Photo of Samuel Parton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
Samuel Parton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Timothy Wever, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warren, NJ
Timothy Wever
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bernardsville, NJ 07924
I use an integrated approach to psychotherapy, grounded in Person Centered (Rogerian) Therapy and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, but drawing on different disciplines such as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) and a Psychoanalytic approach when appropriate.
I am dually licensed as an LPC and LCADC. The path I took to become a therapist was a long and winding one which provided me with a rich diversity of experience to draw from in my work. I understand that change is difficult. I received a degree in Creative Writing from the University of Montana in Missoula, where I also began my study of Zen, and eventually spent over 20 years as an Information Technology professional. I have been married for over 30 years and, together with my wife, have raised two sons who are now young adults.
I use an integrated approach to psychotherapy, grounded in Person Centered (Rogerian) Therapy and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, but drawing on different disciplines such as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) and a Psychoanalytic approach when appropriate.
I am dually licensed as an LPC and LCADC. The path I took to become a therapist was a long and winding one which provided me with a rich diversity of experience to draw from in my work. I understand that change is difficult. I received a degree in Creative Writing from the University of Montana in Missoula, where I also began my study of Zen, and eventually spent over 20 years as an Information Technology professional. I have been married for over 30 years and, together with my wife, have raised two sons who are now young adults.
(973) 419-5289 View (973) 419-5289
Photo of Samuel Parton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
Samuel Parton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
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Photo of Kevin Gallagher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
Kevin Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Middlesex, NJ 08846
He is most familiar with cognitive behavioral therapy (identifying cognitive distortions, rating scales, thought records), dialectical behavioral therapy (mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance) and motivational interviewing.
Kevin Gallagher is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in New Jersey. He has a Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University. Kevin has worked in a range of settings including residential, PHP/IOP mental health services, and IOP substance use services. Kevin’s particular diagnostic experience includes (alphabetically) ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, personality disorders, psychosis, substance use, and trauma.
He is most familiar with cognitive behavioral therapy (identifying cognitive distortions, rating scales, thought records), dialectical behavioral therapy (mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance) and motivational interviewing.
Kevin Gallagher is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in New Jersey. He has a Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University. Kevin has worked in a range of settings including residential, PHP/IOP mental health services, and IOP substance use services. Kevin’s particular diagnostic experience includes (alphabetically) ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, personality disorders, psychosis, substance use, and trauma.
(732) 487-3925 View (732) 487-3925
Photo of Faith and Grace Psychothereapy L.L.C, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warren, NJ
Faith and Grace Psychothereapy L.L.C
Licensed Professional Counselor, DHA, MA, LPC,ACS, LCADC, CCTP, GCP,NCC
Verified Verified
Peapack, NJ 07977
Dr. Gabriel likes working with co-occurring clients providing counseling, coaching, and advice to these populations using Person-Centered Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, CBT & DBT approaches. Most importantly, Gabriel likes to place his clients/patients first before everything, meet them where they are with patience, empathy, and non-judgment, and with good attending skills gradually walk with them to where they want to be. Gabriel always believes in the BioPsychoSocioSpiritual model, which means if everything else fails in therapy, the is a higher power, agreater ourselves that we turn to, who can bring us all to healing through prayers.
Dr. Gabriel likes working with co-occurring clients providing counseling, coaching, and advice to these populations using Person-Centered Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, CBT & DBT approaches. Most importantly, Gabriel likes to place his clients/patients first before everything, meet them where they are with patience, empathy, and non-judgment, and with good attending skills gradually walk with them to where they want to be. Gabriel always believes in the BioPsychoSocioSpiritual model, which means if everything else fails in therapy, the is a higher power, agreater ourselves that we turn to, who can bring us all to healing through prayers.
(973) 834-7065 View (973) 834-7065
Photo of Victor Perez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warren, NJ
Victor Perez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Piscataway, NJ 08854
He utilizes mindfulness practices, dialectical and cognitive behavioral skills, as well as psychoeducation to empower his clients to make informed decisions.
Victor Perez is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2018. He is a Drew University CLA13 alumni with a double B.A. in Psychology and Spanish, completed his master's degree in counseling from Kean University, CLA18, and is currently working on completing a Ph.D. in counseling and supervision, also from Kean University. Be seen, heard, and understood. Victor has experience working with adults (and young adults) dealing with emotional and mental health issues. He works from a humanistic orientation, incorporating skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
He utilizes mindfulness practices, dialectical and cognitive behavioral skills, as well as psychoeducation to empower his clients to make informed decisions.
Victor Perez is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2018. He is a Drew University CLA13 alumni with a double B.A. in Psychology and Spanish, completed his master's degree in counseling from Kean University, CLA18, and is currently working on completing a Ph.D. in counseling and supervision, also from Kean University. Be seen, heard, and understood. Victor has experience working with adults (and young adults) dealing with emotional and mental health issues. He works from a humanistic orientation, incorporating skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(732) 592-4310 View (732) 592-4310
Photo of Christopher Lombardi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
Christopher Lombardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876
I have experience with several treatment modalities and approaches, including EMDR, IFS, CBT, ACT, and DBT.
Worry. Restlessness. Poor Concentration. Intrusive Thoughts. Panic. Our mental health can serve as a major disruption to our lives. I admire your courage in taking this step to seek out help. As your therapist, I will first strive to understand your story. Then, we will collaboratively identify a therapeutic approach that will best fit your goals. Often times, our past impacts our present . Therefore, we can strive to not only address your current symptoms, but attempt to resolve the root causes to your problems, such as unresolved trauma. We don’t always realize how much old emotional wounds are still causing us pain.
I have experience with several treatment modalities and approaches, including EMDR, IFS, CBT, ACT, and DBT.
Worry. Restlessness. Poor Concentration. Intrusive Thoughts. Panic. Our mental health can serve as a major disruption to our lives. I admire your courage in taking this step to seek out help. As your therapist, I will first strive to understand your story. Then, we will collaboratively identify a therapeutic approach that will best fit your goals. Often times, our past impacts our present . Therefore, we can strive to not only address your current symptoms, but attempt to resolve the root causes to your problems, such as unresolved trauma. We don’t always realize how much old emotional wounds are still causing us pain.
(908) 224-5078 View (908) 224-5078
Photo of Taylor Clough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
Taylor Clough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Stirling, NJ 07980
I have experience in intensive outpatient, partial care, and substance use settings, employing a person-centered, trauma-informed, eclectic approach that integrates concepts from various modalities such as DBT, CBT, solutions-focused therapy, and narrative therapy. While my identity as a cisgender queer man informs my work, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community, I am acutely mindful of diverse backgrounds and intersectionality and seek to understand your perspective to support your success.
I have experience in intensive outpatient, partial care, and substance use settings, employing a person-centered, trauma-informed, eclectic approach that integrates concepts from various modalities such as DBT, CBT, solutions-focused therapy, and narrative therapy. While my identity as a cisgender queer man informs my work, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community, I am acutely mindful of diverse backgrounds and intersectionality and seek to understand your perspective to support your success.
(908) 970-8017 View (908) 970-8017
Photo of Daniel M Balassone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
Daniel M Balassone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I work with teens, adults, and couples and I use a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT and Solution Focused Therapy.
Are you living an anxious, depressed, or angry life? Are you feeling lost, insecure, or struggling to find your place in the world? Do you wish you had better relationships, better self esteem, or a more fulfilling career? I understand how difficult it can be when you aren’t living the life you want but I’ve seen in countless cases how the therapeutic process can be transformational in helping you achieve the change you so desperately seek.
I work with teens, adults, and couples and I use a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT and Solution Focused Therapy.
Are you living an anxious, depressed, or angry life? Are you feeling lost, insecure, or struggling to find your place in the world? Do you wish you had better relationships, better self esteem, or a more fulfilling career? I understand how difficult it can be when you aren’t living the life you want but I’ve seen in countless cases how the therapeutic process can be transformational in helping you achieve the change you so desperately seek.
(848) 235-9202 View (848) 235-9202
Photo of Will Mills, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warren, NJ
Will Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Piscataway, NJ 08854  (Online Only)
Our providers at Will Inspire You Counseling take an eclectic approach, using aspects of: DBT, Mindfulness, ACT, & Trauma-informed care, centering on a holistic approach (see: "treatment preferences" below).
Will has over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment to New Jerseyans. Having worked in all levels of care — from inpatient to residential programs/group homes to outpatient settings — Will is able to support an array of clients from all walks of life. As Lead Therapist and Owner of Will Inspire You Counseling, he is immensely passionate about supporting people of all ages. Will specializes in supporting individuals living with ADHD, Anxiety and other related disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders and disordered eating. Within his repertoire is a particular focus on LGBTQ+ health.
Our providers at Will Inspire You Counseling take an eclectic approach, using aspects of: DBT, Mindfulness, ACT, & Trauma-informed care, centering on a holistic approach (see: "treatment preferences" below).
Will has over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment to New Jerseyans. Having worked in all levels of care — from inpatient to residential programs/group homes to outpatient settings — Will is able to support an array of clients from all walks of life. As Lead Therapist and Owner of Will Inspire You Counseling, he is immensely passionate about supporting people of all ages. Will specializes in supporting individuals living with ADHD, Anxiety and other related disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders and disordered eating. Within his repertoire is a particular focus on LGBTQ+ health.
(732) 784-4113 View (732) 784-4113
Photo of Salvatore Ridente, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warren, NJ
Salvatore Ridente
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, EdS
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
*Education Specialist *Experience with using DBT and CBT techniques.
Licensed Psychotherapist and Substance Abuse Counselor working with adolescents, adults, families and couples. When life becomes complicated and confusing, our emotions can leave us feeling overwhelmed. For some, seeking understanding through psychotherapy can be the path to clarity. I use evidenced based/solution focused therapy with an emphasis on understanding our sense of self to help define responses to conflict in our lives. If you're ready to make a change, or would like to develop coping strategies to address difficult challenges; calling our office may be the first step in achieving your goals.
*Education Specialist *Experience with using DBT and CBT techniques.
Licensed Psychotherapist and Substance Abuse Counselor working with adolescents, adults, families and couples. When life becomes complicated and confusing, our emotions can leave us feeling overwhelmed. For some, seeking understanding through psychotherapy can be the path to clarity. I use evidenced based/solution focused therapy with an emphasis on understanding our sense of self to help define responses to conflict in our lives. If you're ready to make a change, or would like to develop coping strategies to address difficult challenges; calling our office may be the first step in achieving your goals.
(908) 258-6481 View (908) 258-6481
Photo of Victor A. Perez, Counselor in Warren, NJ
Victor A. Perez
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Piscataway, NJ 08854
I utilize mindfulness practices, dialectical and cognitive behavioral skills, as well as psychoeducation to empower my clients to make informed decisions.
Victor Perez is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2018. He is a Drew University CLA13 alumni with a double B.A. in Psychology and Spanish, completed his master’s degree in counseling from Kean University, CLA18, and is currently working on completing a Ph.D. in counseling and supervision, also from Kean University. Be seen, heard, and understood. Victor has experience working with adults (and young adults) dealing with emotional and mental health issues. He works from a humanistic orientation, incorporating skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I utilize mindfulness practices, dialectical and cognitive behavioral skills, as well as psychoeducation to empower my clients to make informed decisions.
Victor Perez is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2018. He is a Drew University CLA13 alumni with a double B.A. in Psychology and Spanish, completed his master’s degree in counseling from Kean University, CLA18, and is currently working on completing a Ph.D. in counseling and supervision, also from Kean University. Be seen, heard, and understood. Victor has experience working with adults (and young adults) dealing with emotional and mental health issues. He works from a humanistic orientation, incorporating skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(973) 358-5116 View (973) 358-5116
Photo of John Migueis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
John Migueis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974
My approach to therapy draws primarily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I have been working with individuals and families since 1998. The majority of my work has been with adolescents and adults who struggle with a variety of psychiatric, emotional and behavioral issues in individual and group settings. My specialties include Trauma, Anxiety, Mood Disorders (Depression,Bipolar), Addiction, Anger Management, Borderline Personality Disorder and Parenting.
My approach to therapy draws primarily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I have been working with individuals and families since 1998. The majority of my work has been with adolescents and adults who struggle with a variety of psychiatric, emotional and behavioral issues in individual and group settings. My specialties include Trauma, Anxiety, Mood Disorders (Depression,Bipolar), Addiction, Anger Management, Borderline Personality Disorder and Parenting.
(908) 897-0815 View (908) 897-0815
Photo of Keith Crosby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warren, NJ
Keith Crosby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
The most important aspect of counseling is to have a safe place to express what is causing you emotional discomfort. No two people are alike. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I customize my approach to fit you and your specific needs. The focus of my practice is working with adults (18 and up). Let’s work together to get to the root of the problem.
The most important aspect of counseling is to have a safe place to express what is causing you emotional discomfort. No two people are alike. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I customize my approach to fit you and your specific needs. The focus of my practice is working with adults (18 and up). Let’s work together to get to the root of the problem.
(908) 663-5575 View (908) 663-5575
Photo of John Guldner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warren, NJ
John Guldner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876  (Online Only)
Coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, or even just life stressors can at times feel overwhelming. It's like you are stuck in a cycle of pain and anguish, and your best efforts to deal with it end up making things worse. Maybe you have reached out to friends and family for help, and have been met with either criticism or well-intentioned, but unhelpful advice. You might have even read a self-help book or two, and struggled to use what you've learned for more than a couple weeks. Sometimes, even the efforts to change seem so difficult that you'll give up, convinced things will never get better. There is a better way.
Coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, or even just life stressors can at times feel overwhelming. It's like you are stuck in a cycle of pain and anguish, and your best efforts to deal with it end up making things worse. Maybe you have reached out to friends and family for help, and have been met with either criticism or well-intentioned, but unhelpful advice. You might have even read a self-help book or two, and struggled to use what you've learned for more than a couple weeks. Sometimes, even the efforts to change seem so difficult that you'll give up, convinced things will never get better. There is a better way.
(609) 474-0094 View (609) 474-0094
Photo of Jeffrey Chang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
Jeffrey Chang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
I have a particular interest in working with veterans, diverse peoples of trauma, geriatrics, and integrated health care. The ideal client is full of surprises and motivated to explore the limits of their potential. S/he will cross-examine, wholeheartedly endorse, and bring into the open what has yet to be uncovered. S/he will personalize what they notice/receive and share candid feedback on how to keep existing or try out new habits. S/he will utilize the available time to make use of what's keeping them stuck.
I have a particular interest in working with veterans, diverse peoples of trauma, geriatrics, and integrated health care. The ideal client is full of surprises and motivated to explore the limits of their potential. S/he will cross-examine, wholeheartedly endorse, and bring into the open what has yet to be uncovered. S/he will personalize what they notice/receive and share candid feedback on how to keep existing or try out new habits. S/he will utilize the available time to make use of what's keeping them stuck.
(973) 834-6376 View (973) 834-6376
Photo of Bradley A Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
Bradley A Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LSW
Verified Verified
Far Hills, NJ 07931
If you are struggling with personal, family or relationship issues, I offer a slightly different approach than you might expect. Contrary to how some view therapy, I believe there is far more "right" than "wrong" with people who seek help -- strengths allowing them to overcome seemingly overwhelming obstacles. I'm a therapist, but I'm also a parent and husband who makes plenty of mistakes. Luckily, perfection isn't necessary or even desirable, as it often takes only small, positive changes to yield significant benefits. Things can get better, sometimes quickly, if you begin taking steps in the right direction.
If you are struggling with personal, family or relationship issues, I offer a slightly different approach than you might expect. Contrary to how some view therapy, I believe there is far more "right" than "wrong" with people who seek help -- strengths allowing them to overcome seemingly overwhelming obstacles. I'm a therapist, but I'm also a parent and husband who makes plenty of mistakes. Luckily, perfection isn't necessary or even desirable, as it often takes only small, positive changes to yield significant benefits. Things can get better, sometimes quickly, if you begin taking steps in the right direction.
(908) 238-3976 View (908) 238-3976
Photo of Michael Charles Richardson, Psychologist in Warren, NJ
Michael Charles Richardson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
All therapy stems from the building of a relationship -- a partnership -- between the therapist and the client. There can be no progress or client satisfaction without trust and that trust can be life changing and last long after the therapy has concluded. I have worked with countless numbers of children, adolescents and adults who began treatment filled with guilt, worry and stress. Nothing gives me more satisfaction than to see them over time shed those negative emotions and step back into life with the tools necessary to become successful and empathetic individuals.
All therapy stems from the building of a relationship -- a partnership -- between the therapist and the client. There can be no progress or client satisfaction without trust and that trust can be life changing and last long after the therapy has concluded. I have worked with countless numbers of children, adolescents and adults who began treatment filled with guilt, worry and stress. Nothing gives me more satisfaction than to see them over time shed those negative emotions and step back into life with the tools necessary to become successful and empathetic individuals.
(908) 630-0777 x1 View (908) 630-0777 x1
Photo of Charles Corley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warren, NJ
Charles Corley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgewater, NJ 08807  (Online Only)
Life is not easy. There is no instruction book or one size fits all approach. Sometimes we feel like we have tried everything and may begin to lose hope. I invite you to share your concerns in a comfortable, non-judgmental environment as we collaboratively work together to make the difference in your life that restores hope and even overcome some challenges along the way. I truly believe difficult times often present the greatest opportunity for personal growth and beneficial change.
Life is not easy. There is no instruction book or one size fits all approach. Sometimes we feel like we have tried everything and may begin to lose hope. I invite you to share your concerns in a comfortable, non-judgmental environment as we collaboratively work together to make the difference in your life that restores hope and even overcome some challenges along the way. I truly believe difficult times often present the greatest opportunity for personal growth and beneficial change.
(862) 292-9337 View (862) 292-9337
Photo of Elijah Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warren, NJ
Elijah Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
I envision an adolescent or young adult who is navigating the complexities of their teenage and adult years and seeking support to address various issues and challenges. They may be experiencing difficulties such as academic stress, low self-esteem, peer pressure, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, family conflicts, or difficulties in relationships. Teens and young adults' desire a safe and non-judgmental space where they can express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns freely.
I envision an adolescent or young adult who is navigating the complexities of their teenage and adult years and seeking support to address various issues and challenges. They may be experiencing difficulties such as academic stress, low self-esteem, peer pressure, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, family conflicts, or difficulties in relationships. Teens and young adults' desire a safe and non-judgmental space where they can express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns freely.
(732) 858-0499 View (732) 858-0499

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.