Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Van Alstyne, TX

Photo of Dr. Sandy McMillan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Dr. Sandy McMillan
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Van Alstyne, TX 75495
My therapeutic approach employs flexible integration. This style enables the counseling experience to be tailored to the individual needs and style of each client. This can range from behavioral to psychodynamic techniques. The methods are different but complimentary in order to give each client the most effective experience. Clients will feel free to express their innermost thoughts, feelings, and ideas through a non-threatening, non-judgmental environment. Utilizing techniques that complement each unique personality will enable clients to gain confidence in achieving their goals.
My therapeutic approach employs flexible integration. This style enables the counseling experience to be tailored to the individual needs and style of each client. This can range from behavioral to psychodynamic techniques. The methods are different but complimentary in order to give each client the most effective experience. Clients will feel free to express their innermost thoughts, feelings, and ideas through a non-threatening, non-judgmental environment. Utilizing techniques that complement each unique personality will enable clients to gain confidence in achieving their goals.
(972) 528-0802 View (972) 528-0802

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lasharra Jenkins, Licensed Master Social Worker in Van Alstyne, TX
Lasharra Jenkins
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409  (Online Only)
I provide therapy for individual, group, marriages and/or family utilizing CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused and more.
Are you feeling like you just don’t fit in, feeling lonely despite being surrounded by others, unable to manage your day to day, or feeling like you need to be validated and unsure if you made the right decision? Are you feeling like you and your partner and/or family are not on the same page? Are you struggling with identifying what is making you feel uncomfortable? Or do you not know how to respond to your children, partner/spouse, family or friends. If you feel this way, you are in the right place. Let me create a safe space for you to express all the emotions & feelings that has been trapped inside.
I provide therapy for individual, group, marriages and/or family utilizing CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused and more.
Are you feeling like you just don’t fit in, feeling lonely despite being surrounded by others, unable to manage your day to day, or feeling like you need to be validated and unsure if you made the right decision? Are you feeling like you and your partner and/or family are not on the same page? Are you struggling with identifying what is making you feel uncomfortable? Or do you not know how to respond to your children, partner/spouse, family or friends. If you feel this way, you are in the right place. Let me create a safe space for you to express all the emotions & feelings that has been trapped inside.
(972) 591-1051 View (972) 591-1051
Photo of Counseling Impact, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Counseling Impact
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409
Are you confused about your life? Do you struggle to sort out your emotions? Does trauma have you spiraling out of control? Is grief so overwhelming that you are not sure what to do? Have you tried to create healthy relationships only to find yourself hurt and disappointed? Do you feel nervous, fear judgement or struggle discussing the challenges you are experiencing in your life? We all want to live peaceful, happy, stable lives surrounded by people who love and value us! The life you desire is possible!
Are you confused about your life? Do you struggle to sort out your emotions? Does trauma have you spiraling out of control? Is grief so overwhelming that you are not sure what to do? Have you tried to create healthy relationships only to find yourself hurt and disappointed? Do you feel nervous, fear judgement or struggle discussing the challenges you are experiencing in your life? We all want to live peaceful, happy, stable lives surrounded by people who love and value us! The life you desire is possible!
(903) 294-3019 View (903) 294-3019
Photo of Kenisha Henderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Van Alstyne, TX
Kenisha Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409
Are you looking for a supportive, open minded space to express yourself and your life struggles? Do you struggle with anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed? Are you wanting to repair or build healthy relationships with others? Do you wrestle with making decisions about your future or major life decisions? I am here to help guide and support you through some of life's difficult and stressful moments.
Are you looking for a supportive, open minded space to express yourself and your life struggles? Do you struggle with anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed? Are you wanting to repair or build healthy relationships with others? Do you wrestle with making decisions about your future or major life decisions? I am here to help guide and support you through some of life's difficult and stressful moments.
(972) 846-9324 View (972) 846-9324
Photo of Rejuvenation Counseling, Coaching & Consulting LLC, Pastoral Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Rejuvenation Counseling, Coaching & Consulting LLC
Pastoral Counselor, LCCP, LCMFT, LCCT
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454  (Online Only)
Dr. Nicckay Natson is the Executive Director and Founder of Rejuvenation Counseling Coaching & Consulting LLC. Dr. Nicckay is a Licensed Clinical Christian Psychologist, Licensed Clinical Christian Therapist and Licensed Clinical Christian Marriage and Family Therapist a Licensed and Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, Certified Mentor and Certified Marriage Mentor. She is also a Certified Symbis facilitator. She has been a therapist/therapist supervisor/behavior analyst for over 18 years combined in the secular arena before she decided to start a Christian Counseling Practice to help those that are in need.
Dr. Nicckay Natson is the Executive Director and Founder of Rejuvenation Counseling Coaching & Consulting LLC. Dr. Nicckay is a Licensed Clinical Christian Psychologist, Licensed Clinical Christian Therapist and Licensed Clinical Christian Marriage and Family Therapist a Licensed and Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, Certified Mentor and Certified Marriage Mentor. She is also a Certified Symbis facilitator. She has been a therapist/therapist supervisor/behavior analyst for over 18 years combined in the secular arena before she decided to start a Christian Counseling Practice to help those that are in need.
(678) 922-4645 View (678) 922-4645
Photo of Amber Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Van Alstyne, TX
Amber Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409
On the outside you look like you have it “all together” but deep down you are struggling. The pressure of trying to do it all paired with your high expectations for yourself are beating you down. You are realizing you have lost touch with yourself. You know you need to set better boundaries and start prioritizing yourself, but in the past when you have tried it didn't work out and your old patterns eventually resurfaced. You know things can’t keep going on like this. You want to feel happy and confident.
On the outside you look like you have it “all together” but deep down you are struggling. The pressure of trying to do it all paired with your high expectations for yourself are beating you down. You are realizing you have lost touch with yourself. You know you need to set better boundaries and start prioritizing yourself, but in the past when you have tried it didn't work out and your old patterns eventually resurfaced. You know things can’t keep going on like this. You want to feel happy and confident.
(469) 457-2263 View (469) 457-2263
Photo of Laura Auldridge, LPC, CCTP, EMDR-Trained, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Laura Auldridge, LPC, CCTP, EMDR-Trained
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409
First off, you are more than enough! What you are experiencing is tough, but so are you! Now that, that’s been said here’s a tidbit about who I am. My name is Laura Auldridge and I am currently accepting new clients in my downtown, Mckinney Town Square office! I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the K-State, and a master’s degree in counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. If you are seeking therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, religious trauma, intimacy/relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ community, personality/mood disorders or need help for your teen/kiddo I am your girl!
First off, you are more than enough! What you are experiencing is tough, but so are you! Now that, that’s been said here’s a tidbit about who I am. My name is Laura Auldridge and I am currently accepting new clients in my downtown, Mckinney Town Square office! I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the K-State, and a master’s degree in counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. If you are seeking therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, religious trauma, intimacy/relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ community, personality/mood disorders or need help for your teen/kiddo I am your girl!
(469) 840-4253 View (469) 840-4253
Photo of Christi Nelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Christi Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409  (Online Only)
We live in a fast-paced world and sometimes life can seem overwhelming and difficult. You have coped the best way you know how, but sometimes life just gets too tough to figure out on your own. You try to understand how things got so bad. You don't have to straighten life out on your own. Why would you want to? I want to be part of your support team. There is no judgment... only care and compassion. It's time to take your life back!
We live in a fast-paced world and sometimes life can seem overwhelming and difficult. You have coped the best way you know how, but sometimes life just gets too tough to figure out on your own. You try to understand how things got so bad. You don't have to straighten life out on your own. Why would you want to? I want to be part of your support team. There is no judgment... only care and compassion. It's time to take your life back!
(972) 630-4830 View (972) 630-4830
Photo of Village Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Village Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409
Living life takes a village; we consider it a privilege to be part of yours! At Village Counseling we aim to provide support across the lifespan, from kids to adults and couples to families. Our therapists are equipped to help you explore the patterns and hangups in your life that are leading you down well-traveled roads, understand the underlying contributors to your feelings of sadness or anxiety, and make changes to improve your life. We take a person-centered approach which means, we work together to create treatment goals and make meaningful progress using evidence-based therapeutic methods!
Living life takes a village; we consider it a privilege to be part of yours! At Village Counseling we aim to provide support across the lifespan, from kids to adults and couples to families. Our therapists are equipped to help you explore the patterns and hangups in your life that are leading you down well-traveled roads, understand the underlying contributors to your feelings of sadness or anxiety, and make changes to improve your life. We take a person-centered approach which means, we work together to create treatment goals and make meaningful progress using evidence-based therapeutic methods!
(469) 607-0198 View (469) 607-0198
Photo of Kelly Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Kelly Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409  (Online Only)
Rumi- "Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I'll meet you there." I consider it an honor and a privilege to walk alongside my clients in their journey of healing and discovery. My formal education and professional experience have prepared me to counsel individuals, couples, families and groups. I fit my clinical approach to each clients needs and goals. I have worked with many experiential techniques and enjoy bringing them into my individual and couples sessions. I enjoy helping my clients to find and build on their strengths.
Rumi- "Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I'll meet you there." I consider it an honor and a privilege to walk alongside my clients in their journey of healing and discovery. My formal education and professional experience have prepared me to counsel individuals, couples, families and groups. I fit my clinical approach to each clients needs and goals. I have worked with many experiential techniques and enjoy bringing them into my individual and couples sessions. I enjoy helping my clients to find and build on their strengths.
(972) 833-0923 View (972) 833-0923
Photo of Natalia (Natasha) V Joseph, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Natalia (Natasha) V Joseph
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you finding yourself withdrawing from life, anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? Trouble connecting with your spouse, children, family, or friends? One of the greatest joys in life is our connections and relationships with others, living life through community. Don't let these areas of life suffer any longer. I strive to create an accepting and nurturing environment that allows clients to find relief to their stress, forgive themselves and others, and learn how to build and maintain successful relationships. We will work together in order to help each client become the best version of themselves.
Are you finding yourself withdrawing from life, anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? Trouble connecting with your spouse, children, family, or friends? One of the greatest joys in life is our connections and relationships with others, living life through community. Don't let these areas of life suffer any longer. I strive to create an accepting and nurturing environment that allows clients to find relief to their stress, forgive themselves and others, and learn how to build and maintain successful relationships. We will work together in order to help each client become the best version of themselves.
(214) 643-8773 View (214) 643-8773

Online Therapists

Photo of Wright Wellness, Psychologist in Van Alstyne, TX
Wright Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76015
Our providers use a wide variety of evidenced-based treatment approaches to address individual needs and goals, including Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solutions-Focused, EMDR, Trauma-Informed, Family Systems, and more.
Our providers at Wright Wellness are trained to work with a wide variety of mental health conditions and struggles, including anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, adjustments, grief, adolescent, young adult, substance use, eating disorders, health psychology, medication management, and more. Please visit our website to learn more, we are here to help.
Our providers use a wide variety of evidenced-based treatment approaches to address individual needs and goals, including Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solutions-Focused, EMDR, Trauma-Informed, Family Systems, and more.
Our providers at Wright Wellness are trained to work with a wide variety of mental health conditions and struggles, including anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, adjustments, grief, adolescent, young adult, substance use, eating disorders, health psychology, medication management, and more. Please visit our website to learn more, we are here to help.
(682) 301-4883 View (682) 301-4883
Photo of Shelby Richard, LPC Associate in Van Alstyne, TX
Shelby Richard
LPC Associate, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
Specifically, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) to help my clients better understand and improve their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I work best with children, teens, and adults struggling with eating disorders and anxiety disorders. Many clients describe my personality as relatable, insightful, and non-judgmental. I am experienced in treating a variety of eating disorders including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, Anorexia Nervosa, Orthorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. In addition, I am well-versed in treating the following anxiety disorders: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, and Selective Mutism.
Specifically, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) to help my clients better understand and improve their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I work best with children, teens, and adults struggling with eating disorders and anxiety disorders. Many clients describe my personality as relatable, insightful, and non-judgmental. I am experienced in treating a variety of eating disorders including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, Anorexia Nervosa, Orthorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. In addition, I am well-versed in treating the following anxiety disorders: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, and Selective Mutism.
(972) 716-2989 View (972) 716-2989
Photo of Sharyn Lynn Campbell, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Sharyn Lynn Campbell
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, LCAC, ADC, ICADC, CAC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069  (Online Only)
Modalities include motivational interviewing, cognitive, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Addiction also known as the thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. It takes your money, kills dreams, and destroys relationships and you are tired of it. You want your life back by way of reuniting with loved ones, fulfilling your dreams and God-given purpose, and having enough money for shelter, food, clothing, and transportation. Substance use has taken me further than I wanted to go because I did not count the cost. Prayer upon request.
Modalities include motivational interviewing, cognitive, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Addiction also known as the thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. It takes your money, kills dreams, and destroys relationships and you are tired of it. You want your life back by way of reuniting with loved ones, fulfilling your dreams and God-given purpose, and having enough money for shelter, food, clothing, and transportation. Substance use has taken me further than I wanted to go because I did not count the cost. Prayer upon request.
(972) 433-9275 View (972) 433-9275
Photo of Kristin Rose, Psychologist in Van Alstyne, TX
Kristin Rose
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Coppell, TX 75019
Rose can connect and adjust to individual needs through different theoretical orientations and modalities (CBT, DBT, attachment).
Dr. Rose is a licensed psychologist in the State of Texas who enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults. She has received extensive training and ample experience working with a broad range of issues. In her 12+ years of experience, Dr. Rose has developed areas of expertise or specialization in working with anxiety and depressive issues, child and adolescent behavioral struggles, relationship or attachment concerns, trauma, and emerging personality. In addition, Dr. Rose provides family therapy and testing services (neuropsychological, psychological, psychoeducational, cognitive only, etc.).
Rose can connect and adjust to individual needs through different theoretical orientations and modalities (CBT, DBT, attachment).
Dr. Rose is a licensed psychologist in the State of Texas who enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults. She has received extensive training and ample experience working with a broad range of issues. In her 12+ years of experience, Dr. Rose has developed areas of expertise or specialization in working with anxiety and depressive issues, child and adolescent behavioral struggles, relationship or attachment concerns, trauma, and emerging personality. In addition, Dr. Rose provides family therapy and testing services (neuropsychological, psychological, psychoeducational, cognitive only, etc.).
(214) 306-7486 View (214) 306-7486
Photo of Melissa Endicott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Melissa Endicott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
I use EMDR, DBT, CBT, ERP, and ACT techniques, to help in your healing journey.
My clients may find that they are struggling with trusting themselves or others in relationships, have difficulty feeling safe or confident in their own body, and/or some have past difficult/confusing/traumatic events that can make them feel stuck. I specialize in helping teens, adults, and families with Anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Trauma, Eating Disorders, Depression, Adjustments, Life Stressors, and Grief and Loss. I am a gentle and empathic listener, and also will provide direct skills to help you with these issues. I believe you're the expert of your life, and I have training and tools to help you achieve your goals.
I use EMDR, DBT, CBT, ERP, and ACT techniques, to help in your healing journey.
My clients may find that they are struggling with trusting themselves or others in relationships, have difficulty feeling safe or confident in their own body, and/or some have past difficult/confusing/traumatic events that can make them feel stuck. I specialize in helping teens, adults, and families with Anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Trauma, Eating Disorders, Depression, Adjustments, Life Stressors, and Grief and Loss. I am a gentle and empathic listener, and also will provide direct skills to help you with these issues. I believe you're the expert of your life, and I have training and tools to help you achieve your goals.
(214) 428-6802 View (214) 428-6802
Photo of Shenella Karunaratne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Shenella Karunaratne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT - Trained), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and EMDR (trained) in my practice, and I aim to create an eclectic course of treatment that benefits you.
My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are at. Each individual deserves personalized treatment that is effective and long-lasting. My goal in therapy is to help you achieve your potential in any capacity you wish to pursue. I take a direct and challenging approach while creating a supportive and empowering relationship for you to reach your goals.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT - Trained), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and EMDR (trained) in my practice, and I aim to create an eclectic course of treatment that benefits you.
My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are at. Each individual deserves personalized treatment that is effective and long-lasting. My goal in therapy is to help you achieve your potential in any capacity you wish to pursue. I take a direct and challenging approach while creating a supportive and empowering relationship for you to reach your goals.
(469) 529-5970 View (469) 529-5970
Photo of Ingrid Vergara, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Ingrid Vergara
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75202  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, MET, CBT, MI, and DBT in my practice.
Are you feeling lost and not sure what the next step is? I am here to process those thoughts and talk with you. It is not uncommon to lose connection with our voice and inner self. I am here to help you rebalance and re-discover how to connect with that piece of you. We all have the ability to heal ourselves; however, life challenges can throw that balance off. Though therapy, we can regain our strength and overcome barriers or strengthen areas where we want to grow by actively working on improvement and embracing the process of change.
I utilize EMDR, MET, CBT, MI, and DBT in my practice.
Are you feeling lost and not sure what the next step is? I am here to process those thoughts and talk with you. It is not uncommon to lose connection with our voice and inner self. I am here to help you rebalance and re-discover how to connect with that piece of you. We all have the ability to heal ourselves; however, life challenges can throw that balance off. Though therapy, we can regain our strength and overcome barriers or strengthen areas where we want to grow by actively working on improvement and embracing the process of change.
(469) 874-1242 View (469) 874-1242
Photo of Marta Otero, Psychologist in Van Alstyne, TX
Marta Otero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
She is specialized as a therapist who offers CBT, DBT capable of working with any mental illness.
Dr. Marta Otero provides high quality and affordable therapy, court services, immigration evals, security testing, educational and psychological testing. All services are available for all ages. She is a member of the Texas Psychological Association and the American Psychological Association.
She is specialized as a therapist who offers CBT, DBT capable of working with any mental illness.
Dr. Marta Otero provides high quality and affordable therapy, court services, immigration evals, security testing, educational and psychological testing. All services are available for all ages. She is a member of the Texas Psychological Association and the American Psychological Association.
(817) 382-3068 View (817) 382-3068
Photo of Sunnyside Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Sunnyside Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75044  (Online Only)
I like to tailor your therapeutic experience to what will work best for you using an Adlerian lens (aka childhood and family are important to discuss!) My favorite modalities include: EMDR, DBT, parts work (IFS informed), breathwork, CBT and TF-CBT.
Hey there, I'm Kate! I'm so glad you're here; asking for help can be so hard. I know life can be challenging, stressful, and even traumatic. That's why I'd love to partner with you in finding healing and safety in a nonjudgmental space. I'm very passionate at working with those who have experienced childhood trauma, abuse, sexual trauma, relationship stress, stressful life transitions, and women who have been diagnosed with ADHD after childhood. I help older adolescents, their parents, and adults create meaningful and authentic relationships with themselves to become self led and confident.
I like to tailor your therapeutic experience to what will work best for you using an Adlerian lens (aka childhood and family are important to discuss!) My favorite modalities include: EMDR, DBT, parts work (IFS informed), breathwork, CBT and TF-CBT.
Hey there, I'm Kate! I'm so glad you're here; asking for help can be so hard. I know life can be challenging, stressful, and even traumatic. That's why I'd love to partner with you in finding healing and safety in a nonjudgmental space. I'm very passionate at working with those who have experienced childhood trauma, abuse, sexual trauma, relationship stress, stressful life transitions, and women who have been diagnosed with ADHD after childhood. I help older adolescents, their parents, and adults create meaningful and authentic relationships with themselves to become self led and confident.
(214) 225-8556 View (214) 225-8556

See more therapy options for Van Alstyne

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.