FAQs

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in 1991. Originally designed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has since proven effective for a wide range of mental health conditions involving emotional dysregulation. This therapy equips individuals with practical skills to manage intense emotions, navigate difficult situations, and build healthier relationships.

It focuses on four core skills: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. 

What makes DBT especially effective is its unique balance of acceptance and change, offering a validating and compassionate approach while actively promoting growth and lasting behavioral change.

Selecting a therapist is a highly personal decision and requires careful consideration. The therapeutic relationship is collaborative, involves trust and the fit between the client and therapist and is one of the most important factors in the success of the therapy. 

To help determine if we're a good fit, we offer a free 30-minute phone consultation. During this time, we’ll briefly discuss what’s bringing you to therapy and how we approach the concerns you’re facing. If it seems like another provider might better meet your needs, clinically or practically, we are happy to offer referrals.

Should we decide to move forward, our first session will give us a chance to explore the fit more deeply. From there, we’ll continue to check in together to ensure the work remains helpful and aligned with your goals.

Typically, individual sessions are held once a week. If you're participating in DBT PE (Dialectical Behavior Therapy Prolonged Exposure), sessions usually occur twice a week—one for individual therapy and one focused on the DBT PE protocol.

Sessions are offered at 30, 45, 60, or 90 minutes depending on the type of therapy, frequency, and needs.

We can work with clients on both a short-term and a long-term basis. Some clients can feel better after a few months, and the length of time in therapy varies based on your specific challenges and needs. The minimum length of therapy for DBT PE is six months, though it could be longer.

Ilene is currently licensed to practice in DC, MD, VA, NY, and WA.

Sessions can be virtual or in-person as needed and available.

Ilene is also happy to offer ‘Walk and Talk’ sessions upon request and when available. This is a form of counseling that takes place outdoors while walking together, often in a park or on a trail. It combines the benefits of traditional talk therapy with movement and time in nature.

No. We are an out-of-network provider, which means we do not bill insurance directly. However, we will provide you with a monthly statement (superbill) that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement, depending on your out-of-network benefits.

We primarily work with adolescents and adults.