/mindful movement, psychodynamic therapy (CBT/ DBT), interpersonal/relational therapy, art and play therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
I am a client-centered, holistic, integrative, systemic, and mindfulness-based Social Worker who utilizes self and social/community empowerment to inspire intersectional healing and alignment. I have extensive personal and professional experience related to depression and anxiety, ADHD, LGBTQ(QIAAP+) and multicultural matters, social activism and allyship, complex trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, and domestic and interpersonal violence. I work alongside clients to create a greater sense of self-love and acceptance, helping to promote both immediate and long-term relief and change in their daily lives.
I utilize and practice empowering, empathetic communication with strengths-based and client-centered interviewing approaches - and I incorporate holistic, evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as mindfulness/mindful movement, psychodynamic therapy (CBT/ DBT), interpersonal/relational therapy, art and play therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
I am a client-centered, holistic, integrative, systemic, and mindfulness-based Social Worker who utilizes self and social/community empowerment to inspire intersectional healing and alignment. I have extensive personal and professional experience related to depression and anxiety, ADHD, LGBTQ(QIAAP+) and multicultural matters, social activism and allyship, complex trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, and domestic and interpersonal violence. I work alongside clients to create a greater sense of self-love and acceptance, helping to promote both immediate and long-term relief and change in their daily lives.
I am a certified Functional Family Therapist who has advanced training in Child-Centered Play Therapy, Sand Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and parent training.
I currently only offer telehealth appointments for people ages 12+, but do offer in person testing. I do NOT take insurance. I love helping children and their families achieve more harmony and happiness in their homes. It can be hard to find someone you trust for your child, especially when they are experiencing something difficult. This is why I believe in a compassionate, playful, and collaborative approach to working with clients. I have spent the majority of my career working with Autistic children, children with trauma, those whose parents are divorcing, and those with suicidal thoughts.
I am a certified Functional Family Therapist who has advanced training in Child-Centered Play Therapy, Sand Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and parent training.
I currently only offer telehealth appointments for people ages 12+, but do offer in person testing. I do NOT take insurance. I love helping children and their families achieve more harmony and happiness in their homes. It can be hard to find someone you trust for your child, especially when they are experiencing something difficult. This is why I believe in a compassionate, playful, and collaborative approach to working with clients. I have spent the majority of my career working with Autistic children, children with trauma, those whose parents are divorcing, and those with suicidal thoughts.
Amber Pearce
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC-i
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I use a combination of Mindfulness, DBT, and CBT to provide individuals with coping skills they need to positively navigate any challenge they may face.
A bird sitting on a tree is never afraid of the branch breaking, because their trust is not on the branch but their ability to fly. -Author Unknown. There will be times the branch breaks out from underneath you: anxiety, depression, addiction, ruminative thoughts, grief, trauma, loss of relationships, or loss of enjoyment of life. These can make one feel as though they are in a free fall. Psychotherapy can help. Mindfulness and DBT skills can help you believe in yourself and restore trust in your ability to fly.
I use a combination of Mindfulness, DBT, and CBT to provide individuals with coping skills they need to positively navigate any challenge they may face.
A bird sitting on a tree is never afraid of the branch breaking, because their trust is not on the branch but their ability to fly. -Author Unknown. There will be times the branch breaks out from underneath you: anxiety, depression, addiction, ruminative thoughts, grief, trauma, loss of relationships, or loss of enjoyment of life. These can make one feel as though they are in a free fall. Psychotherapy can help. Mindfulness and DBT skills can help you believe in yourself and restore trust in your ability to fly.
Shannon McCann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and challenging life transitions. Common experiences include intrusive or ruminative thoughts; impulsive or compulsive behaviors that seem hard to control; challenging relationships; or simply feeling like day-to-day life isn't aligning with the life you envisioned. I appreciate the complexity and uniqueness of people and strive to utilize a non-judgmental approach. My style is open and easy going. Since 2011, I have been working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with a range of struggles. My approach is collaborative with a background in DBT, CBT, and Mindfulness.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and challenging life transitions. Common experiences include intrusive or ruminative thoughts; impulsive or compulsive behaviors that seem hard to control; challenging relationships; or simply feeling like day-to-day life isn't aligning with the life you envisioned. I appreciate the complexity and uniqueness of people and strive to utilize a non-judgmental approach. My style is open and easy going. Since 2011, I have been working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with a range of struggles. My approach is collaborative with a background in DBT, CBT, and Mindfulness.
In addition to Assessment & Testing, I'm a primary member of UCEBT's Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) Team.
I evaluate children, teens, & adults with questions of ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, and related emotional dysregulation and problems in functioning. Families can experience major frustration in finding interventions that are individualized to people’s unique needs: going through years of therapy and not feeling any better; getting conflicting feedback from other clinicians; having several diagnoses that don’t seem to align with what you’re going through; treatments that don’t seem to get you to your goals. Having a clear diagnosis is key in establishing a treatment plan and supporting interventions that are a good fit.
In addition to Assessment & Testing, I'm a primary member of UCEBT's Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) Team.
I evaluate children, teens, & adults with questions of ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, and related emotional dysregulation and problems in functioning. Families can experience major frustration in finding interventions that are individualized to people’s unique needs: going through years of therapy and not feeling any better; getting conflicting feedback from other clinicians; having several diagnoses that don’t seem to align with what you’re going through; treatments that don’t seem to get you to your goals. Having a clear diagnosis is key in establishing a treatment plan and supporting interventions that are a good fit.
Cara Duchene
Mental Health Counselor, CMHC, MEd, JD
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in, and often draw from, feminist multicultural therapy, interpersonal process, polyvagal and attachment theories, psychodynamic therapies, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness-based approaches.
My therapeutic approach is customized to your needs in the moment and prioritizes making you feel seen, heard, and empowered. I'm here to support you in learning how to better approach yourself with love and care, to be more connected in your mind and body, and to better understand and embody your authentic self. I believe that healing happens when we feel safely supported by others and have a deeper understanding of our minds and bodies.
I am trained in, and often draw from, feminist multicultural therapy, interpersonal process, polyvagal and attachment theories, psychodynamic therapies, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness-based approaches.
My therapeutic approach is customized to your needs in the moment and prioritizes making you feel seen, heard, and empowered. I'm here to support you in learning how to better approach yourself with love and care, to be more connected in your mind and body, and to better understand and embody your authentic self. I believe that healing happens when we feel safely supported by others and have a deeper understanding of our minds and bodies.
Olivia Friedrichs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I have training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and TF-CBT.
Taking the steps to engage in therapy is brave and requires a lot of courage. Opening up to a stranger in an effort to create a healthier future is no small feat, and I am impressed to know you, whoever you are! My therapeutic philosophy revolves around honoring the incredible self-compassion that it requires to be vulnerable with a therapist. I value individual autonomy and strive to create a space where you feel heard and empowered. I commit to showing up with curiosity and compassion with the intent to help equip you with the everyday bravery it takes to be human.
I have training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and TF-CBT.
Taking the steps to engage in therapy is brave and requires a lot of courage. Opening up to a stranger in an effort to create a healthier future is no small feat, and I am impressed to know you, whoever you are! My therapeutic philosophy revolves around honoring the incredible self-compassion that it requires to be vulnerable with a therapist. I value individual autonomy and strive to create a space where you feel heard and empowered. I commit to showing up with curiosity and compassion with the intent to help equip you with the everyday bravery it takes to be human.
See more therapy options for 84102
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.