Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Tempe, AZ

Photo of Teri Ehlers, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teri Ehlers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284  (Online Only)
As a trained EMDR, DBT and EFT therapist I utilize a holistic approach.
Parenting doesn't come naturally to all of us, and that is OK! Are you finding yourself filled with fear? Or thinking you are not a good parent? If you answered yes, you are not alone! One in 6 moms describe symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety and 1 in 10 Dads. When I was a new Mom I experienced PPD without available resources. This is not true for today! I want to share tools to help you thrive during this important time. The skills you aquire will help you today and throughout your life.
As a trained EMDR, DBT and EFT therapist I utilize a holistic approach.
Parenting doesn't come naturally to all of us, and that is OK! Are you finding yourself filled with fear? Or thinking you are not a good parent? If you answered yes, you are not alone! One in 6 moms describe symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety and 1 in 10 Dads. When I was a new Mom I experienced PPD without available resources. This is not true for today! I want to share tools to help you thrive during this important time. The skills you aquire will help you today and throughout your life.
(480) 470-3796 View (480) 470-3796
Photo of Geoff Hushaw, MSSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geoff Hushaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
My training and experience includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, 12-step, EMDR, and crisis counseling.
My passion is helping individuals discover their inner strengths and accompanying them on their life journey as they face their challenges and issues.
My training and experience includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, 12-step, EMDR, and crisis counseling.
My passion is helping individuals discover their inner strengths and accompanying them on their life journey as they face their challenges and issues.
(928) 249-8418 View (928) 249-8418
Photo of Danielle Garlington, MA, LAC, Counselor
Danielle Garlington
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Danielle utilizes EMDR, DBT, CBT, and trauma-informed practices.
It’s not a question of “what’s wrong with me?” Rather, it’s putting into context what happened to you and its impact on your life. It’s about confronting the core issues of the past to make a positive change for the future. That’s the kind of philosophy her clients and Danielle have employed together enhancing the quality of life in the process. As a counselor serving court supervised clients of the State of Arizona, Danielle worked on the toughest cases usually involving truama, substance abuse, child abuse, and domestic violence. Sadly, those factors are passed onto others within the household creating generational trauma.
Danielle utilizes EMDR, DBT, CBT, and trauma-informed practices.
It’s not a question of “what’s wrong with me?” Rather, it’s putting into context what happened to you and its impact on your life. It’s about confronting the core issues of the past to make a positive change for the future. That’s the kind of philosophy her clients and Danielle have employed together enhancing the quality of life in the process. As a counselor serving court supervised clients of the State of Arizona, Danielle worked on the toughest cases usually involving truama, substance abuse, child abuse, and domestic violence. Sadly, those factors are passed onto others within the household creating generational trauma.
(480) 780-2974 x700 View (480) 780-2974 x700
Photo of Anya Greany, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anya Greany
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
Immediate Availability / As a therapist, my goal is to work with each client to understand their goals for the therapeutic experience. Whether this is to alleviate symptoms of a mental health disorder, adjust to a life transition, explore reoccurring themes, improve self esteem or to simply increase the quality of life, my approach is rooted in a combination of authentic human connection and evidenced based practice. I am truly passionate about the work that I do and am committed to supporting my clients holistically both in and outside of sessions. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, CBT, ACT, EXRP and EFT.
Immediate Availability / As a therapist, my goal is to work with each client to understand their goals for the therapeutic experience. Whether this is to alleviate symptoms of a mental health disorder, adjust to a life transition, explore reoccurring themes, improve self esteem or to simply increase the quality of life, my approach is rooted in a combination of authentic human connection and evidenced based practice. I am truly passionate about the work that I do and am committed to supporting my clients holistically both in and outside of sessions. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, CBT, ACT, EXRP and EFT.
(602) 962-8824 View (602) 962-8824
Photo of Madison Straits, LMSW
Madison Straits
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
As a therapist, I utilize modalities such as CBT, DBT skills, Mindfulness/meditation, Narrative therapy, Attachment theory, and expressive arts.
One of the greatest gifts as humans is our resiliency and ability to create change. I am here to help clients recognize their own strength and overcome their deepest challenges. I utilize a trauma-informed approach to meet you where you are at in your healing journey and help you get to where you want to be. My experience includes working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, trauma, stress management, and life transitions. Collaboratively, we can figure things out, process, and help you grow the tools to regulate and achieve a greater level of well-being.
As a therapist, I utilize modalities such as CBT, DBT skills, Mindfulness/meditation, Narrative therapy, Attachment theory, and expressive arts.
One of the greatest gifts as humans is our resiliency and ability to create change. I am here to help clients recognize their own strength and overcome their deepest challenges. I utilize a trauma-informed approach to meet you where you are at in your healing journey and help you get to where you want to be. My experience includes working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, trauma, stress management, and life transitions. Collaboratively, we can figure things out, process, and help you grow the tools to regulate and achieve a greater level of well-being.
(928) 396-2009 View (928) 396-2009
Photo of Joy Plote, Joy Plote, LAC, CCTS-I, CCTS-F, Counselor
Joy Plote
Counselor, Joy Plote, LAC, CCTS-I, CCTS-F
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
My training is in trauma-focused treatments, CBT, DBT and ACT.
Life comes in various forms of physical and psychological pain. It is my goal to listen and understand where you are with your pain. It is an honor to provide compassionate support to those who are courageous enough to seek guidance on their journey to heal that pain. If you feel that you are ready for a change, maybe you just need some understanding and my goal is to support you in going beyond the fears and the limiting beliefs and create the life you want to live.
My training is in trauma-focused treatments, CBT, DBT and ACT.
Life comes in various forms of physical and psychological pain. It is my goal to listen and understand where you are with your pain. It is an honor to provide compassionate support to those who are courageous enough to seek guidance on their journey to heal that pain. If you feel that you are ready for a change, maybe you just need some understanding and my goal is to support you in going beyond the fears and the limiting beliefs and create the life you want to live.
(623) 292-2376 View (623) 292-2376
Photo of Ashtyn Bernard, MC, LAC, Counselor
Ashtyn Bernard
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
With a compassionate and open-minded approach, along with the powerful techniques of EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and inclusive care for the LGBTQIA+ community, I am confident in my ability to guide you through any challenges and lead you towards a journey of self-discovery and recovery.
I know it can feel isolating to deal with personal struggles, making the road to healing seem like a long and lonely one. My goal is to support you in developing the tools necessary to grow through these challenges. It is important to me that your experience is tailored to your unique needs. You deserve to be seen and heard!
With a compassionate and open-minded approach, along with the powerful techniques of EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and inclusive care for the LGBTQIA+ community, I am confident in my ability to guide you through any challenges and lead you towards a journey of self-discovery and recovery.
I know it can feel isolating to deal with personal struggles, making the road to healing seem like a long and lonely one. My goal is to support you in developing the tools necessary to grow through these challenges. It is important to me that your experience is tailored to your unique needs. You deserve to be seen and heard!
(928) 628-6086 x1 View (928) 628-6086 x1
Photo of Armand Ntwari, LAC, Counselor
Armand Ntwari
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
I enjoy interweaving principles from different modalities including CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and more.
Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we're all in this together. - Brene Brown. I work with clients ages 13 through older adults, families, and couples. I believe my role is to walk along side my clients and support them in building a more joyous and fulfilling life through a person centered, holistic approach. I also place emphasis on honoring a client's knowledge about themselves to work collaboratively toward their goals. I believe that clients know themselves best and deserve to feel safe when receiving mental health support. It is my goal to create this safe, non-judgmental space.
I enjoy interweaving principles from different modalities including CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and more.
Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we're all in this together. - Brene Brown. I work with clients ages 13 through older adults, families, and couples. I believe my role is to walk along side my clients and support them in building a more joyous and fulfilling life through a person centered, holistic approach. I also place emphasis on honoring a client's knowledge about themselves to work collaboratively toward their goals. I believe that clients know themselves best and deserve to feel safe when receiving mental health support. It is my goal to create this safe, non-judgmental space.
(520) 666-1933 View (520) 666-1933
Photo of Emma Lauer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Lauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
I believe that therapy is for everyone and that every person deserves the opportunity to heal and reach their goals. I've helped children and adults successfully treat anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, self-harming behaviors, childhood trauma, and difficult life transitions. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an EMDRIA-approved Consultant-in-Training. In my practice, I also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Intuitive Eating, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I particularly love helping people heal from eating and body image issues.
I believe that therapy is for everyone and that every person deserves the opportunity to heal and reach their goals. I've helped children and adults successfully treat anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, self-harming behaviors, childhood trauma, and difficult life transitions. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an EMDRIA-approved Consultant-in-Training. In my practice, I also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Intuitive Eating, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I particularly love helping people heal from eating and body image issues.
(602) 975-3720 View (602) 975-3720
Photo of Anna T. Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna T. Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
This includes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation and Emotional Support Animal Evaluations.
I am a culturally sensitive therapist that has the ability to connect with all types of people. Life happens and sometimes we all could use extra help and support. I take a realistic approach in my therapy style. I present applicable skills to help provide immediate relief from symptoms. I can help you realign your goals and provide insight on how to return to living a happy healthy lifestyle that you deserve. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood, substance abuse, eating disorders, weight loss surgery, OCD and parenting skills. I also provide emotional support animal evaluations.
This includes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation and Emotional Support Animal Evaluations.
I am a culturally sensitive therapist that has the ability to connect with all types of people. Life happens and sometimes we all could use extra help and support. I take a realistic approach in my therapy style. I present applicable skills to help provide immediate relief from symptoms. I can help you realign your goals and provide insight on how to return to living a happy healthy lifestyle that you deserve. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood, substance abuse, eating disorders, weight loss surgery, OCD and parenting skills. I also provide emotional support animal evaluations.
(602) 806-8573 View (602) 806-8573
Photo of Elizabeth (Libby) Ochoa, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth (Libby) Ochoa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
My approaches include cognitive, behavioral, emotional, dialectical, and solution-focused therapy, among others.
Now accepting new clients! Offering therapy for adults, teens, individuals, and couples in English and Spanish. I meet you where you are, helping manage emotions and thoughts by addressing root causes. My compassionate approach fosters a supportive environment where you feel valued and understood. Together, we'll challenge and overcome limiting thought patterns and emotional barriers. Experience hope and healing with personalized care.
My approaches include cognitive, behavioral, emotional, dialectical, and solution-focused therapy, among others.
Now accepting new clients! Offering therapy for adults, teens, individuals, and couples in English and Spanish. I meet you where you are, helping manage emotions and thoughts by addressing root causes. My compassionate approach fosters a supportive environment where you feel valued and understood. Together, we'll challenge and overcome limiting thought patterns and emotional barriers. Experience hope and healing with personalized care.
(520) 348-4719 View (520) 348-4719
Photo of Pamela Boyle, MA, LPC, LISAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Boyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
I assist my clients in making positive changes in their lives when they are facing challenges. My approach is supportive and encouraging, helping clients reach their goals and potential. I have extensive experience working with clients that have substance abuse problems, anxiety, cognitive disorders, and depression.I have also worked with dual-diagnosed clients. I am trained in a variety or treatment modalities. I often draw on a cognitive behavioral approach, dialectical behavior therapy and mindfulness.
I assist my clients in making positive changes in their lives when they are facing challenges. My approach is supportive and encouraging, helping clients reach their goals and potential. I have extensive experience working with clients that have substance abuse problems, anxiety, cognitive disorders, and depression.I have also worked with dual-diagnosed clients. I am trained in a variety or treatment modalities. I often draw on a cognitive behavioral approach, dialectical behavior therapy and mindfulness.
(480) 210-7908 View (480) 210-7908
Photo of Claire Coonrod, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Coonrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
My therapeutic toolkit includes EMDR, ERP, DBT, CBT, and mindfulness techniques.
Hello and Welcome! If stress, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or low motivation are feeling like roadblocks to achieving your goals, know that change is within reach. Finding connection and calmness is possible, and together we can work towards overcoming these obstacles in a way that aligns with your goals and aspirations. In our sessions, you can expect a compassionate, non-judgmental space where your experiences are valued and your growth is the priority.
My therapeutic toolkit includes EMDR, ERP, DBT, CBT, and mindfulness techniques.
Hello and Welcome! If stress, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or low motivation are feeling like roadblocks to achieving your goals, know that change is within reach. Finding connection and calmness is possible, and together we can work towards overcoming these obstacles in a way that aligns with your goals and aspirations. In our sessions, you can expect a compassionate, non-judgmental space where your experiences are valued and your growth is the priority.
(928) 260-0401 View (928) 260-0401
Photo of Hassie Marie Soto - Orchid Bridge Healing Center, PLLC. , MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Orchid Bridge Healing Center, PLLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85288
Drawing from modalities such as DBT, CBT, REBT, person-centered, solution-focused, psychodynamic, & motivational interviewing, I tailor my therapy to meet each client's unique needs.
At Orchid Bridge Healing Center, PLLC., I believe that everyone has the ability to lead a happy and fulfilling life. My philosophy is rooted in the belief that mental and emotional well-being are integral to overall health, and that therapy can be a powerful tool for achieving this balance.
Drawing from modalities such as DBT, CBT, REBT, person-centered, solution-focused, psychodynamic, & motivational interviewing, I tailor my therapy to meet each client's unique needs.
At Orchid Bridge Healing Center, PLLC., I believe that everyone has the ability to lead a happy and fulfilling life. My philosophy is rooted in the belief that mental and emotional well-being are integral to overall health, and that therapy can be a powerful tool for achieving this balance.
(623) 294-0833 View (623) 294-0833
Photo of Liz Danbury, LPC, CCTP, JD, Counselor
Liz Danbury
Counselor, LPC, CCTP, JD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
I primarily utilize EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Structural Dissociation, Safe and Sound Protocol, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness Practices, and DBT, but my approach to therapy is eclectic.
I am a trauma therapist and clinical supervisor. You do not have to live with difficult emotions. I can provide a safe and nurturing environment for you to get past your past, manage current triggers, and live your best life. I will help you navigate through all the implications of trauma including PTSD, anxiety, dissociation, depression, low self-esteem, attachment issues, guilt, hopelessness, loneliness, anger, shame, grief, career dissatisfaction, relationship issues, difficulties with boundaries, health concerns, and existential crises. I draw from a variety of modalities to meet your specific needs and goals.
I primarily utilize EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Structural Dissociation, Safe and Sound Protocol, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness Practices, and DBT, but my approach to therapy is eclectic.
I am a trauma therapist and clinical supervisor. You do not have to live with difficult emotions. I can provide a safe and nurturing environment for you to get past your past, manage current triggers, and live your best life. I will help you navigate through all the implications of trauma including PTSD, anxiety, dissociation, depression, low self-esteem, attachment issues, guilt, hopelessness, loneliness, anger, shame, grief, career dissatisfaction, relationship issues, difficulties with boundaries, health concerns, and existential crises. I draw from a variety of modalities to meet your specific needs and goals.
(928) 362-3129 x3 View (928) 362-3129 x3
Photo of Amy Burnside, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Burnside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
I am IFS Certified (level 1&2), trained in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, & utilize DBT and CBT.
I want to help you embrace your personal story and live your life in a way that is fulfilling and connected to your personal values. I believe that through increased awareness & acceptance of who you are we can identify behavioral, thought, or emotional patterns that are keeping you stuck. I strive to help clients balance their emotional, psychological, & physical health. Together we can improve your communication skills, decrease emotional reactivity, improve self-esteem & break down internal barriers that prevent you from fully living. I have a down to earth and compassionate style and will help you identify your innate strengths.
I am IFS Certified (level 1&2), trained in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, & utilize DBT and CBT.
I want to help you embrace your personal story and live your life in a way that is fulfilling and connected to your personal values. I believe that through increased awareness & acceptance of who you are we can identify behavioral, thought, or emotional patterns that are keeping you stuck. I strive to help clients balance their emotional, psychological, & physical health. Together we can improve your communication skills, decrease emotional reactivity, improve self-esteem & break down internal barriers that prevent you from fully living. I have a down to earth and compassionate style and will help you identify your innate strengths.
(480) 351-5184 View (480) 351-5184
Photo of Kianna Mattie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kianna Mattie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
To provide you with the best support, I utilize a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities including EMDR, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, solution-based therapy, and sand tray.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or moving through significant life changes? My aim is to partner with you, transforming these struggles into stepping stones towards a stronger, more empowered you. At times, we all face challenging crossroads and it's perfectly okay to seek guidance through these periods. That's where I come in - not just to help you navigate these transitions, but to equip you with the tools and confidence to do so with resilience and strength.
To provide you with the best support, I utilize a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities including EMDR, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, solution-based therapy, and sand tray.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or moving through significant life changes? My aim is to partner with you, transforming these struggles into stepping stones towards a stronger, more empowered you. At times, we all face challenging crossroads and it's perfectly okay to seek guidance through these periods. That's where I come in - not just to help you navigate these transitions, but to equip you with the tools and confidence to do so with resilience and strength.
(480) 405-1915 View (480) 405-1915
Photo of Jeff Fulkerson, M Ed, MS, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeff Fulkerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
These include: CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Sand Tray, Play, ERP and EMDR.
As a therapist I believe that we all have untapped potential to overcome challenges and live a happy life. I want to help individuals tap into the strengths they possess to be who they are meant to be. I have a strong background working with kids, teenagers, parents and adults. I enjoy working with individuals who face emotional challenges in life for one reason or another and need some help developing strategies and coping skills to deal with these issues.
These include: CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Sand Tray, Play, ERP and EMDR.
As a therapist I believe that we all have untapped potential to overcome challenges and live a happy life. I want to help individuals tap into the strengths they possess to be who they are meant to be. I have a strong background working with kids, teenagers, parents and adults. I enjoy working with individuals who face emotional challenges in life for one reason or another and need some help developing strategies and coping skills to deal with these issues.
(480) 405-0516 View (480) 405-0516
Photo of Rafael Rosales, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rafael Rosales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Grounded in evidence-based techniques, his therapeutic approach integrates Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT).
Meet Rafael Rosales, a passionate licensed bilingual psychotherapist dedicated to providing expert counseling services in both English and Spanish. Armed with a Master's degree in Social Work from Arizona State University, Rafael specializes in trauma-informed care, offering compassionate guidance to individuals from all walks of life, including women, men, and adolescents.
Grounded in evidence-based techniques, his therapeutic approach integrates Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT).
Meet Rafael Rosales, a passionate licensed bilingual psychotherapist dedicated to providing expert counseling services in both English and Spanish. Armed with a Master's degree in Social Work from Arizona State University, Rafael specializes in trauma-informed care, offering compassionate guidance to individuals from all walks of life, including women, men, and adolescents.
(480) 602-7100 x720 View (480) 602-7100 x720
Photo of Mikayla Dibelka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mikayla Dibelka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283  (Online Only)
I use a combination of EMDR, CBT, DBT, and ACT among other modalities to ensure that you receive personalized care to address your concerns and set you up for success as you move into new phases of your life.
I know that you are looking for an accepting, individualized environment to heal and grow through past experiences and current challenges. You may feel like you don’t understand what is happening in your life, you may start to notice patterns and make connections, but find that you don’t know where to go from here, how to build healthier habits and new understandings of the world, or just generally feel overwhelmed and all around not great.
I use a combination of EMDR, CBT, DBT, and ACT among other modalities to ensure that you receive personalized care to address your concerns and set you up for success as you move into new phases of your life.
I know that you are looking for an accepting, individualized environment to heal and grow through past experiences and current challenges. You may feel like you don’t understand what is happening in your life, you may start to notice patterns and make connections, but find that you don’t know where to go from here, how to build healthier habits and new understandings of the world, or just generally feel overwhelmed and all around not great.
(480) 906-4210 View (480) 906-4210
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Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

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.