Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Illinois
Dialectical behavior therapy was created for people whose emotions run hotter and last longer than most, and who need practical skills rather than just insight. DBT teaches four sets of tools, mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, that help you survive crises, manage intense feelings, and build relationships that last.
Forrest Behavioral Health offers DBT-informed treatment in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, led by a Clinical Director who is certified in DBT. We use it for borderline personality disorder, self-harm, chronic suicidal thinking, bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating concerns, and substance use.
Medically reviewed by Annmarie Gacek, LCSW, CADC, C-DBT, Clinical Director · Last reviewed October 21, 2026
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
DBT was developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan for people with borderline personality disorder and has since been adapted for many conditions involving emotional intensity. The word “dialectical” refers to holding two truths at once: accepting yourself exactly as you are, and working hard to change. That balance is the heart of the approach.
Full DBT includes individual therapy, a weekly skills group, coaching between sessions, and a consultation team for therapists. Skills are taught in four modules. Mindfulness builds awareness of the present moment without judgment. Distress tolerance teaches how to get through a crisis without making it worse. Emotion regulation helps you understand, name, and reduce painful emotions. Interpersonal effectiveness covers asking for what you need, saying no, and keeping self-respect in relationships.
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Want to know whether this approach is right for you? Request a confidential call and a recovery specialist will explain how we would use it in your treatment and verify your insurance.
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Who DBT Helps
DBT is often the right choice when emotions feel unmanageable and other therapies have not helped. We recommend it for:
- Borderline personality disorder
- Self-harm or urges to self-harm
- Chronic suicidal thoughts
- Intense, rapidly shifting moods
- Explosive anger or impulsive behavior
- Unstable or stormy relationships
- Bipolar disorder (alongside medication)
- PTSD and complex trauma
- Binge eating and other eating concerns
- Substance use driven by emotional pain
Forrest Behavioral Health
Want to find out if DBT is right for you? Call our Hoffman Estates team to speak with a recovery specialist today.
How We Use DBT at Forrest Behavioral Health
DBT skills are part of every program at Forrest Behavioral Health, and clients with BPD or significant emotional dysregulation receive a more intensive, DBT-centered plan.
DBT Skills Groups
Structured groups work through the four skills modules with teaching, practice, and homework. Clients in our day treatment and IOP programs attend skills groups multiple times per week.
Individual DBT-Informed Therapy
One-on-one sessions apply the skills to your life, using tools like diary cards and chain analysis to understand what leads to crises and how to interrupt the pattern earlier.
Day Treatment Program (PHP)
Our day treatment program offers the most intensive version of this therapy, with daily individual and group sessions five days a week while you continue to live at home.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our intensive outpatient program and evening IOP deliver this therapy several times a week around work or school.
Outpatient Therapy
Weekly sessions through our outpatient program continue the work after a higher level of care or address milder symptoms, in person in Hoffman Estates or by telehealth anywhere in Illinois.
Frequently Asked Questions About DBT
What is the difference between CBT and DBT?
DBT grew out of CBT and shares its focus on thoughts and behaviors, but it adds acceptance and mindfulness practices and a heavier emphasis on skills for tolerating distress and managing relationships. It is generally the better fit when emotional intensity is the central problem.
Do I need a BPD diagnosis to benefit from DBT?
No. DBT skills help anyone who struggles with intense emotions, impulsivity, or relationship conflict, regardless of diagnosis.
Does insurance cover this therapy?
Most commercial insurance plans cover evidence-based therapy delivered through outpatient, IOP, and PHP programs. We will verify your benefits for free before you begin.
Is it available by telehealth?
Yes. We offer in-person sessions at our Hoffman Estates clinic and secure video sessions for clients anywhere in Illinois.
What if I am in crisis right now?
If you are in danger or having thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or go to the nearest emergency room.
Forrest Behavioral Health
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Treatment Programs
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Other Programs
Outpatient Program (OP)
The outpatient program at our rehab is tailored to those who have completed higher levels of care or require a less intensive treatment approach due to their stage in recovery. During standard outpatient treatment, clients engage in therapy sessions once or twice a week, focusing on maintaining sobriety, strengthening coping mechanisms, and continuing personal growth in recovery. This flexible program is designed to support clients as they navigate the challenges of everyday life, providing ongoing support and resources while allowing them to fulfill their personal, professional, and family commitments. It’s an ideal solution for long-term recovery management, offering a supportive network and professional guidance as clients build a fulfilling, sober life.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our intensive outpatient program is designed for individuals who need more support than standard outpatient treatment but have a stable living situation that supports their recovery journey. An intensive outpatient program involves attending therapy sessions and group meetings several times a week, often during evenings or weekends, to accommodate work or school schedules. This level of care allows clients to integrate real-world experiences into their treatment, applying learned skills in daily life while maintaining a strong connection to support and guidance. The focus is on developing personal accountability, understanding the root causes of addiction, and building a sustainable recovery plan.