Photo of Kathleen M Pendergast, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kathleen M Pendergast
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
I take an integrative approach to counseling that includes aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Client-Centered, & Cognitive-Behavioral therapeutic techniques, among others.
 My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
I take an integrative approach to counseling that includes aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Client-Centered, & Cognitive-Behavioral therapeutic techniques, among others.
 My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
(773) 717-5538 View (773) 717-5538
Photo of Jennifer Stelter, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Jennifer Stelter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
(312) 551-2404 View (312) 551-2404
Photo of Diana Kotis-Harber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Diana Kotis-Harber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60632
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, and Family Systems Therapy, and I am comfortable with utilizing any spiritual practice in our collaborative work.
Hello, my name is Diana Kotis-Harber, LCSW. I have over 21 years of providing mental health services, including all areas of practice. I prefer to build rapport with my clients by allowing them to share what their treatment goals and focuses are while reminding them they are the experts and partners in our therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to helping people grow and become their most successful and authentic selves.
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, and Family Systems Therapy, and I am comfortable with utilizing any spiritual practice in our collaborative work.
Hello, my name is Diana Kotis-Harber, LCSW. I have over 21 years of providing mental health services, including all areas of practice. I prefer to build rapport with my clients by allowing them to share what their treatment goals and focuses are while reminding them they are the experts and partners in our therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to helping people grow and become their most successful and authentic selves.
(773) 825-3708 View (773) 825-3708
Photo of Samantha Dauber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Samantha Dauber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I strive to use interventions that meet the specific needs of my clients in a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental way. I often use a cognitive-behavioral approach (CBT) in psychotherapy as I help my clients adjust and overcome maladaptive thinking patterns and behaviors. I also utilize dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and other therapeutic modalities as a way of teaching clients important coping techniques to manage their stress and navigate their challenges. My goal is to help my clients learning healthy ways of living and a positive mindset to overcome challenges.
I strive to use interventions that meet the specific needs of my clients in a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental way. I often use a cognitive-behavioral approach (CBT) in psychotherapy as I help my clients adjust and overcome maladaptive thinking patterns and behaviors. I also utilize dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and other therapeutic modalities as a way of teaching clients important coping techniques to manage their stress and navigate their challenges. My goal is to help my clients learning healthy ways of living and a positive mindset to overcome challenges.
(773) 839-3106 View (773) 839-3106
Photo of Charlie Brookover, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Charlie Brookover
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
At times a crisis, trauma, or series of compounding stressors can overwhelm one’s normal resilience and ability to cope. Professional therapy provides help in navigating through these difficult times, and the process can create lasting insight leading to a richer, more satisfying life. I believe as a clinical therapist, my responsibility is to provide a space where clients feel safe, valued and heard. I appreciate the uniqueness of each of my clients, and see the therapy process as a collaboration, where patterns of thinking and behavior are explored in an effort to bring about change.
At times a crisis, trauma, or series of compounding stressors can overwhelm one’s normal resilience and ability to cope. Professional therapy provides help in navigating through these difficult times, and the process can create lasting insight leading to a richer, more satisfying life. I believe as a clinical therapist, my responsibility is to provide a space where clients feel safe, valued and heard. I appreciate the uniqueness of each of my clients, and see the therapy process as a collaboration, where patterns of thinking and behavior are explored in an effort to bring about change.
(312) 584-5424 View (312) 584-5424
Photo of Sam Effarah - Synapse Chicago, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Sam Effarah - Synapse Chicago
Psychologist, PsyD, BCN, FAIS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Synapse Chicago is a clinical practice with caring, professional staff who provide excellent services in the field of psychology. We integrate traditional psychotherapy and assessments with the latest in clinical neuroscience to help people achieve their optimal potential. Using a holistic approach coupled with an array of therapeutic modalities, we can help a wide variety of issues. Our emphasis is on a highly personalized assessment and customized therapeutic plan in order to find balance while alleviating the reoccurrence of symptoms.
Synapse Chicago is a clinical practice with caring, professional staff who provide excellent services in the field of psychology. We integrate traditional psychotherapy and assessments with the latest in clinical neuroscience to help people achieve their optimal potential. Using a holistic approach coupled with an array of therapeutic modalities, we can help a wide variety of issues. Our emphasis is on a highly personalized assessment and customized therapeutic plan in order to find balance while alleviating the reoccurrence of symptoms.
(312) 940-1640 View (312) 940-1640
Photo of Chanel Hampton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Chanel Hampton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
It takes great courage to acknowledge and embrace the things that challenge us. I understand this strength and the importance of starting the journey to change the things that no longer serve you. I am compassionate therapist trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities. I have served in the field of social services for over 10 years, having worked in various capacities from medical social worker to therapist.
It takes great courage to acknowledge and embrace the things that challenge us. I understand this strength and the importance of starting the journey to change the things that no longer serve you. I am compassionate therapist trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities. I have served in the field of social services for over 10 years, having worked in various capacities from medical social worker to therapist.
(773) 570-2772 View (773) 570-2772
Photo of Eleanor Wolfe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Eleanor Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
How do you overcome the pain of loss? It may be the loss of a job, a romantic or social relationship, the death of a loved one (traumatic or unexpected) or a chronic health issue. Living in a fast paced digital world, we expect instant gratification and often feel the pressure of unrealistic expectations. Life offers us all many challenges. Are you overwhelmed with anxiety or depression? Do you use drugs, alcohol, food and/or destructive relationships to relieve your pain?
How do you overcome the pain of loss? It may be the loss of a job, a romantic or social relationship, the death of a loved one (traumatic or unexpected) or a chronic health issue. Living in a fast paced digital world, we expect instant gratification and often feel the pressure of unrealistic expectations. Life offers us all many challenges. Are you overwhelmed with anxiety or depression? Do you use drugs, alcohol, food and/or destructive relationships to relieve your pain?
(872) 231-3147 View (872) 231-3147
Photo of Noah Alvarado, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Noah Alvarado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
You are the explorer and I am here to help navigate and carry the loads that you would rather share, in your expedition through life. I have worked with the entire age/developmental spectrum, with clients who are Neurodivergent, Queer, and BIPOC, facing issues with Life Transitions, Identity, Anxiety, Depression, Addictions, Trauma, OCD, ADHD. I want to work with any client who is seeking positive change in their life, and who is looking to develop a strong support system in therapy. I work to create a comforting and safe environment for my clients to feel supported and also challenged in their own personal journey.
You are the explorer and I am here to help navigate and carry the loads that you would rather share, in your expedition through life. I have worked with the entire age/developmental spectrum, with clients who are Neurodivergent, Queer, and BIPOC, facing issues with Life Transitions, Identity, Anxiety, Depression, Addictions, Trauma, OCD, ADHD. I want to work with any client who is seeking positive change in their life, and who is looking to develop a strong support system in therapy. I work to create a comforting and safe environment for my clients to feel supported and also challenged in their own personal journey.
(312) 728-3526 View (312) 728-3526
Photo of Nelmar Health Centers, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Nelmar Health Centers
Psychologist, BS, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
The current healthcare industry has failed many people living with chronic physical and mental health diseases. People are faced with a large push for psychiatric medication, misdiagnosis, and ​a one-dimensional approach to treatment. ​It is time for a more holistic, whole-body solution to people’s health. This is the pledge that Nelmar Health Centers have made. No matter what you are struggling with, Nelmar Health Centers can help you live a happier and healthier life. We offer comprehensive diagnostic measures, counseling, Neurotherapy, cognitive rehabilitation, dietary and herb management, yoga, and meditation under one roof.
The current healthcare industry has failed many people living with chronic physical and mental health diseases. People are faced with a large push for psychiatric medication, misdiagnosis, and ​a one-dimensional approach to treatment. ​It is time for a more holistic, whole-body solution to people’s health. This is the pledge that Nelmar Health Centers have made. No matter what you are struggling with, Nelmar Health Centers can help you live a happier and healthier life. We offer comprehensive diagnostic measures, counseling, Neurotherapy, cognitive rehabilitation, dietary and herb management, yoga, and meditation under one roof.
(630) 793-6483 View (630) 793-6483
Photo of Dr. Vicki D. Coleman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dr. Vicki D. Coleman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, CCMHC, MAC/DAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610
TELEHEALTH OFFERED! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 States-CA, IL, IN, MI, & NV.
TELEHEALTH OFFERED! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 States-CA, IL, IN, MI, & NV.
(702) 830-7337 View (702) 830-7337
Photo of Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60651
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
(630) 491-4239 View (630) 491-4239
Photo of Dr. Angelo Pezzote, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dr. Angelo Pezzote
Counselor, DPharm, MA, BCPP, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646  (Online Only)
SOMETHING MISSING? HELP FINDING IT. You don't have to suffer alone. Secrets and isolation are not the answer. I can be there for you, wherever you are. I provide safe, discreet, personalized care via video chat. My goal is to deliver the results you want. Benefits are more: health, happiness, love, confidence, peace & success. I work with all people, including affirmation of diversity: LGBTQ2IA+, Hispanics, Latinos, Blacks, Native Americans, Asians, other People of Color, and Multiculturalism. Triumph over your challenges: Relationships, Trauma, Depression, Panic/Anxiety, Addictions, Sexuality, Gender, Men's Issues, Peyronie's.
SOMETHING MISSING? HELP FINDING IT. You don't have to suffer alone. Secrets and isolation are not the answer. I can be there for you, wherever you are. I provide safe, discreet, personalized care via video chat. My goal is to deliver the results you want. Benefits are more: health, happiness, love, confidence, peace & success. I work with all people, including affirmation of diversity: LGBTQ2IA+, Hispanics, Latinos, Blacks, Native Americans, Asians, other People of Color, and Multiculturalism. Triumph over your challenges: Relationships, Trauma, Depression, Panic/Anxiety, Addictions, Sexuality, Gender, Men's Issues, Peyronie's.
(917) 740-1937 View (917) 740-1937

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Paula K Brown, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Paula K Brown
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC, Mediato
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
We all find ourselves at times in our life that we require nurturance to help us through life's changes. Loss in our lives requires care and guidance by a professional. Loss may be defined in various ways, it may be death, divorce, depression, addictions, infidelity, anxiety, infertility just to name a few. I work to specifically assist individuals, couples, families and groups to alleviate emotional disorders, to understand conscious and unconscious motivation, to resolve emotional, relationship and attitudinal conflicts and to help modify behaviors that interfere with effective emotional, social adaptive, and intellectual functioning.
We all find ourselves at times in our life that we require nurturance to help us through life's changes. Loss in our lives requires care and guidance by a professional. Loss may be defined in various ways, it may be death, divorce, depression, addictions, infidelity, anxiety, infertility just to name a few. I work to specifically assist individuals, couples, families and groups to alleviate emotional disorders, to understand conscious and unconscious motivation, to resolve emotional, relationship and attitudinal conflicts and to help modify behaviors that interfere with effective emotional, social adaptive, and intellectual functioning.
(630) 733-1450 View (630) 733-1450
Photo of Laura Lammers, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Laura Lammers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone deserves to have a safe and welcoming space to enter where they can work on whatever is on their mind without having to be concerned about what the therapist thinks or feels. Coming to therapy can be difficult because it can mean having to face some difficult truths and realizations. Your well-being is important, and you don't have to face your struggles alone. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other concern, there are therapists who are ready to listen. Together, we will work at a pace that is appropriate and manageable to achieve your goals.
I believe that everyone deserves to have a safe and welcoming space to enter where they can work on whatever is on their mind without having to be concerned about what the therapist thinks or feels. Coming to therapy can be difficult because it can mean having to face some difficult truths and realizations. Your well-being is important, and you don't have to face your struggles alone. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other concern, there are therapists who are ready to listen. Together, we will work at a pace that is appropriate and manageable to achieve your goals.
(708) 792-2973 View (708) 792-2973
Photo of Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MAAT, ATR, LCPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Not accepting new clients
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
(872) 266-7949 View (872) 266-7949

Online Therapists

Photo of BZA Behavioral Health - Schaumburg office, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
BZA Behavioral Health - Schaumburg office
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
(224) 505-8631 View (224) 505-8631
Photo of Amanda Eannarino, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Amanda Eannarino
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McHenry, IL 60050
I am trained in DBT, IMAGO's couples, Hypnosis, Behavioral Analysis, Brainspotting, Sex Therapy and EMDR.
I have been providing psychological services to Mchenry county for the last 17 years. My experience is diverse and my approach to therapy is evidenced-based. I comprehend mental health issues from not only a psychological, but also from a social and neurological perspective. With this being stated I have developed a unique and comprehensive understanding of my clients. I have worked with several challenging clients and pride myself in my ability to modify treatment interventions for each client's unique needs. Essentially treatment is a team approach and I am here to walk with the client on the path to recovery.
I am trained in DBT, IMAGO's couples, Hypnosis, Behavioral Analysis, Brainspotting, Sex Therapy and EMDR.
I have been providing psychological services to Mchenry county for the last 17 years. My experience is diverse and my approach to therapy is evidenced-based. I comprehend mental health issues from not only a psychological, but also from a social and neurological perspective. With this being stated I have developed a unique and comprehensive understanding of my clients. I have worked with several challenging clients and pride myself in my ability to modify treatment interventions for each client's unique needs. Essentially treatment is a team approach and I am here to walk with the client on the path to recovery.
(815) 390-4835 View (815) 390-4835
Photo of Integrative Counseling and Psychology, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Integrative Counseling and Psychology
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
(331) 241-7436 View (331) 241-7436
Photo of Jennifer Menegon, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jennifer Menegon
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173  (Online Only)
"Grow where you are planted." Let's work together to ease life's challenges. We will be exploring your roots, working to find balance, all while supporting your growth. My career spans 25 years in various community and psychiatric settings. I use CBT, DBT skills and mindfulness to my work. I am trained in EMDR and I am DBT informed. I believe in meeting clients where they are in their process and helping them find the tools to achieve their goals. Utilizing warmth, a sense of humor, and providing an emotionally safe environment for my clients, I am able to help and support their process.
"Grow where you are planted." Let's work together to ease life's challenges. We will be exploring your roots, working to find balance, all while supporting your growth. My career spans 25 years in various community and psychiatric settings. I use CBT, DBT skills and mindfulness to my work. I am trained in EMDR and I am DBT informed. I believe in meeting clients where they are in their process and helping them find the tools to achieve their goals. Utilizing warmth, a sense of humor, and providing an emotionally safe environment for my clients, I am able to help and support their process.
(847) 558-1852 x807 View (847) 558-1852 x807
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.