Photo of Dr. Francine Baffa, LCSW — Balance, Focus, Support, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dr. Francine Baffa, LCSW — Balance, Focus, Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Based on your needs, we will draw from Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy, and other evidence-based approaches.
Do you feel stuck? Are external obstacles, or your own internal fears, holding you back from living a full and meaningful life? In therapy, you can grow, heal, and move forward. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder are real challenges. You can expect to build lifelong coping skills that enable you to reach your goals and experience sustained healing. You can feel calmer, more balanced, more motivated, and more focused. You can learn to build and sustain healthier and more satisfying relationships with family, work colleagues, and romantic partners. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
Based on your needs, we will draw from Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy, and other evidence-based approaches.
Do you feel stuck? Are external obstacles, or your own internal fears, holding you back from living a full and meaningful life? In therapy, you can grow, heal, and move forward. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder are real challenges. You can expect to build lifelong coping skills that enable you to reach your goals and experience sustained healing. You can feel calmer, more balanced, more motivated, and more focused. You can learn to build and sustain healthier and more satisfying relationships with family, work colleagues, and romantic partners. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
(703) 782-3846 View (703) 782-3846
Photo of Keri Sartin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Keri Sartin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
I am Trauma Informed and use modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy in my work with children and adults.
My name is Keri Sartin and I am the owner of Limitless Psychotherapy Services. I am really passionate about serving and helping people. I started my private practice in 2022 after practicing as a school social worker for 9 years and providing services to adults for over 15 years. I believe adults and children, do best when they feel heard and have supportive people in their lives. I enjoy working to address concerns of anxiety, depression, and general life changes. I also have a passion for helping parents better understand and connect with their children to transform and enhance the parent-child relationship.
I am Trauma Informed and use modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy in my work with children and adults.
My name is Keri Sartin and I am the owner of Limitless Psychotherapy Services. I am really passionate about serving and helping people. I started my private practice in 2022 after practicing as a school social worker for 9 years and providing services to adults for over 15 years. I believe adults and children, do best when they feel heard and have supportive people in their lives. I enjoy working to address concerns of anxiety, depression, and general life changes. I also have a passion for helping parents better understand and connect with their children to transform and enhance the parent-child relationship.
(202) 519-4927 View (202) 519-4927
Photo of Kate Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Kate Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I’m trained in multiple approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindful awareness, and body-based therapies; play, art, and sand therapy; and brain-based therapies, including Brainspotting.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
I’m trained in multiple approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindful awareness, and body-based therapies; play, art, and sand therapy; and brain-based therapies, including Brainspotting.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
(202) 804-8054 View (202) 804-8054
Photo of Emily L Rizzo, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Emily L Rizzo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20017
Certified in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), intensive trauma trained.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ population and with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. I consistently work with clients regarding depression, anxiety, motivation, trauma, grief, understanding their identity, familial relations, gender identity, sexual identity, sexual/relationship needs, polyamorous relationships, kink, communication in relationships, and self-integration. Extensive background in working with people of color. Assist parents/families through their child's gender transition. Experience in college counseling and high school counseling.
Certified in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), intensive trauma trained.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ population and with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. I consistently work with clients regarding depression, anxiety, motivation, trauma, grief, understanding their identity, familial relations, gender identity, sexual identity, sexual/relationship needs, polyamorous relationships, kink, communication in relationships, and self-integration. Extensive background in working with people of color. Assist parents/families through their child's gender transition. Experience in college counseling and high school counseling.
(240) 873-1715 View (240) 873-1715
Photo of Britt H Rathbone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Britt H Rathbone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCD, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
He provides Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Certified Comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Unified Protocol for Adolescents (UP-A), Exposure and Response Prevention, Parent Management Training (PMT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), Prolonged Exposure for PTSD (PE), Behavioral Activation (BA) and other effective treatments.
Britt Rathbone is an expert in the treatment of adolescents. He graduated from Columbia University and has worked exclusively with adolescents and their families since 1985. He has a special interest in challenging, difficult to treat, and treatment-reluctant adolescents as well as those who have multiple and complicated mental health diagnoses. He trains therapists, speaks to professional and lay groups, and has taught advanced level social work graduate students at the Catholic University of America. Washingtonian Magazine has consistently named Mr. Rathbone one of Washington's best therapists for adolescents, and one of Washington's best therapists for group therapy.
He provides Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Certified Comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Unified Protocol for Adolescents (UP-A), Exposure and Response Prevention, Parent Management Training (PMT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), Prolonged Exposure for PTSD (PE), Behavioral Activation (BA) and other effective treatments.
Britt Rathbone is an expert in the treatment of adolescents. He graduated from Columbia University and has worked exclusively with adolescents and their families since 1985. He has a special interest in challenging, difficult to treat, and treatment-reluctant adolescents as well as those who have multiple and complicated mental health diagnoses. He trains therapists, speaks to professional and lay groups, and has taught advanced level social work graduate students at the Catholic University of America. Washingtonian Magazine has consistently named Mr. Rathbone one of Washington's best therapists for adolescents, and one of Washington's best therapists for group therapy.
(301) 658-2524 View (301) 658-2524
Photo of Megan M Herbets, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Megan M Herbets
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Oftentimes, we lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
Oftentimes, we lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
(202) 743-7505 View (202) 743-7505
Photo of Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Welcome! Beginning therapy can be a difficult first step, but it often leads to important insights and tremendous personal growth. Therapy is not a one size fits all model. Our approach ensures you will receive the treatment that is right for you. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or current life challenges, you don't have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe and warm therapeutic environment that makes you comfortable sharing.
Welcome! Beginning therapy can be a difficult first step, but it often leads to important insights and tremendous personal growth. Therapy is not a one size fits all model. Our approach ensures you will receive the treatment that is right for you. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or current life challenges, you don't have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe and warm therapeutic environment that makes you comfortable sharing.
(202) 642-6661 View (202) 642-6661
Photo of Adele Natter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Adele Natter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I take a serious approach to serious problems. Behaviors you've tried to stop -- anger outbursts, self-criticism, self-sabotage, etc.-- damage your life, work, and relationships. I offer a therapy of insight, depth, and relationship in an interactive and intensive style, so we can get to the root of the problem and give you relief as quickly as possible. With your capacities we heal the broken parts to achieve the goals you identify, in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance in which you can be yourself without fear of shame, blame, or judgment. Contact me and start to take charge of your life!
I take a serious approach to serious problems. Behaviors you've tried to stop -- anger outbursts, self-criticism, self-sabotage, etc.-- damage your life, work, and relationships. I offer a therapy of insight, depth, and relationship in an interactive and intensive style, so we can get to the root of the problem and give you relief as quickly as possible. With your capacities we heal the broken parts to achieve the goals you identify, in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance in which you can be yourself without fear of shame, blame, or judgment. Contact me and start to take charge of your life!
(202) 335-5074 View (202) 335-5074
Photo of The Heights Counseling and Wellness, LLC, Counselor in Washington, DC
The Heights Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CEMDR, RYT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
At The Heights Counseling and Wellness, we understand that the process of wellness can often be a daunting journey. It can feel like you are alone, climbing uphill, without the necessary support to keep moving forward. ​Whether it's seeking individual counseling during challenging times; desiring to begin a journey of wellness; or looking to support your staff, The Heights Counseling and Wellness will customize services to your unique needs. At The Heights we offer a variety of services all under one roof, including counseling and psychotherapy, wellness coaching, yoga, fitness & nutrition training, and wellness workshops.
At The Heights Counseling and Wellness, we understand that the process of wellness can often be a daunting journey. It can feel like you are alone, climbing uphill, without the necessary support to keep moving forward. ​Whether it's seeking individual counseling during challenging times; desiring to begin a journey of wellness; or looking to support your staff, The Heights Counseling and Wellness will customize services to your unique needs. At The Heights we offer a variety of services all under one roof, including counseling and psychotherapy, wellness coaching, yoga, fitness & nutrition training, and wellness workshops.
(202) 831-2463 View (202) 831-2463
Photo of Amy Oberson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Amy Oberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20018
Waitlist for new clients
I currently have limited weekday openings. I am licensed in both DC and MD and have experience working with adults, young adults, and adolescents. My counseling approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered as I am passionate about meeting each client where they are and then collectively work to establish goals to achieve personal healing and growth. I also have experience working with women's health issues, depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. I offer support to adults as they navigate familial changes and life transitions.
I currently have limited weekday openings. I am licensed in both DC and MD and have experience working with adults, young adults, and adolescents. My counseling approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered as I am passionate about meeting each client where they are and then collectively work to establish goals to achieve personal healing and growth. I also have experience working with women's health issues, depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. I offer support to adults as they navigate familial changes and life transitions.
View
Photo of TrueYou Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
TrueYou Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
(301) 918-5812 View (301) 918-5812
Photo of Gretchen Glick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Gretchen Glick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I provide a safe non-judgmental environment to address thoughts and feelings that may lead to negative consequences, by incorporating highly individualized strength based measures to manage stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
I provide a safe non-judgmental environment to address thoughts and feelings that may lead to negative consequences, by incorporating highly individualized strength based measures to manage stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
(202) 953-3477 View (202) 953-3477
Photo of Annie M. Sousa, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Annie M. Sousa
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Are you navigating the complexities of trauma, wrestling with the echoes of PTSD, finding yourself ensnared in the grips of depression, or exploring the world through a neurodivergent lens? Annie specializes in addressing PTSD, trauma, depression, and the experiences of neurodivergent individuals. Her therapeutic practice is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with a strong emphasis on positive psychology, strength, wellness, and prevention. She champions a strengths-based approach to therapy, designing personalized plans that empower clients to identify their goals and enhance their well-being.
Are you navigating the complexities of trauma, wrestling with the echoes of PTSD, finding yourself ensnared in the grips of depression, or exploring the world through a neurodivergent lens? Annie specializes in addressing PTSD, trauma, depression, and the experiences of neurodivergent individuals. Her therapeutic practice is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with a strong emphasis on positive psychology, strength, wellness, and prevention. She champions a strengths-based approach to therapy, designing personalized plans that empower clients to identify their goals and enhance their well-being.
(855) 695-8475 View (855) 695-8475
Photo of Chris Quam Sherman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Chris Quam Sherman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, ERYT200, CPT, GFI
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
What if the things that always made you different (ie your neurodivergence, gender identity, sexual orientation) were not an indicator that you were wrong or broken? Who you are is a gift. You do not have to hide or become less of who you are. Through therapy we will uncover and use your unique strengths to move towards growth and healing.
What if the things that always made you different (ie your neurodivergence, gender identity, sexual orientation) were not an indicator that you were wrong or broken? Who you are is a gift. You do not have to hide or become less of who you are. Through therapy we will uncover and use your unique strengths to move towards growth and healing.
(202) 516-7609 View (202) 516-7609
Photo of Mind Of A Woman, LLC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Mind Of A Woman, LLC
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20020  (Online Only)
Dr Jones is clinical psychologist who specializes in women's health across the lifespan. Dr Jones has over two decades of domestic and international experience in the field. Be it navigating adolescence, adulthood, family planning, career, or any point in between, Dr Jones, at Mind Of A Woman, can assist with your journey and accomplishing your goals. We are Telehealth based and licensed to provide care in over 40 states.
Dr Jones is clinical psychologist who specializes in women's health across the lifespan. Dr Jones has over two decades of domestic and international experience in the field. Be it navigating adolescence, adulthood, family planning, career, or any point in between, Dr Jones, at Mind Of A Woman, can assist with your journey and accomplishing your goals. We are Telehealth based and licensed to provide care in over 40 states.
(302) 337-5042 View (302) 337-5042
Photo of Healthy Living Counseling Center, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Healthy Living Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
(847) 423-8223 View (847) 423-8223
Photo of Heather Hunt: My Deaf Therapy, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Heather Hunt: My Deaf Therapy
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
The decision to seek out a therapist is an important first step towards positively addressing conflicts, managing distress, and learning to cope with negative or overwhelming feelings. Our team of therapists bring years of therapy experience. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are Deaf or come from Deaf families (includes hearing family/friends who sign). We provide a supportive, nurturing environment. We use a multimodal approach incorporating mind-body therapies with evidence-based treatments. We also offer forensic-clinical services and applied behavior analysis treatment.
The decision to seek out a therapist is an important first step towards positively addressing conflicts, managing distress, and learning to cope with negative or overwhelming feelings. Our team of therapists bring years of therapy experience. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are Deaf or come from Deaf families (includes hearing family/friends who sign). We provide a supportive, nurturing environment. We use a multimodal approach incorporating mind-body therapies with evidence-based treatments. We also offer forensic-clinical services and applied behavior analysis treatment.
(240) 575-2203 View (240) 575-2203
Photo of Bayside Therapy, PC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Bayside Therapy, PC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20024
Hi! Yeah! Spring is here. If you are still feeling like you need to discuss somethings, absolutely call. I am still available for therapy. I have been in practice for 17 years now, so there is not a lot I have NOT heard. But, you could try to surprise me :) Call me at the number below, Ty. Dr. Kesler (301)399-4696
Hi! Yeah! Spring is here. If you are still feeling like you need to discuss somethings, absolutely call. I am still available for therapy. I have been in practice for 17 years now, so there is not a lot I have NOT heard. But, you could try to surprise me :) Call me at the number below, Ty. Dr. Kesler (301)399-4696
(301) 399-4696 View (301) 399-4696
Photo of Dr. Kenya A. Ford, Psychological Associate in Washington, DC
Dr. Kenya A. Ford
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
(202) 798-2923 View (202) 798-2923
Photo of Lisa Bateman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Lisa Bateman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
I specialize in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other primary anxiety disorders. I also specialize in providing CBT for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), stress, depression, and body dysmorphia, as well as Habit Reversal Training (HRT) for body-focused repetitive behaviors (e.g., excoriation, trichotillomania) and Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) for tic disorders. I have experience in providing individual, group, and family therapy to all ages in a variety of settings.
I specialize in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other primary anxiety disorders. I also specialize in providing CBT for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), stress, depression, and body dysmorphia, as well as Habit Reversal Training (HRT) for body-focused repetitive behaviors (e.g., excoriation, trichotillomania) and Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) for tic disorders. I have experience in providing individual, group, and family therapy to all ages in a variety of settings.
(703) 440-7397 View (703) 440-7397
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.