Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Gig Harbor, WA

Photo of Hannah Harksen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Hannah Harksen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I am trained in evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, and sandy tray therapy.
As a mental health therapist specializing in children, adolescents, and families, my journey in supporting young individuals began at the age of fifteen. This early start allowed me to cultivate an understanding of the unique challenges that children and adolescents face, setting the foundation for my passion and commitment to making a positive impact in their lives. I have accumulated valuable experience providing mental health support within schools, particularly in special education programs focused on addressing behavioral needs.
I am trained in evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, and sandy tray therapy.
As a mental health therapist specializing in children, adolescents, and families, my journey in supporting young individuals began at the age of fifteen. This early start allowed me to cultivate an understanding of the unique challenges that children and adolescents face, setting the foundation for my passion and commitment to making a positive impact in their lives. I have accumulated valuable experience providing mental health support within schools, particularly in special education programs focused on addressing behavioral needs.
(253) 785-8210 View (253) 785-8210
Photo of Shannon Rickert, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Shannon Rickert
Counselor, MS, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, 12-step processes and other modalities to break unhealthy or stuck patterns in life.
I'm taking new telehealth clients only. I see adolescents ages 13 and older, adults, couples and families. I am certified in EMDR. In our sessions, expect to grow, thrive in relationships and learn to healthily navigate life circumstances. Working together, we’ll discover that our lived experiences have shaped how we think about the world. Using a trauma and attachment focused lens we use those experiences to encourage healing and growth.
I utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, 12-step processes and other modalities to break unhealthy or stuck patterns in life.
I'm taking new telehealth clients only. I see adolescents ages 13 and older, adults, couples and families. I am certified in EMDR. In our sessions, expect to grow, thrive in relationships and learn to healthily navigate life circumstances. Working together, we’ll discover that our lived experiences have shaped how we think about the world. Using a trauma and attachment focused lens we use those experiences to encourage healing and growth.
(253) 465-4725 View (253) 465-4725
Photo of Eunice Kim-Setiawan, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Eunice Kim-Setiawan
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
Updated May'24. Wait-list of approximately 3-4 months. Please message to waitlist. I enjoy working with adults, children/adolescents, and families. I believe that counseling needs to be a safe and brave space to process hard topics. I value choices, respect, culture, education, balance, and curiosity in my work which inclines towards acceptance-commitment, attachment, compassionate, trauma-informed, and brain-based approaches. Trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. DBT certified. Asia Pacific Cultural Center referral resource. Pending VA/medicare credentialing. Fuji is my therapy Maltipoo pup in-training and attends some sessions.
Updated May'24. Wait-list of approximately 3-4 months. Please message to waitlist. I enjoy working with adults, children/adolescents, and families. I believe that counseling needs to be a safe and brave space to process hard topics. I value choices, respect, culture, education, balance, and curiosity in my work which inclines towards acceptance-commitment, attachment, compassionate, trauma-informed, and brain-based approaches. Trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. DBT certified. Asia Pacific Cultural Center referral resource. Pending VA/medicare credentialing. Fuji is my therapy Maltipoo pup in-training and attends some sessions.
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Photo of Mindscape Counseling, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Mindscape Counseling
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Our therapists have specialized training in various proven therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Existential, and Humanistic approaches.
My name is Manny Occhiogrosso and for over 20 years, I have been devoted to helping individuals realize their full potential, couples create stronger bonds, and families create secure connections and meaningful relationships. I want to help you do that too. Mindscape Counseling is a group practice that provides quality mental health services. We provide adults, teens, children, couples, and families with effective, evidence-based treatment. We can help you connect with our clinicians who can meet your all your mental health needs, including counseling, psychiatry, medication management, psychotherapy, evaluation and testing.
Our therapists have specialized training in various proven therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Existential, and Humanistic approaches.
My name is Manny Occhiogrosso and for over 20 years, I have been devoted to helping individuals realize their full potential, couples create stronger bonds, and families create secure connections and meaningful relationships. I want to help you do that too. Mindscape Counseling is a group practice that provides quality mental health services. We provide adults, teens, children, couples, and families with effective, evidence-based treatment. We can help you connect with our clinicians who can meet your all your mental health needs, including counseling, psychiatry, medication management, psychotherapy, evaluation and testing.
(253) 499-8436 View (253) 499-8436
Photo of Shamyka SD Sutton, Psychologist in Gig Harbor, WA
Shamyka SD Sutton
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP, CSOTP, SUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
I work with each person through a holistic and integrative lens. Whether I am completing an evaluation or providing therapy, it is not one size fits all. I take a lot of pride when a client tells me, “you’re not like my other therapist.” I’ve heard all sorts of reasons I’m not like others. Most often, I hear appreciation about my ability to validate and push for change at the same time. I provide individual and group therapy; working with older teenage and adult men and women. I also provide evaluation services in various areas, such as behavioral, emotional, personality, cognitive, sexual, and memory domains.
I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
I work with each person through a holistic and integrative lens. Whether I am completing an evaluation or providing therapy, it is not one size fits all. I take a lot of pride when a client tells me, “you’re not like my other therapist.” I’ve heard all sorts of reasons I’m not like others. Most often, I hear appreciation about my ability to validate and push for change at the same time. I provide individual and group therapy; working with older teenage and adult men and women. I also provide evaluation services in various areas, such as behavioral, emotional, personality, cognitive, sexual, and memory domains.
(253) 265-9356 View (253) 265-9356
Photo of Mary Allison Jensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Mary Allison Jensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CMHS, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329
My clinical background and training includes extensive training in dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based practices.
My ideal clients are motivated to explore the origin of unhelpful patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior. I am a certified clinical trauma specialist and primarily work with adults and adolescents who have experienced adversity and/or trauma. My clients often present with a feeling of being stuck and through a collaborative process of reflection and skill-building we identify the most effective personalized strategies. I am also a certified compassion fatigue specialist and work extensively with professionals around compassion fatigue and burnout.
My clinical background and training includes extensive training in dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based practices.
My ideal clients are motivated to explore the origin of unhelpful patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior. I am a certified clinical trauma specialist and primarily work with adults and adolescents who have experienced adversity and/or trauma. My clients often present with a feeling of being stuck and through a collaborative process of reflection and skill-building we identify the most effective personalized strategies. I am also a certified compassion fatigue specialist and work extensively with professionals around compassion fatigue and burnout.
(253) 499-7896 View (253) 499-7896
Photo of Seaward Hayes, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Seaward Hayes
Counselor, LMHCA, CN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
I draw from SE, ACT, and DBT to provide tangible skills to support my clients.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unmotivated? Like something's off that you can't quite put your finger on? Maybe a recent stressor has left you spiraling or something from your past won't stay buried and you are looking for relief from the weight of your emotions. Therapy can be a refuge where you can feel safe to be vulnerable, fully seen, and heard. Beginning counseling is a courageous step towards growth and healing. A journey that you don't have to go on alone. Together we will co-create a safe space to explore what is holding you back and what you need to move forward with greater confidence and purpose.
I draw from SE, ACT, and DBT to provide tangible skills to support my clients.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unmotivated? Like something's off that you can't quite put your finger on? Maybe a recent stressor has left you spiraling or something from your past won't stay buried and you are looking for relief from the weight of your emotions. Therapy can be a refuge where you can feel safe to be vulnerable, fully seen, and heard. Beginning counseling is a courageous step towards growth and healing. A journey that you don't have to go on alone. Together we will co-create a safe space to explore what is holding you back and what you need to move forward with greater confidence and purpose.
(360) 516-2187 View (360) 516-2187
Photo of Northwest Therapy Group, PLLC - Tara Celletti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Northwest Therapy Group, PLLC - Tara Celletti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I utilize techniques from a variety of methods including CBT, DBT, Self- Compassion, EMDR, and expressive arts.
My name is Tara Celletti and I am a licensed independent associate clinical social worker. I grew up in Southern California, where I was exposed to therapy practices at an early age by my grandmother. In 2021, I followed in my grandmother’s footsteps and received a Masters in Social Work from University of Southern California. I moved to Washington in 2014 where I now live with my husband and our three rescue dogs.
I utilize techniques from a variety of methods including CBT, DBT, Self- Compassion, EMDR, and expressive arts.
My name is Tara Celletti and I am a licensed independent associate clinical social worker. I grew up in Southern California, where I was exposed to therapy practices at an early age by my grandmother. In 2021, I followed in my grandmother’s footsteps and received a Masters in Social Work from University of Southern California. I moved to Washington in 2014 where I now live with my husband and our three rescue dogs.
(360) 646-2353 View (360) 646-2353
Photo of Richelle Futch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Richelle Futch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
Not Currently Accepting NEW Clients: I specialize in working with teens, those who self-harm, parents of teens with concerning moods and behaviors, and military families. My methods create substantial change in a short period of time. If you are struggling with high intense crisis emotions, or harmful behaviors, we would be a good fit. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). -Telehealth Sessions Only. I am a Military Veteran & Military Spouse.
Not Currently Accepting NEW Clients: I specialize in working with teens, those who self-harm, parents of teens with concerning moods and behaviors, and military families. My methods create substantial change in a short period of time. If you are struggling with high intense crisis emotions, or harmful behaviors, we would be a good fit. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). -Telehealth Sessions Only. I am a Military Veteran & Military Spouse.
(253) 242-2382 View (253) 242-2382
Photo of Cella Oreta, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Cella Oreta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
Cella uses an integrative approach of DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) and Experiential Therapy to provide you with new skills to help create healthy experiences that match your values.
Becoming an adult is challenging under the best of circumstances, especially as you balance leaving adolescence and learning about adulthood. Perhaps too many changes are creating new stress you did not anticipate. Maybe adulthood is not what you imagined. Or the disconnect is creating questions about your purpose or identity as an adult. Cella will help you build skills for managing challenging times and will support you in exploring and creating the life you desire. She is eager to join your journey toward a life filled with purpose and meaningful relationships where your values, dreams, and reality are all aligned.
Cella uses an integrative approach of DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) and Experiential Therapy to provide you with new skills to help create healthy experiences that match your values.
Becoming an adult is challenging under the best of circumstances, especially as you balance leaving adolescence and learning about adulthood. Perhaps too many changes are creating new stress you did not anticipate. Maybe adulthood is not what you imagined. Or the disconnect is creating questions about your purpose or identity as an adult. Cella will help you build skills for managing challenging times and will support you in exploring and creating the life you desire. She is eager to join your journey toward a life filled with purpose and meaningful relationships where your values, dreams, and reality are all aligned.
(360) 495-8691 View (360) 495-8691
Photo of Elizabeth Marshall, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Elizabeth Marshall
Counselor, BSW, MFT, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
It takes courage to ask for help. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness, cPTSD, or trauma? Are you at a crossroads in life or feeling stuck? I specialize in helping people through these times to transitions to lead fulfilling lives. My approach is person centered and tailored to your unique needs and goals. Together, we will work to identify root causes and core beliefs. I'm skilled in EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, TF-CBT, family systems, and Inner child work. I will teach you skills to decrease and overcome these symptoms. Together, we will increase emotional regulation and feelings of safety. Teens and parents love me!
It takes courage to ask for help. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness, cPTSD, or trauma? Are you at a crossroads in life or feeling stuck? I specialize in helping people through these times to transitions to lead fulfilling lives. My approach is person centered and tailored to your unique needs and goals. Together, we will work to identify root causes and core beliefs. I'm skilled in EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, TF-CBT, family systems, and Inner child work. I will teach you skills to decrease and overcome these symptoms. Together, we will increase emotional regulation and feelings of safety. Teens and parents love me!
(253) 262-0294 View (253) 262-0294
Photo of Jacqueline May, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Jacqueline May
Counselor, LMHC , MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I utilize a blend of several evidence based modalities; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
At the core, I am an attachment focused therapist. This lens follows through all my work and informs how I view healing and change. My practice is specialized toward work with attachment injuries, whether from childhood or more recent. These wounds can show up in adulthood as relationship challenges, anxiety, poor boundaries, emotional avoidance, complex post traumatic stress, etc. In my practice, I'm also honored to hold pregnant / postpartum people, birthing people experiencing mood challenges, and couples going through the transition to parenthood.
I utilize a blend of several evidence based modalities; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
At the core, I am an attachment focused therapist. This lens follows through all my work and informs how I view healing and change. My practice is specialized toward work with attachment injuries, whether from childhood or more recent. These wounds can show up in adulthood as relationship challenges, anxiety, poor boundaries, emotional avoidance, complex post traumatic stress, etc. In my practice, I'm also honored to hold pregnant / postpartum people, birthing people experiencing mood challenges, and couples going through the transition to parenthood.
(360) 583-6897 View (360) 583-6897
Photo of Ian Chittle, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Ian Chittle
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I help people that are feeling anxious and depressed, feel less anxious and depressed. Your mind replays the past and dwells on the future, sending you into panic or making it hard to get out of bed. Your stomach is queasy, your neck is tight, and you feel like you can never quite relax. It feels like others don't see or trust the challenges you face and the effort you actually put in to just get by. You feel uncomfortable in your own skin and unaccepted wherever you go and crave a place that you can truly be yourself, un-judged and appreciated for your unique ideas and qualities. We are going to figure this out together.
I help people that are feeling anxious and depressed, feel less anxious and depressed. Your mind replays the past and dwells on the future, sending you into panic or making it hard to get out of bed. Your stomach is queasy, your neck is tight, and you feel like you can never quite relax. It feels like others don't see or trust the challenges you face and the effort you actually put in to just get by. You feel uncomfortable in your own skin and unaccepted wherever you go and crave a place that you can truly be yourself, un-judged and appreciated for your unique ideas and qualities. We are going to figure this out together.
(360) 869-0329 View (360) 869-0329
Photo of Michael Dunbry in Gig Harbor, WA
Michael Dunbry
MA, LMHC, CMHS, NCC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Hello! Welcome, and thank you for being here. While it’s certainly possible that you enjoy reading therapist profiles just for fun, it’s more likely that you are here looking for help of some kind. Without being indifferent to your suffering, please allow me to say, congratulations! It can be uncomfortable to admit that you are not feeling your best and to decide to ask for help. I hope you are also feeling empowered as you make the pivot towards healing and recovery.
Hello! Welcome, and thank you for being here. While it’s certainly possible that you enjoy reading therapist profiles just for fun, it’s more likely that you are here looking for help of some kind. Without being indifferent to your suffering, please allow me to say, congratulations! It can be uncomfortable to admit that you are not feeling your best and to decide to ask for help. I hope you are also feeling empowered as you make the pivot towards healing and recovery.
(253) 799-1133 View (253) 799-1133
Photo of Lauren Spencer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Lauren Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
Are you the person everyone depends on to have it together? The friend they call when they need support, the manager they trust to complete the important projects, the daughter they lean on the most. You’re kind, empathetic, and extremely capable, yet somehow these traits are used against you. You’re constantly thinking of you’re to-do list, but there’s never enough time. You pride yourself on giving 100% but it's impossible to do anymore. And you wish you had someone YOU could lean on. I support women as they learn to prioritize themselves, build their self-confidence, and start living lives that actually fill them with joy.
Are you the person everyone depends on to have it together? The friend they call when they need support, the manager they trust to complete the important projects, the daughter they lean on the most. You’re kind, empathetic, and extremely capable, yet somehow these traits are used against you. You’re constantly thinking of you’re to-do list, but there’s never enough time. You pride yourself on giving 100% but it's impossible to do anymore. And you wish you had someone YOU could lean on. I support women as they learn to prioritize themselves, build their self-confidence, and start living lives that actually fill them with joy.
(253) 352-2697 View (253) 352-2697
Summit Health Management, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
(253) 215-8451 View (253) 215-8451
Alta Vista Integrated Life Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
We provide individual/group therapy and education services to support children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from all cultures, backgrounds, and abilities.
We provide individual/group therapy and education services to support children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from all cultures, backgrounds, and abilities.
(855) 201-8141 x1 View (855) 201-8141 x1
Photo of Andrea Mooradian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Andrea Mooradian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I believe in the importance of building a therapeutic relationship and connection with my clients in a safe environment for them to be heard and understood. I help clients better understand and accept themselves, while using their strengths to create positive, meaningful changes in their lives. I treat a wide variety of issues using individualized treatment modalities based on clients’ needs and the aspects of themselves and their lives they want to grow and work on.
I believe in the importance of building a therapeutic relationship and connection with my clients in a safe environment for them to be heard and understood. I help clients better understand and accept themselves, while using their strengths to create positive, meaningful changes in their lives. I treat a wide variety of issues using individualized treatment modalities based on clients’ needs and the aspects of themselves and their lives they want to grow and work on.
(253) 400-3722 View (253) 400-3722
Photo of Stacie McLean, LMHC, PLLC, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Stacie McLean, LMHC, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Virtual Walk-In Times: CLOSED today, Next: 11/2. Are you stressed and having difficulty getting along with your family or spouse? Can't get your partner into counseling but you need relationship help? Do you suspect you might have a mood disorder like bipolar? Are you haunted by trauma you can't shake? Are you struggling with abandonment fears and even self-inflicted violence? Are you living with adult autism or ADHD or other neurodiversity, or trying to manage a neurodiverse relationship? To get started, I offer free 15-minute consultations by phone or video. Email for consults or visit my website to schedule!
Virtual Walk-In Times: CLOSED today, Next: 11/2. Are you stressed and having difficulty getting along with your family or spouse? Can't get your partner into counseling but you need relationship help? Do you suspect you might have a mood disorder like bipolar? Are you haunted by trauma you can't shake? Are you struggling with abandonment fears and even self-inflicted violence? Are you living with adult autism or ADHD or other neurodiversity, or trying to manage a neurodiverse relationship? To get started, I offer free 15-minute consultations by phone or video. Email for consults or visit my website to schedule!
(253) 527-6860 View (253) 527-6860
Photo of Jennifer Davies, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Jennifer Davies
Counselor, LMHCA, EMDR, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Healing often begins in the presence of another who can bear witness to the hurt and heartache endured. No one should have to walk the road of depression, anxiety, and trauma alone. I work collaboratively with clients to provide therapeutic services that best meet client's goals. I work primarily with adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.​ As a licensed mental health counselor associate (LMHCA), I provide a safe and confidential environment of unconditional acceptance for every client.
Healing often begins in the presence of another who can bear witness to the hurt and heartache endured. No one should have to walk the road of depression, anxiety, and trauma alone. I work collaboratively with clients to provide therapeutic services that best meet client's goals. I work primarily with adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.​ As a licensed mental health counselor associate (LMHCA), I provide a safe and confidential environment of unconditional acceptance for every client.
(253) 352-3022 View (253) 352-3022
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.