Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Mikayla Schmitz, CSWA
Mikayla Schmitz
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I use a variety of evidence-based techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and Psychodynamic therapy.
Hello, my name is Mikayla and I am accepting new clients in Oregon! I aim to provide a safe space where you can show up in your authenticity and truth, without fear of judgement. I bring a deep respect for all cultural and social identities, a commitment to social justice and tender empathy for all folx and their unique experiences. Through an anti-oppressive lens and with a variety of evidence-based therapy modalities, I’ll help you develop healthy coping skills to move through life more easily even amid pain and struggle.
I use a variety of evidence-based techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and Psychodynamic therapy.
Hello, my name is Mikayla and I am accepting new clients in Oregon! I aim to provide a safe space where you can show up in your authenticity and truth, without fear of judgement. I bring a deep respect for all cultural and social identities, a commitment to social justice and tender empathy for all folx and their unique experiences. Through an anti-oppressive lens and with a variety of evidence-based therapy modalities, I’ll help you develop healthy coping skills to move through life more easily even amid pain and struggle.
(971) 290-5297 View (971) 290-5297
Photo of Melissa Ellsworth, PhD, Psychologist
Melissa Ellsworth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I use evidenced-based approaches including Pain Reprocessing Therapy & other somatic therapies, Internal Family Systems, attachment-based & DBT skills.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. When working with me, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
I use evidenced-based approaches including Pain Reprocessing Therapy & other somatic therapies, Internal Family Systems, attachment-based & DBT skills.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. When working with me, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
(971) 396-3205 View (971) 396-3205
Photo of Andrea Robinson, MA
Andrea Robinson
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
My primary orientation includes Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral tTherapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
“Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit.” - E.E. Cummings. I view therapy as a collaborative, unfolding process. My approach is focused on providing a secure space to develop a trusting, authentic therapeutic relationship based on empathy, support, and connection. As a therapist my goal is to help you move towards healing and growth.
My primary orientation includes Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral tTherapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
“Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit.” - E.E. Cummings. I view therapy as a collaborative, unfolding process. My approach is focused on providing a secure space to develop a trusting, authentic therapeutic relationship based on empathy, support, and connection. As a therapist my goal is to help you move towards healing and growth.
(971) 803-5207 View (971) 803-5207
Photo of Peggy Van Duyne, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Peggy Van Duyne
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97286  (Online Only)
I am Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Interpersonal Neurobiology informed.
I am an Insight oriented, GLBTQIA friendly and anti-racist practitioner. I focus on long-term change and improved well-being while working towards "here and now" self-compassion, self-care and behavioral changes to achieve lasting change. I strive to promote advocacy, social justice and inherent self worth with each client. I work with clients concerned with substance use/abuse, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma and emotional regulation concerns among other areas of concern. You may see more about my areas of focus in my profile.
I am Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Interpersonal Neurobiology informed.
I am an Insight oriented, GLBTQIA friendly and anti-racist practitioner. I focus on long-term change and improved well-being while working towards "here and now" self-compassion, self-care and behavioral changes to achieve lasting change. I strive to promote advocacy, social justice and inherent self worth with each client. I work with clients concerned with substance use/abuse, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma and emotional regulation concerns among other areas of concern. You may see more about my areas of focus in my profile.
(503) 451-6538 View (503) 451-6538
Photo of Lexi Marquardt Hill, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lexi Marquardt Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
(971) 328-3338 View (971) 328-3338
Photo of Molly Terry - Healing Minds Therapy LLC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Healing Minds Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
Drawing from my years of training in CBT, DBT, hypnotherapy and relationship work.
Hello, I'm Molly Terry, a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist with a passion for guiding individuals through life's challenges. My expertise lies in offering support and therapeutic interventions for those grappling with stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship complexities, and pivotal life transitions. I firmly believe that personal growth sprouts from understanding and reflection, and my therapeutic space is designed to foster just that. When you choose to work with me, you're stepping into a safe haven—a space imbued with trust, honesty, and compassion. It's a sanctuary where you can delve deep into self-exploration
Drawing from my years of training in CBT, DBT, hypnotherapy and relationship work.
Hello, I'm Molly Terry, a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist with a passion for guiding individuals through life's challenges. My expertise lies in offering support and therapeutic interventions for those grappling with stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship complexities, and pivotal life transitions. I firmly believe that personal growth sprouts from understanding and reflection, and my therapeutic space is designed to foster just that. When you choose to work with me, you're stepping into a safe haven—a space imbued with trust, honesty, and compassion. It's a sanctuary where you can delve deep into self-exploration
(503) 594-7655 View (503) 594-7655
Photo of Katherine Lindsay, CSWA, CADCI
Katherine Lindsay
Clinical Social Worker Associate, CSWA, CADCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
I have extensive experience teaching dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and psychoeducation.
In both my work and personal life, I firmly believe in the benefits of therapy and the ability to integrate our challenges into our lives to create new and healthy dynamics. I am warm, creative, affirming, and direct as a therapist. I believe personal growth is a collaborative endeavor that requires caring, free from judgment. I work with teenagers and young adults (ages 15 - 26) challenged with co-occuring mental health and substance use disorders.
I have extensive experience teaching dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and psychoeducation.
In both my work and personal life, I firmly believe in the benefits of therapy and the ability to integrate our challenges into our lives to create new and healthy dynamics. I am warm, creative, affirming, and direct as a therapist. I believe personal growth is a collaborative endeavor that requires caring, free from judgment. I work with teenagers and young adults (ages 15 - 26) challenged with co-occuring mental health and substance use disorders.
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Photo of Laurie Kress, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Kress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Therapy is about change, growth, and healing; being seen, heard and understood; accessing the truest parts of ourselves. I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, families, and groups in my over 25 years of experience as an LCSW in the mental health field. I’ve worked in a wide variety of practice settings including healthcare, community mental health, and at-risk youth services. I draw from an eclectic mix of therapeutic frameworks and techniques including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Interpersonal Neurobiology, among others.
Therapy is about change, growth, and healing; being seen, heard and understood; accessing the truest parts of ourselves. I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, families, and groups in my over 25 years of experience as an LCSW in the mental health field. I’ve worked in a wide variety of practice settings including healthcare, community mental health, and at-risk youth services. I draw from an eclectic mix of therapeutic frameworks and techniques including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Interpersonal Neurobiology, among others.
(503) 664-9995 View (503) 664-9995
Photo of Abir Nawaz, MA, MFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Abir Nawaz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFTA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I work from the lenses of Narrative, Attachment-based, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Emotionally Focused therapies.
I believe that people are doing the best they can with the information and skills they have. Sometimes even with these skills, life can feel unmanageable, especially during this time when many people are struggling with loneliness and existential anxieties. I believe people can grow and create better lives for themselves with the appropriate support and a space to process. My approach to therapy is client-centered and systemic, with a focus on validation and gaining new skills.
I work from the lenses of Narrative, Attachment-based, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Emotionally Focused therapies.
I believe that people are doing the best they can with the information and skills they have. Sometimes even with these skills, life can feel unmanageable, especially during this time when many people are struggling with loneliness and existential anxieties. I believe people can grow and create better lives for themselves with the appropriate support and a space to process. My approach to therapy is client-centered and systemic, with a focus on validation and gaining new skills.
(503) 694-3079 View (503) 694-3079
Photo of Mark Schorr, LPC, CADCI, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Schorr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCI, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
If desired, I have advanced training in DBT to help clients develop the skills they need.
The greatest joy comes when clients break free of painful patterns and move to feeling comfortable with life. I've been a counselor for 25 years, with extensive experience helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and addictions. Getting at underlying issues of shame, loss of control and grief changes lives. When therapy works there's more than just insight; clients feel it in their heart as well as their head. Those around them see that they have a life worth living with more happiness and better handling of the inevitable potholes.
If desired, I have advanced training in DBT to help clients develop the skills they need.
The greatest joy comes when clients break free of painful patterns and move to feeling comfortable with life. I've been a counselor for 25 years, with extensive experience helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and addictions. Getting at underlying issues of shame, loss of control and grief changes lives. When therapy works there's more than just insight; clients feel it in their heart as well as their head. Those around them see that they have a life worth living with more happiness and better handling of the inevitable potholes.
(503) 379-9857 View (503) 379-9857
Photo of Wren Christine Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wren Christine Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Currently I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, addictions, and grief. While I have received training in a number of approaches, my goal is to offer you interventions and tools that best fit for you. I am most influenced by IFS, DBT, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Art Therapy. I look through the lens of trauma, and I take a behaviorally specific approach to support experiences of transformation into long term change and growth. You can expect to have tools and skills to practice in between session to support your work.
Currently I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, addictions, and grief. While I have received training in a number of approaches, my goal is to offer you interventions and tools that best fit for you. I am most influenced by IFS, DBT, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Art Therapy. I look through the lens of trauma, and I take a behaviorally specific approach to support experiences of transformation into long term change and growth. You can expect to have tools and skills to practice in between session to support your work.
(971) 414-3413 View (971) 414-3413
Photo of Hope Hellwege-Bales, MS, NCC
Hope Hellwege-Bales
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I work from a relational and consent-based approach, integrating IFS, psychodynamic, DBT, and CBT.
If you have been trying to "get it together" with your relationship with your body, all-consuming anxiety, feeling like you are enough, or chasing life's impossible expectations - you have landed in the right place. My clients are often teens (14+), young adults, and midlife adults who are navigating life challenges related to anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, identity, grief, body image, disordered eating concerns and/or are a part of the lgbtqia+ community. I firmly believe we can't shame ourselves into meaningful change. That's why my approach to therapy utilizes compassion to connect you to your inner wisdom and build self trust.
I work from a relational and consent-based approach, integrating IFS, psychodynamic, DBT, and CBT.
If you have been trying to "get it together" with your relationship with your body, all-consuming anxiety, feeling like you are enough, or chasing life's impossible expectations - you have landed in the right place. My clients are often teens (14+), young adults, and midlife adults who are navigating life challenges related to anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, identity, grief, body image, disordered eating concerns and/or are a part of the lgbtqia+ community. I firmly believe we can't shame ourselves into meaningful change. That's why my approach to therapy utilizes compassion to connect you to your inner wisdom and build self trust.
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Photo of Misty Stronk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Misty Stronk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97266  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My techniques come from a combination of Solutions Focused, DBT, CBT, and Strength Based therapy, just to name a few.
Just as many pieces make up the whole of a person's life, there are many components make up a successful experience with counseling. The therapeutic journey begins from a place of trust and support. I meet my clients where they are at and my goal for therapy is to provide a safe space for my clients to process through the necessary emotions to reach their next goal. I am passionate about serving all individuals who wish seek guidance, a place to be vulnerable and the opportunity to grow. I work with teens, emerging adults and adult clients of any population.
My techniques come from a combination of Solutions Focused, DBT, CBT, and Strength Based therapy, just to name a few.
Just as many pieces make up the whole of a person's life, there are many components make up a successful experience with counseling. The therapeutic journey begins from a place of trust and support. I meet my clients where they are at and my goal for therapy is to provide a safe space for my clients to process through the necessary emotions to reach their next goal. I am passionate about serving all individuals who wish seek guidance, a place to be vulnerable and the opportunity to grow. I work with teens, emerging adults and adult clients of any population.
(503) 743-7721 x9059 View (503) 743-7721 x9059
Photo of Alondra Orozco - Central Oregon Family Therapy, MA, PCA
Central Oregon Family Therapy
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, PCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
I draw from Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, used in conjunction with experiential therapies.
Neuroscience has taught us that "the mind" is encapsulated not only in the head; it exists throughout the whole body. As a holistic practitioner, I am interested in how you can learn to listen to the wisdom and cues of your inner knowing, beyond just what your thoughts tell you, and mend the relationship between mind/body. We all have the ability to grow and transcend from our past and present wounds and turn them into sources of empowerment and healing. I greet identity work, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues with positive psychology and feminist therapy frameworks to aim towards your sense of liberation.
I draw from Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, used in conjunction with experiential therapies.
Neuroscience has taught us that "the mind" is encapsulated not only in the head; it exists throughout the whole body. As a holistic practitioner, I am interested in how you can learn to listen to the wisdom and cues of your inner knowing, beyond just what your thoughts tell you, and mend the relationship between mind/body. We all have the ability to grow and transcend from our past and present wounds and turn them into sources of empowerment and healing. I greet identity work, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues with positive psychology and feminist therapy frameworks to aim towards your sense of liberation.
(503) 966-9307 View (503) 966-9307
Photo of Jennifer Walker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086  (Online Only)
Utilizing a blend of CBT and DBT, my approach is tailored to enhance mindfulness, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills.
ADHD and Autism each bring unique challenges, from difficulty focusing and impulsivity to struggles in social interactions and sensory sensitivities. These conditions can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. My practice is devoted to understanding the individual needs of those with ADHD and Autism, providing a supportive environment to explore these challenges. Together, we'll work on strategies to navigate daily life with greater ease, aiming to enhance your ability to engage with the world around you in a more fulfilling way.
Utilizing a blend of CBT and DBT, my approach is tailored to enhance mindfulness, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills.
ADHD and Autism each bring unique challenges, from difficulty focusing and impulsivity to struggles in social interactions and sensory sensitivities. These conditions can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. My practice is devoted to understanding the individual needs of those with ADHD and Autism, providing a supportive environment to explore these challenges. Together, we'll work on strategies to navigate daily life with greater ease, aiming to enhance your ability to engage with the world around you in a more fulfilling way.
(971) 366-2847 View (971) 366-2847
Photo of Kim Conrow, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Conrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
With more than twenty years in the counseling field, I utilize DBT, Core Values and Stages of Change in my work.
My career as a licensed professional counselor, Lewis & Clark adjunct faculty member, and clinical supervisor, have allowed me to help clients set achievable goals with realistic objectives. I understand the challenges of transition and the importance of navigating change while remaining true to one's personal core values. My work has centered on eating disorders, addiction, depression/anxiety and divorce/relationship recovery. By providing a safe place for healing and growth, clients will begin to understand that opposing feelings are often a normal part of the recovery process. My hope is to support you as you awaken to the miraculous.
With more than twenty years in the counseling field, I utilize DBT, Core Values and Stages of Change in my work.
My career as a licensed professional counselor, Lewis & Clark adjunct faculty member, and clinical supervisor, have allowed me to help clients set achievable goals with realistic objectives. I understand the challenges of transition and the importance of navigating change while remaining true to one's personal core values. My work has centered on eating disorders, addiction, depression/anxiety and divorce/relationship recovery. By providing a safe place for healing and growth, clients will begin to understand that opposing feelings are often a normal part of the recovery process. My hope is to support you as you awaken to the miraculous.
(503) 917-3524 View (503) 917-3524
Photo of Tracy Jendritza, PsyD, DBT-LBC, Psychologist
Tracy Jendritza
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I firmly believe that growth has two paths. To truly flourish, one must balance a desire for change with a true willingness to accept oneselve for who you are. A treatment that embraces this idea is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and it's the core philosophy I use with my patients every day. In treatment, DBT concepts focus on changing things that are getting in the way of living the life you want, while accepting yourself unconditionally. The focus is to develop a life worth living. My program offers a full finality DBT which includes individual therapy, group skills training, and phone consultation.
I firmly believe that growth has two paths. To truly flourish, one must balance a desire for change with a true willingness to accept oneselve for who you are. A treatment that embraces this idea is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and it's the core philosophy I use with my patients every day. In treatment, DBT concepts focus on changing things that are getting in the way of living the life you want, while accepting yourself unconditionally. The focus is to develop a life worth living. My program offers a full finality DBT which includes individual therapy, group skills training, and phone consultation.
(503) 847-9312 View (503) 847-9312
Photo of Madison Paskett: Congruent Therapy, MA
Madison Paskett: Congruent Therapy
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Her work includes CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and humanistic approaches.
Madison has numerous years of experience working with individuals, families, couples, and systems, all who bring their own unique lived experiences including Queer, first responders, trauma survivors and those who experience emotional intensity. She aims to help individuals/families/systems build skills and find their path to the life they are wanting to live. This means together, you will work to identify and utilize strategies to best handle whatever life throws your way.
Her work includes CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and humanistic approaches.
Madison has numerous years of experience working with individuals, families, couples, and systems, all who bring their own unique lived experiences including Queer, first responders, trauma survivors and those who experience emotional intensity. She aims to help individuals/families/systems build skills and find their path to the life they are wanting to live. This means together, you will work to identify and utilize strategies to best handle whatever life throws your way.
(503) 647-4284 View (503) 647-4284
Photo of Charmaine Read, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charmaine Read
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting new clients! I believe that a good fit and feeling confident with your therapist is the first step in reaching your therapeutic goals. Since 2011, I have worked with a wide array of clients and I have specific experience working with people who experience depression, anxiety, Bipolar, life transitions, stress, self-esteem challenges, women’s issues, trauma, and more. Since everyone is different, I utilize a variety of approaches to help people attain the life they desire and deserve. These include but are not limited to CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy.
NOW Accepting new clients! I believe that a good fit and feeling confident with your therapist is the first step in reaching your therapeutic goals. Since 2011, I have worked with a wide array of clients and I have specific experience working with people who experience depression, anxiety, Bipolar, life transitions, stress, self-esteem challenges, women’s issues, trauma, and more. Since everyone is different, I utilize a variety of approaches to help people attain the life they desire and deserve. These include but are not limited to CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy.
(503) 782-5165 View (503) 782-5165
Photo of Robert Markell, LMHC,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Markell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
My theoretical orientation is rooted in Systems Theory and I utilize interventions from Family Systems Therapy, Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, ARC, as well as Somatic and Mindfulness based psychotherapies.
I believe the role of a therapist is to be more than a reflective and empathetic companion in the client’s journey and must also incorporate directive approaches in order to alternate between being a companion and being a leader on that journey. Inherent in this belief is that clients are coming to therapy because they want something different than what they currently have. This can be as simple as a new perspective on a past or current struggle or as complex as a new skill set for managing and overcoming emotional, behavioral, cognitive, relational, or somatic patterns that have arisen in response to emotional distress.
My theoretical orientation is rooted in Systems Theory and I utilize interventions from Family Systems Therapy, Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, ARC, as well as Somatic and Mindfulness based psychotherapies.
I believe the role of a therapist is to be more than a reflective and empathetic companion in the client’s journey and must also incorporate directive approaches in order to alternate between being a companion and being a leader on that journey. Inherent in this belief is that clients are coming to therapy because they want something different than what they currently have. This can be as simple as a new perspective on a past or current struggle or as complex as a new skill set for managing and overcoming emotional, behavioral, cognitive, relational, or somatic patterns that have arisen in response to emotional distress.
(503) 382-8553 View (503) 382-8553
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.