Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Buffalo, NY

Stacy Cullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
For clients with BPD, I offer DBT using a client-directed workbook—empowering growth through autonomy and reflection.
My ideal client is an adult navigating trauma history, depression (including suicidal ideation), and relational challenges. They’re motivated to change, actively engaged in individual therapy, and seeking deeper emotional regulation, self-compassion, and lasting resilience. Together, we honor their autonomy and story, responding with affirmation, structure, and crisis support to foster safety, insight, and empowered growth.
For clients with BPD, I offer DBT using a client-directed workbook—empowering growth through autonomy and reflection.
My ideal client is an adult navigating trauma history, depression (including suicidal ideation), and relational challenges. They’re motivated to change, actively engaged in individual therapy, and seeking deeper emotional regulation, self-compassion, and lasting resilience. Together, we honor their autonomy and story, responding with affirmation, structure, and crisis support to foster safety, insight, and empowered growth.
(716) 666-4368 View (716) 666-4368
Jessica Oppenheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Buffalo, NY 14223
Having numerous years of practice in therapy modalities, such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and schema therapy, I help you access the deeper emotional layers where lasting healing happens.
I'm a social worker who works with adults navigating relationship struggles, attachment wounds, and the heavy weight of grief. My clients are often smart, self-aware people who feel stuck in patterns they understand- but can't seem to shift. That's where our work begins.
Having numerous years of practice in therapy modalities, such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and schema therapy, I help you access the deeper emotional layers where lasting healing happens.
I'm a social worker who works with adults navigating relationship struggles, attachment wounds, and the heavy weight of grief. My clients are often smart, self-aware people who feel stuck in patterns they understand- but can't seem to shift. That's where our work begins.
(716) 281-5059 View (716) 281-5059
Melissa Anne Muldoon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
In addition to individual psychotherapy with a focus on CBT, MI, DBT and a person centered approach, I offer two processing groups - one for individuals to process interpersonal relationship issues, and one for the processing of anxiety, depression, and self-worth struggles.
I value a non-judgemental approach over all else and will offer you unconditional positive regard. My treatment modality focus is on motivational interviewing & a client-centered approach. As your therapist it's my job to guide you while remembering that you are the expert in your own life. I can offer advice on coping strategies, mindfulness, and guide you through cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques. No matter what you have experienced, survived, or done, you are worthy & valuable. I believe in encouraging clients to work through feelings of shame that can be pervasive and devastating to their lives.
In addition to individual psychotherapy with a focus on CBT, MI, DBT and a person centered approach, I offer two processing groups - one for individuals to process interpersonal relationship issues, and one for the processing of anxiety, depression, and self-worth struggles.
I value a non-judgemental approach over all else and will offer you unconditional positive regard. My treatment modality focus is on motivational interviewing & a client-centered approach. As your therapist it's my job to guide you while remembering that you are the expert in your own life. I can offer advice on coping strategies, mindfulness, and guide you through cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques. No matter what you have experienced, survived, or done, you are worthy & valuable. I believe in encouraging clients to work through feelings of shame that can be pervasive and devastating to their lives.
(716) 303-4093 View (716) 303-4093
Arlene Tariq
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14223
I utilize ACT, DBT, CBT and parts work to build emotional strength, and coping skills to carry us through EDMR.
I assist with developing authenticity, and finding YOUR true self. In a world where authenticity lacks, I am here to help you work on self-love and healing. I utilize outside of the box approaches, though creative arts, as a means for healing and introspection on the different parts of ourselves throughout sessions.
I utilize ACT, DBT, CBT and parts work to build emotional strength, and coping skills to carry us through EDMR.
I assist with developing authenticity, and finding YOUR true self. In a world where authenticity lacks, I am here to help you work on self-love and healing. I utilize outside of the box approaches, though creative arts, as a means for healing and introspection on the different parts of ourselves throughout sessions.
(716) 575-2973 View (716) 575-2973
Donna Abram-Cioppa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, -R
Buffalo, NY 14223
Hello, and thank you so much for stopping to explore my profile, welcome. Reaching out for support is the first step in your journey of healing. The impact of traumatic events on our minds, bodies and spirits is real and supremely significant. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective using empirically based interventions combined with approaches that are designed to nurture the spiritual being in us all. I welcome any and all perspectives on spirituality. My focus is based in cultural literacy and most importantly cultural humility. I am very in tune with the fact that you know yourself better than anyone.
Hello, and thank you so much for stopping to explore my profile, welcome. Reaching out for support is the first step in your journey of healing. The impact of traumatic events on our minds, bodies and spirits is real and supremely significant. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective using empirically based interventions combined with approaches that are designed to nurture the spiritual being in us all. I welcome any and all perspectives on spirituality. My focus is based in cultural literacy and most importantly cultural humility. I am very in tune with the fact that you know yourself better than anyone.
(716) 291-0059 View (716) 291-0059
Caitlyn Brown
Counselor, LMHC
Buffalo, NY 14224
Thank you for stopping by! I have been a mental health counselor since 2011. I work with individuals of all ages (6+) with a wide array of approaches. I use multiple techniques with a mix of traditional and creative approaches that works for the individual person. With the world as chaotic and scary as it is right now, anxiety and depression are on the rise. There are ways to improve your mood and lower your anxiety and it is already within you! I will help guide you on your journey to understanding your true self and the capabilities you already possess! Unlock your hidden potential and begin to live your best life!
Thank you for stopping by! I have been a mental health counselor since 2011. I work with individuals of all ages (6+) with a wide array of approaches. I use multiple techniques with a mix of traditional and creative approaches that works for the individual person. With the world as chaotic and scary as it is right now, anxiety and depression are on the rise. There are ways to improve your mood and lower your anxiety and it is already within you! I will help guide you on your journey to understanding your true self and the capabilities you already possess! Unlock your hidden potential and begin to live your best life!
(716) 325-1544 View (716) 325-1544
Seaghan Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
4 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209
Waitlisting except for new Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy clients. I'm a master therapist and EMDRIA-approved therapist specializing in KAP, complex trauma, and attachment wounds. KAP uses expanded states of awareness for deep healing, emotional release, and integration — helping clients see how trauma, conditioning, and dissociative survival patterns have shaped disconnection from their true nature. I guide people back to who they are at their core: awake, kind, and free. My work draws from EMDR, somatic therapy, parts work, Buddhist psychology, ACT, and contemplative practice. I also train therapists in these integrative models.
Waitlisting except for new Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy clients. I'm a master therapist and EMDRIA-approved therapist specializing in KAP, complex trauma, and attachment wounds. KAP uses expanded states of awareness for deep healing, emotional release, and integration — helping clients see how trauma, conditioning, and dissociative survival patterns have shaped disconnection from their true nature. I guide people back to who they are at their core: awake, kind, and free. My work draws from EMDR, somatic therapy, parts work, Buddhist psychology, ACT, and contemplative practice. I also train therapists in these integrative models.
(716) 710-8854 View (716) 710-8854
Leah M. Manders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I use a generalist approach- which means I draw from a variety of therapy frameworks, including strength-based, dialectical therapy, and parts work; I try to tailor my approach to each, unique person I work with, depending on their individual needs.
Schedule a 15-minute virtual phone consultation with me, free of charge, to start discussing your therapy goals.
I use a generalist approach- which means I draw from a variety of therapy frameworks, including strength-based, dialectical therapy, and parts work; I try to tailor my approach to each, unique person I work with, depending on their individual needs.
Schedule a 15-minute virtual phone consultation with me, free of charge, to start discussing your therapy goals.
(716) 354-3133 View (716) 354-3133
Emily Tyler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
DBT relies heavily on mindfulness and validation.
Our human emotional experience is complicated and can sometimes get in the way of our goals or our relationships. We often judge our reactions or ourselves for having them because they can lead to impulsivity or emotional suffering, and of course we would prefer to avoid this. If we can learn to experience our thoughts, feelings, and actions in the moment without judgment or assumption, we can learn to work with our emotions, accept things we wish were different and more effectively enact change. This allows us to focus on what we can control to work towards your goals for yourself, relationships, and life.
DBT relies heavily on mindfulness and validation.
Our human emotional experience is complicated and can sometimes get in the way of our goals or our relationships. We often judge our reactions or ourselves for having them because they can lead to impulsivity or emotional suffering, and of course we would prefer to avoid this. If we can learn to experience our thoughts, feelings, and actions in the moment without judgment or assumption, we can learn to work with our emotions, accept things we wish were different and more effectively enact change. This allows us to focus on what we can control to work towards your goals for yourself, relationships, and life.
(716) 257-4095 View (716) 257-4095
Luann Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14214
I have over 20 years experience in the human service field. My passion is providing compassionate support for those struggling with life's challenges in a safe and non-judgmental environment; assisting individuals in addressing what is troubling them; whether it is marital conflict, depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, trauma, anger management, serious mental illness, etc.; helping them to achieve their personal goals; effecting positive change and working toward desired outcomes. I incorporate principles from the Christian faith for those who desire that but work with all people/faiths indiscriminately.
I have over 20 years experience in the human service field. My passion is providing compassionate support for those struggling with life's challenges in a safe and non-judgmental environment; assisting individuals in addressing what is troubling them; whether it is marital conflict, depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, trauma, anger management, serious mental illness, etc.; helping them to achieve their personal goals; effecting positive change and working toward desired outcomes. I incorporate principles from the Christian faith for those who desire that but work with all people/faiths indiscriminately.
(716) 475-9228 View (716) 475-9228
Glynn Couch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14221
I’m glad you’re here. I specialize in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)—an innovative, evidence-based approach that supports healing from treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, trauma, and emotional stagnation when traditional talk therapy hasn’t brought relief. My work combines the science of psychedelic-assisted therapy with the art of compassionate, grounded psychotherapy to help you reconnect with yourself and rediscover hope.
I’m glad you’re here. I specialize in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)—an innovative, evidence-based approach that supports healing from treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, trauma, and emotional stagnation when traditional talk therapy hasn’t brought relief. My work combines the science of psychedelic-assisted therapy with the art of compassionate, grounded psychotherapy to help you reconnect with yourself and rediscover hope.
(716) 458-8102 View (716) 458-8102
Valerie Testa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14226
Life presents pain and uncertainty. To learn and live by a perspective that takes you beyond ego, is to find meaning in your suffering as you sit with discomfort and take a closer look at your experience with vulnerability. Finding balance within yourself is not gained through the absence of worry and adversity-it’s discovered through a process of understanding and practicing self- acceptance and self-compassion while in the midst of life struggles. Let's explore your relationship with the negative aspects of human experience. As you look inward with honesty and without harsh judgement you can find yourself closer to your true self.
Life presents pain and uncertainty. To learn and live by a perspective that takes you beyond ego, is to find meaning in your suffering as you sit with discomfort and take a closer look at your experience with vulnerability. Finding balance within yourself is not gained through the absence of worry and adversity-it’s discovered through a process of understanding and practicing self- acceptance and self-compassion while in the midst of life struggles. Let's explore your relationship with the negative aspects of human experience. As you look inward with honesty and without harsh judgement you can find yourself closer to your true self.
(716) 638-2466 View (716) 638-2466
Brianne Rehac
Counselor, LMHC-D
4 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209
You're successful (but exhausted). You've done all the "right" things (but don't feel totally satisfied. You've got friends (but feel lonely). I work with people who are known for having it all together, but aren't feeling that way anymore. They feel burned out, tired, and unsure about what they want anymore. On top of it all, the news is stressing them out. I've stood in that spot, and I want to help.
You're successful (but exhausted). You've done all the "right" things (but don't feel totally satisfied. You've got friends (but feel lonely). I work with people who are known for having it all together, but aren't feeling that way anymore. They feel burned out, tired, and unsure about what they want anymore. On top of it all, the news is stressing them out. I've stood in that spot, and I want to help.
(716) 265-4652 View (716) 265-4652
Shanita Glover-Mangam
Verified Verified
Online Only
In my experience, everyone needs something a little different so I utilize an eclectic approach combining DBT, CBT, ACT, and IFS through a trauma informed lens as needed for that individual.
Life be life-ing. Here, you will find healing, humor, compassion, and unconditional support on your journey whether that entails developing new skills to navigate current life stressors or transitions (breakup, job loss, stage of life) or processing painful early experiences that may be showing up in unhelpful ways. We will work as a team to find what's best for you.
In my experience, everyone needs something a little different so I utilize an eclectic approach combining DBT, CBT, ACT, and IFS through a trauma informed lens as needed for that individual.
Life be life-ing. Here, you will find healing, humor, compassion, and unconditional support on your journey whether that entails developing new skills to navigate current life stressors or transitions (breakup, job loss, stage of life) or processing painful early experiences that may be showing up in unhelpful ways. We will work as a team to find what's best for you.
(716) 621-3962 View (716) 621-3962
Avi Afek
Counselor, LMHC, MS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I've worked with clients teaching them skills from CBT/ DBT/ACT.
We can't always choose our burdens, but we can choose how we carry them. Some of us learned the only way to protect ourselves was to isolate, not getting out of bed, endlessly scrolling, and pulling away from the world. Some learned to be on alert, plan for the worst, be ready to fight, and never let their guard down. The good news is we aren't destined to repeat the same patterns for the rest of our lives. Learning to trust ourselves and protect ourselves in healthy ways rather than harmful ways is possible and more available than we think. I have many years of experience with psychedelic integration therapy & integrating NOSC.
I've worked with clients teaching them skills from CBT/ DBT/ACT.
We can't always choose our burdens, but we can choose how we carry them. Some of us learned the only way to protect ourselves was to isolate, not getting out of bed, endlessly scrolling, and pulling away from the world. Some learned to be on alert, plan for the worst, be ready to fight, and never let their guard down. The good news is we aren't destined to repeat the same patterns for the rest of our lives. Learning to trust ourselves and protect ourselves in healthy ways rather than harmful ways is possible and more available than we think. I have many years of experience with psychedelic integration therapy & integrating NOSC.
(716) 291-0059 View (716) 291-0059
Edward Jackson Jr.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MDiv, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14216
Waitlist for new clients
I personally don't believe there is an "ideal" client. My "ideal" client is any amazing person who had the courage to walk through the doors, share their story, and work collaboratively to find healing and happiness. That is the ideal client in my humble opinion!
I personally don't believe there is an "ideal" client. My "ideal" client is any amazing person who had the courage to walk through the doors, share their story, and work collaboratively to find healing and happiness. That is the ideal client in my humble opinion!
(716) 201-0522 View (716) 201-0522
Caroline Horrigan-Maurer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14217
Stress. It leaves us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from our bodies, and unsure of how to move forward. Maybe you’re holding everything together because others depend on you, or you appear to be thriving, but your body is telling a different story. Stress doesn’t always look the same. It can show up as anger, frustration, worry, or perfectionism. Other times, it takes a physical toll, exacerbating aches and pains and leading to new physical diagnoses. It can also lead to unhealthy coping, like alcohol use. Pair any of these issues with parenting duties, relationship challenges, or work, and it starts to take over.
Stress. It leaves us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from our bodies, and unsure of how to move forward. Maybe you’re holding everything together because others depend on you, or you appear to be thriving, but your body is telling a different story. Stress doesn’t always look the same. It can show up as anger, frustration, worry, or perfectionism. Other times, it takes a physical toll, exacerbating aches and pains and leading to new physical diagnoses. It can also lead to unhealthy coping, like alcohol use. Pair any of these issues with parenting duties, relationship challenges, or work, and it starts to take over.
(716) 217-6608 View (716) 217-6608
Kayla Leathers
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Buffalo, NY 14201
I use therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & Solution-Focused Therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, & adults facing challenges such as stress management, career transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem & identity concerns, academic or family stress, complex grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, & difficulties with emotion regulation. Many clients start therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in unhelpful patterns. Together, we will identify these challenges & develop skills to reduce distress, manage difficult emotions, & create meaningful change. My goal is to provide a warm, conversational, & nonjudgmental environment where you can share your experiences at your own pace.
I use therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & Solution-Focused Therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, & adults facing challenges such as stress management, career transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem & identity concerns, academic or family stress, complex grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, & difficulties with emotion regulation. Many clients start therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in unhelpful patterns. Together, we will identify these challenges & develop skills to reduce distress, manage difficult emotions, & create meaningful change. My goal is to provide a warm, conversational, & nonjudgmental environment where you can share your experiences at your own pace.
(716) 362-3463 View (716) 362-3463
Yvonne Ann Cavanaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC 2
Buffalo, NY 14202
I often use an eclectic approach derived from CBT, DBT, and ACT.
With an empathic approach, I am comfortable working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I will work with you in providing skills, developing insight and clarification, help you to find peace. or just sit with you and your emotions without any judgement. My specialty is working with adolescents/young adults/adults and families addressing challenging issues such as substance use, conflict, or behavior modification. My hope for any individual is that you leave the session feeling hopeful, empowered, and supported.
I often use an eclectic approach derived from CBT, DBT, and ACT.
With an empathic approach, I am comfortable working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I will work with you in providing skills, developing insight and clarification, help you to find peace. or just sit with you and your emotions without any judgement. My specialty is working with adolescents/young adults/adults and families addressing challenging issues such as substance use, conflict, or behavior modification. My hope for any individual is that you leave the session feeling hopeful, empowered, and supported.
(716) 291-0059 View (716) 291-0059
Katie Brandt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I have a background running DBT groups focused on skills and education.
Feeling stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, angry, or depressed? Are you going through life transitions and seeking some guidance and support? Or, have you always felt something was off but were too embarrassed, scared, or confused to talk about it? Have you experienced trauma and feel disconnected from yourself, others and the world? Are you looking to improve the relationship with yourself, friends/family, and significant others? Do you want to feel in control of your emotions and in control of your life?
I have a background running DBT groups focused on skills and education.
Feeling stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, angry, or depressed? Are you going through life transitions and seeking some guidance and support? Or, have you always felt something was off but were too embarrassed, scared, or confused to talk about it? Have you experienced trauma and feel disconnected from yourself, others and the world? Are you looking to improve the relationship with yourself, friends/family, and significant others? Do you want to feel in control of your emotions and in control of your life?
(716) 456-8986 View (716) 456-8986

See more therapy options for Buffalo

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.