Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Mead, WA

Photo of Laurie Higgins, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021  (Online Only)
I currently work with individuals ages 7 and up and treat a variety of diagnoses. My primary approach is cognitive behavioral therapy, which has been shown to be one of the most effective therapies for addressing symptoms of many major mental health diagnoses. I am also trained in, and utilize tools from, other modalities including dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), polyvagal therapy, exposure and response prevention, attachment therapy and parent child interactive therapy. In addition to my social work background, I am also a Registered Nurse and truly believe in a holistic mind/body approach to wellness.
I currently work with individuals ages 7 and up and treat a variety of diagnoses. My primary approach is cognitive behavioral therapy, which has been shown to be one of the most effective therapies for addressing symptoms of many major mental health diagnoses. I am also trained in, and utilize tools from, other modalities including dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), polyvagal therapy, exposure and response prevention, attachment therapy and parent child interactive therapy. In addition to my social work background, I am also a Registered Nurse and truly believe in a holistic mind/body approach to wellness.
(509) 213-0056 View (509) 213-0056
Photo of Jordan McCann, LMHC, Counselor
Jordan McCann
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021
My experience is primarily with children, young adults and couples. I also work with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy and have extensive training in couples counseling techniques. I enjoy humor and like to use it in therapy when appropriate.
My experience is primarily with children, young adults and couples. I also work with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy and have extensive training in couples counseling techniques. I enjoy humor and like to use it in therapy when appropriate.
(509) 414-7999 View (509) 414-7999
Photo of Cathlene Dunlap, MS, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Cathlene Dunlap
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I deeply enjoy being a therapist and working with all types of people. Relationship issues and eating disorders are a couple of areas that I specialize. I have an attachment focused approach that integrates several interventions such as ACT, DBT and mindfulness.
I deeply enjoy being a therapist and working with all types of people. Relationship issues and eating disorders are a couple of areas that I specialize. I have an attachment focused approach that integrates several interventions such as ACT, DBT and mindfulness.
(509) 215-2035 View (509) 215-2035
Photo of Jediah Main, MS, LMHC, SUDPT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jediah Main
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMHC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in my approach to counseling.
The majority of my experience is working with those suffering from addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety and the stresses of everyday life. I enjoy all types of people and love that I get to see a variety of different personalities and issues every day.
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in my approach to counseling.
The majority of my experience is working with those suffering from addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety and the stresses of everyday life. I enjoy all types of people and love that I get to see a variety of different personalities and issues every day.
(509) 652-2990 View (509) 652-2990
Photo of Taunnia Bockmier, LICSW, CMHS, CTHP, SUDP, CFTG, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taunnia Bockmier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, CTHP, SUDP, CFTG
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021  (Online Only)
Connecting with others in a positive holistic way can be a key to helping you experience a healthier and happier life. Choosing someone to empower, educate, and walk your path with you is an important step to gaining that experience. I approach counseling with the belief that YOU have the strengths and inner-knowledge you need to reach your goals. Healthy connection is the key to a happier life and I incorporate a holistic, mindful and nature-focused practice to facilitate your connection to yourself, others, and the world around you! I am here to assist in facilitating change and healing by encouraging connections in your process!
Connecting with others in a positive holistic way can be a key to helping you experience a healthier and happier life. Choosing someone to empower, educate, and walk your path with you is an important step to gaining that experience. I approach counseling with the belief that YOU have the strengths and inner-knowledge you need to reach your goals. Healthy connection is the key to a happier life and I incorporate a holistic, mindful and nature-focused practice to facilitate your connection to yourself, others, and the world around you! I am here to assist in facilitating change and healing by encouraging connections in your process!
(208) 502-4769 View (208) 502-4769
Photo of Dana Fuller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana Fuller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mead, WA 99021
You have your own personal journey that has brought you too today. Each individual, couple, and family have unique circumstances and personal aspects to bring to the therapy process. You are recognizing it would be helpful to talk with someone that can help sort out the thoughts, emotions, and life situations that led you here. Working together we can determine what is significant to your journey. We will build a relationship that is safe and open to explore vulnerable aspects of your life that will lead to personal insights, improve coping skills, and create lasting change.
You have your own personal journey that has brought you too today. Each individual, couple, and family have unique circumstances and personal aspects to bring to the therapy process. You are recognizing it would be helpful to talk with someone that can help sort out the thoughts, emotions, and life situations that led you here. Working together we can determine what is significant to your journey. We will build a relationship that is safe and open to explore vulnerable aspects of your life that will lead to personal insights, improve coping skills, and create lasting change.
(509) 253-7986 View (509) 253-7986
Photo of Lisa Lester, MA, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Lisa Lester
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021
Not accepting new clients
I am experienced in individual and family therapy and utilize evidence based practices along with empathy, collaboration and humor to address your unique concerns, needs and circumstances. I have a wide range of experience with many different issues, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, grief and loss, relationship struggles, behavioral issues and parenting skills. I primarily work with clients from school age to middle adulthood.
I am experienced in individual and family therapy and utilize evidence based practices along with empathy, collaboration and humor to address your unique concerns, needs and circumstances. I have a wide range of experience with many different issues, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, grief and loss, relationship struggles, behavioral issues and parenting skills. I primarily work with clients from school age to middle adulthood.
(509) 245-2212 View (509) 245-2212

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Victoria Facciola Riverside Therapy Center, PhD, LMHC, LCPC-S, Counselor
Dr. Victoria Facciola Riverside Therapy Center
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
I am trained and have experience working with a wide range of models and issues, some of which include CBT, DBT ACT, trauma-informed care, solution-focused therapies, psychedelic-assisted therapy, and more.
Now accepting new clients! I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes! I want to honor that and I want to make your experience in therapy meaningful and purposeful in your life. We all experience mental health challenges throughout life and we are all deserving of help. I hope that you trust me with your life stories.
I am trained and have experience working with a wide range of models and issues, some of which include CBT, DBT ACT, trauma-informed care, solution-focused therapies, psychedelic-assisted therapy, and more.
Now accepting new clients! I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes! I want to honor that and I want to make your experience in therapy meaningful and purposeful in your life. We all experience mental health challenges throughout life and we are all deserving of help. I hope that you trust me with your life stories.
(509) 774-3449 View (509) 774-3449
Photo of Elizabeth Koep, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Koep
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Waitlist for new clients
I apply a combination of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Mindfulness-Based Therapies, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Hello, I am Beth Koep. I am a Clinical Social Worker in the Coeur d’Alene area. I use a strengths-based approach. I believe everyone has the capacity to change and is unique with unique experiences, values, and tools. Discovering your values and how they interact with your strengths can provide the motivation to learn new skills to consider different perspectives and approaches to life’s problems. I provide services for teens, adults, and families who are experiencing trauma symptoms, emotional management difficulties, and relationship struggles.
I apply a combination of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Mindfulness-Based Therapies, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Hello, I am Beth Koep. I am a Clinical Social Worker in the Coeur d’Alene area. I use a strengths-based approach. I believe everyone has the capacity to change and is unique with unique experiences, values, and tools. Discovering your values and how they interact with your strengths can provide the motivation to learn new skills to consider different perspectives and approaches to life’s problems. I provide services for teens, adults, and families who are experiencing trauma symptoms, emotional management difficulties, and relationship struggles.
(208) 328-5645 View (208) 328-5645
Photo of Jeanan Hyat, LMHC, MA
Jeanan Hyat
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
I have additional training in Telehealth and I'm certified and trained in Emotional Focused Couples Therapy, DBT, CBT and Gestalt.
Life comes at us fast and we’re not always ready for it but that’s okay! I believe that we all crave connection with our peers, friends, family, and partners. And when we aren’t working on those connections, we’re working to build our connection with ourself. To fully work through that and make progress, I use a direct approach in helping clients address concerns that may arise from their connections with others or with themself. I believe that the most progress can be made when it’s accompanied with empathy and unconditional positive regard - two pillars of therapeutic work to foster growth and a sense of safety.
I have additional training in Telehealth and I'm certified and trained in Emotional Focused Couples Therapy, DBT, CBT and Gestalt.
Life comes at us fast and we’re not always ready for it but that’s okay! I believe that we all crave connection with our peers, friends, family, and partners. And when we aren’t working on those connections, we’re working to build our connection with ourself. To fully work through that and make progress, I use a direct approach in helping clients address concerns that may arise from their connections with others or with themself. I believe that the most progress can be made when it’s accompanied with empathy and unconditional positive regard - two pillars of therapeutic work to foster growth and a sense of safety.
View
Photo of Rebecca Solom, MS, LMHC, LCPC, MHP, Counselor
Rebecca Solom
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCPC, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99205  (Online Only)
I often use EMDR and DBT (Dialectical Behavior) to help clients decrease their symptoms- let's find the best treatment for you.
Making the choice to seek mental health therapy takes courage and I am honored to be considered to walk beside you during this journey. My goal is to provide a supportive and accepting environment that encourages self-exploration in a non-judgmental way. I can help provide tools, coping skills, and problem-solving assistance to help move you closer to your goals. We can work together as a team to clarify and/or establish your mental health goals and explore barriers that have previously kept those goals out of reach. I am trained in multiple evidence-based practices, treatment methods that are proven through research to work!
I often use EMDR and DBT (Dialectical Behavior) to help clients decrease their symptoms- let's find the best treatment for you.
Making the choice to seek mental health therapy takes courage and I am honored to be considered to walk beside you during this journey. My goal is to provide a supportive and accepting environment that encourages self-exploration in a non-judgmental way. I can help provide tools, coping skills, and problem-solving assistance to help move you closer to your goals. We can work together as a team to clarify and/or establish your mental health goals and explore barriers that have previously kept those goals out of reach. I am trained in multiple evidence-based practices, treatment methods that are proven through research to work!
(509) 204-8642 View (509) 204-8642
Photo of Kalkidan Wilson, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kalkidan Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99207  (Online Only)
My name is Kalkidan Wilson, but I go by Kali. I am a dedicated and compassionate social worker with a master’s degree from Eastern Washington University. My therapeutic approach is client centered, strength-based, and trauma informed. I draw from various modalities including solution focus therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I've had the privilege of working with individuals with a variety of diagnoses during my time in crisis intervention and as well as in outpatient settings. My goal for my practice is to create a safe and welcoming environment for all.
My name is Kalkidan Wilson, but I go by Kali. I am a dedicated and compassionate social worker with a master’s degree from Eastern Washington University. My therapeutic approach is client centered, strength-based, and trauma informed. I draw from various modalities including solution focus therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I've had the privilege of working with individuals with a variety of diagnoses during my time in crisis intervention and as well as in outpatient settings. My goal for my practice is to create a safe and welcoming environment for all.
(509) 560-5910 View (509) 560-5910
Photo of Victoria Kinner, LMHCA, SUDP, MHP, Counselor
Victoria Kinner
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDP, MHP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
I work from a person-centered perspective while drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques.
There have been many times in my life when I have needed a counselor. Whether it was to help in figuring out my next step in school, what track I needed to take in college, or even talking about my own personal struggles, counselors have played a role in my life and have helped me achieve many of my goals. I came to appreciate the role of a counselor and the hard work and dedication it takes to walk alongside clients and their journey. Therapy is hard work, and it is a task that many don’t want to face alone.
I work from a person-centered perspective while drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques.
There have been many times in my life when I have needed a counselor. Whether it was to help in figuring out my next step in school, what track I needed to take in college, or even talking about my own personal struggles, counselors have played a role in my life and have helped me achieve many of my goals. I came to appreciate the role of a counselor and the hard work and dedication it takes to walk alongside clients and their journey. Therapy is hard work, and it is a task that many don’t want to face alone.
(509) 612-7564 View (509) 612-7564
Photo of Jordyn Claire Kuttner, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jordyn Claire Kuttner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate; drawing from various therapeutic models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and using elements from DBT, CPT, Play-Therapy, and IFS, I tailor our sessions to your unique needs. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, sexual assault/childhood sexual assault survivors, and complex PTSD. Gottman Institute Level 2 Certified therapist and I'm trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) core skills. Furthermore, my ongoing training in EMDR.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate; drawing from various therapeutic models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and using elements from DBT, CPT, Play-Therapy, and IFS, I tailor our sessions to your unique needs. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, sexual assault/childhood sexual assault survivors, and complex PTSD. Gottman Institute Level 2 Certified therapist and I'm trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) core skills. Furthermore, my ongoing training in EMDR.
(509) 236-8247 View (509) 236-8247
Photo of Victoria Smith, LICSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99212  (Online Only)
I use Evidence Based Practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome! I specialize in working with people who are struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, and managing stress and life changes. I believe in tackling problems using a collaborative approach, meeting people where they are in their lives, and working alongside them to help them learn, heal, and grow in order to achieve their goals.
I use Evidence Based Practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome! I specialize in working with people who are struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, and managing stress and life changes. I believe in tackling problems using a collaborative approach, meeting people where they are in their lives, and working alongside them to help them learn, heal, and grow in order to achieve their goals.
(509) 236-1446 View (509) 236-1446
Photo of Dr. Sean Morrison, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sean Morrison
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99208
I approach therapy from an evidence-based perspective by letting you know what the research has shown to be the most effective way of handling whatever problems you’re struggling with. From there, we can work together to adapt that type of therapy to fit your specific needs & life circumstances so we can figure out how to make our sessions most helpful for you. I specialize in CBT, DBT, CPT/PE, Schema Therapy & Mindfulness-based therapies amongst other evidence-based psychotherapies. I accept First Choice Health insurance, which frequently contracts with some Kaiser plans. Please call to confirm I am in-network with your plan.
I approach therapy from an evidence-based perspective by letting you know what the research has shown to be the most effective way of handling whatever problems you’re struggling with. From there, we can work together to adapt that type of therapy to fit your specific needs & life circumstances so we can figure out how to make our sessions most helpful for you. I specialize in CBT, DBT, CPT/PE, Schema Therapy & Mindfulness-based therapies amongst other evidence-based psychotherapies. I accept First Choice Health insurance, which frequently contracts with some Kaiser plans. Please call to confirm I am in-network with your plan.
(360) 531-6248 View (360) 531-6248
Photo of Syrene Miller, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Syrene Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99208  (Online Only)
I have experience as a therapist using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
DBT skills have the power to transform your life by improving your ability to regulate emotions regulation, tolerate distress, be mindful and ask for what you want while maintaining your self-respect. If you are struggling with negative thoughts, rumination, harmful behaviors or relationship difficulties, DBT can give you the awareness and skills to make changes! I work with clients who struggle with managing emotions or want to change specific behaviors. I have extensive experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems and personality disorders. For more info check out my website at www.fortifiedudbt.com
I have experience as a therapist using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
DBT skills have the power to transform your life by improving your ability to regulate emotions regulation, tolerate distress, be mindful and ask for what you want while maintaining your self-respect. If you are struggling with negative thoughts, rumination, harmful behaviors or relationship difficulties, DBT can give you the awareness and skills to make changes! I work with clients who struggle with managing emotions or want to change specific behaviors. I have extensive experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems and personality disorders. For more info check out my website at www.fortifiedudbt.com
(509) 661-3130 View (509) 661-3130
Photo of Rachel E Werner, MS,  MHP, LMHCA, SUDPT, Counselor
Rachel E Werner
Counselor, MS, MHP, LMHCA, SUDPT
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Waitlist for new clients
I also use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help you build coping skills as well as identify and challenge negative thoughts you have about yourself and others.
Sometimes, life can be stressful, and we don't always know how to handle it. Many of us have also encountered past hardships or traumatic events that feel impossible to move on from. If that is something you relate with, I can help. Using a client-centered approach, I provide a place where you can share about your struggles and learn coping skills in order to overcome the stress you might be facing. If you are having relationship problems, dealing with anger, feeling anxious, depressed, or having a difficult time managing past trauma, I want to provide a non-judgmental and safe space where you can process through your experience.
I also use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help you build coping skills as well as identify and challenge negative thoughts you have about yourself and others.
Sometimes, life can be stressful, and we don't always know how to handle it. Many of us have also encountered past hardships or traumatic events that feel impossible to move on from. If that is something you relate with, I can help. Using a client-centered approach, I provide a place where you can share about your struggles and learn coping skills in order to overcome the stress you might be facing. If you are having relationship problems, dealing with anger, feeling anxious, depressed, or having a difficult time managing past trauma, I want to provide a non-judgmental and safe space where you can process through your experience.
(509) 685-3201 View (509) 685-3201
Photo of Jennah Schmitt - Apricity Mental Health And Wellness, LMHC
Jennah Schmitt - Apricity Mental Health And Wellness
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99217  (Online Only)
I am trained in the areas of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Maternal Mental Health.
I am accepting new clients in June! My name is Jennah Schmitt (Blossom). I am a collaborative, creative and solution-focused mental health provider serving adolescents and adults experiencing life transitions and difficulties. Struggling to navigate life? Coping mechanisms no longer serving you? I can help. I have a trauma-informed, yet direct, strength-based approach that allows for ideal results with utmost efficiency. I enjoy working in the areas of maternal mental health (peri/postpartum), emotional dysregulation, adjustment, anxiety, depression, maladaptive coping mechanisms and burn out recovery and prevention.
I am trained in the areas of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Maternal Mental Health.
I am accepting new clients in June! My name is Jennah Schmitt (Blossom). I am a collaborative, creative and solution-focused mental health provider serving adolescents and adults experiencing life transitions and difficulties. Struggling to navigate life? Coping mechanisms no longer serving you? I can help. I have a trauma-informed, yet direct, strength-based approach that allows for ideal results with utmost efficiency. I enjoy working in the areas of maternal mental health (peri/postpartum), emotional dysregulation, adjustment, anxiety, depression, maladaptive coping mechanisms and burn out recovery and prevention.
(509) 498-3762 View (509) 498-3762
Photo of Amanda Nelson-Geruntho, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Amanda Nelson-Geruntho
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99205  (Online Only)
I am a National Certified Counselor and specialize in treating anxiety disorders using CBT, DBT, MI, and mindfulness-based techniques.
There is no distinction between the body and the mind. I advocate for overall health, which means during therapy with me you can expect we will address not only your symptoms, but also areas like sleep, nutrition, medical issues, interpersonal relationships, movement/exercise, and issues from childhood. These dimensions of wellness are all interconnected and changing one will impact the others. I provide evidence-based strategies such as relaxation skills training, psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, and gentle exposure techniques to help you face your fears so your life is a little easier. All with a dash of humor!
I am a National Certified Counselor and specialize in treating anxiety disorders using CBT, DBT, MI, and mindfulness-based techniques.
There is no distinction between the body and the mind. I advocate for overall health, which means during therapy with me you can expect we will address not only your symptoms, but also areas like sleep, nutrition, medical issues, interpersonal relationships, movement/exercise, and issues from childhood. These dimensions of wellness are all interconnected and changing one will impact the others. I provide evidence-based strategies such as relaxation skills training, psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, and gentle exposure techniques to help you face your fears so your life is a little easier. All with a dash of humor!
(509) 642-6679 View (509) 642-6679

See more therapy options for Mead

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.