Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Jennifer Vincent, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Jennifer Vincent
Counselor, LMHC, CSAYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
If you care about all that clinical stuff………… My therapy approach, drawing from several theoretical orientations, is client-centered, Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), inner child healing, strength based on the belief that every individual is unique. My experience comes from bachelors degree in criminal justice and working with survivors of violence and finding housing for families. Later getting my master’s in mental health counseling to better serve those who experience trauma, childhood abuse and sexual violence. I believe we all deserve healing and leading a life we are free in.
If you care about all that clinical stuff………… My therapy approach, drawing from several theoretical orientations, is client-centered, Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), inner child healing, strength based on the belief that every individual is unique. My experience comes from bachelors degree in criminal justice and working with survivors of violence and finding housing for families. Later getting my master’s in mental health counseling to better serve those who experience trauma, childhood abuse and sexual violence. I believe we all deserve healing and leading a life we are free in.
(317) 620-8784 View (317) 620-8784
Photo of Natasha Smith, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Natasha Smith
Counselor, MSW, LSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46216  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I’m a Credentialed Sexually Abusive Youth Clinician (CSAYC), trained in assisting Domestic Violence Survivors, and Family Centered Therapy.
Say hello to your new safe space! My passion as a therapist is to bring healing to individuals who have experienced traumatic and/or stressful life events, find healthy perspectives of themselves, and strengthen their relationships. Whether it's a child, adult, or family, my goal is for my clients to know and see themselves as peaceful, whole, complete, and safe. My passion is to uplift, empower, encourage, and assist individuals in exploring personal goals for self-improvement.
I am trained in Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I’m a Credentialed Sexually Abusive Youth Clinician (CSAYC), trained in assisting Domestic Violence Survivors, and Family Centered Therapy.
Say hello to your new safe space! My passion as a therapist is to bring healing to individuals who have experienced traumatic and/or stressful life events, find healthy perspectives of themselves, and strengthen their relationships. Whether it's a child, adult, or family, my goal is for my clients to know and see themselves as peaceful, whole, complete, and safe. My passion is to uplift, empower, encourage, and assist individuals in exploring personal goals for self-improvement.
(317) 961-8441 View (317) 961-8441
Photo of Stephanie Burkus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Stephanie Burkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSTS
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250  (Online Only)
I am competent in therapies such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, supportive therapy and existential therapy.
You need a safe space to truly express yourself and work through tough emotions. Things like trauma and anxiety disrupt the nervous system, and it takes a special skill set to find your center in times of stress. I am a therapist that helps people tackle feelings of shame that often stem from dysfunctional family dynamics. If you're struggling with setting boundaries, finding balance, or navigating your mental health in general, I am here to help you work through it.
I am competent in therapies such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, supportive therapy and existential therapy.
You need a safe space to truly express yourself and work through tough emotions. Things like trauma and anxiety disrupt the nervous system, and it takes a special skill set to find your center in times of stress. I am a therapist that helps people tackle feelings of shame that often stem from dysfunctional family dynamics. If you're struggling with setting boundaries, finding balance, or navigating your mental health in general, I am here to help you work through it.
(574) 334-7648 View (574) 334-7648
Photo of Samuel Hockley, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Samuel Hockley
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I have utilized cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to great effect with many clients.
I believe that starting therapy is a healthy and deeply rewarding experience. I strive to create a compassionate atmosphere for my clients while taking a collaborative approach to help clients reach their goals.
I have utilized cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to great effect with many clients.
I believe that starting therapy is a healthy and deeply rewarding experience. I strive to create a compassionate atmosphere for my clients while taking a collaborative approach to help clients reach their goals.
(317) 660-8883 View (317) 660-8883
Photo of Jackie Hunter, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Jackie Hunter
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46268  (Online Only)
Hi there. I'm so happy you found my counseling profile. I have experience with a wide array of issues including depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug issues, PTSD, personality disorders, bipolar and other mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and relationship issues. I have an eclectic approach to therapy using different techniques such as motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, psychoeducation, dialectical behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy.
Hi there. I'm so happy you found my counseling profile. I have experience with a wide array of issues including depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug issues, PTSD, personality disorders, bipolar and other mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and relationship issues. I have an eclectic approach to therapy using different techniques such as motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, psychoeducation, dialectical behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy.
(317) 961-2792 View (317) 961-2792
Photo of Lanah Wignall in Indianapolis, IN
Lanah Wignall
LMHCA
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I utilize a trauma informed care perspective while implementing aspects of DBT, CBT, psychodynamic theory and ACT modalities.
My passion is to walk alongside individuals who need support in the places they may feel stuck. I believe that the first step to change is genuine connection while feeling safe, heard, and seen. I am passionate about my clients finding healing and freedom by living in their personal values and embracing their authentic and genuine self.
I utilize a trauma informed care perspective while implementing aspects of DBT, CBT, psychodynamic theory and ACT modalities.
My passion is to walk alongside individuals who need support in the places they may feel stuck. I believe that the first step to change is genuine connection while feeling safe, heard, and seen. I am passionate about my clients finding healing and freedom by living in their personal values and embracing their authentic and genuine self.
(463) 243-5896 View (463) 243-5896
Photo of Dawn of a Brighter Today, LLC, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Dawn of a Brighter Today, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46237
DBT stands for Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I have been active in the mental health field for almost 20 years. I believe that therapy is a process that focuses on balance in all areas of life. My practice has been open for 7 years and continues to grow. I work primarily with teenagers and young adults but also see adults and families. Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Grief and Loss, Borderline Personality Disorder and trauma. My framework of therapy is based off of DBT principles.
DBT stands for Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I have been active in the mental health field for almost 20 years. I believe that therapy is a process that focuses on balance in all areas of life. My practice has been open for 7 years and continues to grow. I work primarily with teenagers and young adults but also see adults and families. Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Grief and Loss, Borderline Personality Disorder and trauma. My framework of therapy is based off of DBT principles.
(317) 671-7673 View (317) 671-7673
Photo of Natalie ( Samuels ) Seitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Natalie ( Samuels ) Seitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I also utilize an eclectic approach incorporating components of CBT, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques, DBT, MI, and Family Systems.
Bring a cup of tea or coffee with you to our session together, and let's talk. I specialize in helping adults (18 yrs and older) discover their resiliency, and find peace in their everyday lives. I work with those affected by anxiety, depression and trauma, as well as issues including life changes and self-esteem. My focus is on providing individual therapy.
I also utilize an eclectic approach incorporating components of CBT, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques, DBT, MI, and Family Systems.
Bring a cup of tea or coffee with you to our session together, and let's talk. I specialize in helping adults (18 yrs and older) discover their resiliency, and find peace in their everyday lives. I work with those affected by anxiety, depression and trauma, as well as issues including life changes and self-esteem. My focus is on providing individual therapy.
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Photo of Savanah Stiles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Savanah Stiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
My name is Savanah Stiles, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 11 years’ experience in providing individual, group, and family therapy to adolescents, children, adults, and families. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), Sand Tray Therapy, Triple P Parenting Model, Active Parenting, and The Matrix Model.
My name is Savanah Stiles, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 11 years’ experience in providing individual, group, and family therapy to adolescents, children, adults, and families. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), Sand Tray Therapy, Triple P Parenting Model, Active Parenting, and The Matrix Model.
(317) 743-7817 View (317) 743-7817
Photo of Lydia Roden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Lydia Roden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I will be utilizing DBT and mindfulness to help you increase self esteem and gain new skills to manage stress.
Do you struggle with self compassion or allowing yourself to feel your emotions? I empower individuals to better understand their emotions and treat themselves with patience and kindness. Together we can work on identifying barriers that make it difficult to sit with your emotions and observe them without judgment.
I will be utilizing DBT and mindfulness to help you increase self esteem and gain new skills to manage stress.
Do you struggle with self compassion or allowing yourself to feel your emotions? I empower individuals to better understand their emotions and treat themselves with patience and kindness. Together we can work on identifying barriers that make it difficult to sit with your emotions and observe them without judgment.
(463) 400-2572 View (463) 400-2572
Photo of Alle Lilly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Alle Lilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Waitlist for new clients
I use evidence-based approaches and my training includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
As a licensed clinical social worker, my role is to partner with you to navigate your experiences and challenges that are affecting you or your loved one's life at home, at work, or at school. In my practice I work with adolescents, adults, and families in a safe, comfortable setting. I have over ten years of clinical experience working with individuals and families who have experienced trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and loss.
I use evidence-based approaches and my training includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
As a licensed clinical social worker, my role is to partner with you to navigate your experiences and challenges that are affecting you or your loved one's life at home, at work, or at school. In my practice I work with adolescents, adults, and families in a safe, comfortable setting. I have over ten years of clinical experience working with individuals and families who have experienced trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and loss.
(317) 649-8413 View (317) 649-8413
Photo of Megan Hudson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Megan Hudson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46217
I have been trained in EMDR, CPT, CBT, DBT, Solutions Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Immediate Openings! Trauma can have a deep impact on the way an individual views themselves, others, and the world. People who have survived trauma can continue to carry the trauma with them by reliving it in their thoughts and dreams, by avoiding certain people, places, and things and experiencing disturbances in their sleep, mood, and startle response. While all of these symptoms can be overwhelming, you do not have to carry them with you for the rest of your life. There are various treatments that have been scientifically proven to positively impact client's lives and help them not just "get over" their trauma, but to overcome it
I have been trained in EMDR, CPT, CBT, DBT, Solutions Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Immediate Openings! Trauma can have a deep impact on the way an individual views themselves, others, and the world. People who have survived trauma can continue to carry the trauma with them by reliving it in their thoughts and dreams, by avoiding certain people, places, and things and experiencing disturbances in their sleep, mood, and startle response. While all of these symptoms can be overwhelming, you do not have to carry them with you for the rest of your life. There are various treatments that have been scientifically proven to positively impact client's lives and help them not just "get over" their trauma, but to overcome it
(317) 342-5940 View (317) 342-5940
Photo of Dr. Cari Pearson Carter, Psychologist in Indianapolis, IN
Dr. Cari Pearson Carter
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
, CBT, DBT) possible for your concerns.
Eating disorders (ED), anxiety, and/or stress can take hold of you so it feels like you are no longer living the life you want. Do thoughts of food or weight, or feelings of guilt consume you? Or does Worry make it difficult to enjoy time with friends or family? Or maybe you feel so stressed that you feel like you might explode? These things can make it really difficult to be who you truly are; they can pull you away from life and the things that actually matter to you, like relationships, work, and pleasant activities (e.g., reading a book, going for a hike).
, CBT, DBT) possible for your concerns.
Eating disorders (ED), anxiety, and/or stress can take hold of you so it feels like you are no longer living the life you want. Do thoughts of food or weight, or feelings of guilt consume you? Or does Worry make it difficult to enjoy time with friends or family? Or maybe you feel so stressed that you feel like you might explode? These things can make it really difficult to be who you truly are; they can pull you away from life and the things that actually matter to you, like relationships, work, and pleasant activities (e.g., reading a book, going for a hike).
(317) 483-8216 View (317) 483-8216
Photo of Michael A Charnstrom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Michael A Charnstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46222  (Online Only)
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, DBT Skills Systems, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I enjoy working with clients to improve communication and emotional intelligence, set and reach life goals, process and move through life’s setbacks and traumas, and work through feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, grief, loss, and stress. I am accepting new patients.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, DBT Skills Systems, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I enjoy working with clients to improve communication and emotional intelligence, set and reach life goals, process and move through life’s setbacks and traumas, and work through feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, grief, loss, and stress. I am accepting new patients.
(463) 220-3501 View (463) 220-3501
Photo of Hillary Blake, Psychologist in Indianapolis, IN
Hillary Blake
Psychologist, PsyD , HSPP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am intensively trained in DBT-C, an intervention for children with big emotions and corresponding behavior problems.
I am a clinical psychologist who provides assessment and treatment for individuals with a wide range of emotional and physical conditions. In psychotherapy I utilize evidence based interventions and have extensive training in biofeedback, SPACE, DBT, CBT, and parent training. I was previously an Assistant Professor in Clinical Psychology at Riley Hospital. I continue to remain involved at Riley as a Visiting Professor at the IU School of Medicine. I have been featured in regional and national news as a mental health expert.
I am intensively trained in DBT-C, an intervention for children with big emotions and corresponding behavior problems.
I am a clinical psychologist who provides assessment and treatment for individuals with a wide range of emotional and physical conditions. In psychotherapy I utilize evidence based interventions and have extensive training in biofeedback, SPACE, DBT, CBT, and parent training. I was previously an Assistant Professor in Clinical Psychology at Riley Hospital. I continue to remain involved at Riley as a Visiting Professor at the IU School of Medicine. I have been featured in regional and national news as a mental health expert.
(317) 854-4694 View (317) 854-4694
Photo of Emily Kramer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Emily Kramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46256  (Online Only)
I have more than 15 years of experience as a therapist, and use a compassionate, understanding approach, balanced with evidence-based practice skills of EMDR, Gottman Couples therapy, and DBT.
Do you feel distracted and overwhelmed? Are you struggling in your relationships, and having a hard time connecting with others? Are you wanting to be able to be kind to yourself and those around you? I help people learn what is getting in the way of living the life they want, and how to grow their strengths and address challenges to build healthy, happy, and fulfilling relationships. We will focus on how the past might be impacting our current functioning and ways to manage that interaction. We will build insight into reasons for thoughts and feelings, and work on repairing concerns that are in the way of you reaching your goals.
I have more than 15 years of experience as a therapist, and use a compassionate, understanding approach, balanced with evidence-based practice skills of EMDR, Gottman Couples therapy, and DBT.
Do you feel distracted and overwhelmed? Are you struggling in your relationships, and having a hard time connecting with others? Are you wanting to be able to be kind to yourself and those around you? I help people learn what is getting in the way of living the life they want, and how to grow their strengths and address challenges to build healthy, happy, and fulfilling relationships. We will focus on how the past might be impacting our current functioning and ways to manage that interaction. We will build insight into reasons for thoughts and feelings, and work on repairing concerns that are in the way of you reaching your goals.
(317) 961-7577 View (317) 961-7577
Photo of Kellie Sheets, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Kellie Sheets
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
Kellie utilizes a multitude of therapeutic approaches to therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and more.
Kellie Sheets is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in mental health care. She is passionate about working with clients to help them address their unique challenges. Kellie's focus has been on a variety of mental health challenges, from low to high-acuity issues with clients across the lifespan. She has worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, relationship issues, substance use disorders, self-esteem issues, and more. Kellie earned her Master of Social Work at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and her Bachelor of Social Work at Ball State University.
Kellie utilizes a multitude of therapeutic approaches to therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and more.
Kellie Sheets is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in mental health care. She is passionate about working with clients to help them address their unique challenges. Kellie's focus has been on a variety of mental health challenges, from low to high-acuity issues with clients across the lifespan. She has worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, relationship issues, substance use disorders, self-esteem issues, and more. Kellie earned her Master of Social Work at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and her Bachelor of Social Work at Ball State University.
(463) 583-1359 View (463) 583-1359
Photo of Casey Oglesby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Casey Oglesby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260  (Online Only)
Evidence based practices such as EMDR, DBT and CBT are most often the foundation of treatment.
Struggling with difficult obstacles, past or present, can affect multiple areas of your life. You may have gone to therapy before and are ready for an approach that is more actionable or you feel curious to see what therapy can do for you. I would love the opportunity to be a partner in the journey ahead. My focus is helping people learn skills they can practice or process difficult emotions in order to better manage mood, cope with trauma or navigate life transitions. I look forward to chatting with you.
Evidence based practices such as EMDR, DBT and CBT are most often the foundation of treatment.
Struggling with difficult obstacles, past or present, can affect multiple areas of your life. You may have gone to therapy before and are ready for an approach that is more actionable or you feel curious to see what therapy can do for you. I would love the opportunity to be a partner in the journey ahead. My focus is helping people learn skills they can practice or process difficult emotions in order to better manage mood, cope with trauma or navigate life transitions. I look forward to chatting with you.
(317) 751-5349 View (317) 751-5349
Photo of Hayley Craig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Hayley Craig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46216  (Online Only)
We will work using different techniques such as, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing to get you where you want to be.
We all need someone to talk to at times, and I have dedicated my career to being that person for others. As a LCSW, I have over 6 years of experience in residential, hospital, and clinic settings. I enjoy working with teens and young adults to help with problems adjusting, behavioral concerns, relationship issues, unhealthy boundaries with family, friends and/or others, and poor self-esteem and self-worth. One of my aims is to build a compassionate and judgement-free environment for clients to open up and discuss emotions and experiences so we can collaborate to realize and accomplish goals.
We will work using different techniques such as, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing to get you where you want to be.
We all need someone to talk to at times, and I have dedicated my career to being that person for others. As a LCSW, I have over 6 years of experience in residential, hospital, and clinic settings. I enjoy working with teens and young adults to help with problems adjusting, behavioral concerns, relationship issues, unhealthy boundaries with family, friends and/or others, and poor self-esteem and self-worth. One of my aims is to build a compassionate and judgement-free environment for clients to open up and discuss emotions and experiences so we can collaborate to realize and accomplish goals.
(463) 250-5659 View (463) 250-5659
Photo of Louise Walker Loving Polansky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Louise Walker Loving Polansky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC, LCAC, MA
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Although not exclusively, I use cognitive behavioral therapy (challenging what we are saying to ourselves), dialectical behavior therapy (accepting the need to be able to hold two contradictory truths in our minds simultaneously), and motivational enhancement (improvement of clients' motivation to change) in addressing clients' needs.
My therapeutic focus is on helping clients identify and take responsibility for addressing issues ranging from minor life adjustment problems to serious mental health conditions based in brain chemistry deficits. Licensed as a clinical social worker since 1993, I have worked in the behavioral health field since 1979 in a variety of mental health and addictions-focused settings, including inpatient/hospital, intensive outpatient, outpatient, and educational programs. I also have an LMHC and an LCAC. I consider it an honor to work with clients courageous enough to ask for and accept help in meeting life's challenges.
Although not exclusively, I use cognitive behavioral therapy (challenging what we are saying to ourselves), dialectical behavior therapy (accepting the need to be able to hold two contradictory truths in our minds simultaneously), and motivational enhancement (improvement of clients' motivation to change) in addressing clients' needs.
My therapeutic focus is on helping clients identify and take responsibility for addressing issues ranging from minor life adjustment problems to serious mental health conditions based in brain chemistry deficits. Licensed as a clinical social worker since 1993, I have worked in the behavioral health field since 1979 in a variety of mental health and addictions-focused settings, including inpatient/hospital, intensive outpatient, outpatient, and educational programs. I also have an LMHC and an LCAC. I consider it an honor to work with clients courageous enough to ask for and accept help in meeting life's challenges.
(317) 730-2039 View (317) 730-2039

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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.