Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Pensacola, FL

Photo of Amber Fernbach, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Fernbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32526
I have experience in DBT, CBT, CPT, inner child work & shadow work.
My name is Amber Fernbach. I am a LCSW and the creator of Surviving and Thriving Therapy. I have been a social worker for 6 years. I’ve worked in child welfare, school systems, victim’s of crime therapist, and now I have created my private practice. Trauma work, communication, boundaries, and ADHD are my expertise. My ideal client would have intrinsic motivation or be open to building their motivation and reaching other self-created goals with my assistance. I have worked with children, teens, young adults, and middle age individuals.
I have experience in DBT, CBT, CPT, inner child work & shadow work.
My name is Amber Fernbach. I am a LCSW and the creator of Surviving and Thriving Therapy. I have been a social worker for 6 years. I’ve worked in child welfare, school systems, victim’s of crime therapist, and now I have created my private practice. Trauma work, communication, boundaries, and ADHD are my expertise. My ideal client would have intrinsic motivation or be open to building their motivation and reaching other self-created goals with my assistance. I have worked with children, teens, young adults, and middle age individuals.
(850) 466-6515 View (850) 466-6515
Photo of Terri L Marshall, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Terri L Marshall
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32534
I'm trained in TF-CBT, EMDR, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy.
Life can be difficult. The experiences we encounter can shape and mold us unto someone we may no longer recognize, understand misplaced feelings or have an impact on our daily functioning, but we continue to press... We have people relying on us, responsibilities waiting on us while fears and pain hunt us....but we continue to press....We think the feelings, flashbacks, nightmares, anger, hurt or pain will go away not realizing it is trauma. Trauma is simply an event which causes extreme distress and can manifest in different ways for different people. Lets work together to live a healthy life healed from the effects of trauma.
I'm trained in TF-CBT, EMDR, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy.
Life can be difficult. The experiences we encounter can shape and mold us unto someone we may no longer recognize, understand misplaced feelings or have an impact on our daily functioning, but we continue to press... We have people relying on us, responsibilities waiting on us while fears and pain hunt us....but we continue to press....We think the feelings, flashbacks, nightmares, anger, hurt or pain will go away not realizing it is trauma. Trauma is simply an event which causes extreme distress and can manifest in different ways for different people. Lets work together to live a healthy life healed from the effects of trauma.
(850) 846-1753 View (850) 846-1753
Photo of Alix Felley, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Alix Felley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32507  (Online Only)
I've been trained in dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), cognitive behavioral therapy, suicide prevention (CBT-SP), zero suicide (CAMS & CALM).
I work with adults in individual, family, couple, and group therapeutic settings. I have worked with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, behavior issues, anger, life transitions & stress, trauma, and self-esteem, family dynamics, co-occurring disorders, and executive functioning. I received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and received my Bachelors of Arts in Sociology from the University of North Texas.
I've been trained in dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), cognitive behavioral therapy, suicide prevention (CBT-SP), zero suicide (CAMS & CALM).
I work with adults in individual, family, couple, and group therapeutic settings. I have worked with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, behavior issues, anger, life transitions & stress, trauma, and self-esteem, family dynamics, co-occurring disorders, and executive functioning. I received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and received my Bachelors of Arts in Sociology from the University of North Texas.
(850) 818-9951 View (850) 818-9951
Photo of Monica M Davis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica M Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32503
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I provide individuals, couples, and families a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients are able to freely express themselves while gaining insight into their lives. I specialize in relationship issues, PTSD, people-pleasing, developmental and sexual trauma, self-esteem issues, parenting, anxiety, and depression. I use EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) when working with couples. I am Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and also certified in EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, Anxiety, and DBT.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I provide individuals, couples, and families a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients are able to freely express themselves while gaining insight into their lives. I specialize in relationship issues, PTSD, people-pleasing, developmental and sexual trauma, self-esteem issues, parenting, anxiety, and depression. I use EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) when working with couples. I am Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and also certified in EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, Anxiety, and DBT.
(850) 400-2193 View (850) 400-2193
Photo of Janice T Griffin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice T Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32501  (Online Only)
I am also trained in providing DBT Therapy.
I am an experienced therapist in Pensacola for over 30 years. I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from The University of West Florida and my Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from the Florida State University. I have worked in a wide variety of clinical settings.
I am also trained in providing DBT Therapy.
I am an experienced therapist in Pensacola for over 30 years. I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from The University of West Florida and my Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from the Florida State University. I have worked in a wide variety of clinical settings.
(850) 920-2359 View (850) 920-2359
Photo of Katarzyna E Kundera, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katarzyna E Kundera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32514  (Online Only)
I have practiced CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, solution-focused, among other modalities.
I have worked with clients who have experienced an array of various difficulties that have affected their mental health, specifically specializing in grief and trauma. My practice is not limited to only those two areas of mental health, I have closely worked with clients struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, emotion regulation, anger management, abuse, and many more. At the end of the day, my goal as a therapist is to provide the tools to help improve your quality of life, and then thereafter, help your quality of life maintain longevity.
I have practiced CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, solution-focused, among other modalities.
I have worked with clients who have experienced an array of various difficulties that have affected their mental health, specifically specializing in grief and trauma. My practice is not limited to only those two areas of mental health, I have closely worked with clients struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, emotion regulation, anger management, abuse, and many more. At the end of the day, my goal as a therapist is to provide the tools to help improve your quality of life, and then thereafter, help your quality of life maintain longevity.
Photo of Lily Rivera, LMHC, Counselor
Lily Rivera
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32526
My name is Lily Rivera, and I am a Compassionate and caring Psychotherapist with 20+ years of employment in the Mental Health field. I have experience working with ages 3 to 85 and a range of disorders such as Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Coping Skills, Trauma, and PTSD. I use a broad range of modalities: Adlerian, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical ( DBT), and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. I firmly believe that you are the expert yourself, and I am here to empower you, not fix you so that you have the confidence to cope with whatever struggles life brings.
My name is Lily Rivera, and I am a Compassionate and caring Psychotherapist with 20+ years of employment in the Mental Health field. I have experience working with ages 3 to 85 and a range of disorders such as Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Coping Skills, Trauma, and PTSD. I use a broad range of modalities: Adlerian, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical ( DBT), and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. I firmly believe that you are the expert yourself, and I am here to empower you, not fix you so that you have the confidence to cope with whatever struggles life brings.
(954) 799-9435 View (954) 799-9435
Photo of Catherine Jones, LMHC, NCC, C-DBT, LMHC-S, Counselor
Catherine Jones
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, C-DBT, LMHC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32501
Waitlist for new clients
I am a qualified supervisor for Florida LMHCs (LMHC-S). Specialties include coping with depression, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), trauma recovery, stress management, DBT ( Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and group therapy. Catherine has a passion for serving those who serve and protect our country, First Responders, as well as their families.
I am a qualified supervisor for Florida LMHCs (LMHC-S). Specialties include coping with depression, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), trauma recovery, stress management, DBT ( Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and group therapy. Catherine has a passion for serving those who serve and protect our country, First Responders, as well as their families.
(850) 250-1441 View (850) 250-1441
Photo of Nena Ferrara, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nena Ferrara
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32514  (Online Only)
My focus is working with adults and adolescents (ages 13 & up) to address anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, and personality disorder symptoms using psychodynamic and attachment theories with CBT and DBT skills as necessary.
Ferrara Therapy Collective - where healing and growth intersect. I understand that each person’s journey is unique so my therapeutic process is tailored to meet individual needs. My commitment is to create a safe and empathetic space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. I believe in empowering you to navigate life’s challenges, fostering resilience, and facilitating transformative experiences. Your well-being is my priority and I look forward to supporting you on your path to personal and relational growth.
My focus is working with adults and adolescents (ages 13 & up) to address anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, and personality disorder symptoms using psychodynamic and attachment theories with CBT and DBT skills as necessary.
Ferrara Therapy Collective - where healing and growth intersect. I understand that each person’s journey is unique so my therapeutic process is tailored to meet individual needs. My commitment is to create a safe and empathetic space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. I believe in empowering you to navigate life’s challenges, fostering resilience, and facilitating transformative experiences. Your well-being is my priority and I look forward to supporting you on your path to personal and relational growth.
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Photo of Christina Belknap, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Belknap
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32514
I have experience in many modalities, from CBT, DBT, EMDR, and somatic therapy approaches.
I work best with those suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, overwhelm, trauma, or emotional flooding. Many of my clients report that our work helped them shift from survival mode to a sense of thriving. My ideal client aims to engage in an active partnership to build self-awareness and take action to make a change. I will give you feedback and challenge you, which is not everyone’s cup of tea! I suggest homework; your progress is based on your willingness to practice. The ideal client for my strengths is someone who wants to learn and shift by discovering tangible skills and techniques they can use in their own lives.
I have experience in many modalities, from CBT, DBT, EMDR, and somatic therapy approaches.
I work best with those suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, overwhelm, trauma, or emotional flooding. Many of my clients report that our work helped them shift from survival mode to a sense of thriving. My ideal client aims to engage in an active partnership to build self-awareness and take action to make a change. I will give you feedback and challenge you, which is not everyone’s cup of tea! I suggest homework; your progress is based on your willingness to practice. The ideal client for my strengths is someone who wants to learn and shift by discovering tangible skills and techniques they can use in their own lives.
(850) 805-3973 View (850) 805-3973
Photo of Diana Cofsky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32514
My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(561) 253-9936 View (561) 253-9936
Photo of Dorimar Arroyo, LMHC, Counselor
Dorimar Arroyo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32514
I use different methods such as evidence based cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing methods, attachment based, Gottman method, and mindfulness based among other techniques to assist my clients to create insights.
My ideal client struggles with insecurities, fears, has low self- esteem, and difficulties to identify his or her strengths. He or she has fears, and anxieties, and create the worst possible case scenarios in his or her inner dialogue for situations that he or she finds threatening or challenging. Also my ideal client needs to identify strategies to better manage their time. My ideal client struggles with anxieties in his or her relationship, which could lead to codependency and anxious attachment patterns.
I use different methods such as evidence based cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing methods, attachment based, Gottman method, and mindfulness based among other techniques to assist my clients to create insights.
My ideal client struggles with insecurities, fears, has low self- esteem, and difficulties to identify his or her strengths. He or she has fears, and anxieties, and create the worst possible case scenarios in his or her inner dialogue for situations that he or she finds threatening or challenging. Also my ideal client needs to identify strategies to better manage their time. My ideal client struggles with anxieties in his or her relationship, which could lead to codependency and anxious attachment patterns.
(850) 761-4967 View (850) 761-4967
Photo of Sophie Hans, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32514
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
(561) 253-9936 View (561) 253-9936
Photo of Andrea Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32504
Commonly used therapeutic approaches I utilize are Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Therapy.
My name is Andrea Thomas, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida. I work with children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, grief/loss, parenting difficulties, and life changes using Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and couples.
Commonly used therapeutic approaches I utilize are Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Therapy.
My name is Andrea Thomas, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida. I work with children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, grief/loss, parenting difficulties, and life changes using Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and couples.
(321) 805-3263 View (321) 805-3263
Photo of Amber Adams, LPC
Amber Adams
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32501  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with those who have trauma as well as utilizing ACT, CBT, DBT, and ERP.
As a counselor, my goal is to assist you in the development and achievement of your own goals. The way we are raised, the way we are taught how to behave, and how we experience life is what makes every one of us unique. My focus as your therapist is to help you process and grow through your experiences. In a session with me, we will work together to learn new and healthy ways of coping, identify and express emotions both past and present, and continue to make steps forward for a future worth living.
I specialize in working with those who have trauma as well as utilizing ACT, CBT, DBT, and ERP.
As a counselor, my goal is to assist you in the development and achievement of your own goals. The way we are raised, the way we are taught how to behave, and how we experience life is what makes every one of us unique. My focus as your therapist is to help you process and grow through your experiences. In a session with me, we will work together to learn new and healthy ways of coping, identify and express emotions both past and present, and continue to make steps forward for a future worth living.
(850) 662-6316 View (850) 662-6316
Photo of Danielle Rominger, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, Counselor
Danielle Rominger
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32502  (Online Only)
She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and Interpersonal process (ITP).
Danielle is a board licensed mental health therapist in Florida and North Carolina. Danielle specializes in treating those struggling with emotional distress like anxiety, depression, and grief. Her client's typically struggle with anxieties related to health, loss, and socializing with others. Many experience feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness that can be paralyzing and interfere with day to day life. She thrives at helping people who have a history of relationship difficulties, including feelings of disconnection, miscommunication, and all types of abuse. Her expertise can help guide you to a content, fulfilling life.
She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and Interpersonal process (ITP).
Danielle is a board licensed mental health therapist in Florida and North Carolina. Danielle specializes in treating those struggling with emotional distress like anxiety, depression, and grief. Her client's typically struggle with anxieties related to health, loss, and socializing with others. Many experience feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness that can be paralyzing and interfere with day to day life. She thrives at helping people who have a history of relationship difficulties, including feelings of disconnection, miscommunication, and all types of abuse. Her expertise can help guide you to a content, fulfilling life.
(850) 203-5406 View (850) 203-5406
Photo of Joni Winstead, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP, CTP, Counselor
Joni Winstead
Counselor, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32514  (Online Only)
I am also trained in DBT and EMDR as additional therapeutic interventions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor committed to helping people learn how to have better relationships, cope with stress, and manage all areas of life. My work focuses on trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, and substance use with individuals, couples, and families. I work with adults of all ages and adolescents aged 16 and up. I often use art informed therapy, mindfulness strategies, role play, and imagery as a part of treatment. I am a solution-focused and mindfulness based therapist and I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.
I am also trained in DBT and EMDR as additional therapeutic interventions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor committed to helping people learn how to have better relationships, cope with stress, and manage all areas of life. My work focuses on trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, and substance use with individuals, couples, and families. I work with adults of all ages and adolescents aged 16 and up. I often use art informed therapy, mindfulness strategies, role play, and imagery as a part of treatment. I am a solution-focused and mindfulness based therapist and I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.
(850) 680-0362 View (850) 680-0362
Photo of Jenna Vaughn, LMHC, Counselor
Jenna Vaughn
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32514
I frequently use EMDR and DBT but always personalize treatment for each person.
Hello, I specialize in helping individuals cope with the aftermath of trauma. Are you struggling to have healthier interactions with others? Do you feel as if you do not have control over your emotions? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts that interfere with your daily life? Allow me to help. I view my clients as mentally healthy individuals having understandable reactions to upsetting, disappointing or difficult aspects of life. My goal is to assist you on the path of becoming your best self and assisting to decrease daily suffering.
I frequently use EMDR and DBT but always personalize treatment for each person.
Hello, I specialize in helping individuals cope with the aftermath of trauma. Are you struggling to have healthier interactions with others? Do you feel as if you do not have control over your emotions? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts that interfere with your daily life? Allow me to help. I view my clients as mentally healthy individuals having understandable reactions to upsetting, disappointing or difficult aspects of life. My goal is to assist you on the path of becoming your best self and assisting to decrease daily suffering.
(850) 220-1988 View (850) 220-1988
Photo of Keith Mattson, LMHC, Counselor
Keith Mattson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32508
Hello, my name is Keith Mattson and I am a Licensed Mental Counselor in the state of Florida. I have provided therapy services in various settings for over 10 years. My specialties include life transitions and adjustment, trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD. I utilize a mindfulness-based, solution focused, and person-centered approach, and incorporate several modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, amongst others.
Hello, my name is Keith Mattson and I am a Licensed Mental Counselor in the state of Florida. I have provided therapy services in various settings for over 10 years. My specialties include life transitions and adjustment, trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD. I utilize a mindfulness-based, solution focused, and person-centered approach, and incorporate several modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, amongst others.
(904) 530-3171 View (904) 530-3171
Photo of Laura Lee McLaughlin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Lee McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32501  (Online Only)
I am currently undergoing the process to become certified in Dialetic Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and I would love to tell you more about what that means and whether it is right for you.
I love working with clients who are struggling with various issues. Most people struggle with their humanness, and they are their own worst enemy. I like to guide people to learn to accept themselves as they are, warts and all. I will help you reach the goals that lead you to seek therapy in the first place. And if you don't know where to start, I will help! Most individuals who seek therapy need a therapist who is compassionate and non-judgmental. I am both. My clients are very important to me, and I always put their needs first. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
I am currently undergoing the process to become certified in Dialetic Behavior Therapy ( DBT) and I would love to tell you more about what that means and whether it is right for you.
I love working with clients who are struggling with various issues. Most people struggle with their humanness, and they are their own worst enemy. I like to guide people to learn to accept themselves as they are, warts and all. I will help you reach the goals that lead you to seek therapy in the first place. And if you don't know where to start, I will help! Most individuals who seek therapy need a therapist who is compassionate and non-judgmental. I am both. My clients are very important to me, and I always put their needs first. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
(850) 279-5992 View (850) 279-5992
1
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.