Photo of Emanuel Diaz, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Emanuel Diaz
Counselor, LMHC, ADC-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33756
I strongly rely on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Modification, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention in my treatment methods.
*I am currently accepting new clients*. Thank you for reaching out! I have several years of experience working with children and adults with a variety of issues and disorders. I have experience with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Trauma. I enjoy working with both adults and children and will work with you to tailor a treatment approach that will help you feel your best. I have a welcoming and strength-based approach that will help you or your child to feel at ease.
I strongly rely on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Modification, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention in my treatment methods.
*I am currently accepting new clients*. Thank you for reaching out! I have several years of experience working with children and adults with a variety of issues and disorders. I have experience with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Trauma. I enjoy working with both adults and children and will work with you to tailor a treatment approach that will help you feel your best. I have a welcoming and strength-based approach that will help you or your child to feel at ease.
(727) 756-8337 View (727) 756-8337
Photo of Patrick Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Patrick Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33755
Patrick’s counseling approach is solution focused and utilizes various therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral (DBT), Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Rational Emotive Behavioral (REBT), Psychodynamic, Trauma Informed, and Acceptance Centered (ACT).
Patrick has more than eight years of experience in the mental health and addictions field, having worked in many different settings with diverse populations. Patrick is a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army, where he served multiple combat deployments. His areas of clinical expertise include: co-occurring disorders, trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, male sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/addictions, anger management, crisis intervention, childhood issues, grief/loss, couples and families.
Patrick’s counseling approach is solution focused and utilizes various therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral (DBT), Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Rational Emotive Behavioral (REBT), Psychodynamic, Trauma Informed, and Acceptance Centered (ACT).
Patrick has more than eight years of experience in the mental health and addictions field, having worked in many different settings with diverse populations. Patrick is a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army, where he served multiple combat deployments. His areas of clinical expertise include: co-occurring disorders, trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, male sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/addictions, anger management, crisis intervention, childhood issues, grief/loss, couples and families.
(727) 240-2279 View (727) 240-2279
Photo of David Kent, LMHC, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
David Kent, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
Does the thought of rejection hamper your ability to connect with others? Ever feel like a black sheep? Ever feel like you don’t understand something you should be understanding about life? Getting lost in that stress can really take a toll on you. Having a dedicated person to process that with is a chance to heal some wounds, reflect on life and empower your present day. It would be my honor to help you discover the types of things about yourself, others and the world that will allow you to grow a lush garden of wisdom, freedom and peace from the now rich fertilizer that originally was just a pile of dookie dumped in your lap.
Does the thought of rejection hamper your ability to connect with others? Ever feel like a black sheep? Ever feel like you don’t understand something you should be understanding about life? Getting lost in that stress can really take a toll on you. Having a dedicated person to process that with is a chance to heal some wounds, reflect on life and empower your present day. It would be my honor to help you discover the types of things about yourself, others and the world that will allow you to grow a lush garden of wisdom, freedom and peace from the now rich fertilizer that originally was just a pile of dookie dumped in your lap.
(727) 312-1176 View (727) 312-1176
Photo of Matthew Anthony Fahy, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Matthew Anthony Fahy
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33755
Now accepting new clients (children, teens and adults). Everyone is different and the treatments are too. I specialize in finding what works best and keeping it interesting, so you want to keep making changes. I love using insightful and creative therapy approaches supported by research. Data always matters. You will have access to various treatment options such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and more. In short, I prefer to use treatments that are shown to be beneficial in scientific reviews. Join me during one of my therapeutic role play games groups.
Now accepting new clients (children, teens and adults). Everyone is different and the treatments are too. I specialize in finding what works best and keeping it interesting, so you want to keep making changes. I love using insightful and creative therapy approaches supported by research. Data always matters. You will have access to various treatment options such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and more. In short, I prefer to use treatments that are shown to be beneficial in scientific reviews. Join me during one of my therapeutic role play games groups.
(727) 202-5539 View (727) 202-5539
Photo of Adam T Williams, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Adam T Williams
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33760  (Online Only)
Are you ready to create meaningful change in your life? Do you worry about your own effectiveness as an individual, partner or caregiver? Is it a challenge for you to respond to life stressors calmly and appropriately in a manner that promotes a positive view of self? My goal is to help spare you undue suffering so that you can meet or exceed your desired level of functioning and have the life that you deserve.
Are you ready to create meaningful change in your life? Do you worry about your own effectiveness as an individual, partner or caregiver? Is it a challenge for you to respond to life stressors calmly and appropriately in a manner that promotes a positive view of self? My goal is to help spare you undue suffering so that you can meet or exceed your desired level of functioning and have the life that you deserve.
(813) 534-5785 View (813) 534-5785

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael James, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Michael James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunrise, FL 33323  (Online Only)
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
(813) 576-3066 View (813) 576-3066
Photo of Paul Steinhauser, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Paul Steinhauser
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
I have always enjoyed collaborating with people to solve problems. My primary mission as a counselor is to help individuals, couples, and families manage life’s challenges and its many crucial and often unexpected transitions. I am especially passionate about helping struggling teens, young adults, and their families; men in crisis; and individuals and couples improve decision-making, communication, and coping skills. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Do you lack direction or motivation? Is your personal, work, or family life in chaos? If so, then I am here to help.
I have always enjoyed collaborating with people to solve problems. My primary mission as a counselor is to help individuals, couples, and families manage life’s challenges and its many crucial and often unexpected transitions. I am especially passionate about helping struggling teens, young adults, and their families; men in crisis; and individuals and couples improve decision-making, communication, and coping skills. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Do you lack direction or motivation? Is your personal, work, or family life in chaos? If so, then I am here to help.
(727) 732-6393 View (727) 732-6393
Photo of Robert Coleman PsyD LLC, Psychologist in Clearwater, FL
Robert Coleman PsyD LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Largo, FL 33778
"Empowered living by positive change." Dr. Coleman is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in health psychology and behavioral medicine centered on wellness, wholeness, mind-body-spirit integration, and lifestyle balance guided by core values and beliefs. Therapy begins with accepting the reality of “What Is,” then healing/growing (recovery) from the past based on acknowledging and making peace with “What Happened,” and then focusing on the future (discovery) grounded in “What’s Possible” and more importantly “What Matters.” This takes courage… our job is to support you through your healing journey: You don’t have to do it alone.
"Empowered living by positive change." Dr. Coleman is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in health psychology and behavioral medicine centered on wellness, wholeness, mind-body-spirit integration, and lifestyle balance guided by core values and beliefs. Therapy begins with accepting the reality of “What Is,” then healing/growing (recovery) from the past based on acknowledging and making peace with “What Happened,” and then focusing on the future (discovery) grounded in “What’s Possible” and more importantly “What Matters.” This takes courage… our job is to support you through your healing journey: You don’t have to do it alone.
(727) 853-6922 View (727) 853-6922
Photo of Mentally Fit U, LLC, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Mentally Fit U, LLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
Westchase, FL 33626  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Andres, a passionate mental health therapist based in Tampa, Florida, committed to providing care and support to a diverse range of clients. My expertise spans from assisting post-9/11 veterans and their families to offering individualized therapy in my private practice. I have a special interest in working with those experiencing their first episodes of psychosis, but my practice is welcoming to all, including those dealing with ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, depression, grief, men’s issues, parenting challenges, relationship issues, stress, trauma, PTSD, impulse control, mood, and thinking disorders.
Hello, I’m Andres, a passionate mental health therapist based in Tampa, Florida, committed to providing care and support to a diverse range of clients. My expertise spans from assisting post-9/11 veterans and their families to offering individualized therapy in my private practice. I have a special interest in working with those experiencing their first episodes of psychosis, but my practice is welcoming to all, including those dealing with ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, depression, grief, men’s issues, parenting challenges, relationship issues, stress, trauma, PTSD, impulse control, mood, and thinking disorders.
(813) 922-3910 View (813) 922-3910
Photo of David DeNavarra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Clearwater, FL
David DeNavarra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pinellas Park, FL 33782
Not accepting new clients
Hello! My name is David DeNavarra. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 15 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, mood stabilization, relationship issues, spiritual/existential difficulties, parenting problems, behavioral issues, anger issues, career challenges, personality disorders, codependency, severe and persistent mental illnesses, life changes, addictions, and trauma histories. I have extensive experience working with individuals as well as families/youth and customize treatment and approach to meet your unique and specific needs.
Hello! My name is David DeNavarra. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 15 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, mood stabilization, relationship issues, spiritual/existential difficulties, parenting problems, behavioral issues, anger issues, career challenges, personality disorders, codependency, severe and persistent mental illnesses, life changes, addictions, and trauma histories. I have extensive experience working with individuals as well as families/youth and customize treatment and approach to meet your unique and specific needs.
(727) 597-5295 View (727) 597-5295

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Rene Enrique Camacho Cordoba, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Dr. Rene Enrique Camacho Cordoba
Counselor, MD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Richey, FL 34668  (Online Only)
I have training in CBT, DBT, TIR, motivational interviewing, brief solution focus therapy, and medication management groups.
Dr. René Camacho, First professional Degree in Medicine(Doctor of Medicine), Metropolitana University -Colombia South America, Drug Addiction Specialist Fundacion Universitaria Luis Amigo. He is qualified to practice as a Mental Health Counselor by The University of the state of New York and The National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) from the National Board For Certified Counselors.
I have training in CBT, DBT, TIR, motivational interviewing, brief solution focus therapy, and medication management groups.
Dr. René Camacho, First professional Degree in Medicine(Doctor of Medicine), Metropolitana University -Colombia South America, Drug Addiction Specialist Fundacion Universitaria Luis Amigo. He is qualified to practice as a Mental Health Counselor by The University of the state of New York and The National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) from the National Board For Certified Counselors.
(754) 714-3181 View (754) 714-3181
Photo of Michael Nichols, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Michael Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
DBT skills offer a holistic approach to help manage overwhelming emotions.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling to cope with overwhelming emotions. They may have experienced trauma or abuse in the past, and they may be struggling with unstable and intense relationships. They may have tried individual therapy or even been psychiatrically hospitalized, but they still struggle with anger, mood swings, impulsive and erratic behavior, addictions, suicidal ideation, and self-harm urges and actions. My ideal client is someone who is ready to do more than just change their thinking; they want to change their life.
DBT skills offer a holistic approach to help manage overwhelming emotions.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling to cope with overwhelming emotions. They may have experienced trauma or abuse in the past, and they may be struggling with unstable and intense relationships. They may have tried individual therapy or even been psychiatrically hospitalized, but they still struggle with anger, mood swings, impulsive and erratic behavior, addictions, suicidal ideation, and self-harm urges and actions. My ideal client is someone who is ready to do more than just change their thinking; they want to change their life.
(813) 652-0288 View (813) 652-0288
Photo of David Routly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clearwater, FL
David Routly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, CMHFE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I provide individualized teletherapy services, using talk therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR and other modalities to help meet your needs.
My goal is to help my clients identify and meet their own needs, whether to address a specific emerging issue, to manage existing mental health challenges, or to just gain a greater sense of peace and serenity in their lives.
I provide individualized teletherapy services, using talk therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR and other modalities to help meet your needs.
My goal is to help my clients identify and meet their own needs, whether to address a specific emerging issue, to manage existing mental health challenges, or to just gain a greater sense of peace and serenity in their lives.
(470) 299-7866 View (470) 299-7866
Photo of Alternative Solutions Counseling and Coaching, LLC, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Alternative Solutions Counseling and Coaching, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, MS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Trinity, FL 34655
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional skilled in Trauma Informed DBT, EFT with Tapping, and Hypnosis together we are able to rewire the brain to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation issues.
Within each of us are a set of core values that we wish to be known for. However, when the values we profess do not line up with our actions our lives can become unmanageable and hard. Does it seem like everything stays the same even though the people and the scenery have changed? American culture pushes the belief that we must pull ourselves up by the bootstraps and push through but let’s face it there are times when this just isn’t possible and we need the help of someone who has gone through this before.
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional skilled in Trauma Informed DBT, EFT with Tapping, and Hypnosis together we are able to rewire the brain to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation issues.
Within each of us are a set of core values that we wish to be known for. However, when the values we profess do not line up with our actions our lives can become unmanageable and hard. Does it seem like everything stays the same even though the people and the scenery have changed? American culture pushes the belief that we must pull ourselves up by the bootstraps and push through but let’s face it there are times when this just isn’t possible and we need the help of someone who has gone through this before.
(813) 212-7548 View (813) 212-7548
Photo of Brian Murray, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Brian Murray
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
He has training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder including those suffering from difficult emotions and addictions.
Brian specializes in complex disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma/PTSD, Veterans, Codependency, Addictions, Anxiety, Depression and difficult relationship and marriage issues. He is committed to providing professional, non-judgmental and compassionate counseling to help you through many of life's issues. Brian believes that that freedom of the heart is one of life's greatest gifts we can experience. He enjoys working alongside his clients to help them gain insight into their struggle and find solutions to overcome their problems.
He has training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder including those suffering from difficult emotions and addictions.
Brian specializes in complex disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma/PTSD, Veterans, Codependency, Addictions, Anxiety, Depression and difficult relationship and marriage issues. He is committed to providing professional, non-judgmental and compassionate counseling to help you through many of life's issues. Brian believes that that freedom of the heart is one of life's greatest gifts we can experience. He enjoys working alongside his clients to help them gain insight into their struggle and find solutions to overcome their problems.
(407) 537-5766 View (407) 537-5766
Photo of Breckin Crowley, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Breckin Crowley
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneola, FL 34715
I utilize varied approaches when working with clients, including cognitive behavioral therapy, harm reduction techniques, positive psychology, person-centered, dialectical behavioral therapy, etc.
I'm an open and judgment-free counselor whose goal is to collaborate with clients to help them discover more about themselves & navigate through difficult times. I use an integrative approach when working with clients and believe that the client knows best in regard to their needs. I support individuals navigating their personal journeys, whether that be dealing with gender identity, affectional orientation, addiction, reentry support, depression, etc.… My passions include working with adolescent and adult transgender, genderqueer individuals, and individuals who are reentering society after being in prison or jail.
I utilize varied approaches when working with clients, including cognitive behavioral therapy, harm reduction techniques, positive psychology, person-centered, dialectical behavioral therapy, etc.
I'm an open and judgment-free counselor whose goal is to collaborate with clients to help them discover more about themselves & navigate through difficult times. I use an integrative approach when working with clients and believe that the client knows best in regard to their needs. I support individuals navigating their personal journeys, whether that be dealing with gender identity, affectional orientation, addiction, reentry support, depression, etc.… My passions include working with adolescent and adult transgender, genderqueer individuals, and individuals who are reentering society after being in prison or jail.
(850) 307-5780 View (850) 307-5780
Photo of Ted Clewell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Ted Clewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Custom tailoring an individual approach using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Therapy, Mindfulness Skills, Interpersonal Therapy, and Strength-Based Therapy.
Accepting new clients as of 3/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with adults, geriatrics and caregivers with a variety of issues like anxiety, depression, pain management, grief and adjusting to medical issues. I have received years of feedback from clients and their families telling me how easy I am to talk with. I love what I do and look to provide a safe, empowering environment in which my clients can heal and find their purpose.
Custom tailoring an individual approach using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Therapy, Mindfulness Skills, Interpersonal Therapy, and Strength-Based Therapy.
Accepting new clients as of 3/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with adults, geriatrics and caregivers with a variety of issues like anxiety, depression, pain management, grief and adjusting to medical issues. I have received years of feedback from clients and their families telling me how easy I am to talk with. I love what I do and look to provide a safe, empowering environment in which my clients can heal and find their purpose.
(863) 431-8854 View (863) 431-8854
Photo of Liam Lattrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Liam Lattrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
While psychodynamic in nature, I utilize behavioral therapies (ACT and DBT) to help a person feel heard and continue to grow.
Life can be difficult--sometimes, unnecessarily hard. People do their best to cope with challenges, but often these coping strategies are destructive, hindering our emotional health and interpersonal relations. I specialize in depression, relationship issues, anxiety, and substance and behavioral addictions. Ideally, I can help you find your true self, and through this journey you can begin to discover what you truly deserve in life.
While psychodynamic in nature, I utilize behavioral therapies (ACT and DBT) to help a person feel heard and continue to grow.
Life can be difficult--sometimes, unnecessarily hard. People do their best to cope with challenges, but often these coping strategies are destructive, hindering our emotional health and interpersonal relations. I specialize in depression, relationship issues, anxiety, and substance and behavioral addictions. Ideally, I can help you find your true self, and through this journey you can begin to discover what you truly deserve in life.
(413) 251-5027 View (413) 251-5027
Photo of Nok Fung (Tiger) Lee, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Clearwater, FL
Nok Fung (Tiger) Lee
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33612  (Online Only)
I am also CBT- and DBT-trained, allowing me to offer a wide variety of interventions based on knowledge in the cognitive-behavioral realm, as well as mindfulness, acceptance, tolerance, and emotional regulation.
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, stress, or a loss of sense of direction? As a counselor, I am here to assist you with working towards meaningful and rewarding goals, a positive sense of self, and strong connections with whom we love. I primarily offer services to adolescents and adults who would like to explore their thoughts and feelings, work through past and recent traumas, or simply looking for support with stress and life transitions.
I am also CBT- and DBT-trained, allowing me to offer a wide variety of interventions based on knowledge in the cognitive-behavioral realm, as well as mindfulness, acceptance, tolerance, and emotional regulation.
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, stress, or a loss of sense of direction? As a counselor, I am here to assist you with working towards meaningful and rewarding goals, a positive sense of self, and strong connections with whom we love. I primarily offer services to adolescents and adults who would like to explore their thoughts and feelings, work through past and recent traumas, or simply looking for support with stress and life transitions.
(813) 945-7749 View (813) 945-7749
Photo of Dr. Tim Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Dr. Tim Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-S, CART
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
As a bilingual (English/Chinese Mandarin) and trauma-informed therapist, I integrate evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and EMDR to tailor treatment to your needs.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or even burning out? Are you having a hard time finding your own pace? Are you trying to recover from the trauma that has been haunting you from the past? Are you feeling defeated and lost? Challenges in life are painful and frustrating. However, these moments may be the starting points for a journey of self-discovery. This journey is rewarding but It can also be scary at the same time. You don't have to do this alone.
As a bilingual (English/Chinese Mandarin) and trauma-informed therapist, I integrate evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and EMDR to tailor treatment to your needs.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or even burning out? Are you having a hard time finding your own pace? Are you trying to recover from the trauma that has been haunting you from the past? Are you feeling defeated and lost? Challenges in life are painful and frustrating. However, these moments may be the starting points for a journey of self-discovery. This journey is rewarding but It can also be scary at the same time. You don't have to do this alone.
(281) 612-6097 View (281) 612-6097
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.