Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Patty Underwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Patty Underwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT and MI, and I incorporate mindfulness into my practice.
The pandemic, political division, racial injustice, and unstable world can lead us to feel off balance, stuck, or afraid. Sometimes we can cope with this on our own, and other times friends and/or family support us. Sometimes that just isn't enough; and we need an objective, nonjudgemental person who has training in counseling to help. I have many years of experience in individual and group therapy. My approach is active, genuine, and strengths-based. It is important to note that I do not take insurance at this time.
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT and MI, and I incorporate mindfulness into my practice.
The pandemic, political division, racial injustice, and unstable world can lead us to feel off balance, stuck, or afraid. Sometimes we can cope with this on our own, and other times friends and/or family support us. Sometimes that just isn't enough; and we need an objective, nonjudgemental person who has training in counseling to help. I have many years of experience in individual and group therapy. My approach is active, genuine, and strengths-based. It is important to note that I do not take insurance at this time.
(508) 978-2164 View (508) 978-2164
Photo of Ana Santana Ogando, Counselor in Boston, MA
Ana Santana Ogando
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130  (Online Only)
Most of therapeutic approaches are: CBT, Solution Focused, DBT, REBT, Existential and Mindfulness based therapy.
All clients are welcome in this space. Are you willing to work through it? Where’s the obstacle? Are you ready to open yourself and accept who you are or Who you could become? This world has been challenging and inflexible. Interest, transparency and commitment are the key to start working together. My experience working with different cultures, social background and reality reinforce us to understand different issues from different perspective. In this space you will be validated.
Most of therapeutic approaches are: CBT, Solution Focused, DBT, REBT, Existential and Mindfulness based therapy.
All clients are welcome in this space. Are you willing to work through it? Where’s the obstacle? Are you ready to open yourself and accept who you are or Who you could become? This world has been challenging and inflexible. Interest, transparency and commitment are the key to start working together. My experience working with different cultures, social background and reality reinforce us to understand different issues from different perspective. In this space you will be validated.
(339) 217-6532 View (339) 217-6532
Photo of Lauren Brenner, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Lauren Brenner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
I use evidence-based treatments (CBT, CPT, PE, ACT, DBT) in my practice, identifying collaborative treatment goals, and guiding clients towards a life worth living.
In working together, I strive to move you towards a valued, meaningful life while decreasing suffering. I use a flexible blend of evidence-based treatment tailored to your personal goals, incorporating aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance-based Therapies. I bring an open, curious, and nonjudgmental stance to sessions, and am both compassionate and direct in my approach. I am a clinical psychologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, where I am the Clinical Director of Brain Health Services of a specialty program, and an Instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
I use evidence-based treatments (CBT, CPT, PE, ACT, DBT) in my practice, identifying collaborative treatment goals, and guiding clients towards a life worth living.
In working together, I strive to move you towards a valued, meaningful life while decreasing suffering. I use a flexible blend of evidence-based treatment tailored to your personal goals, incorporating aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance-based Therapies. I bring an open, curious, and nonjudgmental stance to sessions, and am both compassionate and direct in my approach. I am a clinical psychologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, where I am the Clinical Director of Brain Health Services of a specialty program, and an Instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
(617) 858-8494 View (617) 858-8494
Photo of Kerlie Merizier, Counselor in Boston, MA
Kerlie Merizier
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
This includes CBT, mindfulness/meditation, DBT, narrative therapy, expressive arts, and more.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to explore their patterns, thoughts, and unique stories. They may be struggling with anxiety or depression or haven't fully processed traumas and attachment issues in their lifetime. This ideal client may be detached from their emotions, have a hard time letting go, or find it difficult to experience joy. This person is motivated for change and seeks more insight about themselves.
This includes CBT, mindfulness/meditation, DBT, narrative therapy, expressive arts, and more.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to explore their patterns, thoughts, and unique stories. They may be struggling with anxiety or depression or haven't fully processed traumas and attachment issues in their lifetime. This ideal client may be detached from their emotions, have a hard time letting go, or find it difficult to experience joy. This person is motivated for change and seeks more insight about themselves.
(617) 644-4607 View (617) 644-4607
Photo of Lillian Audette, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Lillian Audette
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
With a relational-cultural foundation, I draw on techniques from interpersonal, narrative, insight, and dialectical behavioral therapies.
Life can be hard – it brings us times of feeling alone, scared, sad, ashamed, and uncertain. This can hurt our self, our loved ones, and our ability to lead a fulfilling life. Therapy can provide us with more choices and more control when life becomes hard. As a counseling psychologist, I am deeply committed to providing an affirming and compassionate therapy space where you can explore who you are, where your life is, and take steps towards the life you would like to lead.
With a relational-cultural foundation, I draw on techniques from interpersonal, narrative, insight, and dialectical behavioral therapies.
Life can be hard – it brings us times of feeling alone, scared, sad, ashamed, and uncertain. This can hurt our self, our loved ones, and our ability to lead a fulfilling life. Therapy can provide us with more choices and more control when life becomes hard. As a counseling psychologist, I am deeply committed to providing an affirming and compassionate therapy space where you can explore who you are, where your life is, and take steps towards the life you would like to lead.
(857) 675-3074 View (857) 675-3074
Photo of Sophie Hans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerne as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerne as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
(617) 882-7795 View (617) 882-7795
Photo of Lucinda Dos Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Lucinda Dos Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02205  (Online Only)
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psycho-dynamic with a trauma informed Lens.
Are you going through a transitional period and making changes, and looking for some direction and feedback? Are you feeling unfulfilled, unhappy, and uncertain of what your next step should be? You deserve a quality of life, feeling confident, secure, and fulfilled. If you are curious about what therapy can offer you, trust your gut and reach out! If you are curious about what therapy can offer you, trust your gut and reach out!
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psycho-dynamic with a trauma informed Lens.
Are you going through a transitional period and making changes, and looking for some direction and feedback? Are you feeling unfulfilled, unhappy, and uncertain of what your next step should be? You deserve a quality of life, feeling confident, secure, and fulfilled. If you are curious about what therapy can offer you, trust your gut and reach out! If you are curious about what therapy can offer you, trust your gut and reach out!
(508) 501-0408 View (508) 501-0408
Photo of Ciara Ginley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Ciara Ginley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
In my practice, I utilize elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. I am interested in working with individuals who are dealing with life transitions and relationship issues. Additionally, I work with people around body image and self esteem concerns. I have worked in various mental health settings such as inpatient hospital programs, partial hospitalization programs, an eating disorder treatment facility, and a domestic violence program.
In my practice, I utilize elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. I am interested in working with individuals who are dealing with life transitions and relationship issues. Additionally, I work with people around body image and self esteem concerns. I have worked in various mental health settings such as inpatient hospital programs, partial hospitalization programs, an eating disorder treatment facility, and a domestic violence program.
(617) 379-3338 View (617) 379-3338
Photo of Stephanie Vaughn, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Stephanie Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I am a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They're looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
I am a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They're looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
(857) 271-4038 View (857) 271-4038
Photo of Alicia Cronister-Morais, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Alicia Cronister-Morais
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
As such, I tailor treatment to individual needs, integrates psycho education and an eclectic mix of psychotherapy modalities including supportive therapy, CBT, modified DBT and Trauma focused therapy.
Welcoming NEW patients! I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health treatment requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, and I currently practice in the Boston area. I obtained my master's degree in social work from Bridgewater State University, and I have extensive experience in various clinical settings. Among my populations of interest, are veterans with mood and co-occurring disorders, including PTSD and substance use disorders.
As such, I tailor treatment to individual needs, integrates psycho education and an eclectic mix of psychotherapy modalities including supportive therapy, CBT, modified DBT and Trauma focused therapy.
Welcoming NEW patients! I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health treatment requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, and I currently practice in the Boston area. I obtained my master's degree in social work from Bridgewater State University, and I have extensive experience in various clinical settings. Among my populations of interest, are veterans with mood and co-occurring disorders, including PTSD and substance use disorders.
(617) 405-8995 View (617) 405-8995
Photo of Afreen Nizami, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Afreen Nizami
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
Afreen utilizes multiple approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and many more.
Afreen Nizami is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 5 years experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, young adults, and adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Afreen specializes in depression, anxiety, PSTD, grief, trauma, school stress, relationship problems, and life transitions.
Afreen utilizes multiple approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and many more.
Afreen Nizami is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 5 years experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, young adults, and adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Afreen specializes in depression, anxiety, PSTD, grief, trauma, school stress, relationship problems, and life transitions.
(781) 399-4744 View (781) 399-4744
Photo of Mylinh Tran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Mylinh Tran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
While I am professionally trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, and trauma therapy, I know that only you can be the expert in yourself.
If you have made it this far, well done you! Therapy can be so tough because it requires us to admit that something requires change, and most importantly, ask for help. It can be overwhelming to figure out how to balance your mental health and your daily responsibilities. As your therapist, I don’t expect you to have that figured out because it’s my job to help show you. Our therapeutic space that I offer is nothing short of unconditional support for your entire being. I encourage clients to bring their whole self to therapy and empower clients to use this space in a way that feels most effective for them.
While I am professionally trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, and trauma therapy, I know that only you can be the expert in yourself.
If you have made it this far, well done you! Therapy can be so tough because it requires us to admit that something requires change, and most importantly, ask for help. It can be overwhelming to figure out how to balance your mental health and your daily responsibilities. As your therapist, I don’t expect you to have that figured out because it’s my job to help show you. Our therapeutic space that I offer is nothing short of unconditional support for your entire being. I encourage clients to bring their whole self to therapy and empower clients to use this space in a way that feels most effective for them.
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Photo of Dr. Mara Richman in Boston, MA
Dr. Mara Richman
PhD, MA, Psych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
I collaborate with clients and integrate various evidence-based approaches tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT).
I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and young professionals on their journey towards healing and growth. With expertise in anxiety, trauma, relationships, and depression, I provide a compassionate and empowering space for my clients to explore their emotions, themselves, and their internal workings. I collaborate with clients to identify the underlying causes of their anxiety, challenge thought patterns, and figure out who they are. I provide a warm, safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, find their voice, and towards creating a more fulfilling life. I believe we are a team.
I collaborate with clients and integrate various evidence-based approaches tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT).
I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and young professionals on their journey towards healing and growth. With expertise in anxiety, trauma, relationships, and depression, I provide a compassionate and empowering space for my clients to explore their emotions, themselves, and their internal workings. I collaborate with clients to identify the underlying causes of their anxiety, challenge thought patterns, and figure out who they are. I provide a warm, safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, find their voice, and towards creating a more fulfilling life. I believe we are a team.
(617) 404-3860 View (617) 404-3860
Photo of TCA Counseling Group in Boston, MA
TCA Counseling Group
MS, CAS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I have received training in various counseling techniques and therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, Humanistic and Person-Centered.
Has your life situation changed and you are finding it hard to adjust? Are you feeling lonely, sad, overwhelmed, unable to find enjoyment, having difficulty making friends or just unable to follow through on personal goals? Whatever issue you may be struggling with, help is available. Recognize that you are important and deserving of a better life and happiness. Think about what you want and make that decision to embark a path to emotional wellness.
I have received training in various counseling techniques and therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, Humanistic and Person-Centered.
Has your life situation changed and you are finding it hard to adjust? Are you feeling lonely, sad, overwhelmed, unable to find enjoyment, having difficulty making friends or just unable to follow through on personal goals? Whatever issue you may be struggling with, help is available. Recognize that you are important and deserving of a better life and happiness. Think about what you want and make that decision to embark a path to emotional wellness.
(617) 579-8434 View (617) 579-8434
Photo of Virginia Rockhill, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Virginia Rockhill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Interventions I use in my sessions include Cognitive Therapy, CBT, DBT and ACT.
I believe that we all need to have a sense of purpose or meaningfulness in our lives, something that our thoughts, emotions and life experiences contribute to the "heart" of our personalities. The process of healing from the challenges of life begins with a search for truth about our beliefs, habits and relationships. Physical health is affected by our mental health through the complex interactions between the brain and bodily functions.
Interventions I use in my sessions include Cognitive Therapy, CBT, DBT and ACT.
I believe that we all need to have a sense of purpose or meaningfulness in our lives, something that our thoughts, emotions and life experiences contribute to the "heart" of our personalities. The process of healing from the challenges of life begins with a search for truth about our beliefs, habits and relationships. Physical health is affected by our mental health through the complex interactions between the brain and bodily functions.
(617) 500-4436 View (617) 500-4436
Photo of Dr. Peter Ward, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Dr. Peter Ward
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help people manage stress and treat anxiety, depression and mood disorders using skills-based therapies including CBT and DBT.
I want to help anyone looking to feel better. I enjoy helping others find relief from anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma and other symptoms or mental health conditions. I help clients find and address what is preventing their ability to function, grow, thrive, or just relax! I also enjoy helping people discover more about themselves and reconnect with their sense of meaning or purpose in life. Therapy takes effort and commitment and, in exchange, provides freedom from suffering. I would love to help you discover the gift I believe therapy can give to you.
I help people manage stress and treat anxiety, depression and mood disorders using skills-based therapies including CBT and DBT.
I want to help anyone looking to feel better. I enjoy helping others find relief from anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma and other symptoms or mental health conditions. I help clients find and address what is preventing their ability to function, grow, thrive, or just relax! I also enjoy helping people discover more about themselves and reconnect with their sense of meaning or purpose in life. Therapy takes effort and commitment and, in exchange, provides freedom from suffering. I would love to help you discover the gift I believe therapy can give to you.
(617) 440-9702 View (617) 440-9702
Photo of Ariel Hopes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Ariel Hopes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I specialize in work with children, adolescents, and parents, women and non-binary individuals, and adults of all ages struggling with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and work, school, and relationship stress. I have experience with neurodivergent populations, LGBTQIA+, and various faith communities. I use a variety of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and play and art therapies. I provide treatment from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective and am focused on empowering my clients to meet their goals and live happier, more fulfilling lives.
I specialize in work with children, adolescents, and parents, women and non-binary individuals, and adults of all ages struggling with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and work, school, and relationship stress. I have experience with neurodivergent populations, LGBTQIA+, and various faith communities. I use a variety of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and play and art therapies. I provide treatment from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective and am focused on empowering my clients to meet their goals and live happier, more fulfilling lives.
(781) 808-2356 View (781) 808-2356
Photo of Lena Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Lena Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I use a person-centered approach and trauma-informed practices and interventions, including DBT/CBT, Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy.
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
I use a person-centered approach and trauma-informed practices and interventions, including DBT/CBT, Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy.
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
(781) 355-9506 View (781) 355-9506
Photo of Jess LeBow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Jess LeBow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
While I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and IFS, and Narrative therapy (which is my predominant style) I am always learning with my clients and bring awareness but not authority into session so that my clients may clarify to me the world as they see it before I attempt to intervene with any assumptions.
I believe that problems develop relationally and therefore it makes sense to solve them relationally: to seek resolution through genuine understanding is the work of therapy. In my experience, the relief that clients seek is contingent upon being seen as they are, and as they want to be seen, and feeling understood.
While I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and IFS, and Narrative therapy (which is my predominant style) I am always learning with my clients and bring awareness but not authority into session so that my clients may clarify to me the world as they see it before I attempt to intervene with any assumptions.
I believe that problems develop relationally and therefore it makes sense to solve them relationally: to seek resolution through genuine understanding is the work of therapy. In my experience, the relief that clients seek is contingent upon being seen as they are, and as they want to be seen, and feeling understood.
(617) 682-0598 View (617) 682-0598
Photo of Kate Schiffman, LMHC, proxima b counseling, inc., Counselor in Boston, MA
Kate Schiffman, LMHC, proxima b counseling, inc.
Counselor, LMHC, TMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
I'm so excited to help you launch your journey to happiness! We will work together to make a customized treatment plan to help you work towards achieving your goals. With over a decade of experience I am confident that I will be able to help you live a more meaningful and fulfilling life. We will focus on what matters most to you through an organized and simple integrated approach. My specialty is in treating OCD, anxiety and phobias using Exposure Therapy, CBT, ACT, DBT and coping skills. I also enjoy incorporating my passion of art through Expressive Therapy. Start your journey today!
I'm so excited to help you launch your journey to happiness! We will work together to make a customized treatment plan to help you work towards achieving your goals. With over a decade of experience I am confident that I will be able to help you live a more meaningful and fulfilling life. We will focus on what matters most to you through an organized and simple integrated approach. My specialty is in treating OCD, anxiety and phobias using Exposure Therapy, CBT, ACT, DBT and coping skills. I also enjoy incorporating my passion of art through Expressive Therapy. Start your journey today!
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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.