Photo of Maddie Canel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Maddie Canel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I have completed trainings in DBT and somatic therapy interventions.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as clients with BPD, Bipolar 1 & 2, PTSD, and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
I have completed trainings in DBT and somatic therapy interventions.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as clients with BPD, Bipolar 1 & 2, PTSD, and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
(412) 307-9823 View (412) 307-9823
Photo of Ashley Mudrinich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Ashley Mudrinich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use both dialectical (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), with a strong trauma-informed background.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
I use both dialectical (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), with a strong trauma-informed background.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
(412) 534-5661 View (412) 534-5661
Photo of Joni B. Henry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Joni B. Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Since 2005 I have been working with individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and individuals with special needs as well as interpersonal and relationship problems. I employ evidence-based treatment modalities including ACT, CBT, DBT, and interpersonal psychotherapy. I am passionate about my work as a therapist and I find great joy in working with my clients and witnessing their capacity to heal. look forward to supporting you in your journey and will provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, and kind experience.
Since 2005 I have been working with individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and individuals with special needs as well as interpersonal and relationship problems. I employ evidence-based treatment modalities including ACT, CBT, DBT, and interpersonal psychotherapy. I am passionate about my work as a therapist and I find great joy in working with my clients and witnessing their capacity to heal. look forward to supporting you in your journey and will provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, and kind experience.
(412) 991-2042 View (412) 991-2042
Photo of Joanne R Bissell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Joanne R Bissell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCM, CMIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I utilize evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples.
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stage of life issues.
I utilize evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples.
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stage of life issues.
(412) 214-7114 View (412) 214-7114
Photo of Gwen F Melnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Gwen F Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Prior jobs (Clinical Social Worker at The Pentagon, an EAP, hospitals; Fortune 500 Subject Matter Expert; Medical School Mentor; MSW Program Director) have informed my practice as has training in CBT, EMDR, DBT, & Psychodynamic Therapy.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
Prior jobs (Clinical Social Worker at The Pentagon, an EAP, hospitals; Fortune 500 Subject Matter Expert; Medical School Mentor; MSW Program Director) have informed my practice as has training in CBT, EMDR, DBT, & Psychodynamic Therapy.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
(412) 356-9859 View (412) 356-9859
Photo of Caroline Springhorn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Caroline Springhorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I offer therapy through a DBT and CBT perspective.
My ideal client is seeking therapy to become the best version of themselves. They would be committed to treatment and be willing to put in the work in and outside of therapy.
I offer therapy through a DBT and CBT perspective.
My ideal client is seeking therapy to become the best version of themselves. They would be committed to treatment and be willing to put in the work in and outside of therapy.
(412) 693-6931 View (412) 693-6931
Photo of 412 Therapy Co., Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
412 Therapy Co.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMHC, TCT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
I use a combo of biopsych, somatic, DBT and CBT therapies.
In-person or virtual daytime availability. Weaving movement (yoga and walking), art, EMDR, and other non-traditional approaches into a talk-therapy space, I can help you move through discomfort to help you experience your real self - not just the version you have to throw together for everyone else.
I use a combo of biopsych, somatic, DBT and CBT therapies.
In-person or virtual daytime availability. Weaving movement (yoga and walking), art, EMDR, and other non-traditional approaches into a talk-therapy space, I can help you move through discomfort to help you experience your real self - not just the version you have to throw together for everyone else.
(412) 415-7926 View (412) 415-7926
Photo of Monica Waitkus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Monica Waitkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Depending on your personalized needs, I may incorporate the following treatment modalities into the therapeutic process: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Focused treatment.
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
Depending on your personalized needs, I may incorporate the following treatment modalities into the therapeutic process: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Focused treatment.
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
(412) 528-6365 View (412) 528-6365
Photo of Molly Johnston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Molly Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
Along with traditional therapeutic models such as CBT, DBT, MI, and psychodynamics, I also have experience integrating additional concepts including trauma, self-esteem and compassion, healthy relationships, kink and poly-friendly, diet culture recovery / Health At Every Size, and spirituality.
I think that therapy doesn’t have to be complicated. As a client you can expect to highlight your strengths, speak to your individual experience in a non-judgmental environment, receive unconditional support from someone you trust, and learn new ways to lessen your pain. Therapy is a wonderfully transformative venture, where two people collaborate on how to navigate the human experience. My approach is strengths-based, person-first, and multifaceted to meet your specific needs.
Along with traditional therapeutic models such as CBT, DBT, MI, and psychodynamics, I also have experience integrating additional concepts including trauma, self-esteem and compassion, healthy relationships, kink and poly-friendly, diet culture recovery / Health At Every Size, and spirituality.
I think that therapy doesn’t have to be complicated. As a client you can expect to highlight your strengths, speak to your individual experience in a non-judgmental environment, receive unconditional support from someone you trust, and learn new ways to lessen your pain. Therapy is a wonderfully transformative venture, where two people collaborate on how to navigate the human experience. My approach is strengths-based, person-first, and multifaceted to meet your specific needs.
(412) 946-0951 View (412) 946-0951
Photo of Cornerstone Family Connections , Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Cornerstone Family Connections
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Gottman Methods.
Effective therapy is built on connection. Our mission is to provide a safe space for individuals, couples, and families to receive the tools needed to build a strong foundation. We will tailor our treatment techniques to accommodate your specific needs. At Cornerstone Family Connections, we are driven by a desire to empower you to face your fears, heal, grow, and achieve a healthy balance.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Gottman Methods.
Effective therapy is built on connection. Our mission is to provide a safe space for individuals, couples, and families to receive the tools needed to build a strong foundation. We will tailor our treatment techniques to accommodate your specific needs. At Cornerstone Family Connections, we are driven by a desire to empower you to face your fears, heal, grow, and achieve a healthy balance.
(412) 533-1517 View (412) 533-1517
Photo of Julie Marie Provident-Schindhelm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Julie Marie Provident-Schindhelm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
My areas of specialty embrace the treatment modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with children and adults who want to address their anxiety, the Gottman principles of couples counseling for issues involving your relationship and Dialectical Behavior Therapy with adolescents and adults who seek to improve their stress tolerance skills.
Are you struggling with a family issue? Do you need help making a decision about your relationship? Are you having difficulty supporting your child through their own issues? I have strong background in marriage and family therapy as well as a background in Trauma Informed Care. I'll work with you to help you manage changes that may be taking place in your life. I can help you gain more clarity about your personal situation and work on stress reduction while we problem solve.
My areas of specialty embrace the treatment modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with children and adults who want to address their anxiety, the Gottman principles of couples counseling for issues involving your relationship and Dialectical Behavior Therapy with adolescents and adults who seek to improve their stress tolerance skills.
Are you struggling with a family issue? Do you need help making a decision about your relationship? Are you having difficulty supporting your child through their own issues? I have strong background in marriage and family therapy as well as a background in Trauma Informed Care. I'll work with you to help you manage changes that may be taking place in your life. I can help you gain more clarity about your personal situation and work on stress reduction while we problem solve.
(412) 923-4498 View (412) 923-4498
Photo of Danelle Avellino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Danelle Avellino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
I have training in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy).
I would like to help you live your best life. Whether that means healing past trauma, managing anxiety or depression, improving your relationships with others, building your self esteem, finding your life purpose, or coping while dealing with life stressors or transitions, I am here to support you.
I have training in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy).
I would like to help you live your best life. Whether that means healing past trauma, managing anxiety or depression, improving your relationships with others, building your self esteem, finding your life purpose, or coping while dealing with life stressors or transitions, I am here to support you.
(412) 844-4927 View (412) 844-4927
Photo of Audrey Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Audrey Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
In our therapeutic journey together, utilizing a blend of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and a psychodynamic approach, we will establish a safe and non-judgmental space.
Are you someone that has a history of struggling to make relationships work, whether it be with friends, family, or intimate partners? Do low mood, racing thoughts, and lack of energy often affect your functioning in day-to-day life? Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness or not being "enough"? As a therapist, I specialize in supporting adults of all ages who grapple with interpersonal issues, mood concerns, and self-esteem. Together, we'll address these challenges and work towards building fulfilling relationships and improving your overall well-being.
In our therapeutic journey together, utilizing a blend of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and a psychodynamic approach, we will establish a safe and non-judgmental space.
Are you someone that has a history of struggling to make relationships work, whether it be with friends, family, or intimate partners? Do low mood, racing thoughts, and lack of energy often affect your functioning in day-to-day life? Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness or not being "enough"? As a therapist, I specialize in supporting adults of all ages who grapple with interpersonal issues, mood concerns, and self-esteem. Together, we'll address these challenges and work towards building fulfilling relationships and improving your overall well-being.
(412) 991-2270 View (412) 991-2270
Photo of Jannette Travali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jannette Travali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
(724) 320-1816 View (724) 320-1816
Photo of Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC in Pittsburgh, PA
Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15202  (Online Only)
We use a number of evidenced based models including cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and trauma focused therapy during sessions to assist clients.
At Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC our ideal clients are those who are receptive to working together as a team. The clients do not have to love or like therapy but should in some small way be focused on wanting to get some relief for the issue. The ideal clients also is one who can be honest during the sessions and try to understand that therapy can be successful if time and work is put into it. Compass, Clinicians also love providing family therapy and have done so for many years. We are a diverse group of mental health clinicians from various backgrounds, with several years experience providing therapy.
We use a number of evidenced based models including cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and trauma focused therapy during sessions to assist clients.
At Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC our ideal clients are those who are receptive to working together as a team. The clients do not have to love or like therapy but should in some small way be focused on wanting to get some relief for the issue. The ideal clients also is one who can be honest during the sessions and try to understand that therapy can be successful if time and work is put into it. Compass, Clinicians also love providing family therapy and have done so for many years. We are a diverse group of mental health clinicians from various backgrounds, with several years experience providing therapy.
(201) 957-7392 View (201) 957-7392
Photo of Vincent A Pietropaoli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Vincent A Pietropaoli
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15210  (Online Only)
I have training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
I have more than five years of counseling experience working with individuals of all ages and many presenting problems. I have the most extensive experience working with people with mood related problems (such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and others) and those who have experienced traumatic events.
I have training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
I have more than five years of counseling experience working with individuals of all ages and many presenting problems. I have the most extensive experience working with people with mood related problems (such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and others) and those who have experienced traumatic events.
(878) 203-1183 View (878) 203-1183
Photo of Holistic Counseling Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Holistic Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DBTC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy treatment.
Holistic Counseling Services is committed to providing quality care using a tele-mental health platform. My goal is to provide good quality care in the privacy of your home or office without the hassle of taking extra time out of your busy schedule to travel to a brick and mortar office.
I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy treatment.
Holistic Counseling Services is committed to providing quality care using a tele-mental health platform. My goal is to provide good quality care in the privacy of your home or office without the hassle of taking extra time out of your busy schedule to travel to a brick and mortar office.
(484) 853-4775 View (484) 853-4775
Photo of Isobella Cerceo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Isobella Cerceo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
I practice therapy through a relational, trauma-informed lens that utilizes skills from variety of therapies such as internal family systems, dialectical behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy.
Healing is a lifelong journey, and it is not one you must do alone. You are taking a courageous first step towards realignment with yourself. By untangling the past, we can begin to heal these wounds and reclaim the narrative of our lives. I companion clients navigating trauma, relational distress, gender and sexuality exploration, sexual concerns, and neurodivergence. In and out of the therapy space, I am sex-positive, sex worker friendly, poly-friendly, kink aware & affirming, and Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned.
I practice therapy through a relational, trauma-informed lens that utilizes skills from variety of therapies such as internal family systems, dialectical behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy.
Healing is a lifelong journey, and it is not one you must do alone. You are taking a courageous first step towards realignment with yourself. By untangling the past, we can begin to heal these wounds and reclaim the narrative of our lives. I companion clients navigating trauma, relational distress, gender and sexuality exploration, sexual concerns, and neurodivergence. In and out of the therapy space, I am sex-positive, sex worker friendly, poly-friendly, kink aware & affirming, and Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned.
(484) 218-2404 View (484) 218-2404
Photo of Dr. Lindsay Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Lindsay Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
I use various techniques, like ACT, DBT, CBT, etc.
Hello! I'm Dr. Lindsay Martin, a Licensed Professional Counselor, committed to helping individuals begin their healing process. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the depths of your emotions, overcome challenges, and embark on a path towards a more fulfilling life. I collaborate with individuals struggling with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, suicidal thoughts, and trauma. Are you prepared to examine the thoughts and behaviors preventing you from living the life you truly want? Are you in search of personalized guidance to navigate this process?
I use various techniques, like ACT, DBT, CBT, etc.
Hello! I'm Dr. Lindsay Martin, a Licensed Professional Counselor, committed to helping individuals begin their healing process. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the depths of your emotions, overcome challenges, and embark on a path towards a more fulfilling life. I collaborate with individuals struggling with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, suicidal thoughts, and trauma. Are you prepared to examine the thoughts and behaviors preventing you from living the life you truly want? Are you in search of personalized guidance to navigate this process?
(484) 812-7974 View (484) 812-7974
Photo of Anjalea Noble, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Anjalea Noble
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Lea. I am a licensed clinical and counseling therapist based in Pennsylvania. I have extensive experience treating a wide range of concerns from general life stressors and relational challenges, to more significant clinical concerns such as PTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder. I specialize in treating trauma related disorders in adults, adolescents, and children. I am trained in DBT, PCIT, and TFCBT. I also have experience using Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi, I'm Lea. I am a licensed clinical and counseling therapist based in Pennsylvania. I have extensive experience treating a wide range of concerns from general life stressors and relational challenges, to more significant clinical concerns such as PTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder. I specialize in treating trauma related disorders in adults, adolescents, and children. I am trained in DBT, PCIT, and TFCBT. I also have experience using Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(484) 851-9035 View (484) 851-9035

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.