Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Brookline, MA

Photo of Bridget McAdams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Bridget McAdams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders, complex trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, OCD and personality disorders. My clinical approach flexibly incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I enjoy working with clients to meet their goals with curiosity, compassion and humor.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders, complex trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, OCD and personality disorders. My clinical approach flexibly incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I enjoy working with clients to meet their goals with curiosity, compassion and humor.
(857) 420-7193 View (857) 420-7193
Photo of Adi Inbar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Adi Inbar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
I am a seasoned therapist with over a decade of clinical experience dedicated to a client-centered philosophy, putting your unique needs at the forefront of our therapeutic journey. My approach integrates multiple therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic, relational, emotion-focused, and self-compassion techniques. When appropriate, I also incorporate cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills. This holistic approach ensures that our therapy is tailored specifically to your individual circumstances. In addition to my private practice I am a senior therapist at Boston College.
I am a seasoned therapist with over a decade of clinical experience dedicated to a client-centered philosophy, putting your unique needs at the forefront of our therapeutic journey. My approach integrates multiple therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic, relational, emotion-focused, and self-compassion techniques. When appropriate, I also incorporate cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills. This holistic approach ensures that our therapy is tailored specifically to your individual circumstances. In addition to my private practice I am a senior therapist at Boston College.
(617) 249-7280 View (617) 249-7280
Photo of Rachel Weiss, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Rachel Weiss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
Specifically, I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based approaches (e.
I am a clinical psychologist with faculty/staff appointments at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. I believe that therapy should be collaborative, supportive, and warm, while also facilitating real change in clients' lives. You may benefit from working with me if you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, angry, or lonely; or struggling with low self-esteem or lack of confidence. I can assist you in better managing relationship or family conflict, work- or school-related stress, parenting or caregiver stress, grief/loss, and major transitions.
Specifically, I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based approaches (e.
I am a clinical psychologist with faculty/staff appointments at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. I believe that therapy should be collaborative, supportive, and warm, while also facilitating real change in clients' lives. You may benefit from working with me if you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, angry, or lonely; or struggling with low self-esteem or lack of confidence. I can assist you in better managing relationship or family conflict, work- or school-related stress, parenting or caregiver stress, grief/loss, and major transitions.
(617) 440-5241 View (617) 440-5241
Photo of Minjee Park in Brookline, MA
Minjee Park
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
In my work, I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, building strong relationships with clients.
Our past experiences are carried out in current lives in many ways. Working with clients, I try to understand the root and dynamic of what currently brings us to disturbing symptoms. Because we all have different life backgrounds, treatment options and techniques should be individualized by each client. I am also a proudly sensitive therapist who tries hard to understand racial, cultural diversity.
In my work, I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, building strong relationships with clients.
Our past experiences are carried out in current lives in many ways. Working with clients, I try to understand the root and dynamic of what currently brings us to disturbing symptoms. Because we all have different life backgrounds, treatment options and techniques should be individualized by each client. I am also a proudly sensitive therapist who tries hard to understand racial, cultural diversity.
(617) 379-0516 View (617) 379-0516
Photo of Jordana Nolan, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Jordana Nolan
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
I am an LMHC whose aim is to create an empathetic and empowering therapeutic environment for each individual. I tailor treatment to the unique needs and strengths of each person by flexibly integrating techniques from a variety of clinical frameworks including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy. Through the collaborative work conducted in treatment, I strive to enhance an individual’s insight into his/her struggles, cultivate resolutions that improve quality of life, bolster self-esteem, and establish skills to manage symptoms adaptively.
I am an LMHC whose aim is to create an empathetic and empowering therapeutic environment for each individual. I tailor treatment to the unique needs and strengths of each person by flexibly integrating techniques from a variety of clinical frameworks including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy. Through the collaborative work conducted in treatment, I strive to enhance an individual’s insight into his/her struggles, cultivate resolutions that improve quality of life, bolster self-esteem, and establish skills to manage symptoms adaptively.
(617) 675-5339 View (617) 675-5339
Photo of Nofar Soffer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brookline, MA
Nofar Soffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
Nofar is passionate about helping individuals through discovering the power of self and has experience working with adults, children and adolescents. Nofar has experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma related diagnoses and other life experiences. Helping these individuals to heal by strengthening their own self confidence with positive thinking, acceptance and compassion using CBT, DBT, mindfulness and other therapy methods centering around the individual and their unique life experience.
Nofar is passionate about helping individuals through discovering the power of self and has experience working with adults, children and adolescents. Nofar has experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma related diagnoses and other life experiences. Helping these individuals to heal by strengthening their own self confidence with positive thinking, acceptance and compassion using CBT, DBT, mindfulness and other therapy methods centering around the individual and their unique life experience.
(617) 767-0672 View (617) 767-0672
Photo of Ariana Mufson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Ariana Mufson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Waitlist for new clients
I provide psychotherapy for adults with advanced training in anxiety, sex therapy, and women's mental health. I have trained in behavioral therapies (CBT & DBT) and psychodynamic psychotherapy in various settings, including outpatient, partial, and inpatient. I pride myself on using humor and empathy to help clients push through their struggles. I encourage clients to explore their goals for seeking change and support them in finding the motivation, insight and skills to cope.
I provide psychotherapy for adults with advanced training in anxiety, sex therapy, and women's mental health. I have trained in behavioral therapies (CBT & DBT) and psychodynamic psychotherapy in various settings, including outpatient, partial, and inpatient. I pride myself on using humor and empathy to help clients push through their struggles. I encourage clients to explore their goals for seeking change and support them in finding the motivation, insight and skills to cope.
(617) 682-7863 View (617) 682-7863
Photo of Becky Lynne Bernat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Becky Lynne Bernat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
I have focused my professional career on learning techniques, skills, tools and interventions to enable all my clients to feel more effective and strong at managing challenging emotions, interpersonal situations and life's daily ups and downs. I am an expert in Eating Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, trauma, gender dysphoria, and self-injury. Helping my clients achieve their goals of mental health wellness along with feeling capable and successful in their lives by using therapies such as DBT, CBT and CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD) are the cornerstone of the therapies I use and value.
I have focused my professional career on learning techniques, skills, tools and interventions to enable all my clients to feel more effective and strong at managing challenging emotions, interpersonal situations and life's daily ups and downs. I am an expert in Eating Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, trauma, gender dysphoria, and self-injury. Helping my clients achieve their goals of mental health wellness along with feeling capable and successful in their lives by using therapies such as DBT, CBT and CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD) are the cornerstone of the therapies I use and value.
(617) 433-5291 View (617) 433-5291
Photo of Jason Kaufman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brookline, MA
Jason Kaufman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I specialize in attachment-oriented individual, couples & family therapy with years of experience helping teens and adults find their way to healthier relationships with themselves and others. My training in DBT, MBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Gottmanian couples therapy are the cornerstones of my work improving relationships and well-being. I've aided many badly-bruised relationships. I particularly enjoy working with couples facing trust & communication issues, as well as individuals coping with identity, life-transition, personality & relationship issues. Autism, divorce, narcissism, & men's issues are also specialities.
I specialize in attachment-oriented individual, couples & family therapy with years of experience helping teens and adults find their way to healthier relationships with themselves and others. My training in DBT, MBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Gottmanian couples therapy are the cornerstones of my work improving relationships and well-being. I've aided many badly-bruised relationships. I particularly enjoy working with couples facing trust & communication issues, as well as individuals coping with identity, life-transition, personality & relationship issues. Autism, divorce, narcissism, & men's issues are also specialities.
(617) 404-3552 View (617) 404-3552
Photo of Katharine Thomson, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Katharine Thomson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
In addition to my faculty and hospital-based roles, I have a private practice for children, adolescents, and adults. I am trained in evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT, and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, OCD, self-injury, trauma, somatic symptoms, and eating disorders (including ARFID). I welcome children/teens, couples, parents, and families from all backgrounds and strive for culturally responsive and attuned care. My interventions include mindfulness (relaxation and awareness) and focus on reducing distress and improving relationships, all delivered with warmth and humor.
In addition to my faculty and hospital-based roles, I have a private practice for children, adolescents, and adults. I am trained in evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT, and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, OCD, self-injury, trauma, somatic symptoms, and eating disorders (including ARFID). I welcome children/teens, couples, parents, and families from all backgrounds and strive for culturally responsive and attuned care. My interventions include mindfulness (relaxation and awareness) and focus on reducing distress and improving relationships, all delivered with warmth and humor.
(617) 600-5984 View (617) 600-5984
Photo of Alexandra Haney, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Alexandra Haney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
Treatment incorporates a variety of techniques, including CBT, DBT, stress management, hypnosis, and mindfulness.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of women and teenage girls. My goal is to provide a safe, trusting, and caring environment for each of my clients. I am compassionate and encouraging and know that sometimes people need to be challenged in order to take the risks that facilitate change. I have experience working with a wide range of issues, including perinatal mental health, anxiety, mood disorders, disordered eating, trauma, relational conflict, and general life adjustment difficulties.
Treatment incorporates a variety of techniques, including CBT, DBT, stress management, hypnosis, and mindfulness.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of women and teenage girls. My goal is to provide a safe, trusting, and caring environment for each of my clients. I am compassionate and encouraging and know that sometimes people need to be challenged in order to take the risks that facilitate change. I have experience working with a wide range of issues, including perinatal mental health, anxiety, mood disorders, disordered eating, trauma, relational conflict, and general life adjustment difficulties.
(617) 934-7516 View (617) 934-7516
Photo of Tita Wernimont, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Tita Wernimont, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
As an Accredited Certified EFT Tapping Practitioner, DBT, EMDR and Hypnotherapist , I enjoy meeting in-person, by phone, or videoconferencing to increase awareness/mindfulness, learn techniques to manage emotions and thoughts, affirm self-worth and choice, support the mind-body's natural healing mechanisms, and let go of limiting fears and beliefs.
For 29 years I have been helping people find ways to cope with stress, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I work with adults and seniors of many cultures, ethnicities, spiritual beliefs and sexual orientations to increase awareness/ mindfulness, develop strategies to manage emotions and thoughts, let go of limiting fears and beliefs, increase a sense of well-being, and experience the freedom to take positive action.
As an Accredited Certified EFT Tapping Practitioner, DBT, EMDR and Hypnotherapist , I enjoy meeting in-person, by phone, or videoconferencing to increase awareness/mindfulness, learn techniques to manage emotions and thoughts, affirm self-worth and choice, support the mind-body's natural healing mechanisms, and let go of limiting fears and beliefs.
For 29 years I have been helping people find ways to cope with stress, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I work with adults and seniors of many cultures, ethnicities, spiritual beliefs and sexual orientations to increase awareness/ mindfulness, develop strategies to manage emotions and thoughts, let go of limiting fears and beliefs, increase a sense of well-being, and experience the freedom to take positive action.
(857) 598-5385 View (857) 598-5385
Photo of Audrey Grubb, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Audrey Grubb
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
Whether you are seeking support for your child/teen, feeling overwhelmed with a life transition, or finding yourself worrying too much about different things, we can work together to create more balance in your life. Together we will explore unhelpful thoughts, patterns, and behaviors that are keeping you stuck and find new ways of coping with the challenges you are facing. I use a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy with elements of play therapy, CBT, DBT, and family-based treatment to support each client in their own journey.
Whether you are seeking support for your child/teen, feeling overwhelmed with a life transition, or finding yourself worrying too much about different things, we can work together to create more balance in your life. Together we will explore unhelpful thoughts, patterns, and behaviors that are keeping you stuck and find new ways of coping with the challenges you are facing. I use a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy with elements of play therapy, CBT, DBT, and family-based treatment to support each client in their own journey.
(857) 971-7788 View (857) 971-7788
Photo of Dr. Kristen Dreyfus, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Dr. Kristen Dreyfus
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
Though I draw from humanistic, psychodynamic and DBT modalities, in essence my approach is integrative, person-centered, and strength-based.
I see therapy as a place to practice courage and honesty, with the goal of creating more joy, humor, flexibility, and play in one's life, relationships, and work. I often see individuals dealing with complex issues such as depression, grief/loss, anxiety, recovery from trauma/abuse or neglect, postpartum or parenting issues, child emotional or behavioral concerns, relationship conflicts, or identity/life transitions. My approach is collaborative, empathic, and interactive, creating an environment in which to help you better understand, relate to, and address the challenges you are experiencing.
Though I draw from humanistic, psychodynamic and DBT modalities, in essence my approach is integrative, person-centered, and strength-based.
I see therapy as a place to practice courage and honesty, with the goal of creating more joy, humor, flexibility, and play in one's life, relationships, and work. I often see individuals dealing with complex issues such as depression, grief/loss, anxiety, recovery from trauma/abuse or neglect, postpartum or parenting issues, child emotional or behavioral concerns, relationship conflicts, or identity/life transitions. My approach is collaborative, empathic, and interactive, creating an environment in which to help you better understand, relate to, and address the challenges you are experiencing.
(857) 226-8704 View (857) 226-8704
Photo of Sarah L. Darghouth, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Sarah L. Darghouth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Update 4/15/24: I have an every other week virtual opening. I am a clinical psychologist, staff psychologist the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, with a small private practice in Brookline. I provide cognitive-behavioral therapy(CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and psychodynamic therapy. I use skills training where it can be helpful. I work on tailoring my approach to patients' specific needs, and take on a pragmatic, engaged role in the therapy process. Please note- I am not in network with insurance but can provide claim forms.
Update 4/15/24: I have an every other week virtual opening. I am a clinical psychologist, staff psychologist the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, with a small private practice in Brookline. I provide cognitive-behavioral therapy(CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and psychodynamic therapy. I use skills training where it can be helpful. I work on tailoring my approach to patients' specific needs, and take on a pragmatic, engaged role in the therapy process. Please note- I am not in network with insurance but can provide claim forms.
(857) 382-3089 View (857) 382-3089
Photo of Michael Schonberg, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Michael Schonberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
I integrate treatments that fall under the umbrella of CBT including DBT, mindfulness, & ACT.
Change is hard, but less so with help. I hope I can be your guide through the change process. I am a clinical psychologist trained in CBT. I have a faculty appointment at Harvard Medical School and am on staff in the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital. I run a private practice on Sunday mornings and have intermittent availability during the rest of the week. I am comfortable providing treatment in an individual or family context, whichever better fits your needs. I am results driven, but also warm and sensitive.
I integrate treatments that fall under the umbrella of CBT including DBT, mindfulness, & ACT.
Change is hard, but less so with help. I hope I can be your guide through the change process. I am a clinical psychologist trained in CBT. I have a faculty appointment at Harvard Medical School and am on staff in the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital. I run a private practice on Sunday mornings and have intermittent availability during the rest of the week. I am comfortable providing treatment in an individual or family context, whichever better fits your needs. I am results driven, but also warm and sensitive.
(412) 419-2743 View (412) 419-2743
Photo of Laura Ferrer PhD & Associates, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Laura Ferrer PhD & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
We are a group of Clinical and Health Psychologists, offering individual, couple and family care live (in Boston) and online throughout the US and Europe. We meet our clients where they are -including students, new parents, busy entrepreneurs, professionals transitioning into new leadership or retirement, persons coping with an illness, and more- with therapy including CBT, DBT, ACT, and Interpersonal/Existential modes, and Coaching for health and life transitions. Our diverse team offers care in several languages and modalities.
We are a group of Clinical and Health Psychologists, offering individual, couple and family care live (in Boston) and online throughout the US and Europe. We meet our clients where they are -including students, new parents, busy entrepreneurs, professionals transitioning into new leadership or retirement, persons coping with an illness, and more- with therapy including CBT, DBT, ACT, and Interpersonal/Existential modes, and Coaching for health and life transitions. Our diverse team offers care in several languages and modalities.
(781) 222-4409 View (781) 222-4409
Photo of Jackie Wolfman, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Jackie Wolfman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I'm currently taking new clients for individual therapy, DBT groups, and anxiety groups. I'm a warm, engaged, compassionate therapist, and I enjoy working with people to increase self-compassion, stop harmful behaviors and self-sabotage, and build healthy and fulfilling relationships. In addition to my private practice, I'm a Clinical Associate at McLean Hospital and on the faculty of the Harvard Medical School Department of Psychiatry. I'm a DBT certified clinician by the DBT-Linehan Board of Certification.
I'm currently taking new clients for individual therapy, DBT groups, and anxiety groups. I'm a warm, engaged, compassionate therapist, and I enjoy working with people to increase self-compassion, stop harmful behaviors and self-sabotage, and build healthy and fulfilling relationships. In addition to my private practice, I'm a Clinical Associate at McLean Hospital and on the faculty of the Harvard Medical School Department of Psychiatry. I'm a DBT certified clinician by the DBT-Linehan Board of Certification.
(617) 401-0352 View (617) 401-0352
Photo of Skylar Jungers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brookline, MA
Skylar Jungers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
I often use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles into my work.
My goal in therapy is to use empathy, humor, and openness to create a space where you feel safe to express yourself without judgement, accepted for all that you are, and ready to process your experiences with someone who values your wellbeing! My passion lies in working with adolescents, teens, and young adults seeking to work through issues of anxiety, identity development, stress, family conflict, school issues, relationships, transitions, and self-esteem. I also have several years of experience helping athletes with common performance issues such as confidence, focus, motivation, and overcoming injury to perform at their best!
I often use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles into my work.
My goal in therapy is to use empathy, humor, and openness to create a space where you feel safe to express yourself without judgement, accepted for all that you are, and ready to process your experiences with someone who values your wellbeing! My passion lies in working with adolescents, teens, and young adults seeking to work through issues of anxiety, identity development, stress, family conflict, school issues, relationships, transitions, and self-esteem. I also have several years of experience helping athletes with common performance issues such as confidence, focus, motivation, and overcoming injury to perform at their best!
(617) 766-0879 View (617) 766-0879
Photo of Kelsey Flynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Kelsey Flynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
She practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, self-compassion techniques, motivational interviewing, and play therapy techniques.
Kelsey Flynn is a compassionate, dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over three years of experience working with children, teens, and adults. Kelsey works with individuals and families who are experiencing a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship conflicts, anger, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
She practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, self-compassion techniques, motivational interviewing, and play therapy techniques.
Kelsey Flynn is a compassionate, dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over three years of experience working with children, teens, and adults. Kelsey works with individuals and families who are experiencing a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship conflicts, anger, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
(857) 420-7040 View (857) 420-7040
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.