Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Knoxville, TN

Photo of Abby Howard, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, AMFT
Abby Howard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, AMFT
Knoxville, TN 37932
In our work together, I will utilize evidence-based practices including Attachment-Based Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
Creating a safe, supportive space is at the heart of my work as a therapist. I believe providing a non-judgmental, warm space is the first step in the therapy process. Wherever you have found yourself in this moment, you no longer have to go through it alone. I want all of my clients to feel every part of them is always welcomed. I am passionate about empowering clients to be their most authentic selves through psychoeducation and self-advocacy while helping them develop resilience, foster strengths, and cultivate their narratives. Together we can find meaningful change that is sustainable and tailored to your needs.
In our work together, I will utilize evidence-based practices including Attachment-Based Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
Creating a safe, supportive space is at the heart of my work as a therapist. I believe providing a non-judgmental, warm space is the first step in the therapy process. Wherever you have found yourself in this moment, you no longer have to go through it alone. I want all of my clients to feel every part of them is always welcomed. I am passionate about empowering clients to be their most authentic selves through psychoeducation and self-advocacy while helping them develop resilience, foster strengths, and cultivate their narratives. Together we can find meaningful change that is sustainable and tailored to your needs.
(865) 269-9577 View (865) 269-9577
Photo of Dr. Macy Copple, Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Dr. Macy Copple
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Unable to accept new clients. Working with college students and young adults is a passion of mine. And yet the transitions of emerging adulthood also parallel experiences that can face any adult at any age. We can always explore what lessons we were taught and which beliefs we want to retain. It is never too late to disrupt a problematic pattern or shift our lives to be more in line with what we truly value. Sometimes the changes we need are basic, all we need are resources. Other times, it is truly a complicated mess. Regardless of where you are, I believe that everyone deserves access to a safe space to start meeting your needs.
Unable to accept new clients. Working with college students and young adults is a passion of mine. And yet the transitions of emerging adulthood also parallel experiences that can face any adult at any age. We can always explore what lessons we were taught and which beliefs we want to retain. It is never too late to disrupt a problematic pattern or shift our lives to be more in line with what we truly value. Sometimes the changes we need are basic, all we need are resources. Other times, it is truly a complicated mess. Regardless of where you are, I believe that everyone deserves access to a safe space to start meeting your needs.
(865) 459-8108 View (865) 459-8108
Photo of Jocelyn Ivy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC(S), MHSP, C-PD
Jocelyn Ivy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC(S), MHSP, C-PD
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I'm primarily a Narrative Therapist but I utilize concepts from DBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help with skill building, trauma processing, and goal setting.
I have always been interested in understanding the world from other people's points of view. My job as a therapist is to understand your story and how your worldview informs the way you react to life stressors. My goal is to help you utilize your own strengths and insight to feel calm, centered, and content in a world that often isn't. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, the LGBTQ/alternative lifestyle community, and I provide sex-positive treatment. A few fun facts about me that you will likely learn if we are working together: I'm a parent to 2 humans and 4 cats, I love to travel, I practice yoga, and I'm a bit of a Swiftie.
I'm primarily a Narrative Therapist but I utilize concepts from DBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help with skill building, trauma processing, and goal setting.
I have always been interested in understanding the world from other people's points of view. My job as a therapist is to understand your story and how your worldview informs the way you react to life stressors. My goal is to help you utilize your own strengths and insight to feel calm, centered, and content in a world that often isn't. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, the LGBTQ/alternative lifestyle community, and I provide sex-positive treatment. A few fun facts about me that you will likely learn if we are working together: I'm a parent to 2 humans and 4 cats, I love to travel, I practice yoga, and I'm a bit of a Swiftie.
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Photo of Chamberli C Kane, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Chamberli C Kane
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I love to work with people who may be struggling with anxiety or depression, or who may be going through a hard trial or something traumatic. It may be divorce, betrayal, the death of a loved one, an illness, or any number of things. Maybe you are struggling to find hope and encouragement. Maybe you are going through a financial hardship, a health journey, or any number of difficulties and need someone who can listen, encourage, and provide some hope. I would love to do that for you.
I love to work with people who may be struggling with anxiety or depression, or who may be going through a hard trial or something traumatic. It may be divorce, betrayal, the death of a loved one, an illness, or any number of things. Maybe you are struggling to find hope and encouragement. Maybe you are going through a financial hardship, a health journey, or any number of difficulties and need someone who can listen, encourage, and provide some hope. I would love to do that for you.
(865) 800-3802 View (865) 800-3802
Photo of Brittaney Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC/MHS
Brittaney Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC/MHS
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a master's degree in counseling in 2016. I obtained my Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Service Provider licensure in 2018. I have worked with children, teens and adults with a myriad of mental health conditions and life stressors in multiple settings, including outpatient, Intensive outpatient, in-home counseling/case management, crisis and residential treatment facilities. I have a passion for helping people live fulfilling and quality lives, regardless of life circumstances.
I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a master's degree in counseling in 2016. I obtained my Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Service Provider licensure in 2018. I have worked with children, teens and adults with a myriad of mental health conditions and life stressors in multiple settings, including outpatient, Intensive outpatient, in-home counseling/case management, crisis and residential treatment facilities. I have a passion for helping people live fulfilling and quality lives, regardless of life circumstances.
(865) 503-6186 View (865) 503-6186
Photo of Kyle Moore-Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kyle Moore-Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
My approach is rooted in psychodynamic work and Emotionally Focused Therapy, with somatic practices, mindfulness, and DBT skills woven in as needed.
My clients are often the most insightful people in their own lives — and the most exhausted by what that insight hasn't been able to fix. I'm Kyle, LCSW, working with teens, adults, and couples who feel emotionally overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected — quietly exhausted by the gap between how they appear and actually feel. They come in carrying anxiety, self-criticism, grief, or relational patterns they can name but can't seem to change. Together, we slow things down, get curious about what your emotions are trying to tell you, and work toward the kind of inner steadiness that makes the rest of life feel less effortful.
My approach is rooted in psychodynamic work and Emotionally Focused Therapy, with somatic practices, mindfulness, and DBT skills woven in as needed.
My clients are often the most insightful people in their own lives — and the most exhausted by what that insight hasn't been able to fix. I'm Kyle, LCSW, working with teens, adults, and couples who feel emotionally overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected — quietly exhausted by the gap between how they appear and actually feel. They come in carrying anxiety, self-criticism, grief, or relational patterns they can name but can't seem to change. Together, we slow things down, get curious about what your emotions are trying to tell you, and work toward the kind of inner steadiness that makes the rest of life feel less effortful.
(865) 217-0513 View (865) 217-0513
Photo of Latasha Taylor - Telehealth MH, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Telehealth MH
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Knoxville, TN 37923
Our program includes group therapy, individual sessions, and psychiatric care using evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT.
Seeking help takes courage, and support should be accessible wherever you are. At Telehealth Mental Health, we help adults who need more support than weekly therapy can offer. Our Virtual IOP combines group therapy, individual sessions, and psychiatric care into one coordinated plan. We help clients manage depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions while building practical coping skills and stability in their daily lives.
Our program includes group therapy, individual sessions, and psychiatric care using evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT.
Seeking help takes courage, and support should be accessible wherever you are. At Telehealth Mental Health, we help adults who need more support than weekly therapy can offer. Our Virtual IOP combines group therapy, individual sessions, and psychiatric care into one coordinated plan. We help clients manage depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions while building practical coping skills and stability in their daily lives.
(865) 420-7163 View (865) 420-7163
Photo of Brandy Tonkin, Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW
Brandy Tonkin
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW
Knoxville, TN 37922
Brandy Tonkin, LMSW, is dedicated to helping individuals in Tennessee navigate the complexities of mental health and substance use disorders. She received her bachelors and masters degrees in Social Work from ETSU and provides individual, family, and couples therapy, focusing on creating personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of her clients. Serving Knoxville and the surrounding areas, Brandy’s practice is designed to support adults, adolescents, and children, guiding them through challenges such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
Brandy Tonkin, LMSW, is dedicated to helping individuals in Tennessee navigate the complexities of mental health and substance use disorders. She received her bachelors and masters degrees in Social Work from ETSU and provides individual, family, and couples therapy, focusing on creating personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of her clients. Serving Knoxville and the surrounding areas, Brandy’s practice is designed to support adults, adolescents, and children, guiding them through challenges such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
(865) 401-8673 View (865) 401-8673
Photo of Laurence Welch, Licensed Master Social Worker, MSSW, LMSW
Laurence Welch
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSSW, LMSW
Knoxville, TN 37922
Laurence Welch is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Laurence is a relentlessly supportive therapist with more than a decade of teaching mindfulness practices, resulting in a uniquely grounded and compassionate presence. She utilizes a humanist, collaborative approach to assist you in meeting your goals and making desired changes.
Laurence Welch is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Laurence is a relentlessly supportive therapist with more than a decade of teaching mindfulness practices, resulting in a uniquely grounded and compassionate presence. She utilizes a humanist, collaborative approach to assist you in meeting your goals and making desired changes.
(865) 269-6595 View (865) 269-6595
Photo of Jillian Creswell, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Jillian Creswell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Knoxville, TN 37917
Waitlist for new clients
I also use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to help my clients learn skills for regulating emotions and improving relationships.
Are you struggling with challenges related to daily stressors, relationship conflict, or life transitions? I understand that change can be scary, and I am here to support clients through this process. I enjoy working with adults as they navigate life changes, learn skills for managing stress, and improve relationships. I have experience with older teens, college students, and young professionals, as they explore self-identity, family conflict, and improving work/life balance. I am also passionate about helping clients heal from trauma, learn skills to navigate ADHD, and address mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.
I also use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to help my clients learn skills for regulating emotions and improving relationships.
Are you struggling with challenges related to daily stressors, relationship conflict, or life transitions? I understand that change can be scary, and I am here to support clients through this process. I enjoy working with adults as they navigate life changes, learn skills for managing stress, and improve relationships. I have experience with older teens, college students, and young professionals, as they explore self-identity, family conflict, and improving work/life balance. I am also passionate about helping clients heal from trauma, learn skills to navigate ADHD, and address mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.
(865) 270-4729 View (865) 270-4729
Photo of Timothy Raper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Timothy Raper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals across the lifespan—from children and teens to adults and parents—who are navigating emotional regulation, behavioral needs, parenting, neurodivergence, relationship challenges, life transitions, or family dynamics. My clients often seek support for ADHD, anxiety, depression, or the impact of trauma, and want tools that respect their unique wiring and lived experience. Whether we’re building insight, skills, or stronger relationships, my focus is on creating a space that is collaborative, supportive, and meaningful.
I work with individuals across the lifespan—from children and teens to adults and parents—who are navigating emotional regulation, behavioral needs, parenting, neurodivergence, relationship challenges, life transitions, or family dynamics. My clients often seek support for ADHD, anxiety, depression, or the impact of trauma, and want tools that respect their unique wiring and lived experience. Whether we’re building insight, skills, or stronger relationships, my focus is on creating a space that is collaborative, supportive, and meaningful.
(865) 674-9620 View (865) 674-9620
Photo of Collin Killough, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Collin Killough
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932
Hi, I’m Collin, a Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about helping people heal, grow, and rediscover hope. I work with teens and adults who are feeling stuck in patterns of anxiety, disconnection, or conflict. My goal is to create a warm, judgment-free space where you can feel safe, seen, and supported as you explore your story. Whether you’re walking through the pain of relationship struggles, navigating stress and overwhelm, or learning to manage ADHD, depression, or anxiety, we’ll move at your pace. I believe healing starts with understanding, not pressure or perfection, and I’ll meet you right where you are.
Hi, I’m Collin, a Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about helping people heal, grow, and rediscover hope. I work with teens and adults who are feeling stuck in patterns of anxiety, disconnection, or conflict. My goal is to create a warm, judgment-free space where you can feel safe, seen, and supported as you explore your story. Whether you’re walking through the pain of relationship struggles, navigating stress and overwhelm, or learning to manage ADHD, depression, or anxiety, we’ll move at your pace. I believe healing starts with understanding, not pressure or perfection, and I’ll meet you right where you are.
(423) 220-4464 View (423) 220-4464
Photo of Kayla Kilts, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Kayla Kilts
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
In my work with teens, I use principles of Person-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, and EMDR to foster skill-building, healing, and resilience.
I am passionate about supporting children, teens, and parents. I specialize in helping clients experiencing the effects of trauma, anxiety, behavioral concerns, and life transitions. My empathetic approach to therapy meets you where you are and uses the strengths you already possess to create growth in your life. Whether you desire to better navigate change, cope with difficult feelings, or improve your relationships, I'm here to walk alongside you and help you to reach your goals.
In my work with teens, I use principles of Person-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, and EMDR to foster skill-building, healing, and resilience.
I am passionate about supporting children, teens, and parents. I specialize in helping clients experiencing the effects of trauma, anxiety, behavioral concerns, and life transitions. My empathetic approach to therapy meets you where you are and uses the strengths you already possess to create growth in your life. Whether you desire to better navigate change, cope with difficult feelings, or improve your relationships, I'm here to walk alongside you and help you to reach your goals.
(865) 272-0130 View (865) 272-0130
Photo of Gillian N Paxson, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Gillian N Paxson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Knoxville, TN 37922
Have you ever felt like no matter how many times you try to say something it never seems to be understood or received? Have you ever felt the struggle to connect with others whether it be romantic, parental, friendly relationships? If the answer is yes, I would love to have the opportunity to work with you! My goal is to help you and/or your child to be able to identify needs emotionally, mentally, and physically as well as being able to communicate those needs in meaningful ways. I work with you to identify different anxieties and focus on enabling you to advocate for yourself consistently.
Have you ever felt like no matter how many times you try to say something it never seems to be understood or received? Have you ever felt the struggle to connect with others whether it be romantic, parental, friendly relationships? If the answer is yes, I would love to have the opportunity to work with you! My goal is to help you and/or your child to be able to identify needs emotionally, mentally, and physically as well as being able to communicate those needs in meaningful ways. I work with you to identify different anxieties and focus on enabling you to advocate for yourself consistently.
(865) 412-4130 View (865) 412-4130
Photo of Sarah Williamson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Sarah Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Knoxville, TN 37919
I use dialectical behavior therapy, CBT, client centered therapy, and SFBT.
I hope to work with you to make the next steps on the road to improving yourself. We can work together on recognizing unhelpful thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and discover new ways to overcome them. Ultimately, the therapeutic relationship is based on trust, honesty, and a mutual interest in the betterment of your life.
I use dialectical behavior therapy, CBT, client centered therapy, and SFBT.
I hope to work with you to make the next steps on the road to improving yourself. We can work together on recognizing unhelpful thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and discover new ways to overcome them. Ultimately, the therapeutic relationship is based on trust, honesty, and a mutual interest in the betterment of your life.
(865) 535-7838 View (865) 535-7838
Photo of Amanda Gail Walton, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, MHSP-t
Amanda Gail Walton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, MHSP-t
Knoxville, TN 37931
Providing trauma-informed, evidence- based approaches, centered on creating a space where individuals feel safe, seen, and supported on their journey toward holistic thriving.
Providing trauma-informed, evidence- based approaches, centered on creating a space where individuals feel safe, seen, and supported on their journey toward holistic thriving.
(865) 328-7824 View (865) 328-7824
Photo of Somer Gray England, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Somer Gray England
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking therapy can often seem like a scary step, but it is also the first step to no longer holding your problems in isolation. I work to create healing relationships with clients by viewing you as the expert of your life and making sure you feel comfortable. I believe the foundation of our work is one that is collaborative and begins with honoring your experiences and identities. I enjoy helping individuals through a variety of concerns with a particular passion for working through trauma and OCD.
Seeking therapy can often seem like a scary step, but it is also the first step to no longer holding your problems in isolation. I work to create healing relationships with clients by viewing you as the expert of your life and making sure you feel comfortable. I believe the foundation of our work is one that is collaborative and begins with honoring your experiences and identities. I enjoy helping individuals through a variety of concerns with a particular passion for working through trauma and OCD.
(865) 685-9942 View (865) 685-9942
Photo of Emily Clifton, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Emily Clifton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Knoxville, TN 37922
I provide trauma-informed therapy, CBT, DBT, with a person-centered approach.
When I was younger I didn't fully understand therapy and just believed it was the media version of "and how does that make you feel?" It's a journey though which can be a little scary, anxiety inducing, uncomfortable, and overwhelming at first. However, there are moments of great joy, self-discovery, and pride along the way that helps to ease the weight of burdens. My hope is through the journey everyone can see the resilient people they are as they strive to reach their goals and dreams.
I provide trauma-informed therapy, CBT, DBT, with a person-centered approach.
When I was younger I didn't fully understand therapy and just believed it was the media version of "and how does that make you feel?" It's a journey though which can be a little scary, anxiety inducing, uncomfortable, and overwhelming at first. However, there are moments of great joy, self-discovery, and pride along the way that helps to ease the weight of burdens. My hope is through the journey everyone can see the resilient people they are as they strive to reach their goals and dreams.
(865) 391-3104 x134 View (865) 391-3104 x134
Photo of Tiffany Greene, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Tiffany Greene
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I am passionate about helping older adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, people-pleasing, and complex relationships—especially those affected by narcissistic abuse. I also offer affirming care for LGBTQ+ individuals. Whether you're a people pleaser looking to reconnect with your needs and build confidence to set boundaries or navigating relationships impacted by narcissistic abuse, I’ll provide strategies to protect your emotional well-being, improve communication, and reduce conflict.
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I am passionate about helping older adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, people-pleasing, and complex relationships—especially those affected by narcissistic abuse. I also offer affirming care for LGBTQ+ individuals. Whether you're a people pleaser looking to reconnect with your needs and build confidence to set boundaries or navigating relationships impacted by narcissistic abuse, I’ll provide strategies to protect your emotional well-being, improve communication, and reduce conflict.
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Photo of David Neal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
David Neal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I'm a LCSW who believes in meeting clients where they are, establishing a therapeutic alliance and working as a guide to help them modify unhealthy behaviors that interfere with their life goals. This includes processing trauma, teaching coping skills and problem solving. My experience includes working with children at risk of being removed from their home, integrated care in a medical setting, crisis care, residential care and intensive outpatient.
I'm a LCSW who believes in meeting clients where they are, establishing a therapeutic alliance and working as a guide to help them modify unhealthy behaviors that interfere with their life goals. This includes processing trauma, teaching coping skills and problem solving. My experience includes working with children at risk of being removed from their home, integrated care in a medical setting, crisis care, residential care and intensive outpatient.
(865) 205-9163 View (865) 205-9163

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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.