Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in West Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Jason Murphy, LMFT, EMDR, ICAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, ICAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
A few modalities I employ are DBT, MCBT, ACT, and process-oriented therapies.
“I have a deep belief in treating the whole human being and not just the symptom whether it be physical, psychological or spiritual. Both my skill as a therapist and my knowledge of East/ West Psychology aids me in providing essential knowledge and techniques for clients to affect change. I have been in the fields of therapy and mindfulness meditation for the last 20 years and in that time I have focused on integrating what works for those clients I have served. My work is informed by over two decades of exploration into the heart and mind. From the monasteries of Asia to the lecture halls of cutting edge American Universities.
A few modalities I employ are DBT, MCBT, ACT, and process-oriented therapies.
“I have a deep belief in treating the whole human being and not just the symptom whether it be physical, psychological or spiritual. Both my skill as a therapist and my knowledge of East/ West Psychology aids me in providing essential knowledge and techniques for clients to affect change. I have been in the fields of therapy and mindfulness meditation for the last 20 years and in that time I have focused on integrating what works for those clients I have served. My work is informed by over two decades of exploration into the heart and mind. From the monasteries of Asia to the lecture halls of cutting edge American Universities.
(831) 777-6253 View (831) 777-6253
Photo of Samantha Wright Wakach, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Wright Wakach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I have extensive education & training (CBT, DBT, Mediation & Family Systems).
If the old coping strategies have stopped working, or worse, are becoming self-destructive, reaching out for help can be a daunting but ultimately liberating step toward growth and healing. My communication style is direct, but equally warm, empathic, and relatable. I have been practicing for 25 years working with youth & adults in both short-term behavioral skills-based treatment models as well as longer-term supportive psychotherapy. I have experience in both the private and non profit sectors as a Clinician, Clinical Supervisor of intern therapists, Family Mediator, Family Program Director, and Clinical Consultant.
I have extensive education & training (CBT, DBT, Mediation & Family Systems).
If the old coping strategies have stopped working, or worse, are becoming self-destructive, reaching out for help can be a daunting but ultimately liberating step toward growth and healing. My communication style is direct, but equally warm, empathic, and relatable. I have been practicing for 25 years working with youth & adults in both short-term behavioral skills-based treatment models as well as longer-term supportive psychotherapy. I have experience in both the private and non profit sectors as a Clinician, Clinical Supervisor of intern therapists, Family Mediator, Family Program Director, and Clinical Consultant.
(424) 570-2070 View (424) 570-2070
Photo of Lauren Dummit, LMFT, CSAT-S, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Dummit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I utilize Mindfulness, Meditation, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Emotional Focused and Dialectical Behavioral approach to help patients manage negative behaviors, increase overall functioning, and gain control over their lives.
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
I utilize Mindfulness, Meditation, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Emotional Focused and Dialectical Behavioral approach to help patients manage negative behaviors, increase overall functioning, and gain control over their lives.
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
(310) 895-9316 View (310) 895-9316
Photo of Jason Robert Murphy - Trauma Resolution Therapy , LMFT, EMDR, MBSR
Trauma Resolution Therapy
LMFT, EMDR, MBSR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Our mission is to help clients achieve balance and recover from the various issues they may be dealing with, including trauma, addiction, PTSD, and mood disorders. Our integrated approach utilizes process-oriented psychotherapy, mindfulness interventions, DBT, and EMDR to help clients gain a greater sense of well-being and foster their own ability to heal. Jason Murphy, MA, LMFT, is the owner and clinical director of TRT Group and has decades of experience working with a diverse population in various settings. With a deep-seated understanding and training in Buddhist psychology, he brings a unique set of solutions to his clients and his team.
Our mission is to help clients achieve balance and recover from the various issues they may be dealing with, including trauma, addiction, PTSD, and mood disorders. Our integrated approach utilizes process-oriented psychotherapy, mindfulness interventions, DBT, and EMDR to help clients gain a greater sense of well-being and foster their own ability to heal. Jason Murphy, MA, LMFT, is the owner and clinical director of TRT Group and has decades of experience working with a diverse population in various settings. With a deep-seated understanding and training in Buddhist psychology, he brings a unique set of solutions to his clients and his team.
(310) 651-7284 View (310) 651-7284
Photo of Sara DeLaney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara DeLaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I use evidenced-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing in my work.
Are you feeling stuck in some aspect of your life? Are you ready for a change, but are unsure of where or how to start? I would like to help! Life takes on new meaning when we look inward, develop a greater sense of purpose and feel energized. So many things can get us stuck, leaving us unsure or afraid to move forward. I want to help you figure out what is holding you back and enhance your journey of self-discovery. With 15 years of experience working with people, I have learned valuable tools to help you on your journey and have seen people make incredible progress.
I use evidenced-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing in my work.
Are you feeling stuck in some aspect of your life? Are you ready for a change, but are unsure of where or how to start? I would like to help! Life takes on new meaning when we look inward, develop a greater sense of purpose and feel energized. So many things can get us stuck, leaving us unsure or afraid to move forward. I want to help you figure out what is holding you back and enhance your journey of self-discovery. With 15 years of experience working with people, I have learned valuable tools to help you on your journey and have seen people make incredible progress.
(424) 347-1474 View (424) 347-1474
Photo of Georgea Robin Muschel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgea Robin Muschel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I have additional training in Gestalt Therapy, Stress Management, CBT/DBT and EMDR.
I am interested in seeing anyone who needs help with major life transitions or who is in the midst of a life crisis. I also encourage people who are not in crisis but interested in improving the quality of their life and to enhance their overall well being. Besides being in private practice I have also worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I believe in using an eclectic approach, with a multitude of modalities, to help people, in a safe setting, clarify their issues, gain greater insight and assist them in finding their own solutions and coping skills. Most of my clients report feeling better in a short time.
I have additional training in Gestalt Therapy, Stress Management, CBT/DBT and EMDR.
I am interested in seeing anyone who needs help with major life transitions or who is in the midst of a life crisis. I also encourage people who are not in crisis but interested in improving the quality of their life and to enhance their overall well being. Besides being in private practice I have also worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I believe in using an eclectic approach, with a multitude of modalities, to help people, in a safe setting, clarify their issues, gain greater insight and assist them in finding their own solutions and coping skills. Most of my clients report feeling better in a short time.
(310) 494-2973 View (310) 494-2973
Photo of Liz Corpstein, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Corpstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based practices including DBT, DBT-PE, mindfulness, CBT, and trauma approaches.
Life can be challenging and overwhelming. You are not alone if you are longing to feel deeper satisfaction with yourself and your relationships. Life feels very different when you feel confident, empowered, and fulfilled. I will help you uncover paths to attain or reconnect you with these parts of yourself. I have helped many women and men transform their feelings of shame, disappointment, and desperation into self-confidence, happiness and hope. After working with me you will be able to make better choices in all areas of your life, including love, work and family relationships.
I utilize evidence-based practices including DBT, DBT-PE, mindfulness, CBT, and trauma approaches.
Life can be challenging and overwhelming. You are not alone if you are longing to feel deeper satisfaction with yourself and your relationships. Life feels very different when you feel confident, empowered, and fulfilled. I will help you uncover paths to attain or reconnect you with these parts of yourself. I have helped many women and men transform their feelings of shame, disappointment, and desperation into self-confidence, happiness and hope. After working with me you will be able to make better choices in all areas of your life, including love, work and family relationships.
(323) 452-4003 View (323) 452-4003
Photo of Leigh Ann Greenfield, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leigh Ann Greenfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a warm, direct style, combining therapies like DBT and CBT with Internal Family Systems (IFS) and somatic tools (Trauma Resiliency Model) to address trauma and life stressors.
I specialize in treating C-PTSD and eating disorders, but also work with clients seeking healing from depression, anxiety, and general mental health concerns. Whether your trauma is a "Big T" or "Little T" trauma, I believe all our nervous systems need healing and restoration after experiences that leave us confused, unsafe, or disconnected. Whatever you are going through, you'll find a nonjudgmental, supportive space in our work.
I have a warm, direct style, combining therapies like DBT and CBT with Internal Family Systems (IFS) and somatic tools (Trauma Resiliency Model) to address trauma and life stressors.
I specialize in treating C-PTSD and eating disorders, but also work with clients seeking healing from depression, anxiety, and general mental health concerns. Whether your trauma is a "Big T" or "Little T" trauma, I believe all our nervous systems need healing and restoration after experiences that leave us confused, unsafe, or disconnected. Whatever you are going through, you'll find a nonjudgmental, supportive space in our work.
(323) 677-2921 View (323) 677-2921
Photo of Kathleen King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I blend a number of different frameworks into my practice including trauma-informed CBT, DBT, ACT, somatic psychotherapy and self-compassion.
Early in my career, I was fortunate enough to work with a psychiatrist who believed there was more to treating mental health than medication. I participated in a training with him and I was transformed as a therapist. I was trained in the relaxation response and mindfulness meditation and using the body to help heal people who have had significant trauma and mental health challenges.
I blend a number of different frameworks into my practice including trauma-informed CBT, DBT, ACT, somatic psychotherapy and self-compassion.
Early in my career, I was fortunate enough to work with a psychiatrist who believed there was more to treating mental health than medication. I participated in a training with him and I was transformed as a therapist. I was trained in the relaxation response and mindfulness meditation and using the body to help heal people who have had significant trauma and mental health challenges.
(424) 728-5549 View (424) 728-5549
Photo of Mary Jordan, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mary Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
(213) 632-3615 View (213) 632-3615
Photo of LaShonda Hill, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
LaShonda Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I am a certified clinical trauma professional, trained in Sex-trafficking, Post traumatic stress, CBT, DBT as well as clinical family trauma.
Hello, my name is LaShonda. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from a very small town in Georgia. However, I have lived in California since 2004. Prior to moving here I have lived in Washington state for 4 years. I joined the military at the dapper age of 18 and served my country for 13 years. I received a bachelor's in Legal Studies prior to leaving the military in 2012. After careful deliberation I decided that I no longer wanted to pursue a career in law and that I was more fascinated with human behavior.
I am a certified clinical trauma professional, trained in Sex-trafficking, Post traumatic stress, CBT, DBT as well as clinical family trauma.
Hello, my name is LaShonda. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from a very small town in Georgia. However, I have lived in California since 2004. Prior to moving here I have lived in Washington state for 4 years. I joined the military at the dapper age of 18 and served my country for 13 years. I received a bachelor's in Legal Studies prior to leaving the military in 2012. After careful deliberation I decided that I no longer wanted to pursue a career in law and that I was more fascinated with human behavior.
(562) 393-6597 View (562) 393-6597
Photo of Garrett Johnson, LPCC
Garrett Johnson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I am also informally trained in DBT and CBT in an inpatient setting working with a variety of mental health issues.
My name is Garrett and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I am trained in EMDR and have 2 years of experience practicing EMDR with clients.
I am also informally trained in DBT and CBT in an inpatient setting working with a variety of mental health issues.
My name is Garrett and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I am trained in EMDR and have 2 years of experience practicing EMDR with clients.
(559) 702-0611 View (559) 702-0611
Photo of Faria Alamkhel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faria Alamkhel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My work is guided by my client's goals for treatment and is informed by Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness in order to reduce symptoms while increasing coping skills.
I believe that every human being has an inner wisdom, and I use evidence and strengths-based approaches to help us tap into your inherent ability to heal, thrive, and live with inner peace. As part of my approach, I seek to gently uncover the thoughts, feelings, and dynamics that may keep you stuck in some aspect of your life. I believe in the mind-body connection and honor a holistic approach to your healing journey.
My work is guided by my client's goals for treatment and is informed by Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness in order to reduce symptoms while increasing coping skills.
I believe that every human being has an inner wisdom, and I use evidence and strengths-based approaches to help us tap into your inherent ability to heal, thrive, and live with inner peace. As part of my approach, I seek to gently uncover the thoughts, feelings, and dynamics that may keep you stuck in some aspect of your life. I believe in the mind-body connection and honor a holistic approach to your healing journey.
(209) 439-5224 View (209) 439-5224
Photo of Daniele Lewin, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Daniele Lewin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
My approach involves psychodynamic and attachment principles, a client-centered foundation, and CBT and DBT techniques to improve coping and self-efficacy.
I understand therapy to be a collaborative process and I aim to establish a meaningful, trusting, and authentic relationship with every client. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in anxiety / mood disorders, trauma, family conflict and relational distress, as well as borderline personality disorder. I help clients learn to manage difficult emotions, increase self-esteem, and enhance relationships. I also incorporate mindfulness to reduce stress and help you participate fully in each present moment. My goal is to instill hope by identifying areas of strength, resilience, and capacity for positive change.
My approach involves psychodynamic and attachment principles, a client-centered foundation, and CBT and DBT techniques to improve coping and self-efficacy.
I understand therapy to be a collaborative process and I aim to establish a meaningful, trusting, and authentic relationship with every client. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in anxiety / mood disorders, trauma, family conflict and relational distress, as well as borderline personality disorder. I help clients learn to manage difficult emotions, increase self-esteem, and enhance relationships. I also incorporate mindfulness to reduce stress and help you participate fully in each present moment. My goal is to instill hope by identifying areas of strength, resilience, and capacity for positive change.
(424) 226-3373 View (424) 226-3373
Photo of Steven Philip Bradshaw - Beyond Psychology Center, LMFT, SEP, CGP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beyond Psychology Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
We help you overcome mind and body symptoms to achieve embodied heaven ASAP. You may be overcomplicating your healing, or talking in circles, when something simpler and more fundamental needs to happen at the body-level. There is no doubt: the body keeps the score. We combine traditional talk therapy with body-based practices that work quickly and effectively to transform the nervous system and bring true relief. We treat anxiety, depression, burnout, pain, imposter syndrome, trauma, career, teens, couples, and more. Our science-supported practices include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, CBT, ACT & DBT
We help you overcome mind and body symptoms to achieve embodied heaven ASAP. You may be overcomplicating your healing, or talking in circles, when something simpler and more fundamental needs to happen at the body-level. There is no doubt: the body keeps the score. We combine traditional talk therapy with body-based practices that work quickly and effectively to transform the nervous system and bring true relief. We treat anxiety, depression, burnout, pain, imposter syndrome, trauma, career, teens, couples, and more. Our science-supported practices include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, CBT, ACT & DBT
(310) 388-9851 View (310) 388-9851
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Irene Nunez - Flow With It Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Flow With It Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Modalities I use: EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, DBT & more.
My approach to healing is to encourage you to unlearn and challenge deep rooted childhood patterns and maladaptive beliefs that you are undeserving of love & nurturing relationships. I would be honored to provide you with a safe place to tell your story and challenge these beliefs. My focus is to help individuals who are breaking cycles to begin to balancing emotions, reprocess traumatic events, break patterns of generational trauma, connect with their inner child and become aware of their inner strengths. I enjoy working with women: teens, young professionals, mother's and other therapists.
Modalities I use: EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, DBT & more.
My approach to healing is to encourage you to unlearn and challenge deep rooted childhood patterns and maladaptive beliefs that you are undeserving of love & nurturing relationships. I would be honored to provide you with a safe place to tell your story and challenge these beliefs. My focus is to help individuals who are breaking cycles to begin to balancing emotions, reprocess traumatic events, break patterns of generational trauma, connect with their inner child and become aware of their inner strengths. I enjoy working with women: teens, young professionals, mother's and other therapists.
(714) 278-3190 View (714) 278-3190
Photo of Julie Rodin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Rodin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Beginning therapy can be a big step toward being the healthiest version of yourself and living the best life possible⎯⎯no matter what challenges you may be facing. I understand that when trying to cope with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, betrayal, heartbreak, and/or relationship struggles, you can feel overwhelmed, sad, and alone. I can help you with those feelings because I am a therapist who can relate to your problems, and may have experienced what you may be facing right now. My aim is to get to know each clients' unique story and assist them in making better choices to improve the quality of their lives.
Beginning therapy can be a big step toward being the healthiest version of yourself and living the best life possible⎯⎯no matter what challenges you may be facing. I understand that when trying to cope with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, betrayal, heartbreak, and/or relationship struggles, you can feel overwhelmed, sad, and alone. I can help you with those feelings because I am a therapist who can relate to your problems, and may have experienced what you may be facing right now. My aim is to get to know each clients' unique story and assist them in making better choices to improve the quality of their lives.
(424) 251-8965 View (424) 251-8965
Photo of Meryle H Gellman, PhD, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meryle H Gellman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
My private practice assists individuals in the context of their relationships, feelings, and desires and how it impacts how they can live their lives as authentically as possible. I treat people who want to make peace with themselves and cherish their lives.
My private practice assists individuals in the context of their relationships, feelings, and desires and how it impacts how they can live their lives as authentically as possible. I treat people who want to make peace with themselves and cherish their lives.
(424) 404-8905 View (424) 404-8905
Photo of Sandy Marsh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandy Marsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Feelings can be overwhelming at times. You may be experiencing heightened anxiety, perhaps trauma, or depression. Dysfunctional patterns of behavior can affect your job, your relationships, your marriage, as well as your overall sense of self. i am here to help you explore why you do what you do, and look to provide effective tools to change the behaviors that either no longer work for you, or perhaps never did. By us exploring the "why am I the way that I am" questions in a safe environment, we will start to find some answers that will help you to place your inner critics and demons in their proper place going forward.
Feelings can be overwhelming at times. You may be experiencing heightened anxiety, perhaps trauma, or depression. Dysfunctional patterns of behavior can affect your job, your relationships, your marriage, as well as your overall sense of self. i am here to help you explore why you do what you do, and look to provide effective tools to change the behaviors that either no longer work for you, or perhaps never did. By us exploring the "why am I the way that I am" questions in a safe environment, we will start to find some answers that will help you to place your inner critics and demons in their proper place going forward.
(424) 384-1427 View (424) 384-1427

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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.