Photo of Tiffany Damewood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Tiffany Damewood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I use an integrative and eclectic therapy approach, which includes techniques and strategies from a variety of modalities and theories, including, DBT, CBT, AutPlay, play therapy techniques, and expressive therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington. As a neurodivergent individual and a parent to my neurodivergent children, I have a unique understanding and lived experience regarding neurodivergence (particularly related to autism and ADHD). I am passionate about working with other neurodivergent individuals of all ages and identities from a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
I use an integrative and eclectic therapy approach, which includes techniques and strategies from a variety of modalities and theories, including, DBT, CBT, AutPlay, play therapy techniques, and expressive therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington. As a neurodivergent individual and a parent to my neurodivergent children, I have a unique understanding and lived experience regarding neurodivergence (particularly related to autism and ADHD). I am passionate about working with other neurodivergent individuals of all ages and identities from a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
(469) 634-3033 View (469) 634-3033
Photo of Jennifer Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jennifer Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
She also incorporates cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), applied behavior therapy (ABT), play therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and more.
Jennifer Porter is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with years of experience. She works with children, teens, adults, and families. Jennifer specializes in treating issues related to family dynamics, relationship issues, stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions, parenting issues, children's behavioral and academic issues, and more.
She also incorporates cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), applied behavior therapy (ABT), play therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and more.
Jennifer Porter is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with years of experience. She works with children, teens, adults, and families. Jennifer specializes in treating issues related to family dynamics, relationship issues, stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions, parenting issues, children's behavioral and academic issues, and more.
(972) 640-6745 View (972) 640-6745
Photo of Heidi Johanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Heidi Johanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Also, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention to help treat a variety of issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, Bi-polar disorder, addiction, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, gender/identity, family and relationship issues. Throughout my career I've had the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele that has shaped my ability to be understanding and accepting. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of the counseling experience.
Also, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention to help treat a variety of issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, Bi-polar disorder, addiction, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, gender/identity, family and relationship issues. Throughout my career I've had the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele that has shaped my ability to be understanding and accepting. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of the counseling experience.
(682) 305-2787 View (682) 305-2787
Photo of Samantha Wilson, Psychological Associate in McKinney, TX
Samantha Wilson
Psychological Associate, MS, LPA, BCN
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Samantha supports evidence based modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
Samantha Wilson, M.S., LPA, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. A clinician offering experience with child (10+), adolescent, adult individual psychotherapy and couples counseling, Samantha specializes in the treatment of trauma, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, various mood disorders, sexual abuse and relationship concerns. She is well versed in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression and anxiety due to childhood trauma.
Samantha supports evidence based modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
Samantha Wilson, M.S., LPA, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. A clinician offering experience with child (10+), adolescent, adult individual psychotherapy and couples counseling, Samantha specializes in the treatment of trauma, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, various mood disorders, sexual abuse and relationship concerns. She is well versed in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression and anxiety due to childhood trauma.
(972) 498-1670 View (972) 498-1670
Photo of Taylor Buckner, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in McKinney, TX
Taylor Buckner
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
While I primarily use a person-centered approach, I also utilize other modalities, such as DBT, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing! I am trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) which is highly effective in treating conditions such as anxiety, phobias, and OCD.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am passionate about working with adults who are seeking help for trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA affirming care, mood disorders, and trauma informed parenting. I also work with veterans who are struggling to transition back to civilian life. I served in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman and trained as a behavioral health technician which was an invaluable experience that solidified my journey to working in mental health. I enjoy fostering a healing environment for my clients and watching them grow into finding self-discovery.
While I primarily use a person-centered approach, I also utilize other modalities, such as DBT, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing! I am trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) which is highly effective in treating conditions such as anxiety, phobias, and OCD.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am passionate about working with adults who are seeking help for trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA affirming care, mood disorders, and trauma informed parenting. I also work with veterans who are struggling to transition back to civilian life. I served in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman and trained as a behavioral health technician which was an invaluable experience that solidified my journey to working in mental health. I enjoy fostering a healing environment for my clients and watching them grow into finding self-discovery.
(469) 960-2941 View (469) 960-2941
Photo of Lindsay Hinojosa, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Lindsay Hinojosa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
For mood disorders and other issues, I utilize CBT, DBT, and IPSRT.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from The University of Houston – Clear Lake, and my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Whoop! Much of my experience has included treating adults struggling with complex PTSD, OCD, phobias, social anxiety, addiction, adult ADHD, and depression. Additionally, I have a passion for providing treatment to other helpers, such as first responders, veterans, social workers, counselors, nurses, doctors, teachers, and those who endlessly serve our communities.
For mood disorders and other issues, I utilize CBT, DBT, and IPSRT.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from The University of Houston – Clear Lake, and my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Whoop! Much of my experience has included treating adults struggling with complex PTSD, OCD, phobias, social anxiety, addiction, adult ADHD, and depression. Additionally, I have a passion for providing treatment to other helpers, such as first responders, veterans, social workers, counselors, nurses, doctors, teachers, and those who endlessly serve our communities.
(940) 548-7671 View (940) 548-7671
Photo of Tiffany Bays, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Tiffany Bays
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071  (Online Only)
She is DBT, ACT, CBT and Trauma trained.
Tiffany believes therapy is not a one size fits all and that different approaches or modalities may work for a client or situation and not another. Her therapeutic interests include trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, personality disorders, relationships, Narcissistic Personality Abuse Awareness. She has a passion for helping others discover issues related to self worth, coping skills, boundaries, communication, shame, and assist the client in developing the tools necessary to improve such issues.
She is DBT, ACT, CBT and Trauma trained.
Tiffany believes therapy is not a one size fits all and that different approaches or modalities may work for a client or situation and not another. Her therapeutic interests include trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, personality disorders, relationships, Narcissistic Personality Abuse Awareness. She has a passion for helping others discover issues related to self worth, coping skills, boundaries, communication, shame, and assist the client in developing the tools necessary to improve such issues.
(940) 514-8540 View (940) 514-8540
Photo of Manuel Vicente, LPC Associate in McKinney, TX
Manuel Vicente
LPC Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I use various treatment modalities such as EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, CPT, Functional Family Therapy, or motivational interviewing to address specific concerns or problems.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I graduated with a MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, Domestic violent relationships, substance use disorders and life adjustment stressors. My goal as a counselor is to find a tailored approach to meeting each client's specific needs to help uncover their strength. The years of experience I have in the behavioral health field has helped shaped me to be non judgmental.
I use various treatment modalities such as EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, CPT, Functional Family Therapy, or motivational interviewing to address specific concerns or problems.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I graduated with a MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, Domestic violent relationships, substance use disorders and life adjustment stressors. My goal as a counselor is to find a tailored approach to meeting each client's specific needs to help uncover their strength. The years of experience I have in the behavioral health field has helped shaped me to be non judgmental.
(817) 518-6126 View (817) 518-6126
Photo of Community Counseling Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Community Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
(214) 919-5829 View (214) 919-5829
Photo of Dana Sutter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Dana Sutter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
I believe in old-school techniques like CBT, DBT, EFT, SFBT, and MI.
Are you looking for real transformation? Do you want to unlock a new version of yourself, and stop imitating others or feeling like an imposter in your own life? Do worry, racing thoughts, and constant fears consume you? Do you find yourself battling with loneliness, feeling isolated and finding it difficult to reach out for help? Are you feeling exposed and vulnerable? It's tough to open up and trust others.
I believe in old-school techniques like CBT, DBT, EFT, SFBT, and MI.
Are you looking for real transformation? Do you want to unlock a new version of yourself, and stop imitating others or feeling like an imposter in your own life? Do worry, racing thoughts, and constant fears consume you? Do you find yourself battling with loneliness, feeling isolated and finding it difficult to reach out for help? Are you feeling exposed and vulnerable? It's tough to open up and trust others.
(737) 258-2447 View (737) 258-2447
Photo of Jen McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Jen McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I have a passion for working with women experiencing hard life events. From singleness to partnership and beginning the process of building a family or experiencing motherhood, I recognize that there are different struggles within each of the seasons. I specialize in perinatal mental health, specifically postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, fertility struggles and/or birth trauma. My hope is to help normalize that motherhood is HARD and you are not alone. I also work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events throughout their lives and are currently struggling with depression and anxiety.
I have a passion for working with women experiencing hard life events. From singleness to partnership and beginning the process of building a family or experiencing motherhood, I recognize that there are different struggles within each of the seasons. I specialize in perinatal mental health, specifically postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, fertility struggles and/or birth trauma. My hope is to help normalize that motherhood is HARD and you are not alone. I also work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events throughout their lives and are currently struggling with depression and anxiety.
(469) 457-3884 View (469) 457-3884
Photo of Javier Davila-Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Javier Davila-Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Javier Davila-Lopez, LPC has counseled a wide variety of clinical populations in various settings, including academic, forensic, non-profit and private practice. Javiar recognizes that life is full of obstacles, which may translate into depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, and trauma. All of these can feel like inadequacy, failure, loneliness, and pain. He believes that through an empathetic and collaborative relationship with his client, each can experience growth and healing. Javiar enjoys working with adolescents (13 and up), adult individuals and couples.
Javier Davila-Lopez, LPC has counseled a wide variety of clinical populations in various settings, including academic, forensic, non-profit and private practice. Javiar recognizes that life is full of obstacles, which may translate into depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, and trauma. All of these can feel like inadequacy, failure, loneliness, and pain. He believes that through an empathetic and collaborative relationship with his client, each can experience growth and healing. Javiar enjoys working with adolescents (13 and up), adult individuals and couples.
(469) 240-5326 View (469) 240-5326
Photo of DeeDee Shoubaki, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
DeeDee Shoubaki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Delelah, but you can call me DeeDee. I have spent my career working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I enjoy working with those who struggle with anger, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and trauma. My goal is to help others in creating their own sense of healthy emotional expression, improve communication skills, strengthen conflict management, and to empower clients to create the best version of themselves and build the life they want.
Hello, my name is Delelah, but you can call me DeeDee. I have spent my career working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I enjoy working with those who struggle with anger, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and trauma. My goal is to help others in creating their own sense of healthy emotional expression, improve communication skills, strengthen conflict management, and to empower clients to create the best version of themselves and build the life they want.
(214) 949-8303 View (214) 949-8303
Photo of Dr. Lucy F. Underwood, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Dr. Lucy F. Underwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, ACS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072
Learning to manage life can be a challenge. When complicated by life transitions, performance pressures, chronic health conditions, mental health diagnoses, or a host of other unforeseen obstacles, it is important to seek guidance. I have shared this journey with individuals & families for over 28 years. My clinical training, the use of research supported treatments, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & Sports Counseling have allowed me to successfully work with individuals of all ages (children, teens, adults, & geriatrics), athletes, & business professionals who are confronted with a variety of concerns.
Learning to manage life can be a challenge. When complicated by life transitions, performance pressures, chronic health conditions, mental health diagnoses, or a host of other unforeseen obstacles, it is important to seek guidance. I have shared this journey with individuals & families for over 28 years. My clinical training, the use of research supported treatments, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & Sports Counseling have allowed me to successfully work with individuals of all ages (children, teens, adults, & geriatrics), athletes, & business professionals who are confronted with a variety of concerns.
(469) 208-8843 View (469) 208-8843
Photo of Lauren Gross Rumpel, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Lauren Gross Rumpel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
You can get your life back! You don't have to stay stuck! We can use eye movements and voluntary image replacement to keep the facts but erase the negative feelings using ART! I have a passion for helping divorced clients, military personnel along with their families, and couples struggling in their marriage. I help people who are Christian and non-Christian alike find hope and healing!
You can get your life back! You don't have to stay stuck! We can use eye movements and voluntary image replacement to keep the facts but erase the negative feelings using ART! I have a passion for helping divorced clients, military personnel along with their families, and couples struggling in their marriage. I help people who are Christian and non-Christian alike find hope and healing!
(469) 278-7902 View (469) 278-7902
Photo of Jennifer Reci, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jennifer Reci
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Have you experienced a loss or major change in your life? Sometimes changes in our lives can bring about stress, anxiety, or feelings of doubt and hopelessness. I believe that we can overcome these feelings through finding meaning in our struggle and learning different coping skills to face new challenges. Together, we can face the struggle and I can help empower you with new coping skills and strategies to overcome obstacles.
Have you experienced a loss or major change in your life? Sometimes changes in our lives can bring about stress, anxiety, or feelings of doubt and hopelessness. I believe that we can overcome these feelings through finding meaning in our struggle and learning different coping skills to face new challenges. Together, we can face the struggle and I can help empower you with new coping skills and strategies to overcome obstacles.
(469) 289-2846 View (469) 289-2846
Photo of CHART Counseling Services, Erin Smith-Spearman , Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
CHART Counseling Services, Erin Smith-Spearman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Are you ready to surrender to the fact that your way of managing your personal and professional life is only making things worse? If so, I am ready to jump in and help! I specialize in conflict resolution, restoring relationships, and improving personal, academic, and professional development. In addition, I help my clients work to identify, explore, address, and resolve any unprocessed traumas or stressors that may be affecting their ability to be the best version of themselves. I not only help clients become new people, I strive to promote change that can break family cycles and significantly improve the entire family's dynamic.
Are you ready to surrender to the fact that your way of managing your personal and professional life is only making things worse? If so, I am ready to jump in and help! I specialize in conflict resolution, restoring relationships, and improving personal, academic, and professional development. In addition, I help my clients work to identify, explore, address, and resolve any unprocessed traumas or stressors that may be affecting their ability to be the best version of themselves. I not only help clients become new people, I strive to promote change that can break family cycles and significantly improve the entire family's dynamic.
(210) 908-5198 View (210) 908-5198
Photo of Linda Ryan-Holbeck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Linda Ryan-Holbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
I help women build resilience to weather the storms of life with grace and strength. I know the importance of being able to bounce back from loss, disappointment, or crisis. As a therapist who works with women stung and damaged by all sorts of life events, I believe that resilience is one of the single most important qualities that enables us to bounce back from the edge. Resilience allows us to find our strength in adverse circumstances. It requires a willingness to fall apart for a time and get in touch with our pain. There is much healing that can be accomplished by getting to know yourself at your rawest and darkest times.
I help women build resilience to weather the storms of life with grace and strength. I know the importance of being able to bounce back from loss, disappointment, or crisis. As a therapist who works with women stung and damaged by all sorts of life events, I believe that resilience is one of the single most important qualities that enables us to bounce back from the edge. Resilience allows us to find our strength in adverse circumstances. It requires a willingness to fall apart for a time and get in touch with our pain. There is much healing that can be accomplished by getting to know yourself at your rawest and darkest times.
(281) 784-3359 View (281) 784-3359
Photo of Krysta Lacy in McKinney, TX
Krysta Lacy
MS
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Do you feel as though you will never have a healthy relationship: with your family? with your significant other? with yourself? with food? Do you struggle to love and appreciate the person staring back at you in the mirror? Do you feel stuck in habits that result in self-sabotage and feelings of shame? Do you feel unworthy or undeserving of stability or contentment, so you turn to unhealthy eating patterns, toxic relationships, or substances? Maybe the trauma you have experienced has not been managed effectively and you don't have the tools to heal and feel relief.
Do you feel as though you will never have a healthy relationship: with your family? with your significant other? with yourself? with food? Do you struggle to love and appreciate the person staring back at you in the mirror? Do you feel stuck in habits that result in self-sabotage and feelings of shame? Do you feel unworthy or undeserving of stability or contentment, so you turn to unhealthy eating patterns, toxic relationships, or substances? Maybe the trauma you have experienced has not been managed effectively and you don't have the tools to heal and feel relief.
(972) 430-4972 View (972) 430-4972
Photo of Remmy Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in McKinney, TX
Remmy Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, abandonment, codependency, childhood issues including abuse/neglect, family of origin issues, life transitions, PTSD, and relationship issues. I am also passionate about helping clients recover from narcissistic abuse. As a therapist, I collaborate with you on goals for treatment and give you autonomy in your healing process. I believe the therapeutic relationship provides healing for attachment wounds and other various forms of trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, abandonment, codependency, childhood issues including abuse/neglect, family of origin issues, life transitions, PTSD, and relationship issues. I am also passionate about helping clients recover from narcissistic abuse. As a therapist, I collaborate with you on goals for treatment and give you autonomy in your healing process. I believe the therapeutic relationship provides healing for attachment wounds and other various forms of trauma.
(469) 966-7902 View (469) 966-7902
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.