Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Skills for intense emotions and steadier relationships.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was designed for people who feel emotions very intensely and struggle with impulsive behavior, self harm or unstable relationships. It balances acceptance with change. We offer DBT informed care in Chicago and by telehealth across Illinois.
The four DBT skill areas
- Mindfulness: Staying present and noticing emotions without being swept away by them.
- Distress tolerance: Getting through a crisis without making it worse.
- Emotion regulation: Understanding emotions and reducing how vulnerable you are to them.
- Interpersonal effectiveness: Asking for what you need and setting limits while keeping relationships intact.
Signs it may be time to reach out
- Emotions that rise fast and take a long time to settle
- Relationships that swing between closeness and conflict
- Urges to act impulsively when you are upset
- Thoughts of self harm when emotions become overwhelming
DBT skills are practical and learnable. Many people describe them as tools they wish they had been taught years earlier.
Getting started
Your first visit is a full evaluation with one of our psychiatric nurse practitioners. We listen to your story, review your history and current symptoms, and agree on a plan you understand before you leave. Visits are available in Chicago and by secure telehealth anywhere in Illinois, and follow-up appointments keep the plan on track as things change. You can request an appointment through our online booking page or call our office with any questions first.
Send Us a Message
Share what you would like help with and the best way to reach you. Our team will get back to you with clear next steps for scheduling, telehealth and what comes first.