Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Winnebago, IL

Photo of Brianne France, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Brianne France
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
To get to those, we may utilize techniques from expressive and narrative therapies, as well as DBT/CBT.
What stories are you telling yourself about who you are, how you got here, or what comes next? So much of who we are is made up of the world we live in, with all of its influences, mirrors, and connections. Maybe you're looking for someone to help unhook you from those unhelpful stories, or maybe you're in need of space to explore new ideas. Whatever the case, I'm glad you're here.
To get to those, we may utilize techniques from expressive and narrative therapies, as well as DBT/CBT.
What stories are you telling yourself about who you are, how you got here, or what comes next? So much of who we are is made up of the world we live in, with all of its influences, mirrors, and connections. Maybe you're looking for someone to help unhook you from those unhelpful stories, or maybe you're in need of space to explore new ideas. Whatever the case, I'm glad you're here.
(708) 586-8497 View (708) 586-8497
Photo of Kirsten Ivy, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirsten Ivy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Serves Area
I am trained in several specialized approaches including EMDR, DBT, as well as Play therapy and Sand Tray.
My specialty is working with individuals who have experienced severe or complex trauma, and I understand that trauma rarely travels alone. It often brings along struggles like eating disorders, self-injury, and mood disorders, which can make daily life feel overwhelming. Therapy is not a single player game with a strict list of rules, it will look different from person to person. I view it as a collaborative journey—one where we work together to uncover and overcome the roadblocks to living life authentically.
I am trained in several specialized approaches including EMDR, DBT, as well as Play therapy and Sand Tray.
My specialty is working with individuals who have experienced severe or complex trauma, and I understand that trauma rarely travels alone. It often brings along struggles like eating disorders, self-injury, and mood disorders, which can make daily life feel overwhelming. Therapy is not a single player game with a strict list of rules, it will look different from person to person. I view it as a collaborative journey—one where we work together to uncover and overcome the roadblocks to living life authentically.
(815) 491-2890 View (815) 491-2890
Photo of Stephanie Calato - Live Well 815, Counselor, LCPC
Live Well 815
Counselor, LCPC
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by sadness or anxiety? Overwhelmed by family issues? Gripped by job stressors? Are you struggling with a divorce? Having conflicts in your relationship or going through a break-up? Getting triggered by old traumas? The people that I work with want more from life: joy, peace, and satisfaction. I can help you achieve your goals & find a better way of living.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by sadness or anxiety? Overwhelmed by family issues? Gripped by job stressors? Are you struggling with a divorce? Having conflicts in your relationship or going through a break-up? Getting triggered by old traumas? The people that I work with want more from life: joy, peace, and satisfaction. I can help you achieve your goals & find a better way of living.
(815) 745-4038 View (815) 745-4038

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mary Muehlenbein Petro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Mary Muehlenbein Petro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
The tools we use (CBT, DBT, ACT) and the reasons we use them (anxiety, anger, ADHD, depressed mood, phase of life) vary.
As a library administrator, I help people find information and manage projects. As a social worker, I connect people with the information they need to set goals and make their projects successful. Clients who are looking for a mature social worker with an understanding of how thoughts, feelings and behaviors impact us are encouraged to schedule a time to meet with me and give my friendly, professional, coaching style a try. I offer early morning, weekend, and evening meeting times to fit your needs, flexible billing options, and professional support navigating life changes and the feelings that come with them.
The tools we use (CBT, DBT, ACT) and the reasons we use them (anxiety, anger, ADHD, depressed mood, phase of life) vary.
As a library administrator, I help people find information and manage projects. As a social worker, I connect people with the information they need to set goals and make their projects successful. Clients who are looking for a mature social worker with an understanding of how thoughts, feelings and behaviors impact us are encouraged to schedule a time to meet with me and give my friendly, professional, coaching style a try. I offer early morning, weekend, and evening meeting times to fit your needs, flexible billing options, and professional support navigating life changes and the feelings that come with them.
(815) 957-6254 View (815) 957-6254
Photo of Meg Burcl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Meg Burcl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I emphasis the use of techniques and interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I have current openings for telehealth. Finding a therapist can sometimes feel impossible, but finding a good fit can make all the difference. It is important to both feel heard and seen, especially during the vulnerable process of sharing you experiences and emotions. I provide a non-judgmental space with a emphasis on holistic and person-centered care. Which means you can expect a collaborative experience. I will meet you where you are at and help you decide where you want to go.
I emphasis the use of techniques and interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I have current openings for telehealth. Finding a therapist can sometimes feel impossible, but finding a good fit can make all the difference. It is important to both feel heard and seen, especially during the vulnerable process of sharing you experiences and emotions. I provide a non-judgmental space with a emphasis on holistic and person-centered care. Which means you can expect a collaborative experience. I will meet you where you are at and help you decide where you want to go.
(708) 377-9430 View (708) 377-9430
Photo of Dr. Michelle Maddalozzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BCD
Dr. Michelle Maddalozzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BCD
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.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of LaVoris Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
LaVoris Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am both EMDR and DBT trained.
We’re often taught to be “mentally tough” instead of learning how to ask for help—and that needs to change. Everyone deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space to acknowledge and process their emotions. Avoiding our pain, trauma, or struggles won’t make them go away. You might have tried coping through smoking, drinking, gaming, or other distractions. These may offer temporary relief, but they don’t lead to true healing. If you’re ready to take a step toward growth and support, start by scheduling a session. Just click "my website" to begin.
I am both EMDR and DBT trained.
We’re often taught to be “mentally tough” instead of learning how to ask for help—and that needs to change. Everyone deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space to acknowledge and process their emotions. Avoiding our pain, trauma, or struggles won’t make them go away. You might have tried coping through smoking, drinking, gaming, or other distractions. These may offer temporary relief, but they don’t lead to true healing. If you’re ready to take a step toward growth and support, start by scheduling a session. Just click "my website" to begin.
View
Photo of Megan Orr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Megan Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Online Only
I use an eclectic blend of evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, DBT, CBT and MBSR.
If you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. In our sessions you will have a non-judgmental space to work on these issues as we partner to find solutions for you. If you are experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
I use an eclectic blend of evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, DBT, CBT and MBSR.
If you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. In our sessions you will have a non-judgmental space to work on these issues as we partner to find solutions for you. If you are experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
(331) 276-6517 View (331) 276-6517
Photo of Felicia Muhammad, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Felicia Muhammad
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I use various approaches to treatment including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and the Gottman Method for couples.
As a professional therapist I have worked with ages as young as 10 through to the more senior ages. I have provided mental health counseling including individual, group and family therapy. Some presenting issues that I have experienced include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood and personality disorders, codependency, domestic violence, and self esteem.
I use various approaches to treatment including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and the Gottman Method for couples.
As a professional therapist I have worked with ages as young as 10 through to the more senior ages. I have provided mental health counseling including individual, group and family therapy. Some presenting issues that I have experienced include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood and personality disorders, codependency, domestic violence, and self esteem.
(872) 326-3183 View (872) 326-3183
Photo of Arwa Sons, Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Arwa Sons
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Serves Area
My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
As a therapist, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, trauma-informed care for individuals navigating life’s challenges. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and personal growth challenges. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, understanding, and respect, creating a safe space where clients can explore their feelings, heal, and thrive.
My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
As a therapist, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, trauma-informed care for individuals navigating life’s challenges. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and personal growth challenges. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, understanding, and respect, creating a safe space where clients can explore their feelings, heal, and thrive.
(616) 947-5479 View (616) 947-5479
Photo of Anthony Rodriguez, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Anthony Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LCPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I approach my work from a practical perspective, using tools such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Hello, I'm Anthony. Meaning and certainty are hard to practice when you're struggling to get through the week. My experiences as a therapist involved helping people experiencing, anxiety, depression, life transitions, psychosis, and interpersonal difficulties; and if any of those apply to you, I would like to help you or someone you care about find some relief. My process is collaborative and open, meaning you set the pace as we learn how to reshape thoughts, learn new skills, and celebrate your best. I love learning about my clients and figuring out how we can use our therapy time to help you get to where you want to be in life.
I approach my work from a practical perspective, using tools such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy ( DBT).
Hello, I'm Anthony. Meaning and certainty are hard to practice when you're struggling to get through the week. My experiences as a therapist involved helping people experiencing, anxiety, depression, life transitions, psychosis, and interpersonal difficulties; and if any of those apply to you, I would like to help you or someone you care about find some relief. My process is collaborative and open, meaning you set the pace as we learn how to reshape thoughts, learn new skills, and celebrate your best. I love learning about my clients and figuring out how we can use our therapy time to help you get to where you want to be in life.
(872) 259-4551 View (872) 259-4551
Photo of Ruth Anderson, Psychologist, PsyD
Ruth Anderson
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Transformation Behavioral Health offers Linehan- DBT Board of Certification Certified Programs for adults and adolescents.
I have immediate openings for those in PsyPact states. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I specialize in Health Psychology with an emphasis on helping individuals who have experienced major medical events & acute/chronic medical difficulties or changes. I understand how scary such changes and adjustments can be, and am here to help you process and move forward with your life. I also am experienced in treating chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, functional disorders, mood swings, bipolar disorders, relationship challenges, grief, and struggles specific to those with neurodevelopment differences such as autism.
Transformation Behavioral Health offers Linehan- DBT Board of Certification Certified Programs for adults and adolescents.
I have immediate openings for those in PsyPact states. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I specialize in Health Psychology with an emphasis on helping individuals who have experienced major medical events & acute/chronic medical difficulties or changes. I understand how scary such changes and adjustments can be, and am here to help you process and move forward with your life. I also am experienced in treating chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, functional disorders, mood swings, bipolar disorders, relationship challenges, grief, and struggles specific to those with neurodevelopment differences such as autism.
(779) 246-3520 View (779) 246-3520
Photo of Cydney Oakes, Counselor, MA, LPC
Cydney Oakes
Counselor, MA, LPC
4 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61114
However, the approaches I use most often are Person-Centered, DBT, Gender Affirming, EMDR, and IFS.
I am fascinated with the mind and empowering our sense of purpose to fulfill relationships and experiences. Our life experiences can be a rollercoaster of emotions that throw us into a whirlwind of conflict. I want to guide you through these challenging experiences to help you heal and grow. My experience comes from working in various settings such as inpatient, various mental illnesses, and residential facilities. I hope to help deepen your understanding of yourself with different techniques and therapeutic tools.
However, the approaches I use most often are Person-Centered, DBT, Gender Affirming, EMDR, and IFS.
I am fascinated with the mind and empowering our sense of purpose to fulfill relationships and experiences. Our life experiences can be a rollercoaster of emotions that throw us into a whirlwind of conflict. I want to guide you through these challenging experiences to help you heal and grow. My experience comes from working in various settings such as inpatient, various mental illnesses, and residential facilities. I hope to help deepen your understanding of yourself with different techniques and therapeutic tools.
(815) 473-8640 View (815) 473-8640
Photo of Jasmine Stewart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jasmine Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), I help clients develop skills for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and healthier relationships.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Jasmine, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a passion for supporting individuals in navigating the everyday stressors of life. As a Black therapist, I understand how the intersection of identity, culture, and life’s challenges can deeply impact mental well-being. I am committed to creating a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered. I truly believe that seeking mental health support is a courageous step toward healing and growth. Let's find relief from life's pressures and develop meaningful ways to cope, heal, and thrive together.
Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), I help clients develop skills for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and healthier relationships.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Jasmine, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a passion for supporting individuals in navigating the everyday stressors of life. As a Black therapist, I understand how the intersection of identity, culture, and life’s challenges can deeply impact mental well-being. I am committed to creating a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered. I truly believe that seeking mental health support is a courageous step toward healing and growth. Let's find relief from life's pressures and develop meaningful ways to cope, heal, and thrive together.
(708) 381-1637 View (708) 381-1637
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
1 Endorsed
Loves Park, IL 61111
I have over 14 years of practice in behavioral health with experience in Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral therapy ( DBT), play therapy, and other evidenced based practices.
I work with individuals in Illinois and Wisconsin. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages who not only have specific concerns such as trauma, depression, substance use, and anxiety but are also looking to build on their strengths to not only reduce their identified problem but also to increase their capacity for joy. I am known for thinking outside of the box with experiential (music, art, humor, etc.) approaches.
I have over 14 years of practice in behavioral health with experience in Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral therapy ( DBT), play therapy, and other evidenced based practices.
I work with individuals in Illinois and Wisconsin. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages who not only have specific concerns such as trauma, depression, substance use, and anxiety but are also looking to build on their strengths to not only reduce their identified problem but also to increase their capacity for joy. I am known for thinking outside of the box with experiential (music, art, humor, etc.) approaches.
(815) 205-0859 View (815) 205-0859
Photo of Jennifer Mary Wilson-Bimrose, Psychologist, PsyD
Jennifer Mary Wilson-Bimrose
Psychologist, PsyD
Rockford, IL 61114
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (trauma and various DSM-IV diagnoses), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Borderline Personality Disorder and other diagnoses), and psychological assessment (to clarify appropriate diagnosis given current symptoms).
I work with clients of all ages. I feel that it is very important for prospective clients to get the correct diagnosis the first time in order to develop a well suited treatment plan. If psychological testing is warranted, I am an effective and efficient evaluator that will focus on the appropriate treatment to get you on your way faster. My goal is to empower each person I come in contact with and to help them realize their potential.
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (trauma and various DSM-IV diagnoses), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Borderline Personality Disorder and other diagnoses), and psychological assessment (to clarify appropriate diagnosis given current symptoms).
I work with clients of all ages. I feel that it is very important for prospective clients to get the correct diagnosis the first time in order to develop a well suited treatment plan. If psychological testing is warranted, I am an effective and efficient evaluator that will focus on the appropriate treatment to get you on your way faster. My goal is to empower each person I come in contact with and to help them realize their potential.
(815) 975-3291 View (815) 975-3291
Photo of Joshua Wigget, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Joshua Wigget
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use CBT, DBT, and solution-focused approaches to support you in moving toward the life you want.
I believe we all need support at times in our lives. I'm here to walk with you through both self-discovery and rediscovery. I'm especially passionate about working with immigrants and nomadic individuals who are navigating identity, belonging, and life across cultures. To me, the goal of therapy is to get closer to our ideal selves, and in doing so live a life with more fulfillment and grounding. I believe you know more about yourself than I ever could, and together, we’ll deepen your insight, reinforce your strengths, and develop the tools needed to help you thrive.
I use CBT, DBT, and solution-focused approaches to support you in moving toward the life you want.
I believe we all need support at times in our lives. I'm here to walk with you through both self-discovery and rediscovery. I'm especially passionate about working with immigrants and nomadic individuals who are navigating identity, belonging, and life across cultures. To me, the goal of therapy is to get closer to our ideal selves, and in doing so live a life with more fulfillment and grounding. I believe you know more about yourself than I ever could, and together, we’ll deepen your insight, reinforce your strengths, and develop the tools needed to help you thrive.
(815) 989-5079 View (815) 989-5079
Photo of Niki St Hill, Counselor, LCPC, Women's, Issues, Grief, Empower
Niki St Hill
Counselor, LCPC, Women's, Issues, Grief, Empower
Online Only
My approach integrates CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness with intuitive, holistic support.
I offer Integrative, holistic therapy for highly sensitive women facing anxiety, grief, life transitions, or faith shifts. Blending interventions from CBT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness and deep compassion, I support healing through self-trust, identity work, and spiritual exploration, offering grounded care for personal growth and emotional renewal.
My approach integrates CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness with intuitive, holistic support.
I offer Integrative, holistic therapy for highly sensitive women facing anxiety, grief, life transitions, or faith shifts. Blending interventions from CBT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness and deep compassion, I support healing through self-trust, identity work, and spiritual exploration, offering grounded care for personal growth and emotional renewal.
(708) 859-7614 View (708) 859-7614
Photo of Joanna de Leon, Counselor, MS, LCPC
Joanna de Leon
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Rockford, IL 61108
She has experience in crisis intervention, is a trained Dialectical Behavior therapist and has extensive experience working with individuals who have difficulty regulating emotions, self-harming behaviors, and chronic suicidal thoughts.
Joanna de Leon is the co-owner and clinical supervisor at Relevé Counseling. She has always enjoyed meeting new people and learning their stories. Every individual has a journey that is uniquely theirs and Joanna’s passion for understanding the challenges and triumphs of the human spirit is what ultimately led her to pursue a career in mental health therapy. Her goal for Relevé Counseling is to bring together a team of dedicated individuals who share her desire to leave a lasting and positive impact on the lives of the people they serve.
She has experience in crisis intervention, is a trained Dialectical Behavior therapist and has extensive experience working with individuals who have difficulty regulating emotions, self-harming behaviors, and chronic suicidal thoughts.
Joanna de Leon is the co-owner and clinical supervisor at Relevé Counseling. She has always enjoyed meeting new people and learning their stories. Every individual has a journey that is uniquely theirs and Joanna’s passion for understanding the challenges and triumphs of the human spirit is what ultimately led her to pursue a career in mental health therapy. Her goal for Relevé Counseling is to bring together a team of dedicated individuals who share her desire to leave a lasting and positive impact on the lives of the people they serve.
(815) 826-6597 View (815) 826-6597
Photo of Dr. Glenn Sample, Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Dr. Glenn Sample
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Using CBT and DBT modalities, I assist with recognizing what works well, and what areas have opportunity for improvement.
Success of therapeutic change begins with the relationship between you and your therapist. I believe effective change grows from a foundation of trust, respect, and the understanding of your desire for self-improvement. I work with you collaboratively to identify areas of concern while providing support throughout the counseling process. You have unique experiences that shape who you are, and how you respond to situations. I believe in helping others understand how these experiences influence their responses in the present.
Using CBT and DBT modalities, I assist with recognizing what works well, and what areas have opportunity for improvement.
Success of therapeutic change begins with the relationship between you and your therapist. I believe effective change grows from a foundation of trust, respect, and the understanding of your desire for self-improvement. I work with you collaboratively to identify areas of concern while providing support throughout the counseling process. You have unique experiences that shape who you are, and how you respond to situations. I believe in helping others understand how these experiences influence their responses in the present.
(815) 248-5107 View (815) 248-5107

See more therapy options for Winnebago

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.