Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in 90815

Photo of Dominique Nakagi, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 90815, CA
Dominique Nakagi
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815  (Online Only)
During sessions I use a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness to best fit the needs of my clients.
Hey you, congrats on looking into therapy! Life is filled with complexities and everyone could use a guide through these struggles. I am here to offer space to process these experiences and make therapy a less scary reality. We can work together to support your growth towards the person you wish to become. Through my clinical experience, I have worked mostly with acute mental health symptoms in outpatient mental health programs. I have experience working with diverse populations from children, adolescents, adults, and seniors who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use.
During sessions I use a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness to best fit the needs of my clients.
Hey you, congrats on looking into therapy! Life is filled with complexities and everyone could use a guide through these struggles. I am here to offer space to process these experiences and make therapy a less scary reality. We can work together to support your growth towards the person you wish to become. Through my clinical experience, I have worked mostly with acute mental health symptoms in outpatient mental health programs. I have experience working with diverse populations from children, adolescents, adults, and seniors who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use.
(562) 669-3022 View (562) 669-3022
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in 90815, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
Various approaches are offered, including the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, and a Psychoanalytical approach with some long term therapy cases.
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
Various approaches are offered, including the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, and a Psychoanalytical approach with some long term therapy cases.
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
(562) 526-0592 View (562) 526-0592
Photo of Dorit Saberi - Thrive Psychological Services, Psychologist in 90815, CA
Dorit Saberi - Thrive Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815  (Online Only)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT diplomate) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Prolonged Exposure for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (certified CTSA trainer) mindfulness based therapies, and trauma focused modalities as well as implementing interventions from positive psychology and embodiment therapies.
I have extensive experience working with various evidence-based modalities as well as alternative and somatic therapies. I currently work at Harbor UCLA as a Clinical Director of a Trauma service and as Associate Professor at UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine. I am Bilingual in Hebrew and English. Areas of specialization: Mood disorders; anxiety disorders; post traumatic stress disorder; life transition and adjustment issues; bereavement and loss; couple and relationship therapy; Family therapy; Parenting strategies; work related stress. I am also available for lectures, and trainings and certifications (Prolonged Exposure)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT diplomate) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Prolonged Exposure for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (certified CTSA trainer) mindfulness based therapies, and trauma focused modalities as well as implementing interventions from positive psychology and embodiment therapies.
I have extensive experience working with various evidence-based modalities as well as alternative and somatic therapies. I currently work at Harbor UCLA as a Clinical Director of a Trauma service and as Associate Professor at UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine. I am Bilingual in Hebrew and English. Areas of specialization: Mood disorders; anxiety disorders; post traumatic stress disorder; life transition and adjustment issues; bereavement and loss; couple and relationship therapy; Family therapy; Parenting strategies; work related stress. I am also available for lectures, and trainings and certifications (Prolonged Exposure)
(424) 374-1433 View (424) 374-1433
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in 90815, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD,
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
This is followed by proposing with the client, a basic structure within which to proceed, to address the set of problems which have been identified, whether following a Psychoanalytic, or Cognitive Behavioral, or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
This is followed by proposing with the client, a basic structure within which to proceed, to address the set of problems which have been identified, whether following a Psychoanalytic, or Cognitive Behavioral, or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
(562) 303-5525 View (562) 303-5525
Photo of Tara N Milanes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90815, CA
Tara N Milanes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815  (Online Only)
I often incorporate mindfulness, CBT, DBT, ACT, and IFS strategies to help you develop effective coping skills and foster a sense of self-compassion.
Hi there! Thank you for being here, and congrats on taking the first steps towards healing and self-discovery! I'm here to work with and support you through life's ever evolving challenges through curiosity, compassion, and empathy. I believe that our early significant relationships, as well as difficult situations in the past play a role in the way we navigate issues in the present. I aim for therapy to be a warm and welcoming space where you can feel at ease discussing these experiences.
I often incorporate mindfulness, CBT, DBT, ACT, and IFS strategies to help you develop effective coping skills and foster a sense of self-compassion.
Hi there! Thank you for being here, and congrats on taking the first steps towards healing and self-discovery! I'm here to work with and support you through life's ever evolving challenges through curiosity, compassion, and empathy. I believe that our early significant relationships, as well as difficult situations in the past play a role in the way we navigate issues in the present. I aim for therapy to be a warm and welcoming space where you can feel at ease discussing these experiences.
(562) 662-3932 View (562) 662-3932
Photo of Dr. Courtney Crisp, Psychologist in 90815, CA
Dr. Courtney Crisp
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
I practice evidence-based interventions, including components of mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (CBT, ACT, and DBT).
I specialize in working with the queer/LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, and severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder. I also work with those working on their relationship with money and their finances. You may feel anxious or depressed, that your old ways of doing things are not working anymore. You may feel overwhelmed and like you could use a supportive guide in facing life's challenges. Or maybe you do not know why you are feeling the things you feel or doing the things you are doing. In our sessions, we can explore all of this and more in a supportive, safe, and authentic environment. It is an honor to meet you.
I practice evidence-based interventions, including components of mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (CBT, ACT, and DBT).
I specialize in working with the queer/LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, and severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder. I also work with those working on their relationship with money and their finances. You may feel anxious or depressed, that your old ways of doing things are not working anymore. You may feel overwhelmed and like you could use a supportive guide in facing life's challenges. Or maybe you do not know why you are feeling the things you feel or doing the things you are doing. In our sessions, we can explore all of this and more in a supportive, safe, and authentic environment. It is an honor to meet you.
(415) 360-8860 View (415) 360-8860
Photo of Valerie Macy-Hurley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90815, CA
Valerie Macy-Hurley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
For as long as I can remember, I have felt called to serve others through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (including anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders & ADHD), I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience supporting those with acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement & trauma (I am trauma-informed-care educated). Additionally, my experience serving diverse populations has fueled my passion for helping others navigate social, medical and educational inequities.
For as long as I can remember, I have felt called to serve others through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (including anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders & ADHD), I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience supporting those with acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement & trauma (I am trauma-informed-care educated). Additionally, my experience serving diverse populations has fueled my passion for helping others navigate social, medical and educational inequities.
(562) 684-6036 View (562) 684-6036
Photo of Angie Pelletier -Juarez, Psychologist in 90815, CA
Angie Pelletier -Juarez
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
Dr. PJ, also known as Dr. Angie Pelletier, is a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. She applies a holistic methodology that takes into account mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual considerations to help people gain a better understanding of themselves. Her focus areas include trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence (IPV)/Domestic Violence (DV) victims, life and career transitions, and relationship issues, among others. Dr. PJ stresses the importance of identifying personal strengths and cultivating coping strategies to meet life's challenges.
Dr. PJ, also known as Dr. Angie Pelletier, is a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. She applies a holistic methodology that takes into account mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual considerations to help people gain a better understanding of themselves. Her focus areas include trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence (IPV)/Domestic Violence (DV) victims, life and career transitions, and relationship issues, among others. Dr. PJ stresses the importance of identifying personal strengths and cultivating coping strategies to meet life's challenges.
(562) 278-0875 View (562) 278-0875
Photo of Aaron Quiroz, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90815, CA
Aaron Quiroz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
Waitlist for new clients
How often do you find yourself wanting to truly express yourself but can't? Do you fear backlash for expressing the challenges you are facing in the workplace, public settings, or even in the home? I am open-minded, empathetic, and unconventional in my approach from years of experience in working with clients and families in community mental health based settings. Since 2013 I have had a wide range of experience working with a variety of clients including severe and persistently ill, dual-diagnosis/substance use disordered, homeless, and at-risk transitional-aged populations on their path to recovery.
How often do you find yourself wanting to truly express yourself but can't? Do you fear backlash for expressing the challenges you are facing in the workplace, public settings, or even in the home? I am open-minded, empathetic, and unconventional in my approach from years of experience in working with clients and families in community mental health based settings. Since 2013 I have had a wide range of experience working with a variety of clients including severe and persistently ill, dual-diagnosis/substance use disordered, homeless, and at-risk transitional-aged populations on their path to recovery.
(562) 303-5440 View (562) 303-5440
Photo of Alex Osorio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90815, CA
Alex Osorio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
I believe that we have within us, the power to create the life we desire. We possess inner strengths and skills that can help us overcome challenges and live a fulfilled life. However, accessing this power can be an overwhelming task that may require support. Allow me to be an unbiased, compassionate and caring partner in your journey. I help individuals explore their thoughts and emotions, reframe distorted beliefs, replace unhealthy patterns and unblock past traumas. I use elements of CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Parts Work, Brainspotting, and other modalities to help you achieve your goals.
I believe that we have within us, the power to create the life we desire. We possess inner strengths and skills that can help us overcome challenges and live a fulfilled life. However, accessing this power can be an overwhelming task that may require support. Allow me to be an unbiased, compassionate and caring partner in your journey. I help individuals explore their thoughts and emotions, reframe distorted beliefs, replace unhealthy patterns and unblock past traumas. I use elements of CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Parts Work, Brainspotting, and other modalities to help you achieve your goals.
(562) 242-3353 View (562) 242-3353
Photo of Arcangela Miceli, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90815, CA
Arcangela Miceli
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with young adult and adolescent clients and the age-specific issues that these groups commonly experience. It's so difficult to be at an age where you're expected to act like an adult but are still treated like a child - this experience can be confusing and breed feelings of self-doubt and insecurity. I work with my clients to help normalize these feelings and experiences as well as help them make sense of things in the world and within themselves through the transition from adolescence into adulthood.
I enjoy working with young adult and adolescent clients and the age-specific issues that these groups commonly experience. It's so difficult to be at an age where you're expected to act like an adult but are still treated like a child - this experience can be confusing and breed feelings of self-doubt and insecurity. I work with my clients to help normalize these feelings and experiences as well as help them make sense of things in the world and within themselves through the transition from adolescence into adulthood.
(562) 600-2773 View (562) 600-2773
Photo of Sean Gray, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90815, CA
Sean Gray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
Do you wake up in a fog and wonder, “why do I keep sabotaging myself?” You want to break free from your unhealthy coping behaviors so you can live a meaningful and fulfilling life. You need someone who truly sees you, listens to you, and genuinely cares about your struggle. Getting sober isn’t just about not drinking or using, it’s about dealing with why you started as a whole. Your addiction is a symptom of co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma. You want to change, but you don’t know where to begin and recovery feels impossible. This is where I can help.
Do you wake up in a fog and wonder, “why do I keep sabotaging myself?” You want to break free from your unhealthy coping behaviors so you can live a meaningful and fulfilling life. You need someone who truly sees you, listens to you, and genuinely cares about your struggle. Getting sober isn’t just about not drinking or using, it’s about dealing with why you started as a whole. Your addiction is a symptom of co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma. You want to change, but you don’t know where to begin and recovery feels impossible. This is where I can help.
(714) 975-5439 View (714) 975-5439
Photo of Christina Kee, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90815, CA
Christina Kee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815  (Online Only)
Reaching out for support and trying to find the right therapist can be overwhelming but I am here to listen and help you feel comfortable with the process. I specifically work with clients who are struggling with anxiety and depression. I have specialized working with teens and young adults through all settings for almost 20 years (schools, non-profit, county, and private practice).
Reaching out for support and trying to find the right therapist can be overwhelming but I am here to listen and help you feel comfortable with the process. I specifically work with clients who are struggling with anxiety and depression. I have specialized working with teens and young adults through all settings for almost 20 years (schools, non-profit, county, and private practice).
(562) 393-7496 View (562) 393-7496
Photo of Bella Boas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90815, CA
Bella Boas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
My name is Bella Boas, LMFT. I meet you exactly where you are and work with you to determine the optimal tools to reach your goals. I will create a safe space where you can authentically show up with no judgment, shame, or guilt. Equipping clients with tools and education in combination with the process is empowering. I am passionate about working with motivated, dedicated teens, individuals, couples, and marriages who are pursuing health. I have an eclectic approach grounded in Person-Centered and Gestalt. Brainspotting is a powerful and effective tool for working with trauma and overall efficient processing.
My name is Bella Boas, LMFT. I meet you exactly where you are and work with you to determine the optimal tools to reach your goals. I will create a safe space where you can authentically show up with no judgment, shame, or guilt. Equipping clients with tools and education in combination with the process is empowering. I am passionate about working with motivated, dedicated teens, individuals, couples, and marriages who are pursuing health. I have an eclectic approach grounded in Person-Centered and Gestalt. Brainspotting is a powerful and effective tool for working with trauma and overall efficient processing.
(805) 600-3821 View (805) 600-3821
Photo of Jesselyn S Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90815, CA
Jesselyn S Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Jesselyn, I am a Filipina-American LGBTQIA+ affirming Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with Modern Life Solutions. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities to explore their mental health and well-being. My approach is strength-based, rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and client-centered care. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, or identity exploration, I am committed to working collaboratively to help you navigate your true authentic self.
Hello! My name is Jesselyn, I am a Filipina-American LGBTQIA+ affirming Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with Modern Life Solutions. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities to explore their mental health and well-being. My approach is strength-based, rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and client-centered care. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, or identity exploration, I am committed to working collaboratively to help you navigate your true authentic self.
(657) 571-1245 View (657) 571-1245
Photo of Haley Morris, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90815, CA
Haley Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
Hello! I'm Haley Morris. I am a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in a client-centered approach to therapy, taking each client and each session individually. I work with clients 18 years and older from all different backgrounds and circumstances. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, substance abuse, grief, and transition. I base my theoretical approach based off the clients' needs per session.
Hello! I'm Haley Morris. I am a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in a client-centered approach to therapy, taking each client and each session individually. I work with clients 18 years and older from all different backgrounds and circumstances. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, substance abuse, grief, and transition. I base my theoretical approach based off the clients' needs per session.
(951) 364-2651 View (951) 364-2651
Photo of Amanda j Chinchilla, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90815, CA
Amanda j Chinchilla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
Have you discovered that your spouse or partner has been unfaithful, using porn compulsively, or has been engaging in any other sexual or addictive behaviors that are concerning? Have you discovered inappropriate text messages or emails on your partner's phone or computer? If you answered yes to any of the above you may be feeling overwhelmed, betrayed, and confused about what to do next. You will need a safe space to explore your emotions and thoughts.I believe you will need time to sort through your emotions and make decisions that are healthy for you and your family.
Have you discovered that your spouse or partner has been unfaithful, using porn compulsively, or has been engaging in any other sexual or addictive behaviors that are concerning? Have you discovered inappropriate text messages or emails on your partner's phone or computer? If you answered yes to any of the above you may be feeling overwhelmed, betrayed, and confused about what to do next. You will need a safe space to explore your emotions and thoughts.I believe you will need time to sort through your emotions and make decisions that are healthy for you and your family.
(310) 589-3708 View (310) 589-3708
Photo of Barbara Christian, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90815, CA
Barbara Christian
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
I use a variety of therapy modalities to address client needs, helping them to efficiently navigate their life challenges. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy.
I use a variety of therapy modalities to address client needs, helping them to efficiently navigate their life challenges. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy.
(562) 382-8186 View (562) 382-8186
Photo of Alynn Cauldwell, Family Therapist, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in 90815, CA
Alynn Cauldwell, Family Therapist, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
Welcome, I am Alynn Cauldwell, LMFT and I believe in the power of healing and transformation. I have 20 years of experience as a therapist and I am dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards overcoming trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and many other mental health challenges. My approach is holistic and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, integrating a range of therapeutic modalities to foster healing and growth. I am EMDR certified and prefer a collaborative journey with clients to help them reclaim inner peace and rediscover resilience. I am here for you. Call or email today.
Welcome, I am Alynn Cauldwell, LMFT and I believe in the power of healing and transformation. I have 20 years of experience as a therapist and I am dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards overcoming trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and many other mental health challenges. My approach is holistic and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, integrating a range of therapeutic modalities to foster healing and growth. I am EMDR certified and prefer a collaborative journey with clients to help them reclaim inner peace and rediscover resilience. I am here for you. Call or email today.
(949) 267-3746 View (949) 267-3746
Photo of Kendall Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90815, CA
Kendall Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
Do you desire a stronger relationship with yourself, family, friends and/or a romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, trauma or self-esteem? Together, we can examine what is making you feel stuck. I want to support you in strengthening and building upon the innate skills you have to face the current difficulties in your life. By gaining insight about your thoughts, feelings and behavior it can allow you the ability to make lasting change.
Do you desire a stronger relationship with yourself, family, friends and/or a romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, trauma or self-esteem? Together, we can examine what is making you feel stuck. I want to support you in strengthening and building upon the innate skills you have to face the current difficulties in your life. By gaining insight about your thoughts, feelings and behavior it can allow you the ability to make lasting change.
(562) 317-7548 View (562) 317-7548
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.