Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Psychiatrists in Massachusetts

Photo of Jacqueline Buchanan, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Jacqueline Buchanan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
I offer integrated CBT and DBT, and medication management, if indicated.
Sometimes we have a sense of the ways in which we hope to grow with psychotherapy, and sometimes we learn things about ourselves along the way that are unexpected and turn out to be central issues. Psychotherapy has the capacity to help us identify these central issues in a way that liberates and empowers us. In our work together, I will use psychodynamic psychotherapy to explore the issues you are concerned about, as well as who you are, what has shaped you, and what might be holding you back from living your life to the fullest. I have experience working with patients with a broad array of issues and diagnoses.
I offer integrated CBT and DBT, and medication management, if indicated.
Sometimes we have a sense of the ways in which we hope to grow with psychotherapy, and sometimes we learn things about ourselves along the way that are unexpected and turn out to be central issues. Psychotherapy has the capacity to help us identify these central issues in a way that liberates and empowers us. In our work together, I will use psychodynamic psychotherapy to explore the issues you are concerned about, as well as who you are, what has shaped you, and what might be holding you back from living your life to the fullest. I have experience working with patients with a broad array of issues and diagnoses.
(617) 648-9622 View (617) 648-9622
Photo of Arthi Kumaravel, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Arthi Kumaravel
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I am a Harvard trained psychiatrist with a background in psychopharmacological (medication) approaches as well as a variety of therapy modalities, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, couples and group therapy.
Reaching out for help is one of the hardest yet crucial steps in improving your psychological well-being, and one which I commend you for doing. It can be difficult to find a psychiatrist that feels right for you. But once a strong connection is formed, that relationship can be a life changing experience for you. You deserve a safe space to explore the psychological, social, cultural, relationship and biological contributors to your mental health. I aim to provide you with this safe space using both therapy and medications tailored to address your specific mental health needs.
I am a Harvard trained psychiatrist with a background in psychopharmacological (medication) approaches as well as a variety of therapy modalities, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, couples and group therapy.
Reaching out for help is one of the hardest yet crucial steps in improving your psychological well-being, and one which I commend you for doing. It can be difficult to find a psychiatrist that feels right for you. But once a strong connection is formed, that relationship can be a life changing experience for you. You deserve a safe space to explore the psychological, social, cultural, relationship and biological contributors to your mental health. I aim to provide you with this safe space using both therapy and medications tailored to address your specific mental health needs.
(617) 812-7464 View (617) 812-7464
Photo of Dr. Adam Henderson, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Dr. Adam Henderson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459
Waitlist for new clients
I have expertise in Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT) and DBT for depression, anxiety and BPD treatment.
Welcome! If you're a seeking a psychiatrist who can provide a straightforward approach while also offering compassionate support, you're in the right place. Maybe you’ve tried therapy or medication before and haven’t gotten the results you wanted, or you’re new to therapy and not sure where to start. Drawing on my background as a board-certified psychiatrist on faculty at Harvard Medical School, I’ll help you get to the bottom of your core issues and move past your stuck points. I'm here to provide a safe space where you can open up, without judgment or pressure.
I have expertise in Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT) and DBT for depression, anxiety and BPD treatment.
Welcome! If you're a seeking a psychiatrist who can provide a straightforward approach while also offering compassionate support, you're in the right place. Maybe you’ve tried therapy or medication before and haven’t gotten the results you wanted, or you’re new to therapy and not sure where to start. Drawing on my background as a board-certified psychiatrist on faculty at Harvard Medical School, I’ll help you get to the bottom of your core issues and move past your stuck points. I'm here to provide a safe space where you can open up, without judgment or pressure.
(617) 284-0729 View (617) 284-0729
Photo of Ruby Doshi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Ruby Doshi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Quincy, MA 02169  (Online Only)
Ruby considers therapy a vital component of part of her treatment approach, using treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), among others.
Ruby is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is originally from New Jersey. She received a Bachelor's in Biology and a Bachelor's in Nursing from Stockton University. She worked as a pharmacy technician for 5 years and as a nurse for 5 years before completing her Master's education at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Ruby is incredibly passionate about the destigmatization of mental health and addiction.
Ruby considers therapy a vital component of part of her treatment approach, using treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), among others.
Ruby is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is originally from New Jersey. She received a Bachelor's in Biology and a Bachelor's in Nursing from Stockton University. She worked as a pharmacy technician for 5 years and as a nurse for 5 years before completing her Master's education at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Ruby is incredibly passionate about the destigmatization of mental health and addiction.
(339) 329-8966 View (339) 329-8966
Photo of Byron Garcia, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Byron Garcia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Belmont, MA 02478
I also work with a group of DBT therapists and we can dispense a comprehensive treatment team.
I am a psychopharmacology expert with 26 years of experience. I provide psychiatric evaluation and treatment to children, adolescents and adults with a history of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Attacks, OCD, Depression, lack of motivation and insomnia. I am board certified in general psychiatry and also child and adolescent psychiatry. My full time work is medical director at McLean Hospital (Named America's #1 Hospital for Psychiatry by U.S. News and World Report). I am a clinical instructor in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
I also work with a group of DBT therapists and we can dispense a comprehensive treatment team.
I am a psychopharmacology expert with 26 years of experience. I provide psychiatric evaluation and treatment to children, adolescents and adults with a history of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Attacks, OCD, Depression, lack of motivation and insomnia. I am board certified in general psychiatry and also child and adolescent psychiatry. My full time work is medical director at McLean Hospital (Named America's #1 Hospital for Psychiatry by U.S. News and World Report). I am a clinical instructor in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
(617) 682-7927 View (617) 682-7927
Photo of Kara Ruggiero, Physician Assistant in Massachusetts
Kara Ruggiero
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Braintree, MA 02184
Ms. Ruggiero, a Physician Assistant at Aster Mental Health, specializes in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. Her holistic treatment style combines medication management with various psychotherapy techniques including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. She offers medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
Ms. Ruggiero, a Physician Assistant at Aster Mental Health, specializes in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. Her holistic treatment style combines medication management with various psychotherapy techniques including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. She offers medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
(617) 299-7257 View (617) 299-7257
Photo of Carlos Covarrubias, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Carlos Covarrubias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
I provide personalized treatment and services for a wide range of mental health issues, including psychotherapy using ACT, CBT, DBT, and MI techniques and evidence-based psychopharmacology.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Boston, offering online psychotherapy to clients throughout Massachusetts, in-person therapy and medication management in Jamaica Plain, and online classes and workshops at www.ThreeTreesMentalHealth.com
I provide personalized treatment and services for a wide range of mental health issues, including psychotherapy using ACT, CBT, DBT, and MI techniques and evidence-based psychopharmacology.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Boston, offering online psychotherapy to clients throughout Massachusetts, in-person therapy and medication management in Jamaica Plain, and online classes and workshops at www.ThreeTreesMentalHealth.com
(857) 475-7631 View (857) 475-7631
Photo of Holistic Well, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am interested in helping individuals across the lifespan explore suitable, person-centered treatment options for anxiety, depression and PTSD find the right combination of medication management and psychotherapy. I offer medication management, supportive therapy DBT and behavioral skills education. I am certified to offer affirmative care for neurodivergent and LGBTAI+ populations!
I am interested in helping individuals across the lifespan explore suitable, person-centered treatment options for anxiety, depression and PTSD find the right combination of medication management and psychotherapy. I offer medication management, supportive therapy DBT and behavioral skills education. I am certified to offer affirmative care for neurodivergent and LGBTAI+ populations!
(857) 349-5582 View (857) 349-5582
Photo of Dr. Andrew Wu, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Dr. Andrew Wu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
Waitlist for new clients
I have broad experience with management of mood and anxiety disorders, and applying multimodal therapeutic techniques like DBT and ACT to best suit my patients needs.
Hi! It can be hard to find a good psychiatrist. Good mental healthcare requires a flexible and creative approach. If we work together, I will approach your treatment in this way to evaluate which medications and/or therapy modalities are most appropriate for you. I have an active therapeutic style to make sure your sessions are engaging, helpful, and sometimes even fun! Whether it's your first time seeking out help, or you've seen previous doctors before, I'm happy to talk to you more. As a psychiatrist, I can help with prescribing medications, therapy, obtaining or reviewing psychiatric diagnoses, or any combination of the above.
I have broad experience with management of mood and anxiety disorders, and applying multimodal therapeutic techniques like DBT and ACT to best suit my patients needs.
Hi! It can be hard to find a good psychiatrist. Good mental healthcare requires a flexible and creative approach. If we work together, I will approach your treatment in this way to evaluate which medications and/or therapy modalities are most appropriate for you. I have an active therapeutic style to make sure your sessions are engaging, helpful, and sometimes even fun! Whether it's your first time seeking out help, or you've seen previous doctors before, I'm happy to talk to you more. As a psychiatrist, I can help with prescribing medications, therapy, obtaining or reviewing psychiatric diagnoses, or any combination of the above.
(857) 226-4143 View (857) 226-4143
Photo of Peninah Elizabeth Waithira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Peninah Elizabeth Waithira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608
Due to her excellent clinical expertise, Peninah provides top-notch treatment for a myriad of mental health illnesses, including but not limited to, anxiety and depressive disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, insomnia, adjustment, and psychotic disorders, while collaborating with other professionals to incorporate vital therapy treatments such as CBT, CBT-1, DBT.
Are you looking for stability in a Provider, a professional who does not consider you just a number? One who is empathetic and non-judgmental? My ideal client is one who wants the best version of themselves. One who is aware that mental health struggles do not define them, but makes them stronger. If you are out there and need a fresh start, let's press the reset button together. If you are looking for an experienced Provider, who treats you as a unique person, listens to you, and provides top-notch care, look no further.
Due to her excellent clinical expertise, Peninah provides top-notch treatment for a myriad of mental health illnesses, including but not limited to, anxiety and depressive disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, insomnia, adjustment, and psychotic disorders, while collaborating with other professionals to incorporate vital therapy treatments such as CBT, CBT-1, DBT.
Are you looking for stability in a Provider, a professional who does not consider you just a number? One who is empathetic and non-judgmental? My ideal client is one who wants the best version of themselves. One who is aware that mental health struggles do not define them, but makes them stronger. If you are out there and need a fresh start, let's press the reset button together. If you are looking for an experienced Provider, who treats you as a unique person, listens to you, and provides top-notch care, look no further.
(508) 290-4068 View (508) 290-4068
Photo of Devin Gibbs, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Devin Gibbs
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02421
I provide therapy using a psychodynamic framework and integrate techniques from mindfulness, CBT, and DBT.
Most people at some point in their lives find themselves feeling stuck, unable to break out of old patterns or achieve their goals. Many of the individuals I work with are outwardly functioning well in many areas of their lives, but struggling with depression, anxiety, or navigating life transitions. Talk therapy can be a powerful tool to help people move past these roadblocks and build a more meaningful and full life.
I provide therapy using a psychodynamic framework and integrate techniques from mindfulness, CBT, and DBT.
Most people at some point in their lives find themselves feeling stuck, unable to break out of old patterns or achieve their goals. Many of the individuals I work with are outwardly functioning well in many areas of their lives, but struggling with depression, anxiety, or navigating life transitions. Talk therapy can be a powerful tool to help people move past these roadblocks and build a more meaningful and full life.
(339) 331-1566 View (339) 331-1566
Photo of Brian Boyle, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Brian Boyle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric consultation, medication management, and therapy. I also have a background in therapeutic approaches including psychoanalysis, mentalization based treatment, dialectical behavioral therapy, and family therapy.
I provide psychiatric consultation, medication management, and therapy. I also have a background in therapeutic approaches including psychoanalysis, mentalization based treatment, dialectical behavioral therapy, and family therapy.
(857) 227-9205 View (857) 227-9205
Photo of Erin Valenti, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Erin Valenti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I have extra training in CBT and DBT, and I enjoy helping people regulate their emotions and meet their goals.
You want to take care of your mental health, but a one-size-fits-all system isn't working for you. You'd like a more flexible and creative approach and a highly personalized treatment plan. You're looking for a provider that is approachable, available, and attentive. The relationship between a provider and a client is everything in mental health treatment. I founded Newbury Street Psychiatry and Psychotherapy to provide patients with treatment relationships that are open, collaborative, and all about you.
I have extra training in CBT and DBT, and I enjoy helping people regulate their emotions and meet their goals.
You want to take care of your mental health, but a one-size-fits-all system isn't working for you. You'd like a more flexible and creative approach and a highly personalized treatment plan. You're looking for a provider that is approachable, available, and attentive. The relationship between a provider and a client is everything in mental health treatment. I founded Newbury Street Psychiatry and Psychotherapy to provide patients with treatment relationships that are open, collaborative, and all about you.
(774) 643-7101 View (774) 643-7101
Photo of Jillian Bonzani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Jillian Bonzani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605  (Online Only)
In addition to medication management, she incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), culturally sensitive, and person-centered techniques into treatment.
Jillian is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Jillian’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Jillian completed her Master's Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
In addition to medication management, she incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), culturally sensitive, and person-centered techniques into treatment.
Jillian is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Jillian’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Jillian completed her Master's Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
(774) 772-5525 View (774) 772-5525
Shoshana Marchand
Psychiatric Nurse, MA, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, offering consultation, medication management and therapy in downtown Northampton. I care about what makes us unique, as well as what we have in common. My interests include anxiety disorders like panic and OCD, as well as people on the autism spectrum or with social or learning differences. I'm delighted to work with LGBTQ clients or those in gender transition. I'm a believer in trauma -sensitive care, trained in DBT and in mindfulness. Clients say I'm both communicative and collaborative. Please note that my practice is currently limited to people aged 16 and older.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, offering consultation, medication management and therapy in downtown Northampton. I care about what makes us unique, as well as what we have in common. My interests include anxiety disorders like panic and OCD, as well as people on the autism spectrum or with social or learning differences. I'm delighted to work with LGBTQ clients or those in gender transition. I'm a believer in trauma -sensitive care, trained in DBT and in mindfulness. Clients say I'm both communicative and collaborative. Please note that my practice is currently limited to people aged 16 and older.
(413) 650-1402 View (413) 650-1402
Photo of Sarah O’Neil, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Sarah O’Neil
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I integrate my training in evidenced based therapies including CBT, DBT and rational psychopharmacology with my warm interpersonal style to collaborate with my patients to co-create a logical treatment plan to help the person heal and flourish.
As a trained and Board Certified Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with 20 years experience, I work with teens, adults and parents. I specialize in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic, OCD and eating disorders. I help people with issues related to self esteem and self compassion- low self compassion can manifest in many ways including low self confidence, conflict avoidance, procrastination, low mood and worry among other symptoms. I also provide consultation to people unsure how to proceed with their or their child’s care, parent coaching and second opinions when a person in treatment feels stuck.
I integrate my training in evidenced based therapies including CBT, DBT and rational psychopharmacology with my warm interpersonal style to collaborate with my patients to co-create a logical treatment plan to help the person heal and flourish.
As a trained and Board Certified Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with 20 years experience, I work with teens, adults and parents. I specialize in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic, OCD and eating disorders. I help people with issues related to self esteem and self compassion- low self compassion can manifest in many ways including low self confidence, conflict avoidance, procrastination, low mood and worry among other symptoms. I also provide consultation to people unsure how to proceed with their or their child’s care, parent coaching and second opinions when a person in treatment feels stuck.
(617) 812-1826 View (617) 812-1826
Photo of Anne Turley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Anne Turley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
Anne integrates principles of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) into her psychopharmacological treatment sessions.
Anne Turley is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in practice since 2014. She is well-versed in treating a wide range of diagnoses in patients aged 6-65. Anne is comfortable reaching outside traditional practice settings to care for patients and has embraced telemedicine as the key access to care advancement of the decade. Anne’s specialty areas include teenagers, autism spectrum disorder, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, treatment-resistant anxiety disorders, and multi-diagnosis cases.
Anne integrates principles of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) into her psychopharmacological treatment sessions.
Anne Turley is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in practice since 2014. She is well-versed in treating a wide range of diagnoses in patients aged 6-65. Anne is comfortable reaching outside traditional practice settings to care for patients and has embraced telemedicine as the key access to care advancement of the decade. Anne’s specialty areas include teenagers, autism spectrum disorder, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, treatment-resistant anxiety disorders, and multi-diagnosis cases.
(339) 329-8545 View (339) 329-8545
Photo of Christoforos Iraklis Giakoumatos, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Christoforos Iraklis Giakoumatos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118
I treat adults with mental health disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD. I also treat adults with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. I believe in individualizing treatment based on each person's needs. I offer medication management visits, complemented with elements of Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and psychodymanic psychotherapy. I also offer psychotherapy visits without medication management, if someone is not in need of medications.
I treat adults with mental health disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD. I also treat adults with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. I believe in individualizing treatment based on each person's needs. I offer medication management visits, complemented with elements of Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and psychodymanic psychotherapy. I also offer psychotherapy visits without medication management, if someone is not in need of medications.
(857) 810-4123 View (857) 810-4123
Photo of Jessica Kolczewski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Jessica Kolczewski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Randolph, MA 02368  (Online Only)
I completed the DBT foundational training in 2014 and incorporate DBT concepts into my work.
Are you looking for someone who can both prescribe medications and be present and listen to your experience? I value the importance of combining therapeutic techniques with medication management. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with 14 years of nursing experience. I treat a variety of patients, including those suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, borderline personality disorder and suicidal or self injurious behaviors. On a part time basis, I have a "co-therapist" named Bella. She is trained as a therapy dog for the purpose of providing animal assisted therapy.
I completed the DBT foundational training in 2014 and incorporate DBT concepts into my work.
Are you looking for someone who can both prescribe medications and be present and listen to your experience? I value the importance of combining therapeutic techniques with medication management. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with 14 years of nursing experience. I treat a variety of patients, including those suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, borderline personality disorder and suicidal or self injurious behaviors. On a part time basis, I have a "co-therapist" named Bella. She is trained as a therapy dog for the purpose of providing animal assisted therapy.
(617) 208-4410 View (617) 208-4410
Photo of Shula Waldoks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Shula Waldoks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464
I incorporate patient education, collaborative decision making, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems and trauma informed care into my medication management sessions.
I really enjoy working with people who are struggling with their mental health and know it's time to get help. Perhaps it is their first time reaching out or maybe their current medication and therapy regimen isn't working at well as it could be. I love to work with patients collaboratively, so that we can make decisions together and work as a team. I am particularly skilled at working with older adolescents and young adults in their 20s and early 30s as they navigate their way into healthy adulthood.
I incorporate patient education, collaborative decision making, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems and trauma informed care into my medication management sessions.
I really enjoy working with people who are struggling with their mental health and know it's time to get help. Perhaps it is their first time reaching out or maybe their current medication and therapy regimen isn't working at well as it could be. I love to work with patients collaboratively, so that we can make decisions together and work as a team. I am particularly skilled at working with older adolescents and young adults in their 20s and early 30s as they navigate their way into healthy adulthood.
(617) 644-4834 View (617) 644-4834

See more therapy options for Massachusetts

Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Psychiatrists

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.