Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Essex County, NY

Photo of Sara Hurlburt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Sara Hurlburt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willsboro, NY 12996
I primarily utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, DNMS, REBT, and mindfulness based approaches.
I am currently licensed to work with people residing in NY and VT. Welcome! People come to therapy for many different reasons. As your counselor, I offer a compassionate, safe, and supportive place in which to explore your concerns. I work collaboratively with curiosity and non-judgment as we create a path toward the changes you wish to make. I have been working in the mental health field for almost 10 years in a variety of capacities including school settings, inpatient mental health, and outpatient mental health clinics. I offer both in person and Telehealth options.
I primarily utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, DNMS, REBT, and mindfulness based approaches.
I am currently licensed to work with people residing in NY and VT. Welcome! People come to therapy for many different reasons. As your counselor, I offer a compassionate, safe, and supportive place in which to explore your concerns. I work collaboratively with curiosity and non-judgment as we create a path toward the changes you wish to make. I have been working in the mental health field for almost 10 years in a variety of capacities including school settings, inpatient mental health, and outpatient mental health clinics. I offer both in person and Telehealth options.
(518) 897-3657 View (518) 897-3657
Photo of Pavla Berry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Pavla Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Placid, NY 12946
I utilize DBT, CBT, Trauma competency and treatment, integrative medicine for mental health approach and solution focused approaches.
I focus on providing clinical support to clients who would like to achieve higher potential in their life, career, sports and overall life balance. Sometimes people feel stuck in old patterns of behavior and weighed down by previous negative experiences. I utilize several psychotherapeutic modalities that are based on individual needs and goals; allowing clients to move forward in a more positive and fulfilling way. I incorporate nutrition and active life style, if needed, to provide the best results for clients.
I utilize DBT, CBT, Trauma competency and treatment, integrative medicine for mental health approach and solution focused approaches.
I focus on providing clinical support to clients who would like to achieve higher potential in their life, career, sports and overall life balance. Sometimes people feel stuck in old patterns of behavior and weighed down by previous negative experiences. I utilize several psychotherapeutic modalities that are based on individual needs and goals; allowing clients to move forward in a more positive and fulfilling way. I incorporate nutrition and active life style, if needed, to provide the best results for clients.
(518) 952-0011 View (518) 952-0011
Photo of Susan Hart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Susan Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lake Placid, NY 12946
I treat anxiety, depression, narcissism, grief, couples, adults and more with science and care. I focus on comfort, precision and thoroughness to strengthen the dynamics and boundaries of life, event and issue strategies. Learn specific skills and understand how education, career, boundaries and justice combine to express themselves into human behavior and thought. All ages, experiences, education and careers, individual, marriage, family, career, sport, and court. Decades as a therapist, teacher, coach, investigation and research. Best performance outcomes in a diversity of settings and factors. CBT if desired. Private.
I treat anxiety, depression, narcissism, grief, couples, adults and more with science and care. I focus on comfort, precision and thoroughness to strengthen the dynamics and boundaries of life, event and issue strategies. Learn specific skills and understand how education, career, boundaries and justice combine to express themselves into human behavior and thought. All ages, experiences, education and careers, individual, marriage, family, career, sport, and court. Decades as a therapist, teacher, coach, investigation and research. Best performance outcomes in a diversity of settings and factors. CBT if desired. Private.
(518) 989-0983 View (518) 989-0983
Photo of Dawson & Associates, Counselor in Essex County, NY
Dawson & Associates
Counselor, LMHC, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabethtown, NY 12932
Psychological evaluations, screening instruments and or testing help the therapist and clients identify areas of concern in four domains, that is, biological, psychological, social and spiritual. Based on findings, recognizing the primary area of concern and setting goals and tasks is critical in reducing mental health symptoms that are most debilitating to the client. Her specialty is in treating people with addiction and underlying disorders such as ADHD, depression, anxiety and trauma.
Psychological evaluations, screening instruments and or testing help the therapist and clients identify areas of concern in four domains, that is, biological, psychological, social and spiritual. Based on findings, recognizing the primary area of concern and setting goals and tasks is critical in reducing mental health symptoms that are most debilitating to the client. Her specialty is in treating people with addiction and underlying disorders such as ADHD, depression, anxiety and trauma.
(518) 593-9446 View (518) 593-9446
Photo of Darry A Roberts, Counselor in Essex County, NY
Darry A Roberts
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Elizabethtown, NY 12932
Unmanaged stress can negatively effect how we cope with the challenges we face in life. Anxiety and depression are just a couple of the most common effects of stress whether that stress is experienced in the present or past. Stress can also interfere with our ability to function in relationships by inhibiting our ability to process emotions. By working with a counselor you are taking the first important step in overcoming your challenges. Your journey in addressing these challenges is important to me and I look forward to working together with you in achieving improved emotional health and functioning.
Unmanaged stress can negatively effect how we cope with the challenges we face in life. Anxiety and depression are just a couple of the most common effects of stress whether that stress is experienced in the present or past. Stress can also interfere with our ability to function in relationships by inhibiting our ability to process emotions. By working with a counselor you are taking the first important step in overcoming your challenges. Your journey in addressing these challenges is important to me and I look forward to working together with you in achieving improved emotional health and functioning.
(518) 621-0697 View (518) 621-0697
Photo of Brianne Rehac, Counselor in Essex County, NY
Brianne Rehac
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Placid, NY 12946
In a world full of AI, sometimes you need to talk to a real person. We are so busy with work, scrolling, and trying to keep up with the news cycle. It can be exhausting. I help people who are used to being able to juggle all of it learn what they can set down and how to do it without feeling guilty. Some of my clients are moms, others are bosses (some are boss moms!). I work with athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs. The common thread between them all seems to be stress, anxiety, and exhaustion.
In a world full of AI, sometimes you need to talk to a real person. We are so busy with work, scrolling, and trying to keep up with the news cycle. It can be exhausting. I help people who are used to being able to juggle all of it learn what they can set down and how to do it without feeling guilty. Some of my clients are moms, others are bosses (some are boss moms!). I work with athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs. The common thread between them all seems to be stress, anxiety, and exhaustion.
(716) 265-4652 View (716) 265-4652
Photo of Carol J Merrihew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Carol J Merrihew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Lake Placid, NY 12946  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years of clinical social work experience providing services to adolescents, adults and families in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. My current practice mainly focuses on treating adjustment and mood disorders, recovery from trauma, stress reduction, couple therapy, life transition and aging issues. I favor a holistic approach and use a variety of therapeutic modalities. I enjoy working closely with primary care providers and prescribers to achieve best possible outcomes. I favor a strength based, positive approach using compassionate care.
I have over 30 years of clinical social work experience providing services to adolescents, adults and families in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. My current practice mainly focuses on treating adjustment and mood disorders, recovery from trauma, stress reduction, couple therapy, life transition and aging issues. I favor a holistic approach and use a variety of therapeutic modalities. I enjoy working closely with primary care providers and prescribers to achieve best possible outcomes. I favor a strength based, positive approach using compassionate care.
(518) 900-1572 View (518) 900-1572
Photo of Kaitlyn Simpson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Kaitlyn Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Lake Placid, NY 12946  (Online Only)
Is sadness or feelings of worry starting to take over? Are you wondering where things are going wrong? Do you feel stuck? Are you searching for healing? Are you looking to overcome obstacles in your relationships? I am here to support you every step of the way.
Is sadness or feelings of worry starting to take over? Are you wondering where things are going wrong? Do you feel stuck? Are you searching for healing? Are you looking to overcome obstacles in your relationships? I am here to support you every step of the way.
(914) 768-4677 View (914) 768-4677
Photo of Shelby Closson, Counselor in Essex County, NY
Shelby Closson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ticonderoga, NY 12883
Do you ever overwhelmed, lost, confused, hopeless or directionless? Do you struggle with racing thoughts or anxiety? Are you having trouble identifying how you feel or how to manage how you feel? These are things we can work on together. Hi, name is Shelby and I have over 5 years of clinical experience. My approach is gentle and warm, creating space for all of you so we can collaborate with quality privacy measures, and authentic presence. Discover your inner self, inner strength and inner peace with Shelby at Inner Works Counseling.
Do you ever overwhelmed, lost, confused, hopeless or directionless? Do you struggle with racing thoughts or anxiety? Are you having trouble identifying how you feel or how to manage how you feel? These are things we can work on together. Hi, name is Shelby and I have over 5 years of clinical experience. My approach is gentle and warm, creating space for all of you so we can collaborate with quality privacy measures, and authentic presence. Discover your inner self, inner strength and inner peace with Shelby at Inner Works Counseling.
(518) 757-9961 View (518) 757-9961

Online Therapists

Photo of Melissa Golub, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Melissa Golub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9am-4pm. I have been a clinician in the mental health field for 18 years, graduating from Columbia University with a Master's Degree in Social Work in 2005. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and also incorporate mindfulness, embodiment and self-compassion practices into my work with clients. Additionally, I am a Befriending Your Body Program Certified Teacher. The Befriending Your Body Program is a unique 8-week Somatic Self-Compassion Recovery program teaching you the skills of embodiment and self-compassion for disordered eating and making peace with your body, food and self. Next group begins May 2024.
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9am-4pm. I have been a clinician in the mental health field for 18 years, graduating from Columbia University with a Master's Degree in Social Work in 2005. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and also incorporate mindfulness, embodiment and self-compassion practices into my work with clients. Additionally, I am a Befriending Your Body Program Certified Teacher. The Befriending Your Body Program is a unique 8-week Somatic Self-Compassion Recovery program teaching you the skills of embodiment and self-compassion for disordered eating and making peace with your body, food and self. Next group begins May 2024.
(518) 501-1293 View (518) 501-1293
Photo of Frances M. Ryan, Counselor in Essex County, NY
Frances M. Ryan
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and DBT.
Welcome! In my therapy practice I provide a comfortable, safe and confidential space for my clients to get support, learn, heal and grow. It is my experience that the best environment for emotional healing and individual growth is an environment where the individual feels a high level of trust and support. My goal is to provide that environment to each and every unique person who I see in my practice. I am experienced in treating panic, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, self-esteem issues, LBGTQ related concerns, as well as family/relationship issues.
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and DBT.
Welcome! In my therapy practice I provide a comfortable, safe and confidential space for my clients to get support, learn, heal and grow. It is my experience that the best environment for emotional healing and individual growth is an environment where the individual feels a high level of trust and support. My goal is to provide that environment to each and every unique person who I see in my practice. I am experienced in treating panic, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, self-esteem issues, LBGTQ related concerns, as well as family/relationship issues.
(518) 213-3746 View (518) 213-3746
Photo of Cassie Munoz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Cassie Munoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hoosick Falls, NY 12090
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of approaches that include the use of CBT, DBT, and art based interventions.
You are the main player in your life. It may not always feel this way, whether it is past experiences, unhelpful habits, or challenges arising in your relationships that seem to be taking the lead. You CAN build on established skills and develop the necessary tools to help you feel in control again. Though this can take time, you’re working to take the steps needed for your own well-being. For that, I commend you! Will it be hard at times? Yes. Will it get better in time? Yes! With your willingness and desire to be a part of this journey, you can accomplish your goal, and I will gladly support you in that.
I use a variety of approaches that include the use of CBT, DBT, and art based interventions.
You are the main player in your life. It may not always feel this way, whether it is past experiences, unhelpful habits, or challenges arising in your relationships that seem to be taking the lead. You CAN build on established skills and develop the necessary tools to help you feel in control again. Though this can take time, you’re working to take the steps needed for your own well-being. For that, I commend you! Will it be hard at times? Yes. Will it get better in time? Yes! With your willingness and desire to be a part of this journey, you can accomplish your goal, and I will gladly support you in that.
(518) 255-8913 View (518) 255-8913
Photo of Ellie Mental Health Latham, Counselor in Essex County, NY
Ellie Mental Health Latham
Counselor, LMHC, MHC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Latham, NY 12110
Our Therapists work with ages 3 and up specializing in the following areas: Anger Management, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bereavement, Burnout, CBT, Chronic Medical Conditions, Depression, DBT, Geriatrics, LGBTQ, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Parent Consultations and Parenting Skills, Stress Management, and Trauma/PTSD.
Ellie Mental Health in Latham, New York isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. We offer Individual Therapy, Virtual Therapy, Family Therapy, Play therapy, Art Therapy, and Group Therapy to provide support for a wide range of mental disorders and common mental health issues.
Our Therapists work with ages 3 and up specializing in the following areas: Anger Management, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bereavement, Burnout, CBT, Chronic Medical Conditions, Depression, DBT, Geriatrics, LGBTQ, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Parent Consultations and Parenting Skills, Stress Management, and Trauma/PTSD.
Ellie Mental Health in Latham, New York isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. We offer Individual Therapy, Virtual Therapy, Family Therapy, Play therapy, Art Therapy, and Group Therapy to provide support for a wide range of mental disorders and common mental health issues.
(518) 855-7412 View (518) 855-7412
Photo of Allison Mills, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Allison Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help promote positive self-esteem, communication, and self-advocacy.
Life can feel overwhelming and confusing when we are met with expectations that do not align with authentic self. I believe positive and effective change can happen once we become more confident and empowered within ourselves. I work with individuals to feel confident to make effective change within their life in order meet their personal and therapeutic goals. I primarily work individuals with disrupted attachments related to childhood trauma, and sexual trauma; in addition to depression, anxiety, OCD (specifically, Relationship-OCD, Contamination-OCD, Perfectionism-OCD), and personality disorders.
I primarily use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help promote positive self-esteem, communication, and self-advocacy.
Life can feel overwhelming and confusing when we are met with expectations that do not align with authentic self. I believe positive and effective change can happen once we become more confident and empowered within ourselves. I work with individuals to feel confident to make effective change within their life in order meet their personal and therapeutic goals. I primarily work individuals with disrupted attachments related to childhood trauma, and sexual trauma; in addition to depression, anxiety, OCD (specifically, Relationship-OCD, Contamination-OCD, Perfectionism-OCD), and personality disorders.
(585) 476-1997 View (585) 476-1997
Photo of Kelly Keohan, Counselor in Essex County, NY
Kelly Keohan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Esperance, NY 12066  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a direct but supportive approach that utilizes evidenced based treatment modalities? I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician who specializes in treating disordered eating patterns, depression, anxiety and relationship issues. With over 30 yrs experience assisting individuals and families in recovery based treatment interventions such as; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Family Based Therapy (FBT), I may be able to assist you.
Are you looking for a direct but supportive approach that utilizes evidenced based treatment modalities? I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician who specializes in treating disordered eating patterns, depression, anxiety and relationship issues. With over 30 yrs experience assisting individuals and families in recovery based treatment interventions such as; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Family Based Therapy (FBT), I may be able to assist you.
(518) 299-9262 View (518) 299-9262
Photo of Aubrey Rose Pagan, Counselor in Essex County, NY
Aubrey Rose Pagan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amsterdam, NY 12010  (Online Only)
The therapeutic modalities I utilize include Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, ACT, Strength-based, EFT & Solution-focused.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, confused, hurt, stressed, angry, alone, numb or defeated? Are you ready to let go of what weighs you down, make positive and meaningful changes in your life, but uncertain as to how to get there? If these all sound too familiar to you, then let me help you. My treatment modalities are tailored to your specific needs and goals. My multi-dimensional and integrative approach to treatment will address the many elements of your life and together, we can fill the void, make amends, heal, move forward and work towards your success.
The therapeutic modalities I utilize include Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, ACT, Strength-based, EFT & Solution-focused.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, confused, hurt, stressed, angry, alone, numb or defeated? Are you ready to let go of what weighs you down, make positive and meaningful changes in your life, but uncertain as to how to get there? If these all sound too familiar to you, then let me help you. My treatment modalities are tailored to your specific needs and goals. My multi-dimensional and integrative approach to treatment will address the many elements of your life and together, we can fill the void, make amends, heal, move forward and work towards your success.
(518) 535-7962 View (518) 535-7962
Photo of Ali Perry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Essex County, NY
Ali Perry
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12205
In this experience, I have utilized a variety of approaches including CBT, DBT, and Trauma Informed Approaches.
I believe that building rapport and creating a safe space for individuals to express themselves are key to a successful therapeutic experience. I use a collaborative, strength-based approach to empower individuals to achieve their counseling goals. My work focuses on helping individuals explore coping skills for mental health symptoms, life transitions, relationship challenges, systemic injustices, and other life stressors. My goal is to simply help you on your journey through life, to be a support where and when I can.
In this experience, I have utilized a variety of approaches including CBT, DBT, and Trauma Informed Approaches.
I believe that building rapport and creating a safe space for individuals to express themselves are key to a successful therapeutic experience. I use a collaborative, strength-based approach to empower individuals to achieve their counseling goals. My work focuses on helping individuals explore coping skills for mental health symptoms, life transitions, relationship challenges, systemic injustices, and other life stressors. My goal is to simply help you on your journey through life, to be a support where and when I can.
(518) 808-1153 View (518) 808-1153
Photo of Allison Macon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Allison Macon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305  (Online Only)
Allison has additional training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Allison is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who primarily treats adults struggling with eating disorders. Allison is a Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned provider with extensive experience treating perfectionism, depression, anxiety, body image, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and personality disorders.
Allison has additional training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Allison is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who primarily treats adults struggling with eating disorders. Allison is a Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned provider with extensive experience treating perfectionism, depression, anxiety, body image, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and personality disorders.
(518) 263-0905 View (518) 263-0905
Photo of Tiffany Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Essex County, NY
Tiffany Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866  (Online Only)
In guiding our therapeutic journey together, I bring an integrative approach, weaving together various modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Schema Focused Therapy.
Hi there, welcome! You maybe struggling with turning down the volume on that inner voice that is constantly worrying about the future and not allowing you to be fully present. Perhaps you've encountered a life transition that feels challenging to navigate, or you're facing difficulties in your relationships. I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with anxiety and OCD and am dedicated to helping those navigating life transitions and relationship complexities. Together we can explore these stressors and learn new ways to cope with difficult thoughts and feelings and allow space for healing, empowerment and self-discovery.
In guiding our therapeutic journey together, I bring an integrative approach, weaving together various modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Schema Focused Therapy.
Hi there, welcome! You maybe struggling with turning down the volume on that inner voice that is constantly worrying about the future and not allowing you to be fully present. Perhaps you've encountered a life transition that feels challenging to navigate, or you're facing difficulties in your relationships. I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with anxiety and OCD and am dedicated to helping those navigating life transitions and relationship complexities. Together we can explore these stressors and learn new ways to cope with difficult thoughts and feelings and allow space for healing, empowerment and self-discovery.
(518) 263-0568 View (518) 263-0568
Photo of Heidi R. Wright, Psychologist in Essex County, NY
Heidi R. Wright
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clifton Park, NY 12065
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is informed by psychodynamic and cognitive/behavioral therapy, including dialectical behavioral therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety, sadness, feelings of loneliness or emptiness, or substance use? Are your relationships with family, friends, or others important to you being strained or affected? Are you having problems getting things done in your daily life? If so, you are not alone. For the past 20 years, I have been working with people from diverse backgrounds with unique circumstances, just like yours. I have learned that the quality of the relationship people have with their therapists is often the most important factor in helping people make the changes needed to improve their lives.
My approach is informed by psychodynamic and cognitive/behavioral therapy, including dialectical behavioral therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety, sadness, feelings of loneliness or emptiness, or substance use? Are your relationships with family, friends, or others important to you being strained or affected? Are you having problems getting things done in your daily life? If so, you are not alone. For the past 20 years, I have been working with people from diverse backgrounds with unique circumstances, just like yours. I have learned that the quality of the relationship people have with their therapists is often the most important factor in helping people make the changes needed to improve their lives.
(518) 241-4173 View (518) 241-4173

See more therapy options for Essex County

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.