Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Granite Bay, CA

Photo of Kimberly Ann Greene Royce - Kimberly Greene Royce, LMFT , LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Greene Royce, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746  (Online Only)
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Heart Centered Therapy (HCT), mindfulness, guided imagery, and art therapy techniques.
I offer warm, insightful, and collaborative psychotherapy to help my clients change behaviors and patterns, become unstuck, and improve the quality of their life & relationships. My work focuses on major issues including trauma, couples & families in crisis, separation/divorce, attachment, abandonment, grief & loss, life transitions, intimacy issues, anxiety & depression, spirituality, and premarital counseling. My goal is to help adolescents, individuals, couples & families find healthier ways of communicating, heal from their past and to regain the ability to live fully with themselves as well as others.
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Heart Centered Therapy (HCT), mindfulness, guided imagery, and art therapy techniques.
I offer warm, insightful, and collaborative psychotherapy to help my clients change behaviors and patterns, become unstuck, and improve the quality of their life & relationships. My work focuses on major issues including trauma, couples & families in crisis, separation/divorce, attachment, abandonment, grief & loss, life transitions, intimacy issues, anxiety & depression, spirituality, and premarital counseling. My goal is to help adolescents, individuals, couples & families find healthier ways of communicating, heal from their past and to regain the ability to live fully with themselves as well as others.
(916) 378-4269 View (916) 378-4269
Photo of Jennica Jenkins - Blue Sky Counseling Center Pediatric Specialist, PsyD, LPCC, Counselor
Blue Sky Counseling Center Pediatric Specialist
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Granite Bay, CA 95746
Individual therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to treat self injury and advanced teen issues.
Sometimes you just want to problem solve. Why didn't they tell us parenting was so hard! We understand that sometimes you need to just problem solve and learn coping tools. Maybe parent alignment is challenged by challenging kids. We partner with you to help mend important relationships, learn healthier coping skills, add positive strategies, and live without self harm We have experience in intensive hospital/outpatient step down DBT. We offer specialized experience in clinical child adolescent psychotherapy, family/college mental health, and education/medical collaboration. Neurodiversity welcome Judgement free parenting zone!
Individual therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to treat self injury and advanced teen issues.
Sometimes you just want to problem solve. Why didn't they tell us parenting was so hard! We understand that sometimes you need to just problem solve and learn coping tools. Maybe parent alignment is challenged by challenging kids. We partner with you to help mend important relationships, learn healthier coping skills, add positive strategies, and live without self harm We have experience in intensive hospital/outpatient step down DBT. We offer specialized experience in clinical child adolescent psychotherapy, family/college mental health, and education/medical collaboration. Neurodiversity welcome Judgement free parenting zone!
(916) 747-3799 View (916) 747-3799
Photo of Dr. Kirsten Kuzirian, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kirsten Kuzirian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, Anxiety) affirming child/adolescent clinician. I enjoy supporting parents (check out my mindful parenting podcast at WideAwakeParenting.com) and kids with in person DBT, CBT and play therapy tools. I also complete ADHD, Autism and Specific Learning Disorder evaluations to identify your child's cognitive and emotional profile and make social, emotional and educational recommendations. My favorite part of this work is getting to know your family. We will use your family's strengths and value system to create comfortable solutions for you and your child.
Hi! I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, Anxiety) affirming child/adolescent clinician. I enjoy supporting parents (check out my mindful parenting podcast at WideAwakeParenting.com) and kids with in person DBT, CBT and play therapy tools. I also complete ADHD, Autism and Specific Learning Disorder evaluations to identify your child's cognitive and emotional profile and make social, emotional and educational recommendations. My favorite part of this work is getting to know your family. We will use your family's strengths and value system to create comfortable solutions for you and your child.
(707) 309-6688 View (707) 309-6688
Photo of Lisa Petersen, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Petersen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746
I have extensive training in DBT, ACT, and EMDR.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative process. Each person comes in with their own unique life story, strengths, barriers, and goals. It is my role to create a nonjudgmental and safe environment to explore what will be helpful for each person. My practice focuses on helping people develop a more mindful and compassionate way of living, and increase a healthier connection with oneself and others. Areas of focus include eating disorders or disordered eating/exercise, anxiety & stress, general women's issues, life transitions, relationship struggles, depression, prenatal & postpartum problems, grief & loss, aging, and trauma.
I have extensive training in DBT, ACT, and EMDR.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative process. Each person comes in with their own unique life story, strengths, barriers, and goals. It is my role to create a nonjudgmental and safe environment to explore what will be helpful for each person. My practice focuses on helping people develop a more mindful and compassionate way of living, and increase a healthier connection with oneself and others. Areas of focus include eating disorders or disordered eating/exercise, anxiety & stress, general women's issues, life transitions, relationship struggles, depression, prenatal & postpartum problems, grief & loss, aging, and trauma.
(916) 588-3519 View (916) 588-3519
Photo of Lauren Clark, PhD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Granite Bay, CA 95746
0, Trauma Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Brainspotting, and Trauma Informed Art Therapy techniques.
I have a heart for clients of all ages and I believe it is never too early or too late to take any step in a positive direction. I have a passion for people with a history of trauma, abuse and/or addiction and I enjoy adolescents and adults alike. I believe that the one hour you devote to yourself during the therapy process will have a positive effect on the remaining 167 hours you will live during the week.
0, Trauma Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Brainspotting, and Trauma Informed Art Therapy techniques.
I have a heart for clients of all ages and I believe it is never too early or too late to take any step in a positive direction. I have a passion for people with a history of trauma, abuse and/or addiction and I enjoy adolescents and adults alike. I believe that the one hour you devote to yourself during the therapy process will have a positive effect on the remaining 167 hours you will live during the week.
(916) 312-4118 View (916) 312-4118
Photo of Jennifer Tucker, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Tucker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746
I work with individuals, couples, and families, using CBT, DBT and other modalities to teach you tools to change your patterns.
Are you wanting to make changes in your life but don't know how or don't have the necessary support? Maybe you're struggling with addiction or have loved ones who are struggling, or maybe you’re just trying to work through some current issues that have you feeling “stuck”.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, using CBT, DBT and other modalities to teach you tools to change your patterns.
Are you wanting to make changes in your life but don't know how or don't have the necessary support? Maybe you're struggling with addiction or have loved ones who are struggling, or maybe you’re just trying to work through some current issues that have you feeling “stuck”.
(916) 436-8518 View (916) 436-8518
Photo of Jennifer Marth, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Marth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746
I have experience in utilizing DBT skills in group and individual formats.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or struggling to deal with life changes or trauma? If so, counseling is a fantastic option to help heal and move through these difficult experiences. I believe a positive relationship is the most important aspect for change and strive to connect with everyone I work with. I meet individuals where they are in their lives, accepting them for who they are and supporting them through the changes the would like to make. I also utilize a technique called Brainspotting to help decrease emotional reactivity and trauma symptoms.
I have experience in utilizing DBT skills in group and individual formats.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or struggling to deal with life changes or trauma? If so, counseling is a fantastic option to help heal and move through these difficult experiences. I believe a positive relationship is the most important aspect for change and strive to connect with everyone I work with. I meet individuals where they are in their lives, accepting them for who they are and supporting them through the changes the would like to make. I also utilize a technique called Brainspotting to help decrease emotional reactivity and trauma symptoms.
(916) 346-1848 View (916) 346-1848
Photo of Shawn R Ernoehazy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shawn R Ernoehazy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Granite Bay, CA 95746
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
My focus is on improving communication in all facets of life. I believe the first shift must be in how one communicates with themselves. Using Humanistic and CBT theories, we will work together to challenge and change self defeating thoughts and behaviors that keep you locked in unhealthy relationships. We will explore where those old patterns come from, and let them go. My approach is non-judgmental, with unconditional positive regard for you as worth-while person, no matter what path you have traveled to this point.
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
My focus is on improving communication in all facets of life. I believe the first shift must be in how one communicates with themselves. Using Humanistic and CBT theories, we will work together to challenge and change self defeating thoughts and behaviors that keep you locked in unhealthy relationships. We will explore where those old patterns come from, and let them go. My approach is non-judgmental, with unconditional positive regard for you as worth-while person, no matter what path you have traveled to this point.
(916) 507-1823 View (916) 507-1823
Photo of Ashley Robin Jimenez, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Robin Jimenez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 94756
I apply a variety of theories and modalities, such as; Cognitice Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and TF-CBT, and mindfulness.
I believe that with patience, time, insight, awareness and understanding; progress and healing can be achieved. From my 15 years experience working with children, teens and adults -I have gained a strong passion to help individuals whom struggle with self-esteem issues, trauma, anxiety and depression. I also have a strong passion and extensive experience working with children and their behaviors, along with providing parenting support. As a mother of two small children, I understand the impact of juggling it all and the importance of support and practicing self-care. I’m here to provide insight, understanding and coping skills.
I apply a variety of theories and modalities, such as; Cognitice Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and TF-CBT, and mindfulness.
I believe that with patience, time, insight, awareness and understanding; progress and healing can be achieved. From my 15 years experience working with children, teens and adults -I have gained a strong passion to help individuals whom struggle with self-esteem issues, trauma, anxiety and depression. I also have a strong passion and extensive experience working with children and their behaviors, along with providing parenting support. As a mother of two small children, I understand the impact of juggling it all and the importance of support and practicing self-care. I’m here to provide insight, understanding and coping skills.
(279) 201-5445 View (279) 201-5445
Photo of Esme Ordonez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Esme Ordonez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746  (Online Only)
My practice is deeply rooted in compassion and empathy, and I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families grappling with various challenges such as trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, depression, and eating disorders. Central to my approach is the integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These proven techniques offer practical tools for managing difficult emotions, challenging negative thought patterns, and cultivating mindfulness and self-compassion. I also incorporate elements of humanistic and existential approaches.
My practice is deeply rooted in compassion and empathy, and I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families grappling with various challenges such as trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, depression, and eating disorders. Central to my approach is the integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These proven techniques offer practical tools for managing difficult emotions, challenging negative thought patterns, and cultivating mindfulness and self-compassion. I also incorporate elements of humanistic and existential approaches.
(415) 941-5416 View (415) 941-5416
Photo of Julia Hollingshead (Sierra Center For Wellness), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Hollingshead (Sierra Center For Wellness)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746
Hello! I've been practicing as a therapist for five years. I have significant experience using Family Based Treatment (FBT), the leading evidence-based treatment for adolescents with anorexia that can effectively treat other eating disorders as well. I also have ample experience in treating adolescents and young adults with eating disorders with more common modalities such as CBT and DBT. People with eating disorders often struggle with other things, such as trauma and anxiety. As a result, I've become competent in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based treatment for trauma and other stressors.
Hello! I've been practicing as a therapist for five years. I have significant experience using Family Based Treatment (FBT), the leading evidence-based treatment for adolescents with anorexia that can effectively treat other eating disorders as well. I also have ample experience in treating adolescents and young adults with eating disorders with more common modalities such as CBT and DBT. People with eating disorders often struggle with other things, such as trauma and anxiety. As a result, I've become competent in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based treatment for trauma and other stressors.
(916) 659-5538 View (916) 659-5538
Photo of Shanell Niemeyer, PPS , MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shanell Niemeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PPS , MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Granite Bay, CA 94756
I offer Christian Counseling insights as well as a strengths-based approach including: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and implementing evidence-based interventions/curriculums.
My passion is to empower clients with practical tools and strategies so that they may thrive and reach their God-given potential! My speciality is working with pre-teens though young adulthood who may be struggling with stress, confidence, social skills, or managing a disability or ongoing illness. I especially enjoy working with those with IEP's and 504 Plans. I strive to build a foundation of trust and partnership as to empower clients to make change. Strategies discussed in session and routinely applied by the client are essential to client progress and goal achievement!
I offer Christian Counseling insights as well as a strengths-based approach including: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and implementing evidence-based interventions/curriculums.
My passion is to empower clients with practical tools and strategies so that they may thrive and reach their God-given potential! My speciality is working with pre-teens though young adulthood who may be struggling with stress, confidence, social skills, or managing a disability or ongoing illness. I especially enjoy working with those with IEP's and 504 Plans. I strive to build a foundation of trust and partnership as to empower clients to make change. Strategies discussed in session and routinely applied by the client are essential to client progress and goal achievement!
(530) 451-0886 View (530) 451-0886
Photo of Stephanie Mora - Stephanie Mora, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Mora, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Granite Bay, CA 94756
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems.
Welcome! Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or disconnected from yourself and others, I'd love to work with you. I specialize in treating adolescent concerns, eating disorders & body image issues, trauma, and anxiety. I take a humanistic and person centered approach to therapy which focuses on authenticity and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I have always believed that the most important aspect in the therapeutic process is developing a strong connection with my clients. Connection fosters a safe and trusting space. This allows for reflection on unhealthy patterns that will lead to a better sense of self.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems.
Welcome! Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or disconnected from yourself and others, I'd love to work with you. I specialize in treating adolescent concerns, eating disorders & body image issues, trauma, and anxiety. I take a humanistic and person centered approach to therapy which focuses on authenticity and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I have always believed that the most important aspect in the therapeutic process is developing a strong connection with my clients. Connection fosters a safe and trusting space. This allows for reflection on unhealthy patterns that will lead to a better sense of self.
(279) 205-4232 View (279) 205-4232
Photo of Anika Harral, LCSW, Coach
Anika Harral
LCSW, Coach
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 94756
The therapeutic approaches I often utilize include a somatic approach, DBT, Brainspotting, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, & mindfulness.
When we can find meaningful direction our world is a better place, but life can come at us unexpectedly, leaving us feeling lost, disconnected, confused and in pain. I have chosen to specialize with women because I understand the uniqueness of the issues and complexities that women face. Additionally, the power created when women support each other with honoring themselves, is limitless! I also specialize with teens in helping them with their developing sense of self, problem solving skills, coping tools, and finding their way in a complex world. It is a true honor for me to pay witness of other humans’ journeys.
The therapeutic approaches I often utilize include a somatic approach, DBT, Brainspotting, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, & mindfulness.
When we can find meaningful direction our world is a better place, but life can come at us unexpectedly, leaving us feeling lost, disconnected, confused and in pain. I have chosen to specialize with women because I understand the uniqueness of the issues and complexities that women face. Additionally, the power created when women support each other with honoring themselves, is limitless! I also specialize with teens in helping them with their developing sense of self, problem solving skills, coping tools, and finding their way in a complex world. It is a true honor for me to pay witness of other humans’ journeys.
(916) 794-9192 View (916) 794-9192
Photo of Casey Taylor, Psychologist
Casey Taylor
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 94756
I will assist you in the short term with coping skills and evidence-based practices that help with distress tolerance, interpersonal relationships, and experiencing intense emotions; I may use mindfulness-based interventions, DBT skills, and ACT interventions.
If you are worried about the future, notice yourself ruminating on the past, or are having difficulty changing behaviors, or are hoping to create change in your relationships, it would be an honor to support you as you take steps towards healing. I can partner with you, aiding with coping skills, building insight, and providing a lens of self compassion and genuine care as you build a life that you experience as meaningful and fulfilling.
I will assist you in the short term with coping skills and evidence-based practices that help with distress tolerance, interpersonal relationships, and experiencing intense emotions; I may use mindfulness-based interventions, DBT skills, and ACT interventions.
If you are worried about the future, notice yourself ruminating on the past, or are having difficulty changing behaviors, or are hoping to create change in your relationships, it would be an honor to support you as you take steps towards healing. I can partner with you, aiding with coping skills, building insight, and providing a lens of self compassion and genuine care as you build a life that you experience as meaningful and fulfilling.
(916) 382-7082 View (916) 382-7082
Photo of Paige G. Thornton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paige G. Thornton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746
How do I choose the right therapist for me? What if I don't like my therapist? Aren't all therapist the same? Research continues to show that good fit is the most important factor to a successful outcome and choosing the right clinical expert is fundamental. Not all clinicians are the same. Education, experience and clinical expertise are distinguishing factors. My long time practice focuses on treating individuals and couples who are addressing stress management, relationship satisfaction, anxiety, depression, trauma, or phase of life adjustment such as divorce, parenting, teen parent relationship or school/work challenges.
How do I choose the right therapist for me? What if I don't like my therapist? Aren't all therapist the same? Research continues to show that good fit is the most important factor to a successful outcome and choosing the right clinical expert is fundamental. Not all clinicians are the same. Education, experience and clinical expertise are distinguishing factors. My long time practice focuses on treating individuals and couples who are addressing stress management, relationship satisfaction, anxiety, depression, trauma, or phase of life adjustment such as divorce, parenting, teen parent relationship or school/work challenges.
(916) 945-9479 View (916) 945-9479
Photo of Dr. Holly Spotts, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Holly Spotts
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Granite Bay, CA 95746  (Online Only)
You’re exhausted. You work hard to keep the people in your life happy, but you can’t help but feel unfulfilled, overwhelmed and unappreciated yourself. So, you try harder and give more, but it doesn’t feel like you’ll ever be enough. You keep up the façade that everything’s okay, but beneath the surface, you feel stuck in a prison of chronic guilt, worry and self-criticism. The constant swallowing of your own truth for others’ approval has left you empty. And the truth is, its lonely in there where no one sees the real you.
You’re exhausted. You work hard to keep the people in your life happy, but you can’t help but feel unfulfilled, overwhelmed and unappreciated yourself. So, you try harder and give more, but it doesn’t feel like you’ll ever be enough. You keep up the façade that everything’s okay, but beneath the surface, you feel stuck in a prison of chronic guilt, worry and self-criticism. The constant swallowing of your own truth for others’ approval has left you empty. And the truth is, its lonely in there where no one sees the real you.
(916) 318-3362 View (916) 318-3362
Photo of Jessica Thompson (Formerly Harter), PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica Thompson (Formerly Harter)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746
Making the decision to attend therapy is difficult for most people. Regardless of what you are struggling with, the decision to ask for help is often very challenging. In reality, this choice is life changing. Life no longer has to be filled with depression, anxiety, traumatic memories, emotional numbing with substances, or coping skills that just seem like they are not working. Sometimes, we just need someone to listen. Collaboratively, we can strengthen your natural skills while implementing new ones. We can overcome the barriers that block you from having the motivation and energy to reach your personal goals.
Making the decision to attend therapy is difficult for most people. Regardless of what you are struggling with, the decision to ask for help is often very challenging. In reality, this choice is life changing. Life no longer has to be filled with depression, anxiety, traumatic memories, emotional numbing with substances, or coping skills that just seem like they are not working. Sometimes, we just need someone to listen. Collaboratively, we can strengthen your natural skills while implementing new ones. We can overcome the barriers that block you from having the motivation and energy to reach your personal goals.
(916) 899-3507 View (916) 899-3507
Photo of Sara Kassabian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Kassabian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746  (Online Only)
I had the desire placed in my heart very early on to help those struggling and unable to experience life at its best. I believe that no matter what it is that you are facing, with proper support it is not too big to be dealt with. Although you may feel alone in your situation, there is always hope and healing waiting for you if you just reach out.
I had the desire placed in my heart very early on to help those struggling and unable to experience life at its best. I believe that no matter what it is that you are facing, with proper support it is not too big to be dealt with. Although you may feel alone in your situation, there is always hope and healing waiting for you if you just reach out.
(916) 586-7121 View (916) 586-7121
Photo of Julia Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746
**Appointments available at: https://julia-miller.clientsecure.me/request/service** You deserve happiness. I can help you and your family balance and manage life's ups and downs. As an experienced adolescent, adult and family therapist, I am passionate in helping my clients realize their happiness potential. You have goals for yourself, for your family, and I want to help you realize those goals. Therapy isn't just talking, it's also about how to live the life you want. You will learn to integrate new behaviors and change your perspective for the better, through proven interventions and conversations directly targeting your goals.
**Appointments available at: https://julia-miller.clientsecure.me/request/service** You deserve happiness. I can help you and your family balance and manage life's ups and downs. As an experienced adolescent, adult and family therapist, I am passionate in helping my clients realize their happiness potential. You have goals for yourself, for your family, and I want to help you realize those goals. Therapy isn't just talking, it's also about how to live the life you want. You will learn to integrate new behaviors and change your perspective for the better, through proven interventions and conversations directly targeting your goals.
(916) 560-1919 View (916) 560-1919

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.