Photo of Chad Calderon, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Chad Calderon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
Welcome! If you are here, you have found the courage to seek the life balance you deserve through the best care possible. I'm Dr. Calderon, a licensed clinical psychologist, and compassionate, fun therapist. I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology in San Francisco. I've worked across the country in clinical settings including veteran, inpatient, outpatient, addiction, sexual behaviors, human services, psych assessment and primary care centers. I use a diverse range of therapy modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, child play, and psychodynamic. I am dedicated to specializing in child/adolescent care but work with all age groups.
Welcome! If you are here, you have found the courage to seek the life balance you deserve through the best care possible. I'm Dr. Calderon, a licensed clinical psychologist, and compassionate, fun therapist. I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology in San Francisco. I've worked across the country in clinical settings including veteran, inpatient, outpatient, addiction, sexual behaviors, human services, psych assessment and primary care centers. I use a diverse range of therapy modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, child play, and psychodynamic. I am dedicated to specializing in child/adolescent care but work with all age groups.
(720) 815-9712 View (720) 815-9712
Photo of Francie Hiza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Francie Hiza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218  (Online Only)
My intention is to provide compassionate, trauma-informed care to all clients, intentionally providing space for the queer community and their families. I am warm, approachable, humorous, and strengths-based with clients. I use a variety of modalities to help people heal, grow and explore themselves including: nature-based therapy, experiential therapy, CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, and empowerment models.
My intention is to provide compassionate, trauma-informed care to all clients, intentionally providing space for the queer community and their families. I am warm, approachable, humorous, and strengths-based with clients. I use a variety of modalities to help people heal, grow and explore themselves including: nature-based therapy, experiential therapy, CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, and empowerment models.
(303) 848-3161 View (303) 848-3161
Photo of Alejandro (Alex) Castro Croy, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Denver, CO
Alejandro (Alex) Castro Croy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LAC, LPC, EMDR-C, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
My therapeutic techniques vary from EMDR, Jungian/Depth, DBT/CBT, and Client-centered therapy.
I specialize in working with diverse clients who struggle with trauma, addiction, anger and anxiety. . My experience working with various clients that want to process trauma and addiction from a Jungian/Depth psychology perspective. Incorporate somatic, art, music, and experiential interventions that promote trauma healing and recovery. Aside from individual level interventions, I also offer EMDR consultation and training to empower other clinicians that desire apply these interventions with clients.
My therapeutic techniques vary from EMDR, Jungian/Depth, DBT/CBT, and Client-centered therapy.
I specialize in working with diverse clients who struggle with trauma, addiction, anger and anxiety. . My experience working with various clients that want to process trauma and addiction from a Jungian/Depth psychology perspective. Incorporate somatic, art, music, and experiential interventions that promote trauma healing and recovery. Aside from individual level interventions, I also offer EMDR consultation and training to empower other clinicians that desire apply these interventions with clients.
(720) 594-6746 View (720) 594-6746
Photo of Josh Wilde, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Denver, CO
Josh Wilde
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC, LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80219  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach of client empowerment is facilitated by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
You may have something small that you want to explore, or you may have lost a sense of your identity or purpose. Our basic core needs are safety and connection, but these needs are so hard to develop when we don't have a sense of self. If you are struggling in addiction and then also grapple with depression, anxiety, spiritual exploration, sexuality, gender, or sexual orientation, these are directly informed by how you hold space for yourself as a person.
My therapeutic approach of client empowerment is facilitated by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
You may have something small that you want to explore, or you may have lost a sense of your identity or purpose. Our basic core needs are safety and connection, but these needs are so hard to develop when we don't have a sense of self. If you are struggling in addiction and then also grapple with depression, anxiety, spiritual exploration, sexuality, gender, or sexual orientation, these are directly informed by how you hold space for yourself as a person.
(720) 734-6908 View (720) 734-6908
Photo of Heartland Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Heartland Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC, MSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205  (Online Only)
Our therapists provide evidence-based psychotherapy across a wide breadth of diagnoses, and utilize many therapeutic modalities based on individual need, including CBT, DBT, EFT & expressive arts and experiential therapies.
Heartland Psychotherapy centers LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities, working with motivated individuals to build insight, confront obstacles to well-being, and heal trauma to move toward self-actualization & joy. Our team of LBGTQ+ and allied therapists represent many identities & theoretical perspectives, and work from queer feminist and family systems frameworks. We value self-determination, holistic health, harm reduction, and disability & racial justice. Relationships are built through collaboration, creativity, and recognition of the environmental & cultural factors that impact clients' lives.
Our therapists provide evidence-based psychotherapy across a wide breadth of diagnoses, and utilize many therapeutic modalities based on individual need, including CBT, DBT, EFT & expressive arts and experiential therapies.
Heartland Psychotherapy centers LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities, working with motivated individuals to build insight, confront obstacles to well-being, and heal trauma to move toward self-actualization & joy. Our team of LBGTQ+ and allied therapists represent many identities & theoretical perspectives, and work from queer feminist and family systems frameworks. We value self-determination, holistic health, harm reduction, and disability & racial justice. Relationships are built through collaboration, creativity, and recognition of the environmental & cultural factors that impact clients' lives.
(720) 961-2439 View (720) 961-2439
Photo of Littleton Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Littleton Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80220
Malkin is a trauma trained therapist specializing in EMDR and DBT.
Littleton Counseling, LLC offers teletherapy services and provides state-of-the-art, quality psychotherapy from highly qualified Masters' Level counseling professionals who who strive to build strong theraputic relationships while working with adolescents, adults, and families. Mr. Malkin enjoys and had been extremely successful assisting individuals experiencing self harming behaviors as well as suicidal ideation and trauma. Both telecommunication and online services are also available the have been approved and comply with Dora as well as Hippa guidelines.
Malkin is a trauma trained therapist specializing in EMDR and DBT.
Littleton Counseling, LLC offers teletherapy services and provides state-of-the-art, quality psychotherapy from highly qualified Masters' Level counseling professionals who who strive to build strong theraputic relationships while working with adolescents, adults, and families. Mr. Malkin enjoys and had been extremely successful assisting individuals experiencing self harming behaviors as well as suicidal ideation and trauma. Both telecommunication and online services are also available the have been approved and comply with Dora as well as Hippa guidelines.
(720) 915-4850 View (720) 915-4850
Photo of Madz Kluz, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Madz Kluz
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80299
I use therapeutic modalities including art therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, trauma-informed practices, CBT, DBT, and play therapy.
Hi there! I operate strongly with the belief that kindness and care for others goes a long way. I enjoy connecting with and helping others regardless of our differences. I am passionate about working with kids and with family preservation. I hope to be an advocate for a child when they may not otherwise have one. I aim to help families connect and better understand one another to create a more cohesive home environment. As an artist, I am especially passionate about using art as healing. Art can create a strong container for difficult emotions, and I believe you don’t have to be an artist to benefit from the power of art making!
I use therapeutic modalities including art therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, trauma-informed practices, CBT, DBT, and play therapy.
Hi there! I operate strongly with the belief that kindness and care for others goes a long way. I enjoy connecting with and helping others regardless of our differences. I am passionate about working with kids and with family preservation. I hope to be an advocate for a child when they may not otherwise have one. I aim to help families connect and better understand one another to create a more cohesive home environment. As an artist, I am especially passionate about using art as healing. Art can create a strong container for difficult emotions, and I believe you don’t have to be an artist to benefit from the power of art making!
(720) 248-9390 View (720) 248-9390
Photo of Steph Ostrow, Counselor in Denver, CO
Steph Ostrow
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, LMT, YT500
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80014  (Online Only)
I have training in EMDR, ACT, DBT, MI, SFBT, Mindfulness, Somatic practices, Nonviolent communication, and more.
Ready to strengthen your connection to your mind and body, and build a better relationship with yourself? Learning about yourself and loving yourself is a process that takes time, compassion, and support. Let’s collaborate to deepen your connection with your authentic self! I believe you have medicine within! You know yourself, your history and circumstances best, let's figure out what tools will serve you best to get you from where you are to where you want to be. My work helps people deepen their connection with their true self through affirming exploration. I offer telehealth services only, licensed in CO, FL and OR.
I have training in EMDR, ACT, DBT, MI, SFBT, Mindfulness, Somatic practices, Nonviolent communication, and more.
Ready to strengthen your connection to your mind and body, and build a better relationship with yourself? Learning about yourself and loving yourself is a process that takes time, compassion, and support. Let’s collaborate to deepen your connection with your authentic self! I believe you have medicine within! You know yourself, your history and circumstances best, let's figure out what tools will serve you best to get you from where you are to where you want to be. My work helps people deepen their connection with their true self through affirming exploration. I offer telehealth services only, licensed in CO, FL and OR.
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Photo of Desirae Martinefski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Desirae Martinefski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80123  (Online Only)
I take a holistic approach that includes pieces from CBT, DBT, ACT and use Motivational Interviewing to really gain an idea of where you are in your journey.
Do you ever feel like you can't seem to find your happy place in life? Like everything you're doing isn't working and you're stuck in a cycle that doesn't work for you? Most of the individuals I work with have struggled in these cycles for some time and are wanting to find a way to build a life they want to live. As a therapist, I help people identify what goals they want to achieve and create a plan to get there.
I take a holistic approach that includes pieces from CBT, DBT, ACT and use Motivational Interviewing to really gain an idea of where you are in your journey.
Do you ever feel like you can't seem to find your happy place in life? Like everything you're doing isn't working and you're stuck in a cycle that doesn't work for you? Most of the individuals I work with have struggled in these cycles for some time and are wanting to find a way to build a life they want to live. As a therapist, I help people identify what goals they want to achieve and create a plan to get there.
(720) 802-6306 View (720) 802-6306
Photo of Wise Owl Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Wise Owl Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80002
Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, family systems work, and other evidenced-based modalities are used to assesses and appropriately treat those in need.
Mariah has worked as an individual and family therapist for over 17 years supporting youth, young adults, and families through transformative therapeutic experiences. Mariah excels at helping people examine the many dimensions of their mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. She is known for her attunement and tenacious dedication to the evolving needs of all she works.
Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, family systems work, and other evidenced-based modalities are used to assesses and appropriately treat those in need.
Mariah has worked as an individual and family therapist for over 17 years supporting youth, young adults, and families through transformative therapeutic experiences. Mariah excels at helping people examine the many dimensions of their mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. She is known for her attunement and tenacious dedication to the evolving needs of all she works.
(970) 578-1413 View (970) 578-1413
Photo of Amanda Bryant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Amanda Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205  (Online Only)
I utilize methods from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which are evidence-based approaches designed to promote emotional and cognitive regulation.
I believe the relationship between therapist and client is crucial to successful therapy and that change starts with being truly heard and understood. There are many techniques and ideas that can help you, and my role is to share these, build on your strengths, and increase your self-awareness so that you can make meaningful changes in your life.
I utilize methods from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which are evidence-based approaches designed to promote emotional and cognitive regulation.
I believe the relationship between therapist and client is crucial to successful therapy and that change starts with being truly heard and understood. There are many techniques and ideas that can help you, and my role is to share these, build on your strengths, and increase your self-awareness so that you can make meaningful changes in your life.
(720) 295-3189 View (720) 295-3189
Photo of Aleeza Zocchi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Aleeza Zocchi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222  (Online Only)
I work through the lens of CBT and DBT to identify cognitive distortions and highlight strengths.
Making the decision to look on this website for a therapist is a big step. I respect and value your commitment to yourself. It can be hard to do something good for yourself, to take up space instead of always giving it away. I work with clients who are working on increasing their self-esteem, who are interested in exploring their identity, values, and needs. I work with clients who have been impacted by that pestering anxiety, depression, or eating disorder voice! I know it's really tough to be louder than that voice! I work with kids, teens, and adults who are figuring out how to cope with ADHD or other learning differences!
I work through the lens of CBT and DBT to identify cognitive distortions and highlight strengths.
Making the decision to look on this website for a therapist is a big step. I respect and value your commitment to yourself. It can be hard to do something good for yourself, to take up space instead of always giving it away. I work with clients who are working on increasing their self-esteem, who are interested in exploring their identity, values, and needs. I work with clients who have been impacted by that pestering anxiety, depression, or eating disorder voice! I know it's really tough to be louder than that voice! I work with kids, teens, and adults who are figuring out how to cope with ADHD or other learning differences!
(720) 753-4274 View (720) 753-4274
Photo of Emily Slough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Emily Slough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238  (Online Only)
I combine DBT coping skill coaching, trauma therapy A.
You may appear to have it all together to those around you, but internally you are struggling not to fall apart. You have a hard time balancing everything that is going on in your life and feel overwhelmed. Depression and anxiety are normal for you, but recently you feel they have been controlling your day to day. You're noticing patterns that you can't seem to break out of on your own. You know that it can get better, what you’ve been doing isn’t working. You’re tired of feeling stuck and you are motivated to learn how to love yourself, how to cope with daily struggles, and how to unlearn and change what you experienced growing up.
I combine DBT coping skill coaching, trauma therapy A.
You may appear to have it all together to those around you, but internally you are struggling not to fall apart. You have a hard time balancing everything that is going on in your life and feel overwhelmed. Depression and anxiety are normal for you, but recently you feel they have been controlling your day to day. You're noticing patterns that you can't seem to break out of on your own. You know that it can get better, what you’ve been doing isn’t working. You’re tired of feeling stuck and you are motivated to learn how to love yourself, how to cope with daily struggles, and how to unlearn and change what you experienced growing up.
(719) 625-3573 View (719) 625-3573
Photo of Rachael A. Price, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Rachael A. Price
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222  (Online Only)
I work with young adults and adults residing in CO and/or TX seeking a new set of skills to more effectively address interpersonal relationship instability, emotional dysregulation and distress, behavioral instability, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and chronic suicidal ideation. I offer DBT skills training and individual therapy to those interested in becoming more personally and socially satisfied by practicing a more effective, meaningful, and mindful lifestyle through the use of DBT skills.
I work with young adults and adults residing in CO and/or TX seeking a new set of skills to more effectively address interpersonal relationship instability, emotional dysregulation and distress, behavioral instability, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and chronic suicidal ideation. I offer DBT skills training and individual therapy to those interested in becoming more personally and socially satisfied by practicing a more effective, meaningful, and mindful lifestyle through the use of DBT skills.
(720) 726-1693 View (720) 726-1693
Photo of Laurel Marco, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Laurel Marco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I have specialized training and experience in DBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), executive functioning coaching for ADHD, and mindfulness based approaches.
One of the bravest things you can do is invest in yourself and begin therapy. If you're feeling stuck, anxious, dealing with grief/loss, struggling in relationships or have found therapy unsuccessful in the past, contact me. I've seen my clients transform, even when things seem hopeless to them. We will work together to understand your obstacles and to help you acquire the skills needed to overcome them. My approach is interactive and includes feedback, reflection, challenge, and humor. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other evidenced based treatments. I also offer coaching.
I have specialized training and experience in DBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), executive functioning coaching for ADHD, and mindfulness based approaches.
One of the bravest things you can do is invest in yourself and begin therapy. If you're feeling stuck, anxious, dealing with grief/loss, struggling in relationships or have found therapy unsuccessful in the past, contact me. I've seen my clients transform, even when things seem hopeless to them. We will work together to understand your obstacles and to help you acquire the skills needed to overcome them. My approach is interactive and includes feedback, reflection, challenge, and humor. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other evidenced based treatments. I also offer coaching.
(720) 707-3502 View (720) 707-3502
Photo of Hannah Higgins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Hannah Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I prioritize providing inclusive, realistic, and personalized services for each individual's unique experience. I offer a Neurodivergent-affirming therapeutic approach that integrates Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Somatic therapy practices. I am also trained in EMDR. Life's journey can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating personal stressors, societal barriers, and trauma. These experiences can take a toll on our minds and bodies, causing us to carry that stress with us. You are the expert of your own life and I am here to support you in this journey.
As a therapist, I prioritize providing inclusive, realistic, and personalized services for each individual's unique experience. I offer a Neurodivergent-affirming therapeutic approach that integrates Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Somatic therapy practices. I am also trained in EMDR. Life's journey can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating personal stressors, societal barriers, and trauma. These experiences can take a toll on our minds and bodies, causing us to carry that stress with us. You are the expert of your own life and I am here to support you in this journey.
(720) 740-6749 View (720) 740-6749
Photo of Keely Mortenson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Keely Mortenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
My integrative approach includes CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based therapy, relaxation training, and solution-focused therapies.
I have over 18 yrs of providing therapy to individuals. I use a collaborative approach, working with your strengths and needs to achieve healing and growth. I strive to provide a comfortable and non-judgmental space and believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is key to a successful experience in therapy. I enjoy working with a holistic and mindfulness perspective, joining mind and body to improve quality of life and increase happiness. I believe the most effective therapy is that which balances acceptance and change skills. My goal is for you to not only feel listened to, but feel that you have tools needed to make change.
My integrative approach includes CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based therapy, relaxation training, and solution-focused therapies.
I have over 18 yrs of providing therapy to individuals. I use a collaborative approach, working with your strengths and needs to achieve healing and growth. I strive to provide a comfortable and non-judgmental space and believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is key to a successful experience in therapy. I enjoy working with a holistic and mindfulness perspective, joining mind and body to improve quality of life and increase happiness. I believe the most effective therapy is that which balances acceptance and change skills. My goal is for you to not only feel listened to, but feel that you have tools needed to make change.
(651) 362-1560 View (651) 362-1560
Photo of Jenna Vogen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Jenna Vogen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206  (Online Only)
Using an integrated therapeutic approach informed by trauma-focused CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and interpersonal theories we will work together to uncover and address challenging themes present within your life that are limiting your capacity to reach your fullest potential. Through processing your own unique story, I will support you in recognizing your individual strengths, healing from your past traumas, and noticing how harmful patterns have impacted your relationships. Together we will build your skills to better engage in your life authentically and intentionally.
Using an integrated therapeutic approach informed by trauma-focused CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and interpersonal theories we will work together to uncover and address challenging themes present within your life that are limiting your capacity to reach your fullest potential. Through processing your own unique story, I will support you in recognizing your individual strengths, healing from your past traumas, and noticing how harmful patterns have impacted your relationships. Together we will build your skills to better engage in your life authentically and intentionally.
(720) 966-2482 View (720) 966-2482
Photo of Mandy Dorsett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Mandy Dorsett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you neurodivergent? Are you tired of therapists who give you useless advice like "have you tried writing it down in a planner?" Me too! My goal is to give folks with ADHD and autism skills and methods that work for your unique brain, not the same tired advice you've heard before. I combine evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy with problem solving skills tailored to your specific needs, so we can identify and deal with the things that are getting in the way of living your best life. Please visit my website for more information about my approach!
Are you neurodivergent? Are you tired of therapists who give you useless advice like "have you tried writing it down in a planner?" Me too! My goal is to give folks with ADHD and autism skills and methods that work for your unique brain, not the same tired advice you've heard before. I combine evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy with problem solving skills tailored to your specific needs, so we can identify and deal with the things that are getting in the way of living your best life. Please visit my website for more information about my approach!
(720) 790-6545 View (720) 790-6545
Photo of Christina Martinez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Christina Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
I also use CBT and DBT in order to increase coping and attacking those negative thoughts.
Currently only doing telehealth sessions to anyone within the state of Colorado. Trying to find a therapist to fit your needs is overwhelming and can be very stressful. I encourage you to bring you authentic self to therapy. I work with clients who have trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, or just life stressors/like transitions. I love to welcome clients in the LGBTQ+ community and people of color.
I also use CBT and DBT in order to increase coping and attacking those negative thoughts.
Currently only doing telehealth sessions to anyone within the state of Colorado. Trying to find a therapist to fit your needs is overwhelming and can be very stressful. I encourage you to bring you authentic self to therapy. I work with clients who have trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, or just life stressors/like transitions. I love to welcome clients in the LGBTQ+ community and people of color.
(720) 764-9814 View (720) 764-9814
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.