Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL

Photo of Joseph Clark Halliday, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Joseph Clark Halliday
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Clark draws from several types of therapies including Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, and trauma recovery.
Clark Halliday is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. He graduated from the University of Chicago, Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. As a social worker in private practice, Clark provides family, couples, and individual therapy that allows all clients to feel safe and supported in a therapeutic environment. He works with schools and employers to support and strengthen the individual as well as the family. Clark's diverse professional skills allow him to provide resources in multiple areas of mental health.
Clark draws from several types of therapies including Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, and trauma recovery.
Clark Halliday is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. He graduated from the University of Chicago, Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. As a social worker in private practice, Clark provides family, couples, and individual therapy that allows all clients to feel safe and supported in a therapeutic environment. He works with schools and employers to support and strengthen the individual as well as the family. Clark's diverse professional skills allow him to provide resources in multiple areas of mental health.
(872) 266-2472 View (872) 266-2472
Photo of Danielle Jacobson - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chicago, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chicago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(872) 350-0332 View (872) 350-0332
Photo of Molly Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Molly Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I implement Trauma-Informed Therapy, the Cognitive Behavioral approach, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in sessions.
I am a Clinical Social Worker, and I specialize in working with people affected by a wide range of symptoms related to trauma and grief. I help people manage symptoms related to anxiety and depression. I work with people who want to improve their functioning and effectively manage the symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and prevent them from enjoying their lives. I specialize in working with First Responders, Couples, Individuals, and clients who are re-entering communities after incarceration.
I implement Trauma-Informed Therapy, the Cognitive Behavioral approach, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in sessions.
I am a Clinical Social Worker, and I specialize in working with people affected by a wide range of symptoms related to trauma and grief. I help people manage symptoms related to anxiety and depression. I work with people who want to improve their functioning and effectively manage the symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and prevent them from enjoying their lives. I specialize in working with First Responders, Couples, Individuals, and clients who are re-entering communities after incarceration.
(224) 379-0621 View (224) 379-0621
Photo of Danielle Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Danielle Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices, all from a trauma-informed perspective.
My name is Danielle Murphy and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with clients and families affected by substance use disorders, employing a relational approach to address and treat the whole person. My practice focuses on creating a supportive and inclusive space, emphasizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). With a background in social work, I am dedicated to advocating for communities and individuals stigmatized by addiction. My goal is to empower clients, providing them with the tools and support needed to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices, all from a trauma-informed perspective.
My name is Danielle Murphy and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with clients and families affected by substance use disorders, employing a relational approach to address and treat the whole person. My practice focuses on creating a supportive and inclusive space, emphasizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). With a background in social work, I am dedicated to advocating for communities and individuals stigmatized by addiction. My goal is to empower clients, providing them with the tools and support needed to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
(312) 680-7263 View (312) 680-7263
Photo of Barbara Nolfi, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Barbara Nolfi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
While I believe that therapy should be individualized to the person, my approach is anchored in psychodynamic and relational roots and also incorporates cognitive behavioral and DBT skills as needed.
As a therapist, I consider myself to be a second set of eyes and ears to help guide you through your process of growth and healing. There are times in everyone’s life when they can use some extra support, guidance, and a safe space to process. I am honored to join you in these moments, big and small.
While I believe that therapy should be individualized to the person, my approach is anchored in psychodynamic and relational roots and also incorporates cognitive behavioral and DBT skills as needed.
As a therapist, I consider myself to be a second set of eyes and ears to help guide you through your process of growth and healing. There are times in everyone’s life when they can use some extra support, guidance, and a safe space to process. I am honored to join you in these moments, big and small.
(872) 244-6678 View (872) 244-6678
Photo of Emma Bulzoni, Counselor, MA , LCPC
Emma Bulzoni
Counselor, MA , LCPC
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
She uses an eclectic approach that combines both psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, with DBT skills based treatment and exposure therapy.
Emma Bulzoni, MA is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in the treatment of adolescents and adults with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma related disorders, and adjustment disorders. She received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Iowa. She holds a Masters degree in Counseling from Northwestern University, with a specialization in children and adolescents.
She uses an eclectic approach that combines both psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, with DBT skills based treatment and exposure therapy.
Emma Bulzoni, MA is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in the treatment of adolescents and adults with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma related disorders, and adjustment disorders. She received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Iowa. She holds a Masters degree in Counseling from Northwestern University, with a specialization in children and adolescents.
(872) 239-3403 View (872) 239-3403
Photo of Nick J Sotor - Chicago Behavior Therapy, Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Chicago Behavior Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I am a licensed clinical Psychologist who provides evidence-based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and am a Linehan Board Certified clinician with an expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
I strive to understand individuals within the larger context of their lives rather than focusing on simplistic diagnoses or labels. This stance allows me to practice psychotherapy in a genuine, relational, and compassionate way while at the same time while remaining firmly rooted in theory and providing treatments that have been shown to work.
I am a licensed clinical Psychologist who provides evidence-based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and am a Linehan Board Certified clinician with an expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
I strive to understand individuals within the larger context of their lives rather than focusing on simplistic diagnoses or labels. This stance allows me to practice psychotherapy in a genuine, relational, and compassionate way while at the same time while remaining firmly rooted in theory and providing treatments that have been shown to work.
(224) 300-7816 View (224) 300-7816
Photo of Dr. Ashly C Lawrence, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, PhD
Dr. Ashly C Lawrence
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I pull from a variety of treatment modalities; IFS, DBT, and attachment- based theories.
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, stress and interpersonal relationships? Do you have a difficult time managing the balance between work and your personal life? Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of life right now. As a therapist, I am adept at addressing these and other issues that cause distress. Individual therapy is a time for you to reconnect with yourself and build self-awareness in order to cultivate the life you wish to live. Therapy is a transformative process in which I help guide clients through supportive treatment interventions. I hope to help support you on your journey !
I pull from a variety of treatment modalities; IFS, DBT, and attachment- based theories.
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, stress and interpersonal relationships? Do you have a difficult time managing the balance between work and your personal life? Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of life right now. As a therapist, I am adept at addressing these and other issues that cause distress. Individual therapy is a time for you to reconnect with yourself and build self-awareness in order to cultivate the life you wish to live. Therapy is a transformative process in which I help guide clients through supportive treatment interventions. I hope to help support you on your journey !
(872) 259-6125 View (872) 259-6125
Photo of Stephanie (Reiter) Ramsay, Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, LPCC
Stephanie (Reiter) Ramsay
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My therapeutic modalities are client-centered and I often use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Are you feeling lost, isolated, or “stuck” in your circumstances? Are you feeling overwhelmed with your responsibilities or can’t seem to break out of old patterns? Is your quality of life not as fulfilling as it used to be, or as you would like it to be? My passion is in helping others explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe, open, and nonjudgmental environment.
My therapeutic modalities are client-centered and I often use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Are you feeling lost, isolated, or “stuck” in your circumstances? Are you feeling overwhelmed with your responsibilities or can’t seem to break out of old patterns? Is your quality of life not as fulfilling as it used to be, or as you would like it to be? My passion is in helping others explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe, open, and nonjudgmental environment.
(312) 262-6312 View (312) 262-6312
Photo of Natalia Gurmendi, Pre-Licensed Professional, MAATC, ATR-P
Natalia Gurmendi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAATC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
I use evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Art Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I specialize in supporting clients with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Complex Trauma/PTSD, Sexual Trauma, Substance Use, Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Relationship Issues, Racial/Cultural Identity, Multicultural Relationships, Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Life Transitions, Coping and Communication Skills, and more. I enjoy working with younger and older adults, as well as first-time therapy clients. I value a social-justice oriented, culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and sex positive approach to counseling. I am also conversational in Spanish and Brazilian-Portuguese, and can incorporate this in my therapy sessions.
I use evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Art Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I specialize in supporting clients with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Complex Trauma/PTSD, Sexual Trauma, Substance Use, Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Relationship Issues, Racial/Cultural Identity, Multicultural Relationships, Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Life Transitions, Coping and Communication Skills, and more. I enjoy working with younger and older adults, as well as first-time therapy clients. I value a social-justice oriented, culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and sex positive approach to counseling. I am also conversational in Spanish and Brazilian-Portuguese, and can incorporate this in my therapy sessions.
(872) 253-8593 View (872) 253-8593
Photo of Dr. Michelle Maddalozzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BCD
Dr. Michelle Maddalozzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Online Only
She incorporates different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, EMDR, solution focused) into her work, with an emphasis on body-oriented techniques.
She has successfully worked with many diverse clients, who presented such issues as depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, grief, relationship difficulties, and mood disorders. She also offers EMDR and is licensed in IL, NC, VA, and AK. Michelle has an extensive history of working within military communities and on base with active duty service members.
She incorporates different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, EMDR, solution focused) into her work, with an emphasis on body-oriented techniques.
She has successfully worked with many diverse clients, who presented such issues as depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, grief, relationship difficulties, and mood disorders. She also offers EMDR and is licensed in IL, NC, VA, and AK. Michelle has an extensive history of working within military communities and on base with active duty service members.
(312) 548-8985 View (312) 548-8985
Photo of Jaclyn Weiss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jaclyn Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
With extensive training in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT , Dialectical Behavior Therapy DBT , and Exposure Response Prevention ERP, she offers a structured approach to equip clients with coping skills and emotional regulation techniques.
Jaclyn is particularly passionate about supporting clients through life transitions and health-related challenges. She works with individuals experiencing grief, helping them process loss and build resilience. Additionally, Jaclyn has a strong interest in self-esteem issues, helping clients transform the way they perceive and feel about themselves.
With extensive training in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT , Dialectical Behavior Therapy DBT , and Exposure Response Prevention ERP, she offers a structured approach to equip clients with coping skills and emotional regulation techniques.
Jaclyn is particularly passionate about supporting clients through life transitions and health-related challenges. She works with individuals experiencing grief, helping them process loss and build resilience. Additionally, Jaclyn has a strong interest in self-esteem issues, helping clients transform the way they perceive and feel about themselves.
(872) 326-5322 View (872) 326-5322
Photo of Mariya Sirman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Mariya Sirman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
I integrate psychodynamic therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), mindfulness, relational, and attachment based therapy into my practice.
I am a queer-identified, first generation immigrant, and multiculturally informed psychotherapist. I have experience working with adults who struggle with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, and PTSD. I specialize in working with individuals who are recovering from eating disorders and have body image disturbance, as well as survivors of trauma. I strive to be a fat-positive, anti-diet, HAES informed clinician.
I integrate psychodynamic therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), mindfulness, relational, and attachment based therapy into my practice.
I am a queer-identified, first generation immigrant, and multiculturally informed psychotherapist. I have experience working with adults who struggle with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, and PTSD. I specialize in working with individuals who are recovering from eating disorders and have body image disturbance, as well as survivors of trauma. I strive to be a fat-positive, anti-diet, HAES informed clinician.
(312) 374-6834 View (312) 374-6834
Photo of Hattie Stein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hattie Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Hattie draws from psychodynamic therapy, DBT, and internal family systems as well, tailoring her approach to each individual.
Hattie believes that when we feel in control of our responses and choices, we are better equipped to handle the challenges life throws our way.
Hattie draws from psychodynamic therapy, DBT, and internal family systems as well, tailoring her approach to each individual.
Hattie believes that when we feel in control of our responses and choices, we are better equipped to handle the challenges life throws our way.
(872) 278-3514 View (872) 278-3514
Photo of Shannon M Duffy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, LPC, LCPC
Shannon M Duffy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
DBT incorporates a more mindful approach to combatting our daily stressors.
Daily stressors are inevitable, and it is essential to build coping strategies for how to manage stress and combat negative thinking patterns. Creating behavior changes is a focal point of psychotherapy and beneficial in wanting a sense of structure and consistency in one's relationships and daily life. My overall goal for each client is to work on obtaining balance within their own healthy lifestyle. Through obtaining balance one's past and present symptoms can lessen and each individual and/or couple can focus on the positive attributes of their life and move forward towards reaching their goals and the life worth living.
DBT incorporates a more mindful approach to combatting our daily stressors.
Daily stressors are inevitable, and it is essential to build coping strategies for how to manage stress and combat negative thinking patterns. Creating behavior changes is a focal point of psychotherapy and beneficial in wanting a sense of structure and consistency in one's relationships and daily life. My overall goal for each client is to work on obtaining balance within their own healthy lifestyle. Through obtaining balance one's past and present symptoms can lessen and each individual and/or couple can focus on the positive attributes of their life and move forward towards reaching their goals and the life worth living.
(602) 932-1785 View (602) 932-1785
Photo of Linda Quizhpi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Linda Quizhpi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Linda Quizhpi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked with a wide range of age groups and diverse populations. Linda takes into consideration all aspects of a client’s life as a whole in order to create a unique treatment plan to help address one’s needs. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused interventions, dialectical behavior therapy, and many other modalities. In her free time, Linda enjoys reading, journaling, and working with local advocacy groups aiming to promote positive change.
Linda Quizhpi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked with a wide range of age groups and diverse populations. Linda takes into consideration all aspects of a client’s life as a whole in order to create a unique treatment plan to help address one’s needs. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused interventions, dialectical behavior therapy, and many other modalities. In her free time, Linda enjoys reading, journaling, and working with local advocacy groups aiming to promote positive change.
(312) 878-9659 View (312) 878-9659
Photo of Dr. Mary Jia, Psychologist, PhD, MA
Dr. Mary Jia
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
1) Dialectical behavior therapy for people with intense emotions and self-identity issues.
People are not their diagnoses even though these labels can sometimes be informative. I prefer to get to know you. Specifically, what do you want out of therapy? What is currently working for you, not working? What brings you in to see me in this moment? Therapy is not only about reducing our suffering, but also finding meaning and fulfillment in our lives. It is about getting to know ourselves, parts that we love, parts that we are afraid of, parts that we don't yet understand. People are also not things that need to be "fixed", instead, this is a place for healing, self-compassion, and growth.
1) Dialectical behavior therapy for people with intense emotions and self-identity issues.
People are not their diagnoses even though these labels can sometimes be informative. I prefer to get to know you. Specifically, what do you want out of therapy? What is currently working for you, not working? What brings you in to see me in this moment? Therapy is not only about reducing our suffering, but also finding meaning and fulfillment in our lives. It is about getting to know ourselves, parts that we love, parts that we are afraid of, parts that we don't yet understand. People are also not things that need to be "fixed", instead, this is a place for healing, self-compassion, and growth.
(312) 778-5941 View (312) 778-5941
Photo of Erika Chavez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
We may explore somatic approaches such as EMDR, parts work, DBT, and mindfulness.
I support folks who struggle finding balance and belonging in multiple cultures. Let's intentionally create space for you to reconnect with your identities, culture(s), land and ancestors. We may explore first-gen experiences, relationships, spirituality, and other elements related to identity that are important to you and how they impact your mental health.
We may explore somatic approaches such as EMDR, parts work, DBT, and mindfulness.
I support folks who struggle finding balance and belonging in multiple cultures. Let's intentionally create space for you to reconnect with your identities, culture(s), land and ancestors. We may explore first-gen experiences, relationships, spirituality, and other elements related to identity that are important to you and how they impact your mental health.
(872) 278-1423 View (872) 278-1423
Photo of Madeline Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Madeline Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I use a blend of cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies.
Navigating the challenges of adolescence, young adulthood, and college life can feel overwhelming in today’s fast-paced, comparison-driven world. Balancing demands from parents, friendships, relationships, future worries, extracurriculars, school stress, and more is overwhelming. Expressing emotions to those around you can be tough, and understanding what triggers intense reactions can be confusing. You desire tools to tap into your strengths and become your best self.
I use a blend of cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies.
Navigating the challenges of adolescence, young adulthood, and college life can feel overwhelming in today’s fast-paced, comparison-driven world. Balancing demands from parents, friendships, relationships, future worries, extracurriculars, school stress, and more is overwhelming. Expressing emotions to those around you can be tough, and understanding what triggers intense reactions can be confusing. You desire tools to tap into your strengths and become your best self.
(815) 635-8205 View (815) 635-8205
Photo of Sarah Donohue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Sarah Donohue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
She uses techniques of Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, and Solution Focused therapy to support clients in their goals for treatment.
Sarah Donohue is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes in partnering with clients to explore what is causing their discomfort. She works from a client-centered perspective so that the client knows they are the expert in their story. Sarah incorporates mindfulness practices into sessions to help calm the often-overactive nervous system. Prior to coming to LifeStance, Sarah worked in Child Welfare for 4 years. She provided a multitude of services for children and families in the foster care system who experienced trauma, abuse, and neglect.
She uses techniques of Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, and Solution Focused therapy to support clients in their goals for treatment.
Sarah Donohue is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes in partnering with clients to explore what is causing their discomfort. She works from a client-centered perspective so that the client knows they are the expert in their story. Sarah incorporates mindfulness practices into sessions to help calm the often-overactive nervous system. Prior to coming to LifeStance, Sarah worked in Child Welfare for 4 years. She provided a multitude of services for children and families in the foster care system who experienced trauma, abuse, and neglect.
(312) 313-8828 View (312) 313-8828
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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.