Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Miami, FL

Photo of Della Calvet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Della Calvet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Treatment plans are personalized, incorporating various modalities such as EMDR, CBT, and DBT, depending on your unique needs.
I work best with high-functioning individuals who feel stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed beneath the surface. Many are navigating trauma, OCD, or patterns that no longer serve them. They're ready to do the work, wanting real tools and meaningful change—not just coping, but healing. My approach is warm, practical, and personalized, combining EMDR, ERP, and a holistic lens. I aim to help clients feel more grounded, connected, and confident so they can live the life they truly want.
Treatment plans are personalized, incorporating various modalities such as EMDR, CBT, and DBT, depending on your unique needs.
I work best with high-functioning individuals who feel stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed beneath the surface. Many are navigating trauma, OCD, or patterns that no longer serve them. They're ready to do the work, wanting real tools and meaningful change—not just coping, but healing. My approach is warm, practical, and personalized, combining EMDR, ERP, and a holistic lens. I aim to help clients feel more grounded, connected, and confident so they can live the life they truly want.
(305) 376-7190 View (305) 376-7190
Photo of Jacqueline Pablos, Psychologist, Psy D
Jacqueline Pablos
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33129
I take an individualized approach to therapy and specialize in the following treatment modalities: cognitive (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT).
Vulnerability and connection are at the foundation of my therapeutic approach. Whether you are struggling with academic and/or social pressures or a parent wanting to learn how to support and reconnect with your teen, we all crave connection and safety. I have worked in several medical facilities, hospitals, and university counseling centers, specializing in the treatment of adolescents/young adults with eating disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. I also have extensive experience working with college aged clients and children diagnosed with learning and behavioral disorders.
I take an individualized approach to therapy and specialize in the following treatment modalities: cognitive (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT).
Vulnerability and connection are at the foundation of my therapeutic approach. Whether you are struggling with academic and/or social pressures or a parent wanting to learn how to support and reconnect with your teen, we all crave connection and safety. I have worked in several medical facilities, hospitals, and university counseling centers, specializing in the treatment of adolescents/young adults with eating disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. I also have extensive experience working with college aged clients and children diagnosed with learning and behavioral disorders.
(786) 814-1356 View (786) 814-1356
Photo of Angela Renner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Angela Renner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
It is diverse and includes theoretical approaches using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brief Problem Solving, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Individual Addiction Therapy.
My focus areas of practice are Substance Abuse, Aging, Mental Health, Problem Solving, grief and loss, and trauma. I enjoy working with young adults, adults, and seniors. I invite all races, cultural and religious backgrounds, and sexual orientations. I can assist with a variety of conditions that are affecting your mood, thinking, and behaviors.
It is diverse and includes theoretical approaches using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brief Problem Solving, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Individual Addiction Therapy.
My focus areas of practice are Substance Abuse, Aging, Mental Health, Problem Solving, grief and loss, and trauma. I enjoy working with young adults, adults, and seniors. I invite all races, cultural and religious backgrounds, and sexual orientations. I can assist with a variety of conditions that are affecting your mood, thinking, and behaviors.
(786) 980-9216 View (786) 980-9216
Photo of Sharon Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sharon Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach pulls from many different therapy styles such as CBT and DBT, blended with a direct, no-nonsense approach.
Hi! I'm a licensed clinical social worker, licensed to practice in New York, Virginia and Florida. I acquired a master’s degree in social work from Columbia University and have a master's degree in psychology from NYU. I have been practicing for 16 years, partnering with clients experiencing a wide range of issues that may include one or more of the following: low self confidence, relationship issues, anxiety/overthinking, depression, coping with life changes as well as parents facing challenges with their children and other challenges not listed here. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
My approach pulls from many different therapy styles such as CBT and DBT, blended with a direct, no-nonsense approach.
Hi! I'm a licensed clinical social worker, licensed to practice in New York, Virginia and Florida. I acquired a master’s degree in social work from Columbia University and have a master's degree in psychology from NYU. I have been practicing for 16 years, partnering with clients experiencing a wide range of issues that may include one or more of the following: low self confidence, relationship issues, anxiety/overthinking, depression, coping with life changes as well as parents facing challenges with their children and other challenges not listed here. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(786) 751-5858 View (786) 751-5858
Photo of Jessica Hinchman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica Hinchman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm currently trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida. I received my Masters from the University of South Florida and have been practicing for 7 years. I help children, adolescents, adults, and families heal from trauma while empowering the individual and strengthening relationships.
I'm currently trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida. I received my Masters from the University of South Florida and have been practicing for 7 years. I help children, adolescents, adults, and families heal from trauma while empowering the individual and strengthening relationships.
(813) 384-8382 View (813) 384-8382
Cynthia Harris-Maddox
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My approach is to utilize the following theoretical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Therapy while assisting clients in their overall journey to emotional wellness.
Hello, I am Cynthia Harris-Maddox, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about supporting clients with challenging issues in the following areas: stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I have a way with teens who describe me as an easy person to get along with and who cares about them.
My approach is to utilize the following theoretical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Therapy while assisting clients in their overall journey to emotional wellness.
Hello, I am Cynthia Harris-Maddox, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about supporting clients with challenging issues in the following areas: stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I have a way with teens who describe me as an easy person to get along with and who cares about them.
(813) 790-5602 View (813) 790-5602
Photo of Eva Hallstrom-Conkright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Eva Hallstrom-Conkright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33145
With extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, family therapy, and behavior management, I provide individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to children and adolescents
Is your child worrying all the time? Avoiding activities? Complaining about pains and aches? I can help I am here for your child. It is normal for a child to worry at times, however when his/her worrying or anxiety becomes excessive (more days than not) and the child has difficulty stopping his/her worries, it may be important to get help. Untreated anxiety does not get better alone but tends to get worse over time. I specialize in helping young people learn to manage and overcome anxiety. I focus on providing children and their parents with useful, practical strategies to address anxiety.
With extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, family therapy, and behavior management, I provide individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to children and adolescents
Is your child worrying all the time? Avoiding activities? Complaining about pains and aches? I can help I am here for your child. It is normal for a child to worry at times, however when his/her worrying or anxiety becomes excessive (more days than not) and the child has difficulty stopping his/her worries, it may be important to get help. Untreated anxiety does not get better alone but tends to get worse over time. I specialize in helping young people learn to manage and overcome anxiety. I focus on providing children and their parents with useful, practical strategies to address anxiety.
(914) 371-3158 View (914) 371-3158
Photo of Alicia Lesniak - MiMo Psychotherapy Group, Counselor, LMHC, DBT-LBC
MiMo Psychotherapy Group
Counselor, LMHC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33138
As Miami's first DBT certified therapist, I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their emotions, relationships and behaviors.
My specialty is working with adolescents, adults and parents with difficulties in emotional dysregulation (i.e. self-harm, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, substance abuse) and helping the family system move out of chaos. I also particularly enjoy working with adults and business professionals looking for skill-building to help move toward desired goals.
As Miami's first DBT certified therapist, I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their emotions, relationships and behaviors.
My specialty is working with adolescents, adults and parents with difficulties in emotional dysregulation (i.e. self-harm, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, substance abuse) and helping the family system move out of chaos. I also particularly enjoy working with adults and business professionals looking for skill-building to help move toward desired goals.
(305) 676-2323 View (305) 676-2323
Photo of Maria Carusillo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Maria Carusillo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My therapeutic approach integrates several evidence-based modalities, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuropsych CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Reiki Practitioner. My therapeutic approach emphasizes holistic empowerment. Collaboratively, we will explore your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, including past experiences with stress and trauma, to facilitate lasting positive change in all areas of your life.
My therapeutic approach integrates several evidence-based modalities, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuropsych CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Reiki Practitioner. My therapeutic approach emphasizes holistic empowerment. Collaboratively, we will explore your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, including past experiences with stress and trauma, to facilitate lasting positive change in all areas of your life.
(833) 473-1418 View (833) 473-1418
Photo of Nicole Blank Koles, Psychologist, PsyD
Nicole Blank Koles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33129
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, and I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
My clinical expertise includes a range of problems including anxiety, panic, worry, depression, substance abuse, trauma and personality disorders. I have great success helping individuals manage daily stressors and increase effective coping. When needed, I incorporate mindfulness-based interventions to help clients reduce anxiety and impulsivity, increase concentration and regulate difficult emotions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, and I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
My clinical expertise includes a range of problems including anxiety, panic, worry, depression, substance abuse, trauma and personality disorders. I have great success helping individuals manage daily stressors and increase effective coping. When needed, I incorporate mindfulness-based interventions to help clients reduce anxiety and impulsivity, increase concentration and regulate difficult emotions.
(786) 207-1820 View (786) 207-1820
Photo of Tiffany Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tiffany Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I offer a variety of treatment modalities such as CBT, DBT, expressive arts, etc.
I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental safe space to explore, process, and heal. I will challenge you to replace negative patterns of thinking, feeling, and acting. I will be your biggest cheerleader, your advocate, your support in times of stress. You might not feel like it, but you are braver than you seem and stronger than you know.
I offer a variety of treatment modalities such as CBT, DBT, expressive arts, etc.
I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental safe space to explore, process, and heal. I will challenge you to replace negative patterns of thinking, feeling, and acting. I will be your biggest cheerleader, your advocate, your support in times of stress. You might not feel like it, but you are braver than you seem and stronger than you know.
(786) 889-5889 View (786) 889-5889
Photo of Monik Mossini, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Monik Mossini
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, and emotional dysregulation, using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
I am best positioned to serve teens and adults navigating emotional challenges, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or life transitions. I work well with individuals who struggle with emotional regulation, self-esteem, or relationship difficulties, and I provide a supportive space for parents seeking guidance on how to connect with and support their teens.
I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, and emotional dysregulation, using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
I am best positioned to serve teens and adults navigating emotional challenges, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or life transitions. I work well with individuals who struggle with emotional regulation, self-esteem, or relationship difficulties, and I provide a supportive space for parents seeking guidance on how to connect with and support their teens.
(786) 933-9983 View (786) 933-9983
Photo of Brooke Bishop, Counselor, LMHC
Brooke Bishop
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have extensive experience implementing evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals develop coping skills, challenge unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, and promote emotional regulation.
As a licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Masters in Counseling Education, I bring a wealth of education and experience to my work. Throughout my career, I have gained valuable experience working in a variety of settings, residential, substance abuse treatment centers, and outpatient counseling programs.
I have extensive experience implementing evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals develop coping skills, challenge unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, and promote emotional regulation.
As a licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Masters in Counseling Education, I bring a wealth of education and experience to my work. Throughout my career, I have gained valuable experience working in a variety of settings, residential, substance abuse treatment centers, and outpatient counseling programs.
(954) 738-4389 View (954) 738-4389
Photo of Da'Neshia Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Da'Neshia Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals.
I typically work with young and older adults, I find my approach best fits this demographic that is dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and mood instability. My passion is to help clients decrease symptoms that are currently impacting their daily functioning.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals.
I typically work with young and older adults, I find my approach best fits this demographic that is dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and mood instability. My passion is to help clients decrease symptoms that are currently impacting their daily functioning.
(954) 231-1672 View (954) 231-1672
Photo of Shaindy Schnaidman, Psychologist, PsyD
Shaindy Schnaidman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33169
I beleive in harnessing the power of theory to understand my clients, and use practical techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, and EFT appraoches to help my clients achieve sustainable change.
Welcome to my psychology today page! If you are here, it means that you are seeking help for yourself or your loved one. Congratulations on taking that first courageous step! If you're looking for a provider who specializes in working with adolescent girls and women, you're in the right place. I also conduct neuropsychological evaluations for children and young adults, and love helping parents enhance their parenting skills and couples facing relationship challenges. Whether you're struggling with ADHD, autism, Tourette syndrome, school refusal, OCD, anxiety, ARFID, immuno-disorders, or a life transition, I am here to supprt you.
I beleive in harnessing the power of theory to understand my clients, and use practical techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, and EFT appraoches to help my clients achieve sustainable change.
Welcome to my psychology today page! If you are here, it means that you are seeking help for yourself or your loved one. Congratulations on taking that first courageous step! If you're looking for a provider who specializes in working with adolescent girls and women, you're in the right place. I also conduct neuropsychological evaluations for children and young adults, and love helping parents enhance their parenting skills and couples facing relationship challenges. Whether you're struggling with ADHD, autism, Tourette syndrome, school refusal, OCD, anxiety, ARFID, immuno-disorders, or a life transition, I am here to supprt you.
(786) 829-7291 View (786) 829-7291
Photo of Shara Lynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA
Shara Lynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131
I offer individualized and group therapy DBT therapy using a comprehensive model with proven outcomes.
I specialize evidence-based and trauma informed treatments for anxiety, depression, identity, and relationship issues. If you've been going through a difficult pattern or feeling stuck, I'm here to support you. It's time to build a life you feel proud of, an inner dialogue that improves your self-esteem and internal safety, and relationships that are stable and reciprocal. In our work together, we’ll uncover the behaviors and thoughts that are keeping you stuck. Together, we'll work on tools to help you break free from negative cycles and create a life filled with more intention, meaning, and purpose.
I offer individualized and group therapy DBT therapy using a comprehensive model with proven outcomes.
I specialize evidence-based and trauma informed treatments for anxiety, depression, identity, and relationship issues. If you've been going through a difficult pattern or feeling stuck, I'm here to support you. It's time to build a life you feel proud of, an inner dialogue that improves your self-esteem and internal safety, and relationships that are stable and reciprocal. In our work together, we’ll uncover the behaviors and thoughts that are keeping you stuck. Together, we'll work on tools to help you break free from negative cycles and create a life filled with more intention, meaning, and purpose.
(646) 703-0540 View (646) 703-0540
Photo of Cynthia Wells, Counselor, LMHC
Cynthia Wells
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Person-Centered trauma-focused therapy helps in crises, and CBT, DBT, EMDR.
I allow the client to start at their comfort zone. After rapport is established, we can create and design our sessions accordingly.
Person-Centered trauma-focused therapy helps in crises, and CBT, DBT, EMDR.
I allow the client to start at their comfort zone. After rapport is established, we can create and design our sessions accordingly.
(954) 633-4626 View (954) 633-4626
Photo of Paul Comeau, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Paul Comeau
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I utilize a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, DBT, Psychoeducation, behavior modification, and mindfulness and relaxation.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida providing individual therapy to ages 14-80, focusing on addictions, trauma, depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ASD. I have over 10 years of experience providing therapy in addiction treatment centers and community mental health agencies. My goal is to help clients begin the process of finding their inner peace. I incorporate the use of evidence-based strategies, to help clients apply useful coping skills assisting them with more effective decision-making.
I utilize a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, DBT, Psychoeducation, behavior modification, and mindfulness and relaxation.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida providing individual therapy to ages 14-80, focusing on addictions, trauma, depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ASD. I have over 10 years of experience providing therapy in addiction treatment centers and community mental health agencies. My goal is to help clients begin the process of finding their inner peace. I incorporate the use of evidence-based strategies, to help clients apply useful coping skills assisting them with more effective decision-making.
(954) 856-2611 View (954) 856-2611
Photo of Rosalind Frazer-Gregory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rosalind Frazer-Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I use various approaches, including, CBT, DBT, person-centered, solution-focus, solution-focus brief therapy, Christian counseling, etc.
I am Rosalind Frazer-Gregory, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I create an atmosphere that is compassionate and a space that is judgment-free as individuals work through depression, anxiety, self-esteem, rejection, and other issues that can be debilitating. I support clients as they navigate life's challenges and painful experiences. I understand the power of sitting with my clients as they identify their values and live according to them. I empower them to use their voice, set boundaries, and do away with ineffective communication.
I use various approaches, including, CBT, DBT, person-centered, solution-focus, solution-focus brief therapy, Christian counseling, etc.
I am Rosalind Frazer-Gregory, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I create an atmosphere that is compassionate and a space that is judgment-free as individuals work through depression, anxiety, self-esteem, rejection, and other issues that can be debilitating. I support clients as they navigate life's challenges and painful experiences. I understand the power of sitting with my clients as they identify their values and live according to them. I empower them to use their voice, set boundaries, and do away with ineffective communication.
(954) 884-5361 View (954) 884-5361
Photo of Dr. Kristin Amicone, Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Dr. Kristin Amicone
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) with other evidence-based practices tailored to the patients needs including CPT, DBT, ERP, MI, ACT, SFBT.
Finding balance in this unpredictable world can sometimes seem unachievable. Together, we can find a balance that best fits you. Our fast-pace and demanding society makes limited time for personal issues or difficult life events, causing a detriment to our mental health and wellbeing. With an integrated approach, we can target your health from all angles including mind, body, and spirit. My goal for therapy is teaching you the skills needed to find your balance so you can flourish in your daily life. Whatever your journey, I will help you implement knowledge and tools to overcome barriers of the past, present, and future.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) with other evidence-based practices tailored to the patients needs including CPT, DBT, ERP, MI, ACT, SFBT.
Finding balance in this unpredictable world can sometimes seem unachievable. Together, we can find a balance that best fits you. Our fast-pace and demanding society makes limited time for personal issues or difficult life events, causing a detriment to our mental health and wellbeing. With an integrated approach, we can target your health from all angles including mind, body, and spirit. My goal for therapy is teaching you the skills needed to find your balance so you can flourish in your daily life. Whatever your journey, I will help you implement knowledge and tools to overcome barriers of the past, present, and future.
(708) 787-8794 View (708) 787-8794
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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.