Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Affirming, Evidence-Based Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in Illinois for Adults Struggling with Emotional & Mental Health Concerns, such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, and More.
Therapy that feels like talking with someone who gets it—because we do.
Therapy for adults struggling with emotional or mental health concerns.
Using DBT, we help you navigate feeling overwhelmed, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, emotional distress, and more. We also cover topics such as gender, sex, identity, and more.
We use general therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), internal family systems (IFS), and more.
While most sessions are 45-60 minutes, each session is fully personalized to you and your concerns. This is your space.
We accept most major insurances.
We offer virtual sessions throughout Illinois.
To learn more, check out our FAQ page.
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions seem impossible to control. DBT therapy is designed for those who experience intense feelings, struggle with relationships, or find themselves caught in patterns of self-destructive behavior.
Our therapists welcome individuals of all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ and straight clients, recognizing that everyone's experiences with emotions, identity, and relationships are unique. We understand what it’s like to feel stuck between emotions and reactions, wanting change but not knowing where to start. Through a balance of validation and skill-building, DBT helps you navigate distress, improve communication, and regain control over your emotional world.
Rebuild Confidence
Support in challenging negative self-talk and embracing your strengths.
Create a Safe Space
A judgment-free environment where you can openly express your thoughts and emotions.
Heal from the Past
Compassionate support in processing trauma, loss, or life’s challenges.
Navigate Life’s Transitions
Assistance in managing major changes like career struggles, relationship shifts, or redefining personal goals.
Strengthen Connection
Guidance on improving communication, setting boundaries, and maintaining healthy relationships.
What is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy?
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a structured form of therapy that helps people manage intense emotions, reduce harmful behaviors, and improve relationships. It combines practical coping skills with mindfulness and emotional awareness to help clients balance acceptance of their current experience with meaningful change.
How does Dialectical Behavioral Therapy help?
DBT helps people develop skills in four main areas: emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. These tools can reduce impulsive reactions, improve communication, and make it easier to navigate overwhelming feelings or stressful situations.
Can Dialectical Behavioral Therapy be used with other therapies?
Yes. DBT is often used alongside other therapeutic approaches such as trauma-informed therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or medication management. Integrating DBT skills with other treatments can provide more comprehensive support for emotional and behavioral challenges.
Why Freelife BH for Therapy?
Choosing a therapist is about more than credentials. It is about finding a space where you feel understood, respected, and able to be honest. At Freelife, therapy is collaborative, direct, and grounded in real-life application. We focus on helping you build insight, improve communication, regulate stress, and create meaningful change that carries outside the therapy room.
Our clinicians are experienced, thoughtful, and committed to ongoing learning. We balance warmth with accountability, offering support while also helping you challenge patterns that no longer serve you. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship stress, identity questions, or life transitions, Freelife provides structured, informed care that meets you where you are and helps you move forward with clarity.
The Therapy Process—Explained
Intake
We start by getting to know you, your goals, and what’s bringing you to therapy in a way that feels welcoming and low-pressure.
Assessment
Together, we explore patterns, history, and current challenges to better understand what support will be most helpful for you.
Treatment
Your therapist works with you using evidence-based, affirming approaches tailored to your needs, identity, and pace.
Integration
You practice applying what you’re learning in real life, building insight, resilience, and trust in yourself over time.
Follow-Up
We check in, adjust as needed, and make sure your care continues to support your growth beyond each session.
You deserve support that sees all of you.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
DBT was originally developed for people experiencing intense emotional swings and self-destructive behaviors, but it is now widely used for anxiety, depression, trauma responses, and relationship challenges. Anyone who struggles with regulating emotions or reacting impulsively to stress may benefit from DBT skills.
-
The length of DBT varies depending on individual needs. Some people learn core DBT skills in several months through structured skills groups, while others continue using DBT techniques in longer-term therapy to support ongoing emotional stability and relationship growth.
-
Yes. While DBT grew out of CBT, it places a stronger focus on emotional regulation, mindfulness, and accepting difficult feelings while working toward change. DBT also includes specific skills training that helps people respond to distress more effectively.
-
Freelife accepts Blue Cross and Blue Shield PPO, Blue Choice PPO, and Aetna PPO insurance plans. Clients using these plans will be responsible for the portion of costs dictated by their individual plans (co-pays).
Clients not using these insurance plans will be responsible for paying for their sessions themselves. Freelife is happy to provide a superbill to these clients if they would like to submit this to their insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement.
-
Freelife therapists offer both virtual and in-person options.
We utilize technology powered by Google which is HIPAA compliant and easy to use.
We also offer in-person sessions at our office located at 1300 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657.
-
Linehan, Marsha M. Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder. Guilford Press, 1993.
Linehan, Marsha M. DBT Skills Training Manual. 2nd ed., Guilford Press, 2015.
Behavioral Tech Institute. “What Is DBT?” https://behavioraltech.org/resources/faqs/dialectical-behavior-therapy/
Getting Started is Easy
To get started, fill out the form below and we will reach out for your free consultation.