Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Northville, MI

Photo of Holly Gruber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northville, MI
Holly Gruber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167
I have worked with diverse populations and have specializations/experience with substance use counseling & disorders, CBT, and DBT.
I love working with individuals who are willing to challenge themselves and their previous beliefs. Someone who is willing to stay humble and admit when things don't go to plan. Each individual is so incredibly unique, that it is important to understand that therapy and healing is not a "one-size-fits-all" kind of deal. Healing takes time, has ups and downs, and is far from a linear process. My ideal client would be someone who desires to try new treatment approaches that connect their mind to their body and be committed to growth outside of the therapeutic setting.
I have worked with diverse populations and have specializations/experience with substance use counseling & disorders, CBT, and DBT.
I love working with individuals who are willing to challenge themselves and their previous beliefs. Someone who is willing to stay humble and admit when things don't go to plan. Each individual is so incredibly unique, that it is important to understand that therapy and healing is not a "one-size-fits-all" kind of deal. Healing takes time, has ups and downs, and is far from a linear process. My ideal client would be someone who desires to try new treatment approaches that connect their mind to their body and be committed to growth outside of the therapeutic setting.
(248) 629-1443 View (248) 629-1443
Photo of Rebecca Williamsen, Counselor in Northville, MI
Rebecca Williamsen
Counselor, MA-LLC, CTRS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167
I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and believe in a client-centered approach, which means everything we do together will be tailored to help YOU feel competent, successful, and fulfilled.
Whether you are working to manage anxiety or depression, navigating difficult conversations with a partner, boss, or loved one, struggling with addiction, or processing emotions related to any of these and more, it is not something you need to do alone; I would love to be there to support you.
I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and believe in a client-centered approach, which means everything we do together will be tailored to help YOU feel competent, successful, and fulfilled.
Whether you are working to manage anxiety or depression, navigating difficult conversations with a partner, boss, or loved one, struggling with addiction, or processing emotions related to any of these and more, it is not something you need to do alone; I would love to be there to support you.
(734) 338-7172 View (734) 338-7172
Photo of Jessica Gardiner, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Northville, MI
Jessica Gardiner
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167  (Online Only)
In sessions I utilize a variety of approaches such as CBT, DBT, humanistic, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed therapy.
Everyone deserves this chance to better themselves and relieve the burden that mental health issues can bring to our daily lives. There are many reasons people seek therapy. There could be feelings of nervousness or sadness, or an urge to finally get what's bothering you off your chest. No matter what it is, therapy brings out the best in you, and may surprise you. I've interacted with many clients who come in for one problem, and then discover hidden pieces of themselves.
In sessions I utilize a variety of approaches such as CBT, DBT, humanistic, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed therapy.
Everyone deserves this chance to better themselves and relieve the burden that mental health issues can bring to our daily lives. There are many reasons people seek therapy. There could be feelings of nervousness or sadness, or an urge to finally get what's bothering you off your chest. No matter what it is, therapy brings out the best in you, and may surprise you. I've interacted with many clients who come in for one problem, and then discover hidden pieces of themselves.
(734) 849-3971 View (734) 849-3971
Ryan Pecsenye
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167
I have training in behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
My focus is on an individuals needs and goals for the future. I am motivated to help one make effective changes for their future while resolving the past by working on the present. I am optimistic that we can work together in order to find an appropriate and effective approach to your current goals.
I have training in behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
My focus is on an individuals needs and goals for the future. I am motivated to help one make effective changes for their future while resolving the past by working on the present. I am optimistic that we can work together in order to find an appropriate and effective approach to your current goals.
(734) 404-7570 View (734) 404-7570
Photo of McCaskill Family Services, Psychologist in Northville, MI
McCaskill Family Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48168
We offer private, confidential psychological evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. We specialize in comprehensive evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy, couples counseling, parent coaching, ADHD coaching, eating disorders, tics/tourettes, DBT, CBT, toilet training, school refusal, agressive behavior, cutting, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, exposure therapy, dietitian services, group services, equine-assited therapy and advocating for children in the educational setting. We also run various groups throughout the year for different age groups and issues.
We offer private, confidential psychological evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. We specialize in comprehensive evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy, couples counseling, parent coaching, ADHD coaching, eating disorders, tics/tourettes, DBT, CBT, toilet training, school refusal, agressive behavior, cutting, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, exposure therapy, dietitian services, group services, equine-assited therapy and advocating for children in the educational setting. We also run various groups throughout the year for different age groups and issues.
(734) 385-2823 View (734) 385-2823
Photo of Karen Laing, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Northville, MI
Karen Laing
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167
Evidence Based Interventions used in my practice include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness.
As a therapist, I am a guide and facilitator who supports clients by listening, asking questions and offering tools and processes tailored to the client's unique needs and circumstances. Client come to therapy for a variety of reasons including relationship conflict, family issues, grief and loss, coping skills and life transitions. My role is to create a safe and welcoming place for client's that is accepting, non judgmental and calming. Through mindful communication, clients can find the path forward that is consistent with their values, beliefs and goals.
Evidence Based Interventions used in my practice include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness.
As a therapist, I am a guide and facilitator who supports clients by listening, asking questions and offering tools and processes tailored to the client's unique needs and circumstances. Client come to therapy for a variety of reasons including relationship conflict, family issues, grief and loss, coping skills and life transitions. My role is to create a safe and welcoming place for client's that is accepting, non judgmental and calming. Through mindful communication, clients can find the path forward that is consistent with their values, beliefs and goals.
(248) 331-8514 View (248) 331-8514
Photo of George Khamis, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Northville, MI
George Khamis
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167  (Online Only)
I utilize a wide variety of evidenced-based treatments alongside holistic interventions tailored to the individual or family to help them get from where they are to where they want to be. I work with my clients to accomplish this change by first addressing foundational basics of mental health, working together to address underlying stressors and trauma, and implementing life-changing daily practices to achieve a greater level of functioning. I offer an integrative approach utilizing CBT, ACT, DBT, polyvagal exercises, Somatic Experiencing, attachment-based neuro-affirmative care, person-centered therapy, and psychodynamic theory.
I utilize a wide variety of evidenced-based treatments alongside holistic interventions tailored to the individual or family to help them get from where they are to where they want to be. I work with my clients to accomplish this change by first addressing foundational basics of mental health, working together to address underlying stressors and trauma, and implementing life-changing daily practices to achieve a greater level of functioning. I offer an integrative approach utilizing CBT, ACT, DBT, polyvagal exercises, Somatic Experiencing, attachment-based neuro-affirmative care, person-centered therapy, and psychodynamic theory.
(734) 215-9550 View (734) 215-9550
Photo of Asha Ravindran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northville, MI
Asha Ravindran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167  (Online Only)
Do you feel lonely, sad or confused about things that are going on in your life? There is help, every problem has a solution. I use a person-centered approach which means creating an individualized and evidence -based treatment plan and intervention to meet your goals. I will support you in your healing and growth. You can call me for an informal chat to see if I can help you. I am also a trained yoga teacher and take an integrative approach to dealing with difficult times and emotions. I hold certifications in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) , Dialectical behavioral therapy(DBT) and certification in trauma based care .
Do you feel lonely, sad or confused about things that are going on in your life? There is help, every problem has a solution. I use a person-centered approach which means creating an individualized and evidence -based treatment plan and intervention to meet your goals. I will support you in your healing and growth. You can call me for an informal chat to see if I can help you. I am also a trained yoga teacher and take an integrative approach to dealing with difficult times and emotions. I hold certifications in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) , Dialectical behavioral therapy(DBT) and certification in trauma based care .
(248) 916-0230 View (248) 916-0230
Photo of Emily Zimmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northville, MI
Emily Zimmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
Emily utilizes a relational approach to therapy with multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques.
Emily Zimmer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience working in the mental health care system. Emily has a passion for helping those who have been through trauma—helping them to see the hope and the future on the other side of the pain. Emily specializes in PTSD and complex PTSD, treatment for OCD behaviors, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Having ADHD herself, Emily has taken what she has learned and applied in her own life and used it to help others who are struggling to make their ADHD work better for them. Emily completed her Master of Social Work at the University of New England.
Emily utilizes a relational approach to therapy with multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques.
Emily Zimmer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience working in the mental health care system. Emily has a passion for helping those who have been through trauma—helping them to see the hope and the future on the other side of the pain. Emily specializes in PTSD and complex PTSD, treatment for OCD behaviors, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Having ADHD herself, Emily has taken what she has learned and applied in her own life and used it to help others who are struggling to make their ADHD work better for them. Emily completed her Master of Social Work at the University of New England.
(734) 888-9296 View (734) 888-9296
Photo of Fadra Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northville, MI
Fadra Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
I provide DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) as well as Trauma/Trauma Exposure Therapy and mainly work with adolescents and young adults.
Clients who come to see me typically struggle with the following symptoms/behaviors/presenting issues: frequent mood swings, intense/extreme emotions, fear of abandonment, chronic feelings of emptiness, SI/SIB behaviors/urges, family conflict, poor communication skills, impulsivity, and much more. Common diagnosis' that I treat are Borderline Personality Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, and Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. I work with my clients on decreasing target behaviors (or unhealthy/unwanted behaviors), communicating effectively with others, and healing from trauma.
I provide DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) as well as Trauma/Trauma Exposure Therapy and mainly work with adolescents and young adults.
Clients who come to see me typically struggle with the following symptoms/behaviors/presenting issues: frequent mood swings, intense/extreme emotions, fear of abandonment, chronic feelings of emptiness, SI/SIB behaviors/urges, family conflict, poor communication skills, impulsivity, and much more. Common diagnosis' that I treat are Borderline Personality Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, and Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. I work with my clients on decreasing target behaviors (or unhealthy/unwanted behaviors), communicating effectively with others, and healing from trauma.
(734) 275-3642 View (734) 275-3642
Photo of Nicole Wassel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northville, MI
Nicole Wassel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167
I use interventions based on the principles of DBT, strengths perspective, CBT, mindfulness, and ACT.
Our experiences do not define us, it’s what we do with them that matters most! Over the last 20 years I have had the privilege of working with some amazing people and families. People who have bravely been willing to address the uncomfortable. Whether these challenges were externally caused, or inherently part of us, there was hope. One of the only things we are guaranteed is change, it is this understanding that fuels my investment in working with people on their journey of personal growth. In an environment of safety, validation, authenticity and respect, empowerment grows. Let’s see about growing hope in the acceptance of change.
I use interventions based on the principles of DBT, strengths perspective, CBT, mindfulness, and ACT.
Our experiences do not define us, it’s what we do with them that matters most! Over the last 20 years I have had the privilege of working with some amazing people and families. People who have bravely been willing to address the uncomfortable. Whether these challenges were externally caused, or inherently part of us, there was hope. One of the only things we are guaranteed is change, it is this understanding that fuels my investment in working with people on their journey of personal growth. In an environment of safety, validation, authenticity and respect, empowerment grows. Let’s see about growing hope in the acceptance of change.
(833) 581-9845 View (833) 581-9845
Photo of Alexandra Bushway, Pre-Licensed Professional in Northville, MI
Alexandra Bushway
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167
We might discuss completing trauma processing, DBT, CBT, mindfulness, mind-body therapy, or a combination of multiple therapies.
Sometimes every step you take feels like its own battle. As a trauma survivor, you might not know why it feels so much harder for you than other people. When you’re trying to move forward in your life and you feel stuck, it can be so tempting to think things like “I should be over this” or “Other people handle this so much better than I can,” without acknowledging how far you have come, or maybe even taking the time to really process where you have been. That’s where I come in.
We might discuss completing trauma processing, DBT, CBT, mindfulness, mind-body therapy, or a combination of multiple therapies.
Sometimes every step you take feels like its own battle. As a trauma survivor, you might not know why it feels so much harder for you than other people. When you’re trying to move forward in your life and you feel stuck, it can be so tempting to think things like “I should be over this” or “Other people handle this so much better than I can,” without acknowledging how far you have come, or maybe even taking the time to really process where you have been. That’s where I come in.
(248) 988-9473 View (248) 988-9473
Photo of Nancy Prisby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northville, MI
Nancy Prisby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48168
Modalities I use include CBT, DBT, IFS, strengths-based approach, and trauma-informed interventions.
Therapy can help you to bounce back and gain strength. Your emotional well-being is directly related to your quality of life and those around you. It’s a gift to yourself that has a ripple effect. We’ll work together to cultivate strengths, solve problems, & bring out the best qualities that are always there but sometimes get lost in the struggles. I believe it is important as your therapist to listen and be present. This is your time to increase self-awareness, learn new strategies and heal. Examples of what we work on include boundaries, communication, personal growth, and a new relationship with parts of you that feel stuck.
Modalities I use include CBT, DBT, IFS, strengths-based approach, and trauma-informed interventions.
Therapy can help you to bounce back and gain strength. Your emotional well-being is directly related to your quality of life and those around you. It’s a gift to yourself that has a ripple effect. We’ll work together to cultivate strengths, solve problems, & bring out the best qualities that are always there but sometimes get lost in the struggles. I believe it is important as your therapist to listen and be present. This is your time to increase self-awareness, learn new strategies and heal. Examples of what we work on include boundaries, communication, personal growth, and a new relationship with parts of you that feel stuck.
(248) 516-0580 View (248) 516-0580
Photo of Bluebird Child & Family Psychology, Psychologist in Northville, MI
Bluebird Child & Family Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167  (Online Only)
Welcome to Bluebird! We are an interdisciplinary practice of pediatric behavioral health clinicians who specialize in child, adolescent, and young adult developmental processes and are passionate about supporting your family's wellbeing. We know that it can feel overwhelming for parents to identify the best approach to care for your child's stress, sadness, and other adjustment challenges. You don't have to figure it out alone-our crew at Bluebird will have your back every step of the way. Some of our specialized services include individual pediatric & family therapy, caregiver coaching, DBT Skills Training, and school advocacy.
Welcome to Bluebird! We are an interdisciplinary practice of pediatric behavioral health clinicians who specialize in child, adolescent, and young adult developmental processes and are passionate about supporting your family's wellbeing. We know that it can feel overwhelming for parents to identify the best approach to care for your child's stress, sadness, and other adjustment challenges. You don't have to figure it out alone-our crew at Bluebird will have your back every step of the way. Some of our specialized services include individual pediatric & family therapy, caregiver coaching, DBT Skills Training, and school advocacy.
(734) 456-6528 View (734) 456-6528
Photo of Collette Richards, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northville, MI
Collette Richards, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167
If life is handing you more than you can handle alone, I'd love to be able to support and guide you while you find your way. Life is complicated, so let's keep therapy simple. It's helpful to use a strength based approach which utilizes your strengths to promote effective coping skills to work through issues. I use the following modalities in sessions, depending on what would best meet your needs: Solution Focused Brief Therapy (finding exceptions and strength assessment) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (awareness, managing emotions, self-esteem and distress tolerance).
If life is handing you more than you can handle alone, I'd love to be able to support and guide you while you find your way. Life is complicated, so let's keep therapy simple. It's helpful to use a strength based approach which utilizes your strengths to promote effective coping skills to work through issues. I use the following modalities in sessions, depending on what would best meet your needs: Solution Focused Brief Therapy (finding exceptions and strength assessment) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (awareness, managing emotions, self-esteem and distress tolerance).
(313) 217-9209 View (313) 217-9209
Photo of Simply Mindful Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northville, MI
Simply Mindful Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, LLP, LLMSW, NP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167
Our therapists utilize treatment methods including psychodynamic therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR and so much more.
We focus is on providing mental health care that is thoughtful, attentive and individualized to your unique needs. We use evidence-based treatment methods that incorporate the mind and body to foster happiness, wholeness, and authentic living. Making mindful changes to self-defeating behavior, challenging negative narratives and learning how to cope with difficult feelings opens you up to life-altering results. Our therapists at Simply Mindful Counseling will join with you to help simplify your journey and to support you in finding your true path. The hardest part is making the decision to embark on the therapeutic journey.
Our therapists utilize treatment methods including psychodynamic therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR and so much more.
We focus is on providing mental health care that is thoughtful, attentive and individualized to your unique needs. We use evidence-based treatment methods that incorporate the mind and body to foster happiness, wholeness, and authentic living. Making mindful changes to self-defeating behavior, challenging negative narratives and learning how to cope with difficult feelings opens you up to life-altering results. Our therapists at Simply Mindful Counseling will join with you to help simplify your journey and to support you in finding your true path. The hardest part is making the decision to embark on the therapeutic journey.
(734) 206-7271 View (734) 206-7271
Photo of Pamela Manela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northville, MI
Pamela Manela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CM, LMFT, ACSW, BCD, SSW
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
Asking for therapy is not easy, but it is a sign of strength that I support.My practice is client-centered, based on a systems approach & family-of-origin themes/issues. I focus on helping my clients to find solutions to their emotional challenges and to work through transitions, crises, trauma & adjustments so they can develop & enhance their behavioral health. I avoid "cookbook" approaches, and use evidence & strength-based psychotherapy & counseling to guide adults, youth, families & couples to achieve their own positive solutions.I enjoy helping young adults, teens, & other helping professionals/educators deal with life stressors effectively.
Asking for therapy is not easy, but it is a sign of strength that I support.My practice is client-centered, based on a systems approach & family-of-origin themes/issues. I focus on helping my clients to find solutions to their emotional challenges and to work through transitions, crises, trauma & adjustments so they can develop & enhance their behavioral health. I avoid "cookbook" approaches, and use evidence & strength-based psychotherapy & counseling to guide adults, youth, families & couples to achieve their own positive solutions.I enjoy helping young adults, teens, & other helping professionals/educators deal with life stressors effectively.
(248) 997-4137 View (248) 997-4137
Photo of Michael Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northville, MI
Michael Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48168
Are you struggling in some way, and need to talk to someone? Do you feel stuck? Do you want a safe space to be yourself? Are you looking for support in an area of your life? I want to empower you and help tap into your strengths, so that together we can aid you in making your desired changes in your life.
Are you struggling in some way, and need to talk to someone? Do you feel stuck? Do you want a safe space to be yourself? Are you looking for support in an area of your life? I want to empower you and help tap into your strengths, so that together we can aid you in making your desired changes in your life.
(248) 665-8437 View (248) 665-8437
Photo of Amber Mazza Cunnings, Marriage & Family Therapist in Northville, MI
Amber Mazza Cunnings
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48168
"Will life ever feel easy again?" You can't help but wonder, as all of those memories you try to keep in the dark sabotage you once more. You try to smile and move forward, to keep the past in the past. Unfortunately, the pain of what happened always returns. In spite of it all, your courage to move towards healing is there- you just don't know how to begin. You need someone that knows how this darkness feels to help you figure this out. Someone who can help unravel all these burdens in your heart and give you back your confidence. Because deep down you’re worth more than this. You've always been worth more than this.
"Will life ever feel easy again?" You can't help but wonder, as all of those memories you try to keep in the dark sabotage you once more. You try to smile and move forward, to keep the past in the past. Unfortunately, the pain of what happened always returns. In spite of it all, your courage to move towards healing is there- you just don't know how to begin. You need someone that knows how this darkness feels to help you figure this out. Someone who can help unravel all these burdens in your heart and give you back your confidence. Because deep down you’re worth more than this. You've always been worth more than this.
(248) 247-7768 View (248) 247-7768
Photo of Stephanie Huhn, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Northville, MI
Stephanie Huhn
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA LLP , CAADC, ACCTS, CBIS, CCM
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
I’m a masters-level fully licensed therapist with over 10yrs of experience - with a passion for helping the individuals I work with heal, grow & thrive as their authentic selves. I specialize in women’s issues, PTSD, complex trauma, childhood & generational trauma, codependency issues, addiction, self-esteem issues & anxiety disorders. I have a holistic & eclectic approach, using an array of evidenced-based techniques to help you meet your goals. I deeply value the process of therapy, both personally & professionally. “Mental health issues,” as we call them, are really just “life issues” – they define what it means to be human.
I’m a masters-level fully licensed therapist with over 10yrs of experience - with a passion for helping the individuals I work with heal, grow & thrive as their authentic selves. I specialize in women’s issues, PTSD, complex trauma, childhood & generational trauma, codependency issues, addiction, self-esteem issues & anxiety disorders. I have a holistic & eclectic approach, using an array of evidenced-based techniques to help you meet your goals. I deeply value the process of therapy, both personally & professionally. “Mental health issues,” as we call them, are really just “life issues” – they define what it means to be human.
(734) 215-9896 View (734) 215-9896
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.