Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Garden City, NY

Photo of Sivan Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garden City, NY
Sivan Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530  (Online Only)
I use various clinical approaches based upon client needs, but I particularly enjoy using elements of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
I am a licensed New York State psychotherapist treating individuals and couples in a range of mental health conditions. If you are seeking support or guidance through a challenging time or are simply interested in personal growth and development, I look forward to working with you.
I use various clinical approaches based upon client needs, but I particularly enjoy using elements of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
I am a licensed New York State psychotherapist treating individuals and couples in a range of mental health conditions. If you are seeking support or guidance through a challenging time or are simply interested in personal growth and development, I look forward to working with you.
(516) 882-1590 View (516) 882-1590
Photo of Janice Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garden City, NY
Janice Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) with over 15 years experience providing individual and group therapy to adults with a variety of mental health issues that interfere with quality of life. Experiencing chronic emotional pain, feeling isolated and disconnected from others, and lack of effective coping skills make it difficult to live your best life.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) with over 15 years experience providing individual and group therapy to adults with a variety of mental health issues that interfere with quality of life. Experiencing chronic emotional pain, feeling isolated and disconnected from others, and lack of effective coping skills make it difficult to live your best life.
(516) 874-7523 View (516) 874-7523
Photo of Jessica Schilero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garden City, NY
Jessica Schilero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I am experienced in evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Some people come to therapy to process trauma. Some people have stressful jobs, difficulties in school, or other life challenges and want to unlock coping skills. Some people are worried or sad or both and do not know why or how to feel better. As a licensed clinical social worker, I use my clinical experience and training to guide you in your self-exploration. I believe that people deserve to enjoy life and to suffer less. I can provide you with an objective professional perspective and I will listen, empower, and support you on your journey.
I am experienced in evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Some people come to therapy to process trauma. Some people have stressful jobs, difficulties in school, or other life challenges and want to unlock coping skills. Some people are worried or sad or both and do not know why or how to feel better. As a licensed clinical social worker, I use my clinical experience and training to guide you in your self-exploration. I believe that people deserve to enjoy life and to suffer less. I can provide you with an objective professional perspective and I will listen, empower, and support you on your journey.
(516) 280-7285 View (516) 280-7285
Photo of Linda Spiro, Psychologist in Garden City, NY
Linda Spiro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and have supervised and taught others these approaches.
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, relationship/ family issues, as well as school and work stress. I also work with parents and couples to improve communication and have more productive relationships. I work with you to understand the factors contributing to your struggles and then collaborate with you to develop practical solutions to meet your goals. I have a special interest and expertise in working with young adults and their families and spent several years as staff psychologist at Northwell Health in their Behavioral Health College Program.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and have supervised and taught others these approaches.
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, relationship/ family issues, as well as school and work stress. I also work with parents and couples to improve communication and have more productive relationships. I work with you to understand the factors contributing to your struggles and then collaborate with you to develop practical solutions to meet your goals. I have a special interest and expertise in working with young adults and their families and spent several years as staff psychologist at Northwell Health in their Behavioral Health College Program.
(516) 654-2259 View (516) 654-2259
Photo of Renee Maggiore, Counselor in Garden City, NY
Renee Maggiore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the purpose of helping people as they navigate through life’s many ups and downs. I am passionate about helping clients increase their self-awareness and recognize their inner strengths. I aim to provide a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to feel supported and validated. I utilize a client-centered approach to therapy, tailored to suit the needs of my client. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based Therapy.
I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the purpose of helping people as they navigate through life’s many ups and downs. I am passionate about helping clients increase their self-awareness and recognize their inner strengths. I aim to provide a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to feel supported and validated. I utilize a client-centered approach to therapy, tailored to suit the needs of my client. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based Therapy.
(516) 260-4839 View (516) 260-4839
Photo of Donna Latendresse, Counselor in Garden City, NY
Donna Latendresse
Counselor, LMHC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530
Our specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Psychodynamic Therapy and Art Therapy.
With over 12 years of experience in the field, Donna is a compassionate and skilled bilingual Art Therapist and Mental Health Counselor dedicated to providing individual and couples counseling services. Donna offers a warm and inclusive environment where clients can explore their emotions, express themselves creatively, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Whether individuals are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues. In addition to her work with individuals, Donna specializes in couples counseling, helping partners navigate challenges, improve communication, and strengthen their bond.
Our specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Psychodynamic Therapy and Art Therapy.
With over 12 years of experience in the field, Donna is a compassionate and skilled bilingual Art Therapist and Mental Health Counselor dedicated to providing individual and couples counseling services. Donna offers a warm and inclusive environment where clients can explore their emotions, express themselves creatively, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Whether individuals are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues. In addition to her work with individuals, Donna specializes in couples counseling, helping partners navigate challenges, improve communication, and strengthen their bond.
(929) 238-8954 View (929) 238-8954
Photo of Crystal Comerchero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garden City, NY
Crystal Comerchero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Crystal is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with years of experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD and substance abuse. She creates a non-judgmental, inclusive and supportive environment so clients feel safe to share what is going on in their minds and lives. Through a person-centered, strength based and trauma informed therapeutic approach she helps people identify their treatment goals. She incorporates skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interview
Crystal is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with years of experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD and substance abuse. She creates a non-judgmental, inclusive and supportive environment so clients feel safe to share what is going on in their minds and lives. Through a person-centered, strength based and trauma informed therapeutic approach she helps people identify their treatment goals. She incorporates skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interview
(516) 747-1470 View (516) 747-1470
Photo of Kaitlyn Kelly, Pre-Licensed Professional in Garden City, NY
Kaitlyn Kelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I offer a person-centered space in which clients can feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions freely, as well as help develop coping skills through CBT, DBT, and positive psychology techniques.
I offer a person-centered space in which clients can feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions freely, as well as help develop coping skills through CBT, DBT, and positive psychology techniques.
(516) 350-8194 View (516) 350-8194
Photo of Gabrielle Schwartz, Counselor in Garden City, NY
Gabrielle Schwartz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I don’t believe that one size fits all, so I make sure to utilize a combination of skills such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness, Person-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
The first step is always the hardest, no matter what you’re struggling with. I believe that with the right tools and mindset, you can make some serious changes to the way you live your life. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults who struggle with ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, grief, relationship complications, and LGBTQ issues. In my practice, I make sure to create a safe, welcoming, judge-free environment where you are free to be yourself.
I don’t believe that one size fits all, so I make sure to utilize a combination of skills such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness, Person-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
The first step is always the hardest, no matter what you’re struggling with. I believe that with the right tools and mindset, you can make some serious changes to the way you live your life. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults who struggle with ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, grief, relationship complications, and LGBTQ issues. In my practice, I make sure to create a safe, welcoming, judge-free environment where you are free to be yourself.
(516) 415-0553 View (516) 415-0553
Photo of Rachel Reich, Psychologist in Garden City, NY
Rachel Reich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in both Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), as well as gold-standard treatments for trauma-related disorders.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents struggling with emotions that often feel unmanageable or overwhelming. Whether you'd like help with anxiety, depression, frustration, low self-esteem, or any other dysregulated emotion, I can help you to build the tools to manage those experiences effectively and, ultimately, to find joy in the process. I also work with couples and families to strengthen communication and build connectedness. We'll work together to understand why you're feeling the way you do and then to uncover strengths and practices you can use to reach your goals.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in both Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), as well as gold-standard treatments for trauma-related disorders.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents struggling with emotions that often feel unmanageable or overwhelming. Whether you'd like help with anxiety, depression, frustration, low self-esteem, or any other dysregulated emotion, I can help you to build the tools to manage those experiences effectively and, ultimately, to find joy in the process. I also work with couples and families to strengthen communication and build connectedness. We'll work together to understand why you're feeling the way you do and then to uncover strengths and practices you can use to reach your goals.
(516) 614-6233 View (516) 614-6233
Photo of Danielle Cimafonte, Counselor in Garden City, NY
Danielle Cimafonte
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in working with the young adult/adult population with a variety of different needs. I have worked within both an inpatient and outpatient setting offering support and therapy weekly to meet the needs of my clients. I use a combination of therapeutic modalities with experience in cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and have intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as well. My training has allowed me to work with people with a number of different diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Self-injurious behavior and suicidal thinking.
I have experience in working with the young adult/adult population with a variety of different needs. I have worked within both an inpatient and outpatient setting offering support and therapy weekly to meet the needs of my clients. I use a combination of therapeutic modalities with experience in cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and have intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as well. My training has allowed me to work with people with a number of different diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Self-injurious behavior and suicidal thinking.
(516) 517-6645 View (516) 517-6645
Photo of Meg Maginn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garden City, NY
Meg Maginn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530
I collaborate with nutritionists, medical doctors, psychiatrists and yoga/wellness practitioners, utilizing EMDR/NLP/CBT/DBT, alternative and evidence based treatment.
Reaching out for help takes courage . As a therapist , life coach , educator and supervisor with over 35 years of experience , knowledge of many treatment approaches and working with all populations; I know providing a safe and comfortable space geared to the individual needs of each client is essential . I believe it is a privilege when people trust me enough to open up, so Im committed to helping clients achieve long term wellness if/when therapy ends. I do this by providing insight into(what&why) the issues , tools/skills to change ones mindset/behaviors ,and coping strategies for a better quality of life with ongoing success.
I collaborate with nutritionists, medical doctors, psychiatrists and yoga/wellness practitioners, utilizing EMDR/NLP/CBT/DBT, alternative and evidence based treatment.
Reaching out for help takes courage . As a therapist , life coach , educator and supervisor with over 35 years of experience , knowledge of many treatment approaches and working with all populations; I know providing a safe and comfortable space geared to the individual needs of each client is essential . I believe it is a privilege when people trust me enough to open up, so Im committed to helping clients achieve long term wellness if/when therapy ends. I do this by providing insight into(what&why) the issues , tools/skills to change ones mindset/behaviors ,and coping strategies for a better quality of life with ongoing success.
(631) 623-5362 View (631) 623-5362
Photo of Wise Mind Psychological Services, P.L.L.C., Psychologist in Garden City, NY
Wise Mind Psychological Services, P.L.L.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530
WiseMind also provides Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Wise Mind Psychological Services is a group practice of highly trained therapists dedicated to helping you overcome life's challenges and build the life you want to live. Our therapists provide interventions that are specifically tailored to your individual needs and have been scientifically proven to achieve long lasting change. We look forward to meeting with you and helping you work towards your goals in a caring, supportive and nonjudgmental environment.
WiseMind also provides Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Wise Mind Psychological Services is a group practice of highly trained therapists dedicated to helping you overcome life's challenges and build the life you want to live. Our therapists provide interventions that are specifically tailored to your individual needs and have been scientifically proven to achieve long lasting change. We look forward to meeting with you and helping you work towards your goals in a caring, supportive and nonjudgmental environment.
(516) 262-5489 View (516) 262-5489
Photo of Allison Lebowitz Elkoubi, Psychologist in Garden City, NY
Allison Lebowitz Elkoubi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Hi! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) techniques. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, adults, and families, struggling with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, emotion dysregulation, impulsive behaviors, self-harm, relationship problems, tolerating distress, and trauma reactions. I truly believe that treatment is most successful when working collaboratively with a client to identify and work towards goals.
Hi! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) techniques. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, adults, and families, struggling with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, emotion dysregulation, impulsive behaviors, self-harm, relationship problems, tolerating distress, and trauma reactions. I truly believe that treatment is most successful when working collaboratively with a client to identify and work towards goals.
(516) 613-2818 View (516) 613-2818
Photo of Melissa Kiner, Psychologist in Garden City, NY
Melissa Kiner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
My approach to therapy is centered in cognitive behavioral practices supplemented with dialectical behavioral therapy tools.
I want to help you face life’s daily hassles and other challenges that come up along the way. Together, we will come up with goals and we will work toward achieving those goals. We will work on building up your collection of coping strategies to help you navigate the world around you. We can work on relaxation skills if you are feeling stressed or ways to help you improve your communication and build better relationships with others.
My approach to therapy is centered in cognitive behavioral practices supplemented with dialectical behavioral therapy tools.
I want to help you face life’s daily hassles and other challenges that come up along the way. Together, we will come up with goals and we will work toward achieving those goals. We will work on building up your collection of coping strategies to help you navigate the world around you. We can work on relaxation skills if you are feeling stressed or ways to help you improve your communication and build better relationships with others.
(516) 619-2914 View (516) 619-2914
Photo of Shiran Glass, Licensed Master Social Worker in Garden City, NY
Shiran Glass
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530
I love using all of my life experiences, degrees, and trainings to best assist you in living your best life; CBT, DBT, mindfulness, emotional resiliency, and Havening Technique (Registered).
Asking for help can sometimes be daunting. No matter the situation, reaching out to a mental health practitioner can help you get clarity about your life. Sometimes genetics determines whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, or stress; sometimes it’s life circumstance, and yet other times its childhood experiences. Regardless of the cause, therapy can provide guidance and support on your path to well-being. Suffering can occur whether you have a diagnosis or not; whether you are smart and successful, or whether you have financial stability. You deserve to live a life of meaning that is balanced.
I love using all of my life experiences, degrees, and trainings to best assist you in living your best life; CBT, DBT, mindfulness, emotional resiliency, and Havening Technique (Registered).
Asking for help can sometimes be daunting. No matter the situation, reaching out to a mental health practitioner can help you get clarity about your life. Sometimes genetics determines whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, or stress; sometimes it’s life circumstance, and yet other times its childhood experiences. Regardless of the cause, therapy can provide guidance and support on your path to well-being. Suffering can occur whether you have a diagnosis or not; whether you are smart and successful, or whether you have financial stability. You deserve to live a life of meaning that is balanced.
(516) 604-5082 View (516) 604-5082
Photo of Empower Your Mind Therapy, Counselor in Garden City, NY
Empower Your Mind Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, CDBT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
We offer services for adults and teens, including a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program.
No matter what stage of life you may be in – adulthood or adolescence – life can be difficult. It can feel out of control, messy, and stressful. Whether you are struggling or need help for your teen, Empower Your Mind Therapy (EYMT) is here to help. Our process at EYMT is to help clients build more effective and helpful behaviors around new thoughts. Our mission is to provide all clients with the tools, skills and empowerment they need to build their life worth living.
We offer services for adults and teens, including a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program.
No matter what stage of life you may be in – adulthood or adolescence – life can be difficult. It can feel out of control, messy, and stressful. Whether you are struggling or need help for your teen, Empower Your Mind Therapy (EYMT) is here to help. Our process at EYMT is to help clients build more effective and helpful behaviors around new thoughts. Our mission is to provide all clients with the tools, skills and empowerment they need to build their life worth living.
(347) 947-7082 View (347) 947-7082
Photo of Cecily Portillo, Psychologist in Garden City, NY
Cecily Portillo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I have extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and specialize in emotion dysregulation, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Do your emotions overwhelm you? Do they get away from you and lead to behaviors that affect your relationships, career and/or sense of self? Has it been more difficult than usual to manage your worry thoughts or your mood? It can be difficult to build the life you want when strong emotions get in the way. While it might not seem possible now, you CAN rein them in and I’d like to show you how.
I have extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and specialize in emotion dysregulation, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Do your emotions overwhelm you? Do they get away from you and lead to behaviors that affect your relationships, career and/or sense of self? Has it been more difficult than usual to manage your worry thoughts or your mood? It can be difficult to build the life you want when strong emotions get in the way. While it might not seem possible now, you CAN rein them in and I’d like to show you how.
(347) 252-9744 View (347) 252-9744
Photo of Rita Jacqueline Mercante, Counselor in Garden City, NY
Rita Jacqueline Mercante
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530
I have worked extensively with CBT, DBT & Psychodynamic techniques.
I am professionally trained in treating anxiety & depressive disorders (mood disorders) & personality disorders. Over the years, I have helped individuals learn how to cope and manage emotional dysregulation, self-injurious behaviors and other high risk behaviors. As a DBT and Psychodynamically trained therapist, I work with individuals needing skills in regulating emotion, impulse control & ceasing self-harm as well as those seeking to gain life insights. My clinical background can help you build a life worth living, leading you to a better place.
I have worked extensively with CBT, DBT & Psychodynamic techniques.
I am professionally trained in treating anxiety & depressive disorders (mood disorders) & personality disorders. Over the years, I have helped individuals learn how to cope and manage emotional dysregulation, self-injurious behaviors and other high risk behaviors. As a DBT and Psychodynamically trained therapist, I work with individuals needing skills in regulating emotion, impulse control & ceasing self-harm as well as those seeking to gain life insights. My clinical background can help you build a life worth living, leading you to a better place.
(516) 619-6832 View (516) 619-6832
Photo of Christopher P. Casazza, Counselor in Garden City, NY
Christopher P. Casazza
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530  (Online Only)
I utilize an eclectic, evidence-based approach that includes CBT, DBT and mindfulness-based interventions that encourage growth while simultaneously honoring and accepting you for who you are.
Making the choice to go to therapy is not the easiest one you will ever make, but it is among the most powerful. Whether you are struggling to cope with recent changes in your life or have made the choice to address long-standing issues in a new way, finding someone who is able to provide an unbiased, thoughtful perspective can improve your life profoundly. All of us encounter obstacles and face difficulty. In response to that difficulty, we may develop coping strategies that no longer serve us.
I utilize an eclectic, evidence-based approach that includes CBT, DBT and mindfulness-based interventions that encourage growth while simultaneously honoring and accepting you for who you are.
Making the choice to go to therapy is not the easiest one you will ever make, but it is among the most powerful. Whether you are struggling to cope with recent changes in your life or have made the choice to address long-standing issues in a new way, finding someone who is able to provide an unbiased, thoughtful perspective can improve your life profoundly. All of us encounter obstacles and face difficulty. In response to that difficulty, we may develop coping strategies that no longer serve us.
(516) 252-0344 View (516) 252-0344

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.