Photo of Andrea Hayward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Andrea Hayward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28269
I am a trained therapist in DBT at NewLife Counseling and Consultation.
**IT IS MORE EFFICIENT TO CONTACT ME BY EMAIL AT THIS TIME.** Many challenges may arise in life. It can be made easier if you have a comfortable atmosphere to share & express yourself. You come to therapy to face hard truths & learn better ways to handle them. Maybe you find yourself repeating the same patterns, having the same interactions, or feeling a certain way about yourself. I balance truth & tact, giving genuine feedback. I listen & support without judgment. I have a passion for helping individuals & families cope with difficulties in their lives. My desire is to help clients experience healing & life change.
I am a trained therapist in DBT at NewLife Counseling and Consultation.
**IT IS MORE EFFICIENT TO CONTACT ME BY EMAIL AT THIS TIME.** Many challenges may arise in life. It can be made easier if you have a comfortable atmosphere to share & express yourself. You come to therapy to face hard truths & learn better ways to handle them. Maybe you find yourself repeating the same patterns, having the same interactions, or feeling a certain way about yourself. I balance truth & tact, giving genuine feedback. I listen & support without judgment. I have a passion for helping individuals & families cope with difficulties in their lives. My desire is to help clients experience healing & life change.
(704) 508-4396 View (704) 508-4396
Photo of Lola Tasar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Lola Tasar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28223
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Hypnotherapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed out? Do you feel like you need more support, wherever you are in life? Starting therapy can be intimidating. I am here to listen and help. My approach is to be supportive, compassionate, and empathetic, with a focus on promoting self esteem, awareness, and robust relationships. I love working with clients who experience trauma, anxiety, life changes, women's, parenting, and relationship issues. I will accompany you on your journey toward healing and personal growth in a safe and nurturing environment. You're worth it!
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Hypnotherapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed out? Do you feel like you need more support, wherever you are in life? Starting therapy can be intimidating. I am here to listen and help. My approach is to be supportive, compassionate, and empathetic, with a focus on promoting self esteem, awareness, and robust relationships. I love working with clients who experience trauma, anxiety, life changes, women's, parenting, and relationship issues. I will accompany you on your journey toward healing and personal growth in a safe and nurturing environment. You're worth it!
(919) 646-2643 View (919) 646-2643
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Stefanie Smith, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Stefanie Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
I pull from person centered, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral and acceptance and commitment theories.
Many people can be too hard and not kind enough to themselves. Life is difficult enough, and not being on their own side through their struggles makes it even more so. Whether you’re new to therapy or have some experience with it, starting with a new therapist can be overwhelming. I invite you to a warm, inviting space where you are able to show your full self. I tend to use a holistic and integrative approach. Your sessions are your time and I will meet you where you’re at while providing a therapist viewpoint.
I pull from person centered, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral and acceptance and commitment theories.
Many people can be too hard and not kind enough to themselves. Life is difficult enough, and not being on their own side through their struggles makes it even more so. Whether you’re new to therapy or have some experience with it, starting with a new therapist can be overwhelming. I invite you to a warm, inviting space where you are able to show your full self. I tend to use a holistic and integrative approach. Your sessions are your time and I will meet you where you’re at while providing a therapist viewpoint.
(704) 900-3254 View (704) 900-3254
Photo of Kristin Anthony, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Charlotte, NC
Kristin Anthony
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28223
Welcome to my profile! My goals are to help clients navigate difficult seasons of life, manage complex emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and live a meaningful life. My therapeutic style is direct, open, and collaborative. I am passionate about respecting diversity, and I provide LGBTQ+, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed care. In sessions, I like to use a blend of mindfulness-based interventions like DBT and ACT paired with an unstructured use of CBT and solutions-focused therapy. I also like to include activities using art, music, and play.
Welcome to my profile! My goals are to help clients navigate difficult seasons of life, manage complex emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and live a meaningful life. My therapeutic style is direct, open, and collaborative. I am passionate about respecting diversity, and I provide LGBTQ+, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed care. In sessions, I like to use a blend of mindfulness-based interventions like DBT and ACT paired with an unstructured use of CBT and solutions-focused therapy. I also like to include activities using art, music, and play.
(704) 610-1864 View (704) 610-1864
Photo of Elizabeth A Seeburger, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Elizabeth A Seeburger
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
Working collaboratively with individuals and using research-based methods, I integrate CBT, EMDR, DBT, and other techniques.
My mission is to meet individuals where they are, while assisting in finding peace and enjoyment in their life experience. As a parent and former teacher, I understand development and complexities of the child and teen years. I enjoy working with teens, teachers, new mothers, couples, women navigating fertility issues and pregnancy loss, couples seeking premarital counseling, and blended families.I believe that with a clear understanding of oneself, we can function with more agency and purpose. Life is full of challenges, big and small. My goal is to validate your experiences and support your journey towards finding your best self.
Working collaboratively with individuals and using research-based methods, I integrate CBT, EMDR, DBT, and other techniques.
My mission is to meet individuals where they are, while assisting in finding peace and enjoyment in their life experience. As a parent and former teacher, I understand development and complexities of the child and teen years. I enjoy working with teens, teachers, new mothers, couples, women navigating fertility issues and pregnancy loss, couples seeking premarital counseling, and blended families.I believe that with a clear understanding of oneself, we can function with more agency and purpose. Life is full of challenges, big and small. My goal is to validate your experiences and support your journey towards finding your best self.
(704) 981-9461 View (704) 981-9461
Photo of Taylor Trull, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Charlotte, NC
Taylor Trull
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28269
Approaches I use to help facilitate change include person centered therapy, CBT, mindfulness, dbt, and and relaxation and presenting techniques.
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
Approaches I use to help facilitate change include person centered therapy, CBT, mindfulness, dbt, and and relaxation and presenting techniques.
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
(984) 600-0978 View (984) 600-0978
Photo of Autumn D Ross, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Autumn D Ross
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like you're expected to be Superwoman, always strong and capable, no matter what? It's easy to get overwhelmed when you're carrying that weight day in and day out. And when it comes to relationships, it can feel like you're stuck in a vicious cycle of bad decisions and unsatisfying connections. Maybe you're struggling to connect intimately with your partner, or maybe you're feeling hopeless and empty. That's where I come in. As someone who understands what you're going through, I'm here to help. Let's work together for you to discover a new way forward, one that brings you peace, happiness, and fulfillment.
Do you ever feel like you're expected to be Superwoman, always strong and capable, no matter what? It's easy to get overwhelmed when you're carrying that weight day in and day out. And when it comes to relationships, it can feel like you're stuck in a vicious cycle of bad decisions and unsatisfying connections. Maybe you're struggling to connect intimately with your partner, or maybe you're feeling hopeless and empty. That's where I come in. As someone who understands what you're going through, I'm here to help. Let's work together for you to discover a new way forward, one that brings you peace, happiness, and fulfillment.
(704) 870-4166 View (704) 870-4166
Photo of Yazmeen A Garcia, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Charlotte, NC
Yazmeen A Garcia
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
(980) 261-3768 View (980) 261-3768
Photo of Britni Beckham, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Britni Beckham
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Are you mentally drained, overwhelmed, and just feeling lost right now? You're behaving outside yourself, life feels like it’s passing you by and you don't know who you are anymore. Maybe you’re a new mom, recently divorced or just staring over completely. Well I want you to know you're not alone, and there is hope for the future. I have a strong passion in working with and empowering women of all ages to rediscover the best version of themselves through healing, peace and positivity.
Are you mentally drained, overwhelmed, and just feeling lost right now? You're behaving outside yourself, life feels like it’s passing you by and you don't know who you are anymore. Maybe you’re a new mom, recently divorced or just staring over completely. Well I want you to know you're not alone, and there is hope for the future. I have a strong passion in working with and empowering women of all ages to rediscover the best version of themselves through healing, peace and positivity.
(704) 686-8438 View (704) 686-8438
Photo of Emily Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Emily Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Waitlist for new clients
Motherhood (and fatherhood!) looks different on everyone. My passion for maternal mental health sparked after having my daughter and I was able to fully appreciate the challenges and range of emotions that surface within parenthood from a lived experience. I then sought to specialize in Perinatal Mental Health to shift my focus from counseling children to counseling parents. When most people hear about Perinatal Mental Health, they often think of postpartum depression- but Perinatal Mental Health encompasses so much more than that! I work with women in all stages of parenthood including infertility, grief, and loss.
Motherhood (and fatherhood!) looks different on everyone. My passion for maternal mental health sparked after having my daughter and I was able to fully appreciate the challenges and range of emotions that surface within parenthood from a lived experience. I then sought to specialize in Perinatal Mental Health to shift my focus from counseling children to counseling parents. When most people hear about Perinatal Mental Health, they often think of postpartum depression- but Perinatal Mental Health encompasses so much more than that! I work with women in all stages of parenthood including infertility, grief, and loss.
(704) 270-2010 View (704) 270-2010
Photo of Memorie Metzler MacLeod, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Charlotte, NC
Memorie Metzler MacLeod
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Step into to a calm, welcoming space where our conversations embody the comfort of shared moments. Taking this first step on your mental health journey is admirable, and I'm here to guide you through life's challenges. Life is too short to have to carry the weight of stressors, anxiety, depression, conflict, or navigating complicated relationships. My goal is to help you discover your purpose and thrive, because you deserve the happiness life has to offer.
Step into to a calm, welcoming space where our conversations embody the comfort of shared moments. Taking this first step on your mental health journey is admirable, and I'm here to guide you through life's challenges. Life is too short to have to carry the weight of stressors, anxiety, depression, conflict, or navigating complicated relationships. My goal is to help you discover your purpose and thrive, because you deserve the happiness life has to offer.
(704) 946-8756 View (704) 946-8756
Photo of Monique L Overstreet, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Monique L Overstreet
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, QS, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck, going through life on autopilot, or just overwhelmed with everyday tasks or responsibilities? With your permission, I would love to assist you with finding meaning in everyday life again and be fully present. Investing in yourself is the first step. Let’s develop a plan of action to motivate more immediate changes in behavior. I am currently accepting new client for therapy and new clinicians for supervision.
Feeling stuck, going through life on autopilot, or just overwhelmed with everyday tasks or responsibilities? With your permission, I would love to assist you with finding meaning in everyday life again and be fully present. Investing in yourself is the first step. Let’s develop a plan of action to motivate more immediate changes in behavior. I am currently accepting new client for therapy and new clinicians for supervision.
(980) 409-2572 View (980) 409-2572
Photo of Anna Merkley, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Anna Merkley
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
Have you lost the physical or emotional connection in your marriage? Have you experienced infidelity? Or maybe you just want to communicate better and need some quick tools to improve your relationship? Whatever the reason, nourishing your relationship is one of the best investments you can make. A strong marriage takes work and I'm here to help you put in that work. I am passionate about helping marriages thrive and work to ensure both partners feel validated in our sessions. I also enjoy working with women who want help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, motherhood, grief, self esteem, and work/life balance.
Have you lost the physical or emotional connection in your marriage? Have you experienced infidelity? Or maybe you just want to communicate better and need some quick tools to improve your relationship? Whatever the reason, nourishing your relationship is one of the best investments you can make. A strong marriage takes work and I'm here to help you put in that work. I am passionate about helping marriages thrive and work to ensure both partners feel validated in our sessions. I also enjoy working with women who want help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, motherhood, grief, self esteem, and work/life balance.
(704) 270-6973 View (704) 270-6973
Photo of Samantha Atkinson-Lorenz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Samantha Atkinson-Lorenz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
“Healing doesn’t mean the hurt never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.” Hello and welcome! I’m Samantha. I enjoy working with people of all ages and I see children, teens and adults. I also have specific experience working in maternal mental health and specifically with clients who are experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I have experience working with parents who are learning to juggle this role, but who also want to stay true to who they are as an individual.
“Healing doesn’t mean the hurt never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.” Hello and welcome! I’m Samantha. I enjoy working with people of all ages and I see children, teens and adults. I also have specific experience working in maternal mental health and specifically with clients who are experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I have experience working with parents who are learning to juggle this role, but who also want to stay true to who they are as an individual.
(704) 666-4809 View (704) 666-4809
Photo of Grove Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Grove Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28217
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” -Brene Brown. When life feels overwhelming and scary, asking for help can feel like a huge risk. We offer a safe space where you will be heard, seen, and valued as the unique and complex individual that you are. Life is hard, but you don't have to do it alone. We can help you process trauma, work through big feelings, cope with change, and be your best self.
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” -Brene Brown. When life feels overwhelming and scary, asking for help can feel like a huge risk. We offer a safe space where you will be heard, seen, and valued as the unique and complex individual that you are. Life is hard, but you don't have to do it alone. We can help you process trauma, work through big feelings, cope with change, and be your best self.
(980) 983-0624 View (980) 983-0624
Photo of C. Shannon Nord, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
C. Shannon Nord
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACC, LMFT-NC, LCMHC, LMFT-SC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
If you are struggling, or simply need objective help metabolizing life, I offer help and HOPE. Whether single, married, separated, or divorced, I can help you get unstuck. Through an insight oriented, asset-based and research-rooted lens, I use a variety of integrated approaches in my work depending on presenting issues, goals, personalities, and relationship dynamics. Attachment theories and Person-Centered structures undergird all of my clinical work with the goal of creating a safe, inviting atmosphere where feelings, thoughts, and beliefs can be freely and confidentially explored without fear of judgment. I aim to offer HOPE.
If you are struggling, or simply need objective help metabolizing life, I offer help and HOPE. Whether single, married, separated, or divorced, I can help you get unstuck. Through an insight oriented, asset-based and research-rooted lens, I use a variety of integrated approaches in my work depending on presenting issues, goals, personalities, and relationship dynamics. Attachment theories and Person-Centered structures undergird all of my clinical work with the goal of creating a safe, inviting atmosphere where feelings, thoughts, and beliefs can be freely and confidentially explored without fear of judgment. I aim to offer HOPE.
(704) 966-8542 View (704) 966-8542
Photo of Amy O'Bryan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Amy O'Bryan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
My personal philosophy and approach to counseling begins and ends with compassion and a willingness to enter into my clients’ experiences alongside them. I became active in this field because I have an authentic, listening heart that desires to see people live as whole, healthy, individuals. My interests include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, peer and family relationships. With a master’s degree in education and experience working in schools, I also provide academic, social, and emotional support. Treatment plans are created based on the individuals' needs and combine evidenced based practices with personal wellness.
My personal philosophy and approach to counseling begins and ends with compassion and a willingness to enter into my clients’ experiences alongside them. I became active in this field because I have an authentic, listening heart that desires to see people live as whole, healthy, individuals. My interests include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, peer and family relationships. With a master’s degree in education and experience working in schools, I also provide academic, social, and emotional support. Treatment plans are created based on the individuals' needs and combine evidenced based practices with personal wellness.
(704) 270-5380 View (704) 270-5380
Photo of Maria Dimova, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Maria Dimova
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I understand the weight trials can have on one’s shoulders, and you do not have to carry them alone. I have experience working with those who have endured trauma, illness, stress, and the uncertainty life transition can bring. I am devoted to empowering those experiencing anxiety, depression, women’s issues, identity issues, new parenting, communication, and relationship issues. I have a passion to serve others through the many pivotal moments life brings. During these seasons, the therapy room is a safe environment for such change and exploration. I would be honored to support you in your therapeutic journey.
I understand the weight trials can have on one’s shoulders, and you do not have to carry them alone. I have experience working with those who have endured trauma, illness, stress, and the uncertainty life transition can bring. I am devoted to empowering those experiencing anxiety, depression, women’s issues, identity issues, new parenting, communication, and relationship issues. I have a passion to serve others through the many pivotal moments life brings. During these seasons, the therapy room is a safe environment for such change and exploration. I would be honored to support you in your therapeutic journey.
(980) 243-7625 View (980) 243-7625
Photo of Good Stress Company PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Good Stress Company PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
We understand that it takes courage to begin the process of therapy and to address your challenges. Our goal is to provide compassionate, supportive and non-judgmental support in a safe and nurturing environment. We use both professional and personal experiences to help individuals reach goals. We would like you to know that you are not alone. With the right mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual skill-set, you can go from living to thriving, experiencing life in a much healthier way.
We understand that it takes courage to begin the process of therapy and to address your challenges. Our goal is to provide compassionate, supportive and non-judgmental support in a safe and nurturing environment. We use both professional and personal experiences to help individuals reach goals. We would like you to know that you are not alone. With the right mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual skill-set, you can go from living to thriving, experiencing life in a much healthier way.
(980) 236-0609 View (980) 236-0609

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.