Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Prince George County, VA

Photo of Marlene L. Blyden - Living Hope Counseling, LLC (Private Practice), Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, C-DBT, CCATP
Living Hope Counseling, LLC (Private Practice)
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, C-DBT, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C- DBT) and Clinical Anxiety Treatment (CCATP).
At Living Hope Counseling, LLC, I offer compassionate support for those seeking healing, recovery, and growth from trauma, anxiety, relational challenges, grief, or boundary issues. Together, we will explore your strengths, set meaningful goals, and work toward personal restoration. My approach fosters self-compassion and empowerment, guiding you through life’s challenges so you can thrive. I'm honored to walk with you in this season—where Hope, Healing, and Restoration meet.
Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C- DBT) and Clinical Anxiety Treatment (CCATP).
At Living Hope Counseling, LLC, I offer compassionate support for those seeking healing, recovery, and growth from trauma, anxiety, relational challenges, grief, or boundary issues. Together, we will explore your strengths, set meaningful goals, and work toward personal restoration. My approach fosters self-compassion and empowerment, guiding you through life’s challenges so you can thrive. I'm honored to walk with you in this season—where Hope, Healing, and Restoration meet.
(804) 369-8162 View (804) 369-8162
Photo of Kjerstin Lemke, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, C-PD
Kjerstin Lemke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, C-PD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My vast experience as a behavioral health technician in the military, and in the field of counseling has led me to become a certified personality disorder therapist, certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) as well as a professional enthusiasm for helping individuals navigating Personality Disorders and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Does this sound familiar to you? “I feel like I’m crazy!”, “My family and friends care so much about me but they feel helpless in how to support me.” , “I constantly experience moments where it feels like I’m drowning and I don’t know what to do about it!”, “I’ve tried therapy so many times and it never helped!”… If it does, this might be exactly the right time to try therapy differently. There is no one-size-fits all therapy approach. I use a multimodal therapeutic approach tailored to your unique needs and fully believe your experience should be as individualized as you are.
My vast experience as a behavioral health technician in the military, and in the field of counseling has led me to become a certified personality disorder therapist, certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) as well as a professional enthusiasm for helping individuals navigating Personality Disorders and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Does this sound familiar to you? “I feel like I’m crazy!”, “My family and friends care so much about me but they feel helpless in how to support me.” , “I constantly experience moments where it feels like I’m drowning and I don’t know what to do about it!”, “I’ve tried therapy so many times and it never helped!”… If it does, this might be exactly the right time to try therapy differently. There is no one-size-fits all therapy approach. I use a multimodal therapeutic approach tailored to your unique needs and fully believe your experience should be as individualized as you are.
(571) 496-9049 View (571) 496-9049
Photo of Jenny C. Grim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jenny C. Grim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
At this time, I continue to share my passion for DBT and EMDR in the treatment of traumas and challenging life circumstances.
I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR, Level 1 & 2). I specialize in helping individuals stabilize current events and past/present adverse life experiences. My specialities include attachment trauma and PTSD.
At this time, I continue to share my passion for DBT and EMDR in the treatment of traumas and challenging life circumstances.
I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR, Level 1 & 2). I specialize in helping individuals stabilize current events and past/present adverse life experiences. My specialities include attachment trauma and PTSD.
(804) 709-3639 View (804) 709-3639
Photo of Whitney Smallwood, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Whitney Smallwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I use approaches tailored to each client's needs, integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based techniques.
My mission is to provide compassionate, goal-focused therapy that empowers individuals, couples, and families to heal from trauma, overcome addiction, and navigate life’s challenges. Through structured treatment plans, evidence-based techniques, and creative therapeutic approaches like art and play therapy, I help clients build resilience, improve relationships, and reclaim their well-being. I am dedicated to fostering a safe and supportive space for growth, healing, and long-term transformation.
I use approaches tailored to each client's needs, integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based techniques.
My mission is to provide compassionate, goal-focused therapy that empowers individuals, couples, and families to heal from trauma, overcome addiction, and navigate life’s challenges. Through structured treatment plans, evidence-based techniques, and creative therapeutic approaches like art and play therapy, I help clients build resilience, improve relationships, and reclaim their well-being. I am dedicated to fostering a safe and supportive space for growth, healing, and long-term transformation.
(434) 337-5398 View (434) 337-5398
Photo of Kellee Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kellee Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I utilize motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, cognitive therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavior therapy to help my clients achieve desired change on their journey towards wellness and recovery.
I am accepting new clients. I support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood issues, relationship conflict and difficult life transitions find healthier ways to navigate their stressors and conflicts. If you are ready to start talking about the changes you might make to get the life you want contact me! I value supporting people of all backgrounds to achieve their goals in therapy. LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC are welcomed in the therapy space.
I utilize motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, cognitive therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavior therapy to help my clients achieve desired change on their journey towards wellness and recovery.
I am accepting new clients. I support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood issues, relationship conflict and difficult life transitions find healthier ways to navigate their stressors and conflicts. If you are ready to start talking about the changes you might make to get the life you want contact me! I value supporting people of all backgrounds to achieve their goals in therapy. LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC are welcomed in the therapy space.
(571) 989-4668 View (571) 989-4668
Photo of Leah Harlan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Leah Harlan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
You’re getting by, but you’re tired—burnt out, overwhelmed, and wondering if this is just how life has to be. You push yourself hard, but stress, anxiety, and past wounds keep catching up. I help individuals with high stress like you break the cycle, find balance, and actually enjoy the life you’ve built. Therapy with me is real, practical, and focused on what works—so you can stop just surviving and start feeling like yourself again.
You’re getting by, but you’re tired—burnt out, overwhelmed, and wondering if this is just how life has to be. You push yourself hard, but stress, anxiety, and past wounds keep catching up. I help individuals with high stress like you break the cycle, find balance, and actually enjoy the life you’ve built. Therapy with me is real, practical, and focused on what works—so you can stop just surviving and start feeling like yourself again.
(804) 315-2670 View (804) 315-2670
Photo of Jericia Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor, BSW, MEd, LPC
Jericia Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, BSW, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you struggling to manage the stresses of life or feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities? Do you feel stuck, have trouble sleeping, managing your weight, or being plagued with worry thoughts? Are you grieving a loss and struggling to cope? Are people in your life encouraging you to "talk to someone"? Consider individual or couples, counseling to help you get renewed and refocused on your life plan. Please reach out so we can discuss how I can be an effective companion on your healing journey. Your well-being is my priority, and I am here to support you in achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.
Are you struggling to manage the stresses of life or feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities? Do you feel stuck, have trouble sleeping, managing your weight, or being plagued with worry thoughts? Are you grieving a loss and struggling to cope? Are people in your life encouraging you to "talk to someone"? Consider individual or couples, counseling to help you get renewed and refocused on your life plan. Please reach out so we can discuss how I can be an effective companion on your healing journey. Your well-being is my priority, and I am here to support you in achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.
(804) 409-8583 View (804) 409-8583
Photo of Monica Holloway, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CHC
Monica Holloway
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
My ideal clients want to achieve stabilization in thoughts, mood, and behavior. They are at a point where they are aware of a change in their “norm” and want to process through symptoms that have surfaced as a result of that change. They are looking for coping skills and techniques to assist initially in stabilization and possibly continued work to process through past events that might possibly affect them in the present. They have goals of identifying triggers and stressors, understanding current or past coping, and develop healthy coping strategies and interventions. They want to "feel" like themselves again.
My ideal clients want to achieve stabilization in thoughts, mood, and behavior. They are at a point where they are aware of a change in their “norm” and want to process through symptoms that have surfaced as a result of that change. They are looking for coping skills and techniques to assist initially in stabilization and possibly continued work to process through past events that might possibly affect them in the present. They have goals of identifying triggers and stressors, understanding current or past coping, and develop healthy coping strategies and interventions. They want to "feel" like themselves again.
(804) 207-5950 View (804) 207-5950

Online Therapists

Photo of Julia Rubarth, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Julia Rubarth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
The modalities I use include motivational interviewing, relational therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 24 years of experience. I work with adults and seniors experiencing a range of issues, including postpartum transitions, self-identity, and parenting and relationship stressors. Most recently, I have spent time supporting families in the child welfare system. My goal is to provide clients with a safe space to unpack uncertainties, feel heard, and develop confidence. I offer counseling for individuals, couples, and families.
The modalities I use include motivational interviewing, relational therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 24 years of experience. I work with adults and seniors experiencing a range of issues, including postpartum transitions, self-identity, and parenting and relationship stressors. Most recently, I have spent time supporting families in the child welfare system. My goal is to provide clients with a safe space to unpack uncertainties, feel heard, and develop confidence. I offer counseling for individuals, couples, and families.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Joe Ann Jenkins, Resident in Counseling, MA
Joe Ann Jenkins
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithfield, VA 23430
Trained in methods such as CBT, DBT and use of spirituality when appropriate, I have provided counsel in Anxiety,Autism,Depression, ADHD,Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities along with marriage/family counseling.
My specializations is based on the philosophy that each person has the capacity to change any circumstance or current situation. By effectively aiding clients in bringing out their potential for understanding themselves, self-healing, and personal growth, clients are able to overcome through effective practices and be the driving force of each session. Each person needs something different from therapy and this can become achievable with sensitivity, compassion and insight to one’s true identity.
Trained in methods such as CBT, DBT and use of spirituality when appropriate, I have provided counsel in Anxiety,Autism,Depression, ADHD,Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities along with marriage/family counseling.
My specializations is based on the philosophy that each person has the capacity to change any circumstance or current situation. By effectively aiding clients in bringing out their potential for understanding themselves, self-healing, and personal growth, clients are able to overcome through effective practices and be the driving force of each session. Each person needs something different from therapy and this can become achievable with sensitivity, compassion and insight to one’s true identity.
(757) 210-9957 View (757) 210-9957
Photo of Lisa McIntosh, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lisa McIntosh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My most common theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, Motivational Interviewing (MI) for alcohol and/or drug dependence, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) for mood disorders and suicidal ideation.
My name is Lisa McIntosh, LPC License 0701008421. I have more than 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My holistic approach focuses on the individual's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. I also focus on rapport building, goal setting, and implementing evidence-based treatment to help individuals and families identify and change their troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
My most common theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, Motivational Interviewing (MI) for alcohol and/or drug dependence, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) for mood disorders and suicidal ideation.
My name is Lisa McIntosh, LPC License 0701008421. I have more than 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My holistic approach focuses on the individual's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. I also focus on rapport building, goal setting, and implementing evidence-based treatment to help individuals and families identify and change their troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
(804) 805-4859 View (804) 805-4859
Photo of Laura A Ponds, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS
Laura A Ponds
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, VA 23703
Dialectic behavior therapy ( DBT) focuses on mindfulness, staying in the now moment without judgement.
I have ove 20 years experience working with adults, children, adolescents and parents who present with a myriad of disorders. I provide individual/group outpatient psychotherapy services in the Tidewater area using a client centered perspective that focuses on my clients' strengths and goals. One of several specialties include anger management therapy for those who are court ordered and/or wish to learn ways to manage their anger. I am currently adding to my client base. I offer flexibility in scheduling sessions. I am an experienced and approved clinical supervisor seeking to add residents in counseling to my caseload as well.
Dialectic behavior therapy ( DBT) focuses on mindfulness, staying in the now moment without judgement.
I have ove 20 years experience working with adults, children, adolescents and parents who present with a myriad of disorders. I provide individual/group outpatient psychotherapy services in the Tidewater area using a client centered perspective that focuses on my clients' strengths and goals. One of several specialties include anger management therapy for those who are court ordered and/or wish to learn ways to manage their anger. I am currently adding to my client base. I offer flexibility in scheduling sessions. I am an experienced and approved clinical supervisor seeking to add residents in counseling to my caseload as well.
(757) 828-0573 View (757) 828-0573
Photo of Karl G. Memmer, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Karl G. Memmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23112
I integrate CBT, DBT and strength-based concepts to tailor treatment to your individual needs.
I provide high quality counseling and mental health services to children, teens and adults in Virginia. All individuals will face challenges in life, and we all possess the ability to overcome them. However, sometimes circumstances can feel overwhelming and we struggle to manage the realities of everyday life. This is when feelings of depression, anxiety and hopelessness can begin to dominate our daily reality. The good news is, by combining scientifically proven methods, you can build the resilience skills necessary to thrive, no matter what circumstances you face.
I integrate CBT, DBT and strength-based concepts to tailor treatment to your individual needs.
I provide high quality counseling and mental health services to children, teens and adults in Virginia. All individuals will face challenges in life, and we all possess the ability to overcome them. However, sometimes circumstances can feel overwhelming and we struggle to manage the realities of everyday life. This is when feelings of depression, anxiety and hopelessness can begin to dominate our daily reality. The good news is, by combining scientifically proven methods, you can build the resilience skills necessary to thrive, no matter what circumstances you face.
(804) 409-6191 View (804) 409-6191
Photo of Saunique Eason, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Saunique Eason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a culturally sensitive, strengths based, person-centered, trauma informed clinician trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) and DBT (Dialectic Behavioral Therapy), and regularly uses CBT, IFS and Motivational Interviewing concepts and techniques in my therapeutic work.
Hello! I assume you've come because "life is lifeing". Do you feel overwhelmed with your daily life? Has it become harder to keep 'pushing through'? Maybe you are going through some season changes/life transitions. Or perhaps your past has gotten in the way...thoughts you can't stop thinking? Behaviors which are no longer serving you that you are having a hard time changing...? I want to help you get 'unstuck'. In fact, that's my super power! I believe that new thoughts give way to new behaviors, and new behaviors build new life.
I am a culturally sensitive, strengths based, person-centered, trauma informed clinician trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) and DBT (Dialectic Behavioral Therapy), and regularly uses CBT, IFS and Motivational Interviewing concepts and techniques in my therapeutic work.
Hello! I assume you've come because "life is lifeing". Do you feel overwhelmed with your daily life? Has it become harder to keep 'pushing through'? Maybe you are going through some season changes/life transitions. Or perhaps your past has gotten in the way...thoughts you can't stop thinking? Behaviors which are no longer serving you that you are having a hard time changing...? I want to help you get 'unstuck'. In fact, that's my super power! I believe that new thoughts give way to new behaviors, and new behaviors build new life.
(571) 568-5304 View (571) 568-5304
Photo of Kate Knapp, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Kate Knapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188
I have been trained in DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Narrative, Gottman Marriage Therapy level I and II certified and Solution Focused therapies, which provide direction for sessions.
I am seeing patients virtually in PA and NY as well as virtually or in person in VA. Walking through my clients' difficulties with them creates a space to promote healing and growth. It is my honor to support my clients as they gain a sense of empowerment both individual and in Marriage. I work with people from all faith backgrounds, and while I do not consider myself to be solely a "Christian counselor", my faith is a large part of my life and I invite clients to lead the role that faith plays in our work together. My work has included supporting people who experience anxiety, depression, poor relationships and life changes.
I have been trained in DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Narrative, Gottman Marriage Therapy level I and II certified and Solution Focused therapies, which provide direction for sessions.
I am seeing patients virtually in PA and NY as well as virtually or in person in VA. Walking through my clients' difficulties with them creates a space to promote healing and growth. It is my honor to support my clients as they gain a sense of empowerment both individual and in Marriage. I work with people from all faith backgrounds, and while I do not consider myself to be solely a "Christian counselor", my faith is a large part of my life and I invite clients to lead the role that faith plays in our work together. My work has included supporting people who experience anxiety, depression, poor relationships and life changes.
(757) 500-5032 View (757) 500-5032
Photo of Dr. Mariam Beshara, Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, LPC
Dr. Mariam Beshara
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm trained in Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), EMDR, and DBT.
Your Well-Being Is in Good Hands! Have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome? Sometimes, seeking help from a certified expert is the best way to put things into perspective. As a committed, professional Therapist and Clinical Psychologist, your well-being and mental strength is my number one priority. I'm happy to guide you through your life’s challenges with the attention and care you deserve.
I'm trained in Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), EMDR, and DBT.
Your Well-Being Is in Good Hands! Have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome? Sometimes, seeking help from a certified expert is the best way to put things into perspective. As a committed, professional Therapist and Clinical Psychologist, your well-being and mental strength is my number one priority. I'm happy to guide you through your life’s challenges with the attention and care you deserve.
(571) 520-4047 View (571) 520-4047
Photo of Maire Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Maire Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Modalities of treatment include: EMDR, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, The Work (Byron Katie) and more.
I am welcoming of all people regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or faith.
Modalities of treatment include: EMDR, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, The Work (Byron Katie) and more.
I am welcoming of all people regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or faith.
(804) 446-5120 View (804) 446-5120
Photo of Andrea Devooght, Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Andrea Devooght
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Allen, VA 23060
I am a Gottman Levels 1 & 2 trained couples counselor, with specialized expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
Are you and your partner facing challenges that seem overwhelming? Life’s transitions can be especially tough on relationships, and seeking support is a courageous first step. My approach to counseling is centered on helping couples find renewed connection and understanding amidst life’s complexities.
I am a Gottman Levels 1 & 2 trained couples counselor, with specialized expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
Are you and your partner facing challenges that seem overwhelming? Life’s transitions can be especially tough on relationships, and seeking support is a courageous first step. My approach to counseling is centered on helping couples find renewed connection and understanding amidst life’s complexities.
(804) 979-2075 View (804) 979-2075
Photo of Anna Morgan, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Anna Morgan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
I am an EMDR-trained therapist and pull from various other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), person-centered, strengths-based, expressive arts, and mindfulness practices.
Whether you are looking to process a specific challenge or are simply seeking someone to help process the day-to-day, I want to offer support and guidance. I work with adults and youth (10+) seeking help with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, difficulties with relationships and communication, eating disorders, body image issues, and LGBTQ+ issues. I have an eclectic approach to therapy and aim to provide clients a safe and supportive space to process their unique struggles, realize their strengths, and learn to better cope and manage life's challenges.
I am an EMDR-trained therapist and pull from various other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), person-centered, strengths-based, expressive arts, and mindfulness practices.
Whether you are looking to process a specific challenge or are simply seeking someone to help process the day-to-day, I want to offer support and guidance. I work with adults and youth (10+) seeking help with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, difficulties with relationships and communication, eating disorders, body image issues, and LGBTQ+ issues. I have an eclectic approach to therapy and aim to provide clients a safe and supportive space to process their unique struggles, realize their strengths, and learn to better cope and manage life's challenges.
(804) 297-5206 View (804) 297-5206
Photo of Leslie Hawes, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Hawes
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am here to help you reach your personal goals from an existential humanistic approach. I have been trained and use CBT, DBT, MI, EMDR, Solution Focused, and Crisis Intervention techniques. I also have experience with CISM (Crisis Intervention Stress Management) and provide debriefing support. I look forward to working with you to find the best ways to achieve your goals!
I am here to help you reach your personal goals from an existential humanistic approach. I have been trained and use CBT, DBT, MI, EMDR, Solution Focused, and Crisis Intervention techniques. I also have experience with CISM (Crisis Intervention Stress Management) and provide debriefing support. I look forward to working with you to find the best ways to achieve your goals!
(757) 919-3979 View (757) 919-3979

See more therapy options for Prince George 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.