Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Shakopee, MN

Photo of Southbridge Counseling Associates, Counselor in Shakopee, MN
Southbridge Counseling Associates
Counselor, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shakopee, MN 55379
We are a general mental health clinic specializing in DBT. Clients learn techniques on mindfulness, breathe awareness and visualization to name but a few. We run our DBT Program per Marsha Linehan's model, Including the components of: Skills Training Classes, Coaching Calls, Individual Therapy, Consultation and Up to Date Training. We also provide services one-to-one, addressing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions. We work with as couples and families clients as young as 10 and as old as 80+. Currently we are building programming around grief/loss and anxiety.
We are a general mental health clinic specializing in DBT. Clients learn techniques on mindfulness, breathe awareness and visualization to name but a few. We run our DBT Program per Marsha Linehan's model, Including the components of: Skills Training Classes, Coaching Calls, Individual Therapy, Consultation and Up to Date Training. We also provide services one-to-one, addressing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions. We work with as couples and families clients as young as 10 and as old as 80+. Currently we are building programming around grief/loss and anxiety.
(952) 236-1743 View (952) 236-1743
Photo of Kay L Nordgren, Counselor in Shakopee, MN
Kay L Nordgren
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shakopee, MN 55379  (Online Only)
I most often combine relational talk therapy, with a coaching approach, then I sprinkle in awesome techniques and then add in some skills development (CBT & DBT).
Are you feeling zapped out from worry, stress or negative thoughts? Do you need to work on better boundaries, trigger areas, and improved self care to save yourself time and energy? Is trauma, depression, stress, or anxiety triggering you or getting you into fight or flight mode? Are you feeling sad from a death or a break up? Therapy can help you be more aware, discerned, authentic, calm, healed, eased, less negativity, having better boundaries, be less triggered, take things less personally, more personal power, better self care and having healthier connections.
I most often combine relational talk therapy, with a coaching approach, then I sprinkle in awesome techniques and then add in some skills development (CBT & DBT).
Are you feeling zapped out from worry, stress or negative thoughts? Do you need to work on better boundaries, trigger areas, and improved self care to save yourself time and energy? Is trauma, depression, stress, or anxiety triggering you or getting you into fight or flight mode? Are you feeling sad from a death or a break up? Therapy can help you be more aware, discerned, authentic, calm, healed, eased, less negativity, having better boundaries, be less triggered, take things less personally, more personal power, better self care and having healthier connections.
(952) 955-6730 View (952) 955-6730
BHSI - Shakopee
Marriage & Family Therapist, BHSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shakopee, MN 55379
We are a group of psychologists, psychaitrists and marriage-family therapists committed to providing high quality and comprehensive care for adults, adolescents and children. Whether you arrange individualy therapy, family therapy, meetings with a psychaitrist to discuss medication options, or psychological testing to better understand the problem, our fully licensed and credentialed clinicians can coordinate all of these services under one roof. When you visit a BHSI clinic, you can always expect skilled and compassionate treatment and strict confidentiality. For your convenience, we offer flexible appointment scheduling.
We are a group of psychologists, psychaitrists and marriage-family therapists committed to providing high quality and comprehensive care for adults, adolescents and children. Whether you arrange individualy therapy, family therapy, meetings with a psychaitrist to discuss medication options, or psychological testing to better understand the problem, our fully licensed and credentialed clinicians can coordinate all of these services under one roof. When you visit a BHSI clinic, you can always expect skilled and compassionate treatment and strict confidentiality. For your convenience, we offer flexible appointment scheduling.
(651) 760-5834 View (651) 760-5834
Photo of Stepping Stones Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shakopee, MN
Stepping Stones Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379
It is important to find the right therapist that you can trust. Congratulations for getting to this point in your life in seeking out the services to assist you in making a positive transition. My name is Cheryl and I am a LICSW and a LADC. Sometimes life hands you difficulties that can be overwhelming. These situations end up causing you to experience anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, fear or frustration. I believe that successful therapy stems from a positive therapeutic relationship. My process stimulates communication in a respectful, supportive and productive manner.
It is important to find the right therapist that you can trust. Congratulations for getting to this point in your life in seeking out the services to assist you in making a positive transition. My name is Cheryl and I am a LICSW and a LADC. Sometimes life hands you difficulties that can be overwhelming. These situations end up causing you to experience anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, fear or frustration. I believe that successful therapy stems from a positive therapeutic relationship. My process stimulates communication in a respectful, supportive and productive manner.
(507) 298-2125 View (507) 298-2125
Photo of Justine A Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Shakopee, MN
Justine A Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379
Are life's circumstances robbing your peace? I would like to encourage you to reclaim that integral part of yourself. I offer a safe environment where each therapy session will be an opportunity for your voice to be heard. The therapeutic process will include insight thereby working toward changing ineffective patterns hindering your "best life." I work to equip individuals, couples, families and children to communicate their story and explore resolution. I believe in holistic healing of the body, mind, and spirit. I am a faith-based therapist and Christian spirituality may be incorporated as a therapeutic intervention upon request.
Are life's circumstances robbing your peace? I would like to encourage you to reclaim that integral part of yourself. I offer a safe environment where each therapy session will be an opportunity for your voice to be heard. The therapeutic process will include insight thereby working toward changing ineffective patterns hindering your "best life." I work to equip individuals, couples, families and children to communicate their story and explore resolution. I believe in holistic healing of the body, mind, and spirit. I am a faith-based therapist and Christian spirituality may be incorporated as a therapeutic intervention upon request.
(952) 314-9209 View (952) 314-9209
Photo of Marbigail Therapy Services LLC. (English&Spanish), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shakopee, MN
Marbigail Therapy Services LLC. (English&Spanish)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379
Los Servicios estan disponibles en Espanol. El primer paso, ya lo tomo. Llamenos. It is not an easy thing to seek help, and whether you decide to call me or someone else, there is no wrong step in that. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key in treatment. I've had my share of struggles, and believe that life and professional experience has prepared me to provide you with creative and effective therapy. My approach is collaborative and empathic, I encourage trust and therapeutic relationship. I'd like to help you figure this out, achieve your goals, reach a healthier life, emotional stability, and a calm state of mind.
Los Servicios estan disponibles en Espanol. El primer paso, ya lo tomo. Llamenos. It is not an easy thing to seek help, and whether you decide to call me or someone else, there is no wrong step in that. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key in treatment. I've had my share of struggles, and believe that life and professional experience has prepared me to provide you with creative and effective therapy. My approach is collaborative and empathic, I encourage trust and therapeutic relationship. I'd like to help you figure this out, achieve your goals, reach a healthier life, emotional stability, and a calm state of mind.
(612) 260-1813 View (612) 260-1813
Photo of Nancy Pierson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Shakopee, MN
Nancy Pierson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shakopee, MN 55379
Nancy comes to All In Therapy Clinic with 20 years experience in the field. Needless to say, she definitely knows what she is talking about. And, when clients are open and willing, they can accomplish a ton. Nancy asks her clients to dig deep, open up, be vulnerable, and allow themselves to grow. And she creates a very warm and safe environment for her clients to do so. She really earns trust and takes that very seriously.
Nancy comes to All In Therapy Clinic with 20 years experience in the field. Needless to say, she definitely knows what she is talking about. And, when clients are open and willing, they can accomplish a ton. Nancy asks her clients to dig deep, open up, be vulnerable, and allow themselves to grow. And she creates a very warm and safe environment for her clients to do so. She really earns trust and takes that very seriously.
(952) 234-7640 View (952) 234-7640
Photo of Heather Petersen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Shakopee, MN
Heather Petersen
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shakopee, MN 55379
In the realm of mental health, my commitment is driven by my profound sense of empathy and compassion. It's my passion to support every individual in their discovery for a life enriched with fulfillment and well-being. I strive to create a space where individuals feel validated and understood. Witnessing their journey towards growth and transformation not only fuels my enthusiasm but also provides meaning in my own life. Together, we embark on a shared voyage of self-discovery, resilience, and holistic well-being, paving the way for enduring positive change.
In the realm of mental health, my commitment is driven by my profound sense of empathy and compassion. It's my passion to support every individual in their discovery for a life enriched with fulfillment and well-being. I strive to create a space where individuals feel validated and understood. Witnessing their journey towards growth and transformation not only fuels my enthusiasm but also provides meaning in my own life. Together, we embark on a shared voyage of self-discovery, resilience, and holistic well-being, paving the way for enduring positive change.
(952) 900-3460 View (952) 900-3460
Photo of Jeffrey Hansen, Psychologist in Shakopee, MN
Jeffrey Hansen
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, LADC
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379
I have had the opportunity of working with adolescents and adults for nearly 30 years in residential treatment centers, inpatient, outpatient, and forensic settings. I've provided services in: group, individual, and family formats. I am fortunate to witness the strength and courage of persons facing such severe and persistent presentations of mental illness. I continue with much hope for the future and whatever advances or progress awaits.
I have had the opportunity of working with adolescents and adults for nearly 30 years in residential treatment centers, inpatient, outpatient, and forensic settings. I've provided services in: group, individual, and family formats. I am fortunate to witness the strength and courage of persons facing such severe and persistent presentations of mental illness. I continue with much hope for the future and whatever advances or progress awaits.
(952) 522-6795 View (952) 522-6795
Photo of Abby Hough, Counselor in Shakopee, MN
Abby Hough
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379
Not accepting new clients
Life is hard, but we don't have to go through it alone. Whatever struggles you're currently experiencing, I'm here to help. I value the uniqueness of each person and their experience, and I understand that there isn't a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. You and I will partner to develop a trusting relationship that allows for growth, reflection, and change. I'll meet you where you're at, and give you a safe space to start exploring and creating a life you find worth living.
Life is hard, but we don't have to go through it alone. Whatever struggles you're currently experiencing, I'm here to help. I value the uniqueness of each person and their experience, and I understand that there isn't a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. You and I will partner to develop a trusting relationship that allows for growth, reflection, and change. I'll meet you where you're at, and give you a safe space to start exploring and creating a life you find worth living.
(952) 900-4831 View (952) 900-4831

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Heidi McNulty, Counselor in Shakopee, MN
Heidi McNulty
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prior Lake, MN 55372
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and AIR Network modalities.
The mission for healing at Inner Light Counseling is to help individuals feel reconnected to their core selves and their inner wisdom. Therapy at Inner Light Counseling can help if: it seems like your emotions or emotional responses are ruling your life and relationships rather than you leading the direction of your life; symptoms of PTSD, depression, or anxiety are making it challenging to live the life that you want; it feels like your inner voice is your worst critic, or, it feels like that voice is drowned out by critical messages you received from others on life’s journey. We can work together to help your inner wisdom lead.
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and AIR Network modalities.
The mission for healing at Inner Light Counseling is to help individuals feel reconnected to their core selves and their inner wisdom. Therapy at Inner Light Counseling can help if: it seems like your emotions or emotional responses are ruling your life and relationships rather than you leading the direction of your life; symptoms of PTSD, depression, or anxiety are making it challenging to live the life that you want; it feels like your inner voice is your worst critic, or, it feels like that voice is drowned out by critical messages you received from others on life’s journey. We can work together to help your inner wisdom lead.
(952) 900-5875 View (952) 900-5875
Photo of Cody Reinke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shakopee, MN
Cody Reinke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
An ideal client is one who is open to seeing that life can be different. In session I use systems theory and bring awareness to how the 'system' we are currently living in is creating more mental and internal strain which is disconnecting us from our authentic self. I use a blended style of modalities that help the individual heal the wounds that have resulted from life. I blend mindfulness based interventions with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, IFS, polyvagal theory, CBT, DBT, and attachment theory to help individuals find the solutions that exist inside themselves.
An ideal client is one who is open to seeing that life can be different. In session I use systems theory and bring awareness to how the 'system' we are currently living in is creating more mental and internal strain which is disconnecting us from our authentic self. I use a blended style of modalities that help the individual heal the wounds that have resulted from life. I blend mindfulness based interventions with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, IFS, polyvagal theory, CBT, DBT, and attachment theory to help individuals find the solutions that exist inside themselves.
(952) 243-3929 View (952) 243-3929
Photo of Mel Day, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shakopee, MN
Mel Day
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prior Lake, MN 55372
I have experience working with clients through a range of therapeutic modalities, including DBT, EMDR, Attachment Theory, and Trauma-informed frameworks.
Tired of Educating Your Therapist on Your Gender and Sexuality? Do you feel like you've been trained to hide parts of yourself and conform to societal expectations? Have you lost sight of what you truly want after pleasing others for so long? Therapy should be a place to embrace and affirm your authenticity, not educate or conform to your therapist. If you're neurodivergent, struggling with anxiety or depression, or dealing with challenges related to your gender and sexual identities, I provide a safe, affirming space for you to process your emotions and gain insights into your true self.
I have experience working with clients through a range of therapeutic modalities, including DBT, EMDR, Attachment Theory, and Trauma-informed frameworks.
Tired of Educating Your Therapist on Your Gender and Sexuality? Do you feel like you've been trained to hide parts of yourself and conform to societal expectations? Have you lost sight of what you truly want after pleasing others for so long? Therapy should be a place to embrace and affirm your authenticity, not educate or conform to your therapist. If you're neurodivergent, struggling with anxiety or depression, or dealing with challenges related to your gender and sexual identities, I provide a safe, affirming space for you to process your emotions and gain insights into your true self.
(952) 592-1722 View (952) 592-1722
Photo of Elizabeth Silkey, Counselor in Shakopee, MN
Elizabeth Silkey
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I received my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of St. Thomas in 2011. I work with children, teens, women, couples, and families. I enjoy helping people with a variety of topics, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, parent-teen conflicts, spiritual issues, and women's issues. I am DBT-trained, EMDR-certified, and I also use CBT. I take a collaborative approach with clients and integrate faith into counseling when desired. I also specialize in treating Third-Culture Kids (TCKs), as this is part of my personal experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I received my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of St. Thomas in 2011. I work with children, teens, women, couples, and families. I enjoy helping people with a variety of topics, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, parent-teen conflicts, spiritual issues, and women's issues. I am DBT-trained, EMDR-certified, and I also use CBT. I take a collaborative approach with clients and integrate faith into counseling when desired. I also specialize in treating Third-Culture Kids (TCKs), as this is part of my personal experience.
(952) 295-4671 View (952) 295-4671
Photo of Pam Schinigoi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shakopee, MN
Pam Schinigoi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
“I believe that building a solid client-therapist partnership is key to developing the safety and trust needed to overcome the major life challenges that impact mental health. In therapy I incorporate that philosophy with strengths, systems, and solutions-focused perspectives and DBT, CBT, CPT, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches customized to meet the unique needs of each client. As a lifelong learner, I believe that we’re all on this journey of life together and am passionate about helping my clients navigate their personal life’s journey.”
“I believe that building a solid client-therapist partnership is key to developing the safety and trust needed to overcome the major life challenges that impact mental health. In therapy I incorporate that philosophy with strengths, systems, and solutions-focused perspectives and DBT, CBT, CPT, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches customized to meet the unique needs of each client. As a lifelong learner, I believe that we’re all on this journey of life together and am passionate about helping my clients navigate their personal life’s journey.”
(952) 314-4090 View (952) 314-4090
Photo of Kristin Kelly Steady, Pre-Licensed Professional in Shakopee, MN
Kristin Kelly Steady
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Prior Lake, MN 55372
While CBT, DBT, and Gottman are the approaches I primarily rely on, I utilize an eclectic variety to better suit my client's needs.
My clients are individuals working to overcome many of life's challenges who may have slowly strayed from their path or become stuck in a behavior pattern that isn't serving them. Everyday trials that result in loss of self-confidence, happiness, meaning, and resilience are the struggles I help with. I assist my clients by prioritizing their needs and empowering them to use their strengths to accomplish their goals. I provide an emotionally safe environment to help facilitate exploration of the past, create peace for the present, and hope for the future.
While CBT, DBT, and Gottman are the approaches I primarily rely on, I utilize an eclectic variety to better suit my client's needs.
My clients are individuals working to overcome many of life's challenges who may have slowly strayed from their path or become stuck in a behavior pattern that isn't serving them. Everyday trials that result in loss of self-confidence, happiness, meaning, and resilience are the struggles I help with. I assist my clients by prioritizing their needs and empowering them to use their strengths to accomplish their goals. I provide an emotionally safe environment to help facilitate exploration of the past, create peace for the present, and hope for the future.
(952) 592-9860 View (952) 592-9860
Photo of Jenny Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Shakopee, MN
Jenny Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Jenny has experience with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief counseling, life transitions, marital counseling, woman's issues, LGBTQ issues, multi ethnic counseling, co-parenting/blended family issues, divorce issues, and job related distress, She integrates Strength Based, Narrative, CBT, DBT, Experiential, Milan Systemic & Solution Focused Therapies.
Currently accepting new clients; individuals and couples. Hi, I'm Jenny Johnson a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and MFT Board Approved Supervisor. I am a collaborative, eclectic, and strength-based therapist with over ten years of extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families in English and Spanish. My philosophy on therapy is simple in nature. Humbly, you are the expert of your own life. Together, using your strengths and my training, we will find ways to process your past experiences and find tools to lead your best and balanced life!
Jenny has experience with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief counseling, life transitions, marital counseling, woman's issues, LGBTQ issues, multi ethnic counseling, co-parenting/blended family issues, divorce issues, and job related distress, She integrates Strength Based, Narrative, CBT, DBT, Experiential, Milan Systemic & Solution Focused Therapies.
Currently accepting new clients; individuals and couples. Hi, I'm Jenny Johnson a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and MFT Board Approved Supervisor. I am a collaborative, eclectic, and strength-based therapist with over ten years of extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families in English and Spanish. My philosophy on therapy is simple in nature. Humbly, you are the expert of your own life. Together, using your strengths and my training, we will find ways to process your past experiences and find tools to lead your best and balanced life!
(763) 373-5325 View (763) 373-5325
Photo of Thomas R. Tucker, MSW, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shakopee, MN
Thomas R. Tucker, MSW, PhD, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Incidents from your past may interfere with your present life. A moment may trigger vivid memories, painful feelings, and intrusive negative thoughts. Your coping strategies may seem insufficient, and at times you may feel stuck with intense emotions and rumination. My specialty is helping people to heal from the impact of past adversity and trauma. I believe that everyone has within them innate capacities to heal and grow, and to discover and develop their inner strengths and wisdom. I have advanced training and expertise in evidence-based methods (EMDR, DBT, and Somatic Therapy) that can help you to recover from the past.
Incidents from your past may interfere with your present life. A moment may trigger vivid memories, painful feelings, and intrusive negative thoughts. Your coping strategies may seem insufficient, and at times you may feel stuck with intense emotions and rumination. My specialty is helping people to heal from the impact of past adversity and trauma. I believe that everyone has within them innate capacities to heal and grow, and to discover and develop their inner strengths and wisdom. I have advanced training and expertise in evidence-based methods (EMDR, DBT, and Somatic Therapy) that can help you to recover from the past.
(952) 592-2368 View (952) 592-2368
Photo of Minnetonka Counseling, LLC, Psychologist in Shakopee, MN
Minnetonka Counseling, LLC
Psychologist, MA, LP, LLC
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55343
One of our specialties is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Who's ready for a change? Looking for a proven way to feel better? If you are fed up with feeling miserable we can help you get the life you want and deserve. We are a collective of five licensed clinicians working with children, adults and adolescents struggling with attachment issues, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, Phobias, OCD, couples therapy and Substance Abuse. We are committed to providing high quality evidence-based treatment. We look forward to talking with you more.
One of our specialties is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Who's ready for a change? Looking for a proven way to feel better? If you are fed up with feeling miserable we can help you get the life you want and deserve. We are a collective of five licensed clinicians working with children, adults and adolescents struggling with attachment issues, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, Phobias, OCD, couples therapy and Substance Abuse. We are committed to providing high quality evidence-based treatment. We look forward to talking with you more.
(651) 356-8481 View (651) 356-8481
Photo of Jill Magnuson, Psychologist in Shakopee, MN
Jill Magnuson
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55345
I am an experienced Licensed Psychologist with an extensive background providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My primary specialities include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, life transition, relationship issues, and grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is eclectic with a cognitive behavioral and DBT foundation. I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy which I use to address a multitude of mental health symptoms in addition to trauma. I continue to be privileged to work with people who seek to improve the quality of their life and find peace, confidence and strength within themselves.
I am an experienced Licensed Psychologist with an extensive background providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My primary specialities include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, life transition, relationship issues, and grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is eclectic with a cognitive behavioral and DBT foundation. I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy which I use to address a multitude of mental health symptoms in addition to trauma. I continue to be privileged to work with people who seek to improve the quality of their life and find peace, confidence and strength within themselves.
(952) 260-0350 View (952) 260-0350

See more therapy options for Shakopee


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.