Photo of Susan Sweetwater, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Susan Sweetwater
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BFA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I offer compassion-based therapy which focuses on what's right and good in you. I team with clients to create a mutual, shared space of compassion, caring and healing. In this space, problems are explored together, losses and hurts are held together. Where there is trauma, it is transformed through body-based somatic therapy and EMDR. I bring a wide array of therapeutic techniques, from ancient wisdom traditions to cutting edge neurobiology, to support your healing and provide practical skills for reaching your goals. Whatever difficulties you face - healing is the rule, not the exception. Private Pay; $160 (some sliding scale)
I offer compassion-based therapy which focuses on what's right and good in you. I team with clients to create a mutual, shared space of compassion, caring and healing. In this space, problems are explored together, losses and hurts are held together. Where there is trauma, it is transformed through body-based somatic therapy and EMDR. I bring a wide array of therapeutic techniques, from ancient wisdom traditions to cutting edge neurobiology, to support your healing and provide practical skills for reaching your goals. Whatever difficulties you face - healing is the rule, not the exception. Private Pay; $160 (some sliding scale)
(360) 529-4842 View (360) 529-4842
Photo of Ju-Yi 'joyce' Fu, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Ju-Yi 'joyce' Fu
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
My counseling approach is to first help you clarify your presenting problems from an integrated mind-body-spirit-environment perspective. I utilize mindfulness to help you to develop clarity in the present moment, and with depth psychology, psychodynamic, EMDR, art therapy, Jungian psychology, and focusing-oriented psychotherapy to help you explore and embrace your, SELF, inner wisdom, and unconscious awareness for healing. Through processing unhealed wounds in the past, we can unveil the authentic SELF, and finding life meanings to journey on.
My counseling approach is to first help you clarify your presenting problems from an integrated mind-body-spirit-environment perspective. I utilize mindfulness to help you to develop clarity in the present moment, and with depth psychology, psychodynamic, EMDR, art therapy, Jungian psychology, and focusing-oriented psychotherapy to help you explore and embrace your, SELF, inner wisdom, and unconscious awareness for healing. Through processing unhealed wounds in the past, we can unveil the authentic SELF, and finding life meanings to journey on.
(360) 525-9224 View (360) 525-9224

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Bradley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Rebecca Bradley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I use modalities such as IFS, somatic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, and brief solution-focused therapy and psychedelic integration work.
Welcome to a therapeutic space where healing is holistic, and the mind-body connection is at the core of transformation. My practice is a sanctuary for those navigating the complexities of life, offering support for a range of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, psychosis and existential crisis. In our collaborative journey, I see myself as a partner and guide, empowering you to explore the depths of your own potential for healing. My practice is rooted in the belief that each individual possesses innate ability to heal themselves. Together, we navigate the path towards unlocking the transformative power within
I use modalities such as IFS, somatic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, and brief solution-focused therapy and psychedelic integration work.
Welcome to a therapeutic space where healing is holistic, and the mind-body connection is at the core of transformation. My practice is a sanctuary for those navigating the complexities of life, offering support for a range of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, psychosis and existential crisis. In our collaborative journey, I see myself as a partner and guide, empowering you to explore the depths of your own potential for healing. My practice is rooted in the belief that each individual possesses innate ability to heal themselves. Together, we navigate the path towards unlocking the transformative power within
(360) 938-4293 View (360) 938-4293
Photo of Paul Scarberry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bainbridge Island, WA
Paul Scarberry
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHP, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Using a Person-Centered approach enhanced with CBT, DBT and other behavioral and existential techniques, we will work towards gaining insight and improving coping skills that can be applied to all areas of your life.
Do you find yourself reaching for substances to help manage depression, anxiety, PTSD? Whether you have recently developed an unhealthy relationship with alcohol or have been coping with recovery issues for a while, I can help you explore new and effective coping tools. Together we can design the path to living your best life.
Using a Person-Centered approach enhanced with CBT, DBT and other behavioral and existential techniques, we will work towards gaining insight and improving coping skills that can be applied to all areas of your life.
Do you find yourself reaching for substances to help manage depression, anxiety, PTSD? Whether you have recently developed an unhealthy relationship with alcohol or have been coping with recovery issues for a while, I can help you explore new and effective coping tools. Together we can design the path to living your best life.
(253) 262-0467 View (253) 262-0467
Photo of Kelsea Pelletier, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Kelsea Pelletier
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I utilize a person-centered, internal family systems, trauma-informed perspectives and utilize DBT skills.
Kelsea Pelletier is a therapist and supervisor and one of her favorite quotes states, "The quality of our life depends on the quality of our relationships" by Ester Perel. Many of her clients are survivors of narcissistic parents, partners and societal values who experience a deep sense of loneliness, anxiety and depression and may find themselves in patterns of people pleasing & resentment. Some of her client's also often feel lost without a sense of approval from others. Kelsea's clients are striving to feel more in touch with their authentic sense of self by coming to a better balance of internal versus external validation.
I utilize a person-centered, internal family systems, trauma-informed perspectives and utilize DBT skills.
Kelsea Pelletier is a therapist and supervisor and one of her favorite quotes states, "The quality of our life depends on the quality of our relationships" by Ester Perel. Many of her clients are survivors of narcissistic parents, partners and societal values who experience a deep sense of loneliness, anxiety and depression and may find themselves in patterns of people pleasing & resentment. Some of her client's also often feel lost without a sense of approval from others. Kelsea's clients are striving to feel more in touch with their authentic sense of self by coming to a better balance of internal versus external validation.
(406) 284-0771 View (406) 284-0771
Photo of Kelly V Holmes, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Kelly V Holmes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from attachment theory, psychodynamic and Buddhist psychology, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, EMDR & Mindfulness.
We each have the ability to adapt, overcome adversity, feel joy and sorrow, love, and reach our highest potential. Stressful life events, trauma, loss, conflicts, illness, and transitions can overwhelm our ability to cope. Healing becomes blocked. We become stuck. We protect and defend ourselves to avoid ever feeling that pain again. Solutions that once worked become part of the problem. When the traumatic wound is triggered, we experience intense emotion and distorted ways of thinking. In therapy, we journey together to uncover and remove the blocks to healing, transforming pain and loss into meaning, awareness, and choice.
I draw from attachment theory, psychodynamic and Buddhist psychology, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, EMDR & Mindfulness.
We each have the ability to adapt, overcome adversity, feel joy and sorrow, love, and reach our highest potential. Stressful life events, trauma, loss, conflicts, illness, and transitions can overwhelm our ability to cope. Healing becomes blocked. We become stuck. We protect and defend ourselves to avoid ever feeling that pain again. Solutions that once worked become part of the problem. When the traumatic wound is triggered, we experience intense emotion and distorted ways of thinking. In therapy, we journey together to uncover and remove the blocks to healing, transforming pain and loss into meaning, awareness, and choice.
(253) 466-7577 View (253) 466-7577
Photo of Whole Beings Counseling & Consultation LLC, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Whole Beings Counseling & Consultation LLC
Counselor, MA, CDP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Approaches I am influenced by are with the following processes; social justice therapy, attachment/ abandonment, traumas, sports therapy, existential, behavioral theories, brief solution therapy and Jungian enthusiast plus trained in DBT, MI and Expressive Arts Therapy.
Welcome to counseling; to be helpful lets regain access to inner wisdom for self advocacy through review of your strength base building practices by use of expressive arts therapy (life has been your stage), explore dreams (Adlerian therapies), explore play& traumas to connect with your inner child/teen or find your inner parent, track sensations with the mind, body and spirit for grounding purposes in our sessions. Welcome and thank you for adding me to your search!
Approaches I am influenced by are with the following processes; social justice therapy, attachment/ abandonment, traumas, sports therapy, existential, behavioral theories, brief solution therapy and Jungian enthusiast plus trained in DBT, MI and Expressive Arts Therapy.
Welcome to counseling; to be helpful lets regain access to inner wisdom for self advocacy through review of your strength base building practices by use of expressive arts therapy (life has been your stage), explore dreams (Adlerian therapies), explore play& traumas to connect with your inner child/teen or find your inner parent, track sensations with the mind, body and spirit for grounding purposes in our sessions. Welcome and thank you for adding me to your search!
(206) 207-4683 View (206) 207-4683
Photo of Linda Florio, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Linda Florio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I also draw from different toolboxes, such as CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing.
Even when we know that some of our emotional pain is unnecessary, on our own it can be difficult to figure out why the extra suffering and how to make it better. Anxiety, depression, trauma re-activation, relationship difficulties, and coping strategies are natural responses to life experiences and circumstances. Do they need to hurt so and are we stuck with them? Therapy is a great place to gain perspective on what you can change. Also, to widen the horizon from managing pain to living more fully like yourself and to thriving. Because, as Thich Nhat Hanh said, "suffering is not enough".
I also draw from different toolboxes, such as CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing.
Even when we know that some of our emotional pain is unnecessary, on our own it can be difficult to figure out why the extra suffering and how to make it better. Anxiety, depression, trauma re-activation, relationship difficulties, and coping strategies are natural responses to life experiences and circumstances. Do they need to hurt so and are we stuck with them? Therapy is a great place to gain perspective on what you can change. Also, to widen the horizon from managing pain to living more fully like yourself and to thriving. Because, as Thich Nhat Hanh said, "suffering is not enough".
(206) 451-1623 View (206) 451-1623
Photo of Jon Peters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Jon Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I provide Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, and Mindfulness-Based CBT to individuals and couples.
Important: telehealth appointments only for patients in Washington State and Indiana. I do not currently provide face-to-face, in-office appointment. Telehealth video appointments only. Feeling stressed or overwhelmed and needing support to cope with life challenges? Need some relief, or to see the light at the end of the tunnel? Life is hard. Sometimes you need empathetic support and expert guidance to cope with complicated and stressful situations.
I provide Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, and Mindfulness-Based CBT to individuals and couples.
Important: telehealth appointments only for patients in Washington State and Indiana. I do not currently provide face-to-face, in-office appointment. Telehealth video appointments only. Feeling stressed or overwhelmed and needing support to cope with life challenges? Need some relief, or to see the light at the end of the tunnel? Life is hard. Sometimes you need empathetic support and expert guidance to cope with complicated and stressful situations.
(812) 633-8930 View (812) 633-8930
Photo of Jeff Wagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Jeff Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I provide in-person individual and couples therapy, as well as individual telehealth therapy! I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other issues with training in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, CPT, Dialectical Behavorial Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy, and more!
I provide in-person individual and couples therapy, as well as individual telehealth therapy! I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other issues with training in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, CPT, Dialectical Behavorial Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy, and more!
(206) 984-3598 View (206) 984-3598
Photo of Katie Hellerud, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Katie Hellerud
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Katie and I provide dialectical behavior therapy – a therapy which aims to not only offer skills and education needed to understand emotions, but also how to "work with" one's psychobiology, wisdom, and insights about oneself and the world.
Have you ever been told or wondered if you're "too sensitive" or "too emotional?" As if this is a shameful thing? I'll take a wild guess and say that hearing this probably doesn't help in feeling "less" emotional. This can be such a bind – maybe intense emotions/behaviors make things harder. However, a sense of acceptance, whether it comes from within or from loved ones, can profoundly support in feeling understood, safe, and resilient. And these more subtle feelings can absolutely assist in the pursuit of making necessary changes in emotional expression & related behaviors, impact on relationships, and presence day-to-day.
Hello, I'm Katie and I provide dialectical behavior therapy – a therapy which aims to not only offer skills and education needed to understand emotions, but also how to "work with" one's psychobiology, wisdom, and insights about oneself and the world.
Have you ever been told or wondered if you're "too sensitive" or "too emotional?" As if this is a shameful thing? I'll take a wild guess and say that hearing this probably doesn't help in feeling "less" emotional. This can be such a bind – maybe intense emotions/behaviors make things harder. However, a sense of acceptance, whether it comes from within or from loved ones, can profoundly support in feeling understood, safe, and resilient. And these more subtle feelings can absolutely assist in the pursuit of making necessary changes in emotional expression & related behaviors, impact on relationships, and presence day-to-day.
(206) 203-3745 View (206) 203-3745
Photo of David 'ted' Huynh, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
David 'ted' Huynh
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
My therapy style is primarily person centered while drawing from aspects from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Hello! I am a Washington State licensed therapist who enjoys working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma through individual therapy. I primarily see adults ages 21 and up. I find pride and meaning with working with others who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as first generation Americans born in an immigrate family. If you would like to schedule a session, please note that I am partnered with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. Please refer to the contact information listed to schedule an intake.
My therapy style is primarily person centered while drawing from aspects from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Hello! I am a Washington State licensed therapist who enjoys working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma through individual therapy. I primarily see adults ages 21 and up. I find pride and meaning with working with others who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as first generation Americans born in an immigrate family. If you would like to schedule a session, please note that I am partnered with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. Please refer to the contact information listed to schedule an intake.
(206) 566-0963 View (206) 566-0963
Photo of Alison Fasolino, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Alison Fasolino
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
My roots are in art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT & ACT.
Hi! The first step is acknowledging that you need more support & I am proud of your bravery. Are you looking for a therapist that will treat you with respect, listen with compassion, & always have your back? I will do this for you every time! I offer a safe & non-judgmental space that will allow you to feel secure, heard, & supported. I will not shy away from asking you the tough questions & being honest with what I observe. You deserve to heal & I promise to help you do just that. I specialize in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and pregnancy but I work with a variety of concerns! I support children, adolescents, and adults.
My roots are in art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT & ACT.
Hi! The first step is acknowledging that you need more support & I am proud of your bravery. Are you looking for a therapist that will treat you with respect, listen with compassion, & always have your back? I will do this for you every time! I offer a safe & non-judgmental space that will allow you to feel secure, heard, & supported. I will not shy away from asking you the tough questions & being honest with what I observe. You deserve to heal & I promise to help you do just that. I specialize in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and pregnancy but I work with a variety of concerns! I support children, adolescents, and adults.
(425) 541-8575 View (425) 541-8575
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Shi, Psychologist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Dr. Stephanie Shi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98195
I integrate DBT, CBT techniques with eastern philosophy and mindfulness practices to reach the desired treatment outcomes.
As a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years’ experience in the business world, I have lived through the complexity, pressure and stress in high tech firms. I know from personal experience that we can’t separate how we show up at work from our family, children and relationships. I have been “in the trenches” and I am here to help.
I integrate DBT, CBT techniques with eastern philosophy and mindfulness practices to reach the desired treatment outcomes.
As a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years’ experience in the business world, I have lived through the complexity, pressure and stress in high tech firms. I know from personal experience that we can’t separate how we show up at work from our family, children and relationships. I have been “in the trenches” and I am here to help.
(425) 541-8707 View (425) 541-8707
Photo of Holly Brewer Counseling, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Holly Brewer Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RDT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
My approach to therapy is informed primarily by Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and trauma informed care. Stemming from the knowledge that you are the expert on you and provide a mirror for you to gain more self-awareness, and skills in which to grow and change. Being a trained Drama Therapist I will offer drama, art, and movement therapies in our work together if it will help you with your goals.
My approach to therapy is informed primarily by Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and trauma informed care. Stemming from the knowledge that you are the expert on you and provide a mirror for you to gain more self-awareness, and skills in which to grow and change. Being a trained Drama Therapist I will offer drama, art, and movement therapies in our work together if it will help you with your goals.
(206) 693-4640 View (206) 693-4640
Photo of Makiko Guji, Psychologist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Makiko Guji
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
Depending on the client's presenting issues and specific goals to achieve, I apply the combination of different therapeutic approaches, including modern psychodynamic, mindfulness skills, DBT, EMDR, cognitive-behavioral, existential, and body centered approaches.
As you are in the process of looking for a therapist, you may already be half-way through resolving your issues. It is said that client's readiness and willingness to make changes is the strongest indicator of successful therapy outcome. As a therapist, I will accompany you in the journey of actualizing your fullest potential by assisting you to develop internal and external resources such as the sense of freedom, choices, healthy sense of self, responsibility, managing life balance, and strong support systems and relationships.
Depending on the client's presenting issues and specific goals to achieve, I apply the combination of different therapeutic approaches, including modern psychodynamic, mindfulness skills, DBT, EMDR, cognitive-behavioral, existential, and body centered approaches.
As you are in the process of looking for a therapist, you may already be half-way through resolving your issues. It is said that client's readiness and willingness to make changes is the strongest indicator of successful therapy outcome. As a therapist, I will accompany you in the journey of actualizing your fullest potential by assisting you to develop internal and external resources such as the sense of freedom, choices, healthy sense of self, responsibility, managing life balance, and strong support systems and relationships.
(206) 370-4237 View (206) 370-4237
Photo of Candice Schaefer, Psychologist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Candice Schaefer
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Struggling with emotions that control and confine your life? I offer counseling for adults in a safe and relaxed atmosphere that helps you explore and understand your emotions, while teaching you practical skills to get a better sense of control. I’ve helped numerous people who once thought of themselves as “broken” get to a place where they can believe in themselves and be in the driver's seat with their thoughts and emotions. If you are ready to take control of your life, challenge your inner demons, and finally start living to the fullest, please don't hesitate to schedule a free consultation with me today!
Struggling with emotions that control and confine your life? I offer counseling for adults in a safe and relaxed atmosphere that helps you explore and understand your emotions, while teaching you practical skills to get a better sense of control. I’ve helped numerous people who once thought of themselves as “broken” get to a place where they can believe in themselves and be in the driver's seat with their thoughts and emotions. If you are ready to take control of your life, challenge your inner demons, and finally start living to the fullest, please don't hesitate to schedule a free consultation with me today!
(425) 537-4480 View (425) 537-4480
Photo of Madeline Elledge, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Madeline Elledge
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Relational in nature, my approach to therapy is rooted in witness rather than analysis. I believe that healing is the result of being truly seen by a compassionate other. In our time together, you can expect me to set all judgements aside in order to create space for your unique complexities to unfold. In this opened clearing, we will do the work of therapeutic integration so you can rediscover that sense of wholeness that was always there even when obscured.
Relational in nature, my approach to therapy is rooted in witness rather than analysis. I believe that healing is the result of being truly seen by a compassionate other. In our time together, you can expect me to set all judgements aside in order to create space for your unique complexities to unfold. In this opened clearing, we will do the work of therapeutic integration so you can rediscover that sense of wholeness that was always there even when obscured.
(206) 338-6863 View (206) 338-6863
Photo of Tania Adams | Wild Fern Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Tania Adams | Wild Fern Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Accepting Couples and Individuals at this time - Are you struggling with boundaries, expectations that are self-imposed, exhaustion and feeling "not enough"? If you are having difficulty navigating your relationships, parenting, life transitions - there is a way for you to orient back to yourself so you can make decisions from a place of clarity and find more connection and meaning in your life. Whether you're trying to connect better within or with others - It’s hard to remember who you are in when you are burning from both ends of the candle. Contact me to further your connection with your body, with others & relationships.
Accepting Couples and Individuals at this time - Are you struggling with boundaries, expectations that are self-imposed, exhaustion and feeling "not enough"? If you are having difficulty navigating your relationships, parenting, life transitions - there is a way for you to orient back to yourself so you can make decisions from a place of clarity and find more connection and meaning in your life. Whether you're trying to connect better within or with others - It’s hard to remember who you are in when you are burning from both ends of the candle. Contact me to further your connection with your body, with others & relationships.
(206) 589-1353 View (206) 589-1353
Photo of Pacific Behavioral Healthcare, Psychologist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Pacific Behavioral Healthcare
Psychologist, PhD, CST, EMDR, CCPS, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
Is your relationship struggling from a loss of closeness or intimacy? Does infidelity or sexual addiction have you considering divorce? If you’re struggling to connect or trust your partner, we can help! We are dedicated to fostering real change in clients lives. We are advancing the standard of care through empirical strategies to help you heal, connect, and guide you through the recovery & repair process. We create an intimate space where you can safely share, receive empathy, and create shared meaning to move through difficult circumstances together. Let us help you be heard, heal, and reignite a sense of connection.
Is your relationship struggling from a loss of closeness or intimacy? Does infidelity or sexual addiction have you considering divorce? If you’re struggling to connect or trust your partner, we can help! We are dedicated to fostering real change in clients lives. We are advancing the standard of care through empirical strategies to help you heal, connect, and guide you through the recovery & repair process. We create an intimate space where you can safely share, receive empathy, and create shared meaning to move through difficult circumstances together. Let us help you be heard, heal, and reignite a sense of connection.
(425) 214-9123 View (425) 214-9123

See more therapy options for Bainbridge Island

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.