Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Mount Juliet, TN

Photo of Audrey Shinar, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Juliet, TN
Audrey Shinar
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I am trained in Brainspotting Phase 1&2, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Activation, Trust Based Relational Intervention, and Exposure Therapy.
I steadfastly believe that anyone can heal when sufficiently supported in a counseling relationship. I am passionate about cultivating an accepting and confidential therapeutic environment with space for tears, laughter, and authentic connection. I have 5 years of experience in the mental health field working with children, adolescents, and adults. A few of the areas in which I have experience include anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, codependency, perfectionism, and highly sensitive people. I work at Lantern Lane Farm Counseling Center, which means that can use our horses and have outside sessions if desired.
I am trained in Brainspotting Phase 1&2, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Activation, Trust Based Relational Intervention, and Exposure Therapy.
I steadfastly believe that anyone can heal when sufficiently supported in a counseling relationship. I am passionate about cultivating an accepting and confidential therapeutic environment with space for tears, laughter, and authentic connection. I have 5 years of experience in the mental health field working with children, adolescents, and adults. A few of the areas in which I have experience include anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, codependency, perfectionism, and highly sensitive people. I work at Lantern Lane Farm Counseling Center, which means that can use our horses and have outside sessions if desired.
(615) 285-6617 View (615) 285-6617
Photo of Dee Ann Bass, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Juliet, TN
Dee Ann Bass
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I work through an attachment lens using integrative therapy that includes, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting and others to help my clients heal from their past.
Do you feel overwhelmed by life? Have you had disappointments and things in your life that did not go as planned? Have you found yourself in a divorce and it feels like your world is falling apart? Maybe you are a couple that needs help getting back on track. Or perhaps you have things in your life that have happened that were traumatic to you? If so, you are in the right place! I love working with clients to help them heal from past wounds, teaching them skillsets that will help them grow and create new pathways in their brain. My goal is to be your guide in your healing journey.
I work through an attachment lens using integrative therapy that includes, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting and others to help my clients heal from their past.
Do you feel overwhelmed by life? Have you had disappointments and things in your life that did not go as planned? Have you found yourself in a divorce and it feels like your world is falling apart? Maybe you are a couple that needs help getting back on track. Or perhaps you have things in your life that have happened that were traumatic to you? If so, you are in the right place! I love working with clients to help them heal from past wounds, teaching them skillsets that will help them grow and create new pathways in their brain. My goal is to be your guide in your healing journey.
(615) 813-6369 View (615) 813-6369
Photo of Jerry W Lawson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Juliet, TN
Jerry W Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Jerry's approach uses EMDR, CBT/DBT, Solution Focused.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
Jerry's approach uses EMDR, CBT/DBT, Solution Focused.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
(629) 205-3892 View (629) 205-3892
Photo of Ashton Anselmo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Juliet, TN
Ashton Anselmo
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, Temp
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I use a holistic approach pulling from different modalities of treatment (DBT, CBT, ERP, person-centered, etc.
I enjoy helping others work through issues related to shame, anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and relationships. I assist clients who desire a greater sense of safety and stability in their lives. My work with clients tends to involve helping them better understand their own emotions, wants and needs, and how to communicate those effectively. We often focus on developing self-compassion and confidence. I value justice and diversity, so I make a conscious effort to take an anti-oppression approach and practice cultural humility.
I use a holistic approach pulling from different modalities of treatment (DBT, CBT, ERP, person-centered, etc.
I enjoy helping others work through issues related to shame, anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and relationships. I assist clients who desire a greater sense of safety and stability in their lives. My work with clients tends to involve helping them better understand their own emotions, wants and needs, and how to communicate those effectively. We often focus on developing self-compassion and confidence. I value justice and diversity, so I make a conscious effort to take an anti-oppression approach and practice cultural humility.
(321) 600-4005 View (321) 600-4005
Photo of Kim Marie Padula, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Juliet, TN
Kim Marie Padula
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
I am well versed in CBT, DBT, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, addictions & solution focused treatment.
I have been licensed & practicing since 1995. I provide mental health therapy & also substance abuse therapy to adults. I use evidence based therapeutic techniques. I believe it is important to recognize strengths as well as vulnerabilities. We are all imperfect & survivors. I think the benefits of therapy are perspective, support, accountability, and growth. I think therapy should go beyond insight to include self awareness & ultimately a sense of choice in how we respond to the challenges of life. I can teach skills and techniques that are well grounded in long established & proven approaches.
I am well versed in CBT, DBT, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, addictions & solution focused treatment.
I have been licensed & practicing since 1995. I provide mental health therapy & also substance abuse therapy to adults. I use evidence based therapeutic techniques. I believe it is important to recognize strengths as well as vulnerabilities. We are all imperfect & survivors. I think the benefits of therapy are perspective, support, accountability, and growth. I think therapy should go beyond insight to include self awareness & ultimately a sense of choice in how we respond to the challenges of life. I can teach skills and techniques that are well grounded in long established & proven approaches.
(615) 265-0912 View (615) 265-0912
Photo of Gabby Watson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Juliet, TN
Gabby Watson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I incorporate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Experiential Therapy including play and equine.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space for my clients to be fully seen, known and heard. I am passionate about working with kids, teens, and women as they navigate issues such as body image concerns, anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, and self-worth. My personal journey with neurodivergence has led to a desire to help equip kids, teens, adults, and parents with the education and skills to understand and navigate ADHD and Autism whether that is diagnosed early on in childhood or later in life. My goal is to help clients to reclaim parts of themselves, develop resilience, and live authentically.
I incorporate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Experiential Therapy including play and equine.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space for my clients to be fully seen, known and heard. I am passionate about working with kids, teens, and women as they navigate issues such as body image concerns, anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, and self-worth. My personal journey with neurodivergence has led to a desire to help equip kids, teens, adults, and parents with the education and skills to understand and navigate ADHD and Autism whether that is diagnosed early on in childhood or later in life. My goal is to help clients to reclaim parts of themselves, develop resilience, and live authentically.
(629) 258-6996 View (629) 258-6996
Photo of Sarah Brooke Rudy Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Juliet, TN
Sarah Brooke Rudy Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I utilize a wide range of evidence-based therapies with my clients including but not limited to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths Based Approach, Mindfulness, and Interpersonal Attachment Therapy.
Hello! My name is Sarah Rudy and I am so excited that you have decided to reach out to better your life. I am a firm believer that everyone can utilize therapy in one form or another whether it be to achieve personal goals, learn new skills, or process trauma. I have 17 years of experience with individuals that struggle with multiple stressors and diagnosis. My personal passion is working with those that are codependent, depressed, anxious, having difficulty with relationships, and have a history of trauma. However, I am not limited only to these areas. My goal is to create lasting change for those who desire it.
I utilize a wide range of evidence-based therapies with my clients including but not limited to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths Based Approach, Mindfulness, and Interpersonal Attachment Therapy.
Hello! My name is Sarah Rudy and I am so excited that you have decided to reach out to better your life. I am a firm believer that everyone can utilize therapy in one form or another whether it be to achieve personal goals, learn new skills, or process trauma. I have 17 years of experience with individuals that struggle with multiple stressors and diagnosis. My personal passion is working with those that are codependent, depressed, anxious, having difficulty with relationships, and have a history of trauma. However, I am not limited only to these areas. My goal is to create lasting change for those who desire it.
(615) 908-2709 View (615) 908-2709
Photo of Kala Hight, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Juliet, TN
Kala Hight
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Kala’s practice is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which focuses on helping individuals build a life that they believe is worth living through the acquisition of skills.
Kala works with youth and adults affected by anxiety, OCD, and related disorders. Prior to specializing in anxiety and OCD Disorders, she worked at a community mental health center where she provided therapy to individuals experiencing a variety of complex mental health symptoms, including those with distressing emotions, impulsive behavior, and unwanted thoughts. Kala has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults who present with symptoms associated with generalized anxiety disorder, depression, grief-related issues, panic disorder, and OCD and related disorders.
Kala’s practice is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which focuses on helping individuals build a life that they believe is worth living through the acquisition of skills.
Kala works with youth and adults affected by anxiety, OCD, and related disorders. Prior to specializing in anxiety and OCD Disorders, she worked at a community mental health center where she provided therapy to individuals experiencing a variety of complex mental health symptoms, including those with distressing emotions, impulsive behavior, and unwanted thoughts. Kala has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults who present with symptoms associated with generalized anxiety disorder, depression, grief-related issues, panic disorder, and OCD and related disorders.
(615) 240-2103 View (615) 240-2103
Photo of Jerry Lawson, Counselor in Mount Juliet, TN
Jerry Lawson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Jerry's approach uses EMDR, CBT/DBT, Solution Focused.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
Jerry's approach uses EMDR, CBT/DBT, Solution Focused.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
(321) 320-6249 View (321) 320-6249
Photo of Lauren Kelly, Counselor in Mount Juliet, TN
Lauren Kelly
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
In therapy sessions, I incorporate multiple therapeutic modalities to promote insight and healing, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Expressive Arts Therapy, and EMDR.
By creating a safe, inclusive and judgment free environment, I strive to provide a space that fosters connection and understanding. I am passionate about working with individuals who struggle with complex trauma, eating disorders/disordered eating, weight and body image concerns, and anxiety
In therapy sessions, I incorporate multiple therapeutic modalities to promote insight and healing, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Expressive Arts Therapy, and EMDR.
By creating a safe, inclusive and judgment free environment, I strive to provide a space that fosters connection and understanding. I am passionate about working with individuals who struggle with complex trauma, eating disorders/disordered eating, weight and body image concerns, and anxiety
(615) 905-1442 View (615) 905-1442
Photo of James David Hammons, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Juliet, TN
James David Hammons
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCMHSP, NCC, (temp)
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37121
Some of the most common modalities that I pull from are Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, and DBT.
One of the most important factors of success in therapy is your relationship with the counselor. It is a big reason why finding a counselor who is a "good fit" is an important decision. That important decision can seem paralyzing, but know that I am here to walk alongside you in any way that I can as you build the life that you want.
Some of the most common modalities that I pull from are Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, and DBT.
One of the most important factors of success in therapy is your relationship with the counselor. It is a big reason why finding a counselor who is a "good fit" is an important decision. That important decision can seem paralyzing, but know that I am here to walk alongside you in any way that I can as you build the life that you want.
(615) 471-7235 View (615) 471-7235
Photo of Mason Hale, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Juliet, TN
Mason Hale
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, NCC, BCCC
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I am a counselor with the Mount Juliet Counseling Center. I have an MA in Pastoral Care and Counseling and an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Freed-Hardeman University. I am currently a PhD student at Tennessee Tech University in Counseling and Supervision and pursuing licensure as an LPC-MHSP. I am also a Board Certified Christian Counselor by the AACC, and a National Certified Counselor. I specialize in spiritual issues, grief, and couples counseling. My hope is that every person and couple finds safety and healing during the time we share together.
I am a counselor with the Mount Juliet Counseling Center. I have an MA in Pastoral Care and Counseling and an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Freed-Hardeman University. I am currently a PhD student at Tennessee Tech University in Counseling and Supervision and pursuing licensure as an LPC-MHSP. I am also a Board Certified Christian Counselor by the AACC, and a National Certified Counselor. I specialize in spiritual issues, grief, and couples counseling. My hope is that every person and couple finds safety and healing during the time we share together.
(615) 471-7446 View (615) 471-7446
Photo of Katie Casey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Juliet, TN
Katie Casey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Therapy is all about healing. Healing from the past, old wounds, thoughts or feelings that aren't serving you anymore. So often, we have learned various ways of living to get through the days, to cope, but it's surviving and not truly living. For most, facing those things seems scary and that fear keeps them from living the life they want. I see my role as a therapist is to foster a space of safety so healing can occur. Through compassion, honesty, and ultimately connection, I work with my clients to help them move towards their best selves.
Therapy is all about healing. Healing from the past, old wounds, thoughts or feelings that aren't serving you anymore. So often, we have learned various ways of living to get through the days, to cope, but it's surviving and not truly living. For most, facing those things seems scary and that fear keeps them from living the life they want. I see my role as a therapist is to foster a space of safety so healing can occur. Through compassion, honesty, and ultimately connection, I work with my clients to help them move towards their best selves.
(615) 258-6935 View (615) 258-6935
Photo of Zainab Suara, Psychologist in Mount Juliet, TN
Zainab Suara
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Zainab Suara is a Psychologist in Tennessee. She graduated from the University of Hartford in which she received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Additionally, she earned her Bachelor's degree in Biology from Howard University in Washington, D. C. , her Master of Science in Public Health from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN, and her MA in Clinical Practices in Psychology from the University of Hartford.
Zainab Suara is a Psychologist in Tennessee. She graduated from the University of Hartford in which she received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Additionally, she earned her Bachelor's degree in Biology from Howard University in Washington, D. C. , her Master of Science in Public Health from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN, and her MA in Clinical Practices in Psychology from the University of Hartford.
(615) 488-2543 View (615) 488-2543
Photo of Brandie Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Juliet, TN
Brandie Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
If you're feeling stagnant, depressed, anxious, or just need a fresh start, counseling may be just what you need. I practice from a humanistic approach, considering the whole person. I am also trained in Prepare/Enrich for couples seeking premarital therapy, Brainspotting to assist in processing trauma, and Gottman Couple Techniques to assist couples in relationship issues. If you are ready to put in the work, I'm certain we can find the best approach to assist you in reaching your goals.
If you're feeling stagnant, depressed, anxious, or just need a fresh start, counseling may be just what you need. I practice from a humanistic approach, considering the whole person. I am also trained in Prepare/Enrich for couples seeking premarital therapy, Brainspotting to assist in processing trauma, and Gottman Couple Techniques to assist couples in relationship issues. If you are ready to put in the work, I'm certain we can find the best approach to assist you in reaching your goals.
(844) 960-3082 View (844) 960-3082
Photo of LaToya Phillips-Burkeen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Juliet, TN
LaToya Phillips-Burkeen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
LaToya Phillips-Burkeen is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee. She has a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor of Science from Tennessee State University. LaToya utilizes strength-based approaches and integrates different treatment modalities to meet the goals and needs of individuals, such as person-centered and solution-focused theories. LaToya believes relationships and connection are very important to an individual's growth and development while managing challenging life transitions and emotions. She provides emotional support and guidance to those experiencing grief and loss.
LaToya Phillips-Burkeen is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee. She has a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor of Science from Tennessee State University. LaToya utilizes strength-based approaches and integrates different treatment modalities to meet the goals and needs of individuals, such as person-centered and solution-focused theories. LaToya believes relationships and connection are very important to an individual's growth and development while managing challenging life transitions and emotions. She provides emotional support and guidance to those experiencing grief and loss.
(615) 471-7516 View (615) 471-7516
Photo of Connect Counseling Center, LLC - Mount Juliet, TN, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mount Juliet, TN
Connect Counseling Center, LLC - Mount Juliet, TN
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Providing counseling for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Connect has over 50 therapists including clinical interns, LCSW, LMSW, LPC, LPC-MHSP, MMFT, LMFT, Senior Psychological Examiner, and PhD's. Our staff and specializations are diverse and we're confident we have a wonderful fit for your mental health needs. We look forward to serving you!
Providing counseling for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Connect has over 50 therapists including clinical interns, LCSW, LMSW, LPC, LPC-MHSP, MMFT, LMFT, Senior Psychological Examiner, and PhD's. Our staff and specializations are diverse and we're confident we have a wonderful fit for your mental health needs. We look forward to serving you!
(615) 502-1202 View (615) 502-1202
Photo of Joan Settle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Juliet, TN
Joan Settle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times. During these periods, we may need help coping and returning to a place of peace and serenity. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and safe space where you can share feelings and work toward accomplishing your goals for therapy. Issues I can help with include substance abuse, family history of addiction, codependency, caretaking, aging, life transitions, divorce adjustment, workplace stress, grief, and depression. I bring to our sessions maturity, life experience, experience working in a residential alcohol/drug treatment program, and an inpatient psychiatric facility.
Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times. During these periods, we may need help coping and returning to a place of peace and serenity. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and safe space where you can share feelings and work toward accomplishing your goals for therapy. Issues I can help with include substance abuse, family history of addiction, codependency, caretaking, aging, life transitions, divorce adjustment, workplace stress, grief, and depression. I bring to our sessions maturity, life experience, experience working in a residential alcohol/drug treatment program, and an inpatient psychiatric facility.
(615) 436-5304 View (615) 436-5304
Photo of Kate Flannery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Juliet, TN
Kate Flannery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm Kate, a therapist licensed to see clients in TN and CA. I have a passion for guiding individuals through life transitions and adjustments. With a deep understanding of the challenges that life transitions can bring, I am committed to walking alongside you during these moments of change and uncertainty. Together, we will work collaboratively to navigate life transitions, fostering personal growth, resilience, and healing. Whether you're adjusting to new life stages, managing unexpected changes, or seeking purpose, our sessions will encompass scientifically validated techniques and personal connection to promote healing.
Welcome! I'm Kate, a therapist licensed to see clients in TN and CA. I have a passion for guiding individuals through life transitions and adjustments. With a deep understanding of the challenges that life transitions can bring, I am committed to walking alongside you during these moments of change and uncertainty. Together, we will work collaboratively to navigate life transitions, fostering personal growth, resilience, and healing. Whether you're adjusting to new life stages, managing unexpected changes, or seeking purpose, our sessions will encompass scientifically validated techniques and personal connection to promote healing.
(615) 240-5298 View (615) 240-5298
Photo of Derrell Seigler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Juliet, TN
Derrell Seigler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, (Temp), NCC, MTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
If you have addiction, alcohol use, or anger management issues due to trauma and PTSD or family dysfunction, you may have experienced judgement & painful perceptions from others that are just not true. Anxiety, grief, stress, substance use, and suicidal ideation may be familiar companions you wish weren't there. Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality (BPD), and Dual Diagnosis, may have been words thrown around, causing relational issues. These may be part of your story, but there's more in store for you through the healing work of counseling. You deserve a life of connection, serenity, and meaning. Let's begin!
If you have addiction, alcohol use, or anger management issues due to trauma and PTSD or family dysfunction, you may have experienced judgement & painful perceptions from others that are just not true. Anxiety, grief, stress, substance use, and suicidal ideation may be familiar companions you wish weren't there. Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality (BPD), and Dual Diagnosis, may have been words thrown around, causing relational issues. These may be part of your story, but there's more in store for you through the healing work of counseling. You deserve a life of connection, serenity, and meaning. Let's begin!
(615) 909-5820 View (615) 909-5820

See more therapy options for Mount Juliet

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.